What you are looking for is a touring bike. Touring bikes are generally similar to road bikes in terms of wheel size and drop bars, but use larger tires and are built very solid in order to handle large loaded panniers. They can go offroad if necessary with the right tires. They also generally have heavy duty wheels to support the load. Some tourists use mountain bikes, but they can be difficult to attach racks to and you will generally want a trailer for a MTB. MTBs are also very slow on roads unless you use slick tires, and then you might as well have a touring bike. Gearing on a touring bike is generally similar or a bit higher than a MTB. Cranking all that weight up hills is tough! <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I have road bikes, mountain bikes and touring bikes (I know, my wife thinks I'm nuts too), and if I was actually trying to ride a large distance with stuff I would definately take the touring bike. The right tool for the job as it were. Very sturdy, stable with a load and comfy to ride long distances. If I knew I was going to have to travel tough offroad singletrack then I would probably take the MTB and load up one of my large Camelbaks or maybe a trailer if I needed to take alot of stuff.

Another option you may not have thought about for distance is a recumbent. Lots of tourists I know swear by them as you are essentially sitting in a chair. Very comfy, no neck and shoulder strain. Much better aerodynamics also, but they can be tough going up hills...

If you are interested in more info on bike touring, feel free to drop me a line, or you can subscribe to the touring list, at phred.org. Great bunch of folks...

That reminds me, I need to go riding tonight if it doesn't rain on me... <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Greg