I forgot to add: the fenders mean any sealant spray doesn't go everywhere. I've only had a couple of occasions where sealant sprayed and both times, the tire sealed. I've never had to use a plug. Al has used plugs a few times. We each carry a spare tube and I carry a curved needle, some heavy thread, and a small tube of super glue on tour just in case. I hope we will never need this tire first aid, but it might have been helpful on that memorable ride to Domme (https://www.cycleblaze.com/journals/france2019/sarlat-to-cenac-et-saint-julien/) but that was before we switched to tubeless.

Al really likes his Panaracer GravelKing SK 700 x 32. He is limited to 32 as a maximum width due to the SRAM front derailleur on his Dean Torrey that he uses for bikepacking/touring (long story) but I suspect he would get the same tires in a slightly wider width if he could. He uses these tires for touring, gravel, and day rides that don't call for his light carbon bike. He has Enve carbon wheels which are apparently really nice to ride but a pain (imo) when it comes to mounting tires.

I use Panaracer GravelKings (no following letters) for touring for a couple of reasons: I want light tires suitable for the mostly-road riding we do (light for less rolling resistance and so I have a better chance of keeping up with Al) and these are one of the few options available in a 650b diameter. I use 650b x 38 because this width is a nice balance of speed and cushy and because my fenders fit (they don't with the next width up). For winter riding at home, I have Teravail Cannonballs (650b x 40) which still fit inside the fenders and have better grip but are noticeably more work than the Panaracers.

We both use fenders most of the time and always when touring. They keep the bike, especially its drivetrain, much cleaner.

Hi Keith - thanks for following along. I've really appreciated all your comments, even the ones I didn't respond to.

It was wonderful meeting you and Susan and I definitely would enjoy seeing you both again. Unless something unforeseen happens, I'll be back the first of March and stay til late May. Thinking now I will not get another long stay visa for 2023, but that may change.

I'll keep in touch.
Best, Susan

Thanks Jacquie for your info and experiences about a tubeless set up.

I went tubeless when I did part of the Great Divide MDR last summer on WTB Raddler 44 mm gravel tires. I had no issues - it was only an 8 day tour, though it did involve air travel to Wyoming. When I changed to my touring tires last fall, I went back to a tubed set up. I'm wondering, what tubeless tires do you/Al use for touring?

Thanks for you nice comments Mike and for following along.

The Mondiale tires have held up remarkably well and handle a variety of terrains - this is my second set, new when I came over this year. I've gotten a lot of suggestions re the tire reseating problem that I'll investigate/implement before my next tour, and probably won't rush into anything. Thanks for adding to the discussion.

Thanks Lucy - and thanks for following along. I'll be back in US soon and will give you a call after elections to talk RAGBRAI. Stay sane.

Hi Suzanne - yes, it was another dramatic finish to a long tour, one that once again showed me how selfless and good-hearted people can be.

Thanks for the suggestion David - I'll check it out for sure

Thanks Bob - I'll definitely check it out.

Thanks Rich. And I'm also delighted that I got to share a part of the adventure with you and Robin, and a small bit with the rest of the TdF viewing public!

Yes, we all are pretty vulnerable and yet somehow there almost always seems to be a kind soul or two who helps us out when we need it most. Or even when there is no emergency, like a broken camera, for example.

Thanks Keith

Thanks Keith, Always nice to know I'm in good company

Thanks for the empathy Patrick

Thanks Kathleen - and I definitely have no plans to stop pushing myself. I spent career surviving the challenges of academic research science, and the challenges of planning and executing a cycle tour, with it's inherent uncertainty and surprise findings, seem to be a good surrogate that keeps me engaged, fit and happy. So yes, I'll keep pedaling, elated with what I can do and not worry too much about what I can't.

I'll have to look up the Chicks' version - Scott's fave version is Stacy Kent's