For the past 10yrs i've been organising unsupported long distant cycling just with friends or with people i meet up with from day to day. The last unsupported tour was a 3,500km tour over all sorts of terrain within a 8 week gap between studies. I met up with other long distant cyclist from around the globe and it was awesume. I learnt alot amd got heaps of feedback from other travellers. I ride a Kona Hoss, 27sp, hydraulic with front suspension. It's a comfortable bike for both off road and on road. I found it great for touring. I hope that i am excepted into your group?