Bikepacking 101
Picking Your First Bikepacking Bike
You don't have to be a pro or save up for months to get into bikepacking. It's a common misconception that bikepacking requires a ton of expensive gear to get started. Often, the best bike to begin with is the bike you already have. Whether it's a mountain bike, a cyclocross bike or something in between, a bike you already know is a great place to start.
Types Of Bikes
There are many types of bikes that work for bikepacking. Maybe you want full suspension for big, chunky trails, or something lighter for tough climbs. Test a few out and read more below to find which one works best for you.
Gear & Bags
There are many ways to carry your gear when bikepacking. Whether you prefer frame bags, handlebar bags, harnesses, seat packs, backpacks or something else, we'll help you find what fits your body and bike best.
Tools
Because of the nature of bikepacking, it's always a good idea to carry a full repair kit, first aid kit and other essentials. When you're multiple days out on a trail, stay safe with the right gear for repairs to your bike and your body.
Hardtail Mountain Bikes
The classic hardtail mountain bike has been with us since the 70's. These bikes are built to take a beating. They are equipped with a front-suspension on the fork to absorb trail vibrations. The stiff frame gives you more pedal efficiency on climbs and more speed on flat or paved sections of trail. Hardtail mountain bikes are a great all-around choice.
Full Suspension Mountain Bikes
For rides that are more technical, full suspension is your best bet. With from and rear suspension, the bikes handling is enhanced by having increased contact with the trail. Much like the hardtail's front suspension, the rear suspension tail absorbs a heavy amount of trial vibrations. This allows you to tackle rocky terrain with ease, uphill or down.
Fat Bikes
These bikes live up to their name with heavy duty 3 inch wide tires. This increased size gives these bikes the best traction available on a bicycle. You could tackle any terrain in any condition - mud, loose gravel, even snow. These are true all-terrain vehicles. They come in both hardtail and full suspension models.
Gravel & Touring Bikes
Some rides require long distance and long hours in the saddle. For these rides, gravel bikes are the best option. Designed to be a combination of cyclocross and road bicycle, these bikes are made for speed and handling. Gravel bikes take the best of pavement and off-road design and combine them into a multi-terrain bike that can handle any trail put before it.