Tobi's post above reminds me of something very important for riders:
Know your continent and know WHAT parts for your bike may be available in the area you plan to ride in.
Meeting other riders along the route is a GREAT resource for knowledge regards finding things like tires, sprockets, chain, bearings. Take notes and refer to them often. TALK to those you meet, pick their brains about parts, Hostels, sites ... whatever.
As Tobi mentions, bearings are pretty much for sale nearly anywhere there is a good sized city. But specific bike parts, not so much. But sometimes there is just ONE GUY in some little shop in some town that just happens to stock certain parts. Also, sometimes you may find a guy who is really good at ordering parts and getting them through customs (a major hurdle for many).
That is the guy you want to contact!
Finding out about these sources is key! So reading current ride reports from those who have gone before you is always useful.
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