If you have some kind of connection to cycling culture, you’ve probably already heard about bikepacking – even if you don’t know what it really is. Even if you are not familiar with this sport at first, if you like to travel, the idea of taking a mountain bike, packing some camping equipment and embarking on an adventure along long forest trails, desert access roads, hiking trails and others will be very attractive. In this article we will tell you what exactly bikepacking consists of so that you join this new trend.
What is bikepacking?
Bikepacking.com describes the phenomenon as ” the synthesis between mountain bike routes and minimalist camping “. The term arises from the union of both things: bike (bicycle) + packing (make the backpack).
Bikepacking has emerged in the United States and in Europe as a home industry almost overnight , with hundreds of manufacturers and small companies that have joined the bandwagon offering their products, although the truth is that this trend already existed since the same moment the bicycle was invented.
As early as the 1900s, cyclists tied the essentials behind their backs and to the bicycle for their trips , mostly on unpaved roads that lasted several days. But, with the arrival of new and faster forms of transport, this trend was practically forgotten and mountain bikes were relegated to the sporting experience.
However, with the new currents trying to promote sustainable tourism and healthy activities, the idea of bikepacking is gaining momentum again and mountain bikers are testing the limits of innovation, demanding ultralight camping equipment and more space for storage on bicycles.
So what is the difference between this travel trend and mere bike rides through nature? Very simple: while bicycle tourism tends to depend on routes and roads paved by cities that take place on the same day, bikepacking is based on exploring off-road through roads and trails on routes that can last several days .
What do you need to do bikepacking
Are you ready to get on your bike and start your bikepacking adventure? Start with a well-planned and easy route (for example, the natural route via de la plata) to get used to it, and remember that less is more when preparing your luggage . On the other hand, always carry a water filter, just in case you run out of stock, and make sure you have all the necessary equipment before leaving. Here we show you the essentials.
A good bike
Bikepacking can be done on any bike. Some of the most influential mountain bikers have proven it on all possible varieties of the bike. Bikepacking can be done on a touring bike, a mountain bike, a fatbike or even a road bike , as long as you can withstand the punishment of dirt and gravel routes.
In any case, given the terrain you are going to travel through, the ideal models are usually the hardtail mountain bike or the rigid mountain bike , which are efficient on harder terrain and very comfortable for long days in the saddle. .
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Bikepacking bags
Perhaps the most identifying feature of a bikepacking bike is the specific bag system it uses. Most bikepackers use soft frame bags tied in the empty spaces of the frame, behind the seat and in front of the handlebars .
Frame bags are usually custom-made to fit the frame triangle perfectly and make the most of the space while keeping the weight close to the bike’s center of gravity. For long off-road trips, they eliminate the mechanical problems associated with traditional luggage racks and saddlebags on uneven surfaces.
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Camping gear
The bikepackers carry the minimum on top to make the ride lighter. In general, the lower the weight of the backpack, the more fun it will be to ride. A waterproof sleeping bag, a tent for one person, a flashlight, a cell phone battery, a few extra pants and food and water is all you need.
