GRAND TOUR: CYCLING PLUS’S GUIDE TO SMART BIKE PACKING
LIGHTEN THE LOAD
While bikepacking isn’t about speed, travelling as light as possible always makes the ride more enjoyable, particularly on gravel roads. There is now a huge range of bikepacking luggage available, from the likes of Alpkit, Altura and Apidura. We had Specialized’s Burra Burra across the bike, and the Stabiliser Seatpack 10 is a highlight as you barely realise it’s there. Think about exactly what kit you need for your trip – overpacking evening clothing is a common mistake. If you’re camping, this kit will take up the bulk of your space (ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk is worth a look to keep your weight down. Be warned low weight is generally proportional to high cost!) Staying in B&Bs is the ultimate way to travel light.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE, BUT STAY FLEXIBLE
Sketching your route on apps like Komoot is a must, but be prepared for unforeseen events on the road that you might not spot on your computer. Given the mixed terrain of bikepacking, your path may end up blocked – a river may be too high to cross, or a gravel road might be prohibited to cyclists.
BE PREPARED FOR BIKE EMERGENCIES
Given the remote terrain that you might encounter on a bikepacking trip, be prepared to be your own mechanic. On a road bike you might be used to getting away with just a mini pump and a spare tube, but out in the wilderness you need the skills and tools to perform your own repairs, to bike and body. Chain tools and first aid kits are essential items.
LOAD YOUR KIT CORRECTLY
Tents and clothing are best in the saddle bag, to give added weight to the rear. A front handle-bar bag is best to keep light, so something that doesn’t weigh too much and isn’t going to rattle around. The frame bag is best for items you need easy access to with water bottles in their usual place in a cage.
GET THE ROUTE
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