cycling to sydney - HELP NEED ADVICE!!!!

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Hi,

I am cycling from london to sydney in april 2005 for the british red cross and friends of the earth.

I am a keen cyclist but i dont really know that much about specialist bikes, i just ride an old functional bike.For my trip i need a light but sturdy bike that will last a whole year on variable terrain!

Can anyone give me some advice on what kind of bike i should get? how much will i need to spend? Also does a lady really need a ladies bike or doesnt it matter??

Thanks a lot for your help!:D
ki

p.s. I have a website www.cyclingtosydney.com (http://www.cyclingtosydney.com/) but its not quite uploaded yet!

You'll want a nice strong touring bike - preferably with a steel frame (can be welded if it breaks). There's a few good shops specialising in touring bikes, try
www.cycling2000.co.uk. They should be able to give you some solid advice as well.

From the question you asked, it seem like you dont have any experience in touring. i would suggested that you make real contact with people who know something about it.

They are the one who can really guide and help you personally, this forum information of course can help u a lot, but i dont think its enough to prepare you to cycling around the world. you need to begin training now by going for shorter trips to see whether this kind of life is suitable for you, whether you are physcial or mentally prepare for it etc. good luck ;)

check here http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/bikes.html
There is a great value touring frame here $174 only , take a look
http://www.nashbar.com/results.cfm?category=130&subcategory=1176&storetype=&init=y&pagename=