GEAR!

Gear is one of the hottest topics when it comes to bike packing. It can make or break your trip. There’s all sorts of methods that you can use to make your bike a bike-packable bike, but there are definitely certain things that make your life easier when you are out on the trail. Most any through-biker will say that they try to go minimal on everything except for their “must-haves”. Sometimes it’s just not worth skimping on something that will make you feel comfortable. Believe me, when you are out there suffering on a long, hot day, you look forward to those things that make you comfortable. I will try to post pictures and description for each of my rides that I do here. I also use lighterpack.com to plan my packs and track the weight of my rig. Usually it remains about the same, but I can tweak it to hit goal weights if I want. If you want a look at that list, please just email me and I can send you the link to my list.

I have included a few different descriptions for recent trips, ranging in temperatures, weather and distances. My very first extended trip, which was the Great Divide, when I was out there for 29 days, actually included most of the same items, though I did mail myself a replacement top and chamois half way through the long trip. I have been able to tweak a few things, like my wardrobe, water stash, etc., but overall things remain the same between trips because I have found what works for me.

Here’s a link to my total gear list for my most recent trip: https://lighterpack.com/r/vjpotp

Tips and Tricks (take it or leave it):

• Don’t pack a bunch of clothes, even if you are out there for 30 days. You can wash your clothing in rivers, streams, sinks, laundromats, bathtubs, hoses, etc. It might not seem super sanitary, especially the salty, soggy chamois, but it’s nothin’ a little Dr. Bronner’s soap can’t handle. You get dirty instantly anyway, so you’ll be just fine.

• Don’t cut corners on your sleeping rig. If you are cold, uncomfortable, sore, can’t sleep because you got a super ultra light bag or saved money buying a crappy sleeping pad, you are going to regret it. Quality sleep is your best friend and lack thereof will be your quick demise if you don’t get it. Invest in your sleeping gear! The “best gear” is different for everyone - some sleep cold and some hot. Do some research, ask others. This may take a bit of time to dial in.

• Put your gear weight in the middle and the back of the bike. The more weight you put up front, no matter how equally spaced it is between sides, the more difficult it will be to maneuver your bike. Especially if you are having to maneuver up and over downed logs, rocks, etc. Trust me. Weight in the back, honey!

• Warm/Dry clothing’s on the quick draw, but in a place that won’t get wet. I stash my gloves, arm warmers, knee warmers, wool beanie and rain gear in my front roll on the edges so that I can get to them with not a lot of effort. This has come in handy many times!

• Tool Kit: Don’t skimp on the tool kit. Unless someone else is bringing a substantial tool kit, don’t leave yours at home. Make sure to have things you’d need in any type of an emergency and know how to use them. Tape and zip ties are your friends. Extra derailleur hanger, spare spokes and a spare shifter cable should be included. Even if you are slightly unsure how to use these things (maybe do a little You Tubing before you head out), bring them! You never know if the closest shop is going to have a spare spoke that fits your wheel, or the derailleur hanger to fit your bike. You don’t want a mechanical to set you back a few days or ruin your whole trip.

• I do not carry an extra tire with me, but I do carry 2 extra tubes at all times even though I run tubeless. This has come in handy before and I am sure will come in handy again.

• Water: always bring an extra container that you can put water in, just in case you have to dry camp or go for a long stretch without water. I have a small 3L pouch that I can attach to my front roll if I need. You won’t be sorry!

• If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out! I love talking gear!!!!!!

4-day, 3 night, 90 - 100 deg F (stupid hot), Desert riding, Capacity to carry 9L

11 Day, 10 night, Varied Terrain, PNW 80% single track riding, mostly accessible water