Bikepacking: More miles, more smile

I am SAO glad you are finally paying attention to bikepacking! I’ve been a backpacker, backcountry skier, sea kayaker and predominantly an untramarathon cyclist (Randonneur). I had ridden trails like the Kettle Valley Railtrail and others in BC and WA starting 20 years ago. I was hooked. Just before Covid I bought a gravel bike and did a few trips but not much since. I have in mind the Tree to Sea’ route from Bikepacking dot com in the Spring. Alternatively, I also have a folding bike, folding kayak and folding trailer and may do some multi-modal remote tours since BC is a paddling paradise.  90% of content here is relevant to bikepacking. The bike technology is not that important. I just wish someone would make a backpack convertible to panniers, and some hiking/peddling boots.  Options are always good.

Thanks, Barry. I was really excited to write this piece for Backpacking Light and was glad they were interested in publishing it.

I also hope there are some gear innovations that can make crossing over from pedaling to hiking easier. The mountain bike shoes I have weren’t suitable for the type of terrain and mileage I did on the side-trips during this outing, so I ended up bringing a pair of trail runners to switch into. This added weight, which wasn’t a big deal, but it was just another thing to deal with and keep track of. Although it was nice to change into a fresh pair of shoes when I was done riding for the day!

Pleasant read. Thanks Mark.

Thanks Mark.  This article has given me some inspiration for future adventures.  The idea of bikepacking hasn’t resonated with me, but the idea of a hybrid trip seems really interesting.

Hi Barry.  A backpack pannier can be had at prioritybicycles.com; Look for the 174 Hudson pannier/backpack, $79.  Capacity is only 20 L, but I’ve found that adequate for an overnighter.  Check it out.

That’s not bad. I have one like that designed for students, mainly as a book/laptop bag.  But it is too heavy and has too many compartments and zippers. I would prefer something light with just one big space and a roll top. The design I saw once decades ago was two panniers that stacked up on, I think, a two-part external frame. Very versatile, but not cheap. I think it was French.  Someone should make an external frame with horizontal bars you could attach ANY pair or panniers to, one over the other. But that frame should be collapsible for storage. I’ll have to experiment.

Thanks.