Pedaling Nowhere

Nacho Pellejero traveled to Alaska to participate in the 2026 Iditarod Trail Invitational 350. After years of believing the cold would be the hardest part, he quickly discovered that his own mind would be his biggest hurdle. “In Your Mind” documents his ITI journey and explores what happens when fear, uncertainty, and isolation begin to take control…

Ever wondered how bike brands design geometry for 32-inch wheels, if there are any tricks, or what special considerations are needed? In Esker Cycles’ latest video, founder Tim Krueger walks through his process. Watch it here…

Neil’s latest video takes another data-driven look at the rigs of this year’s Tour Divide. As a follow-up to his overall analysis, he dives into this year’s returning riders to identify trends and see how those repeating this daunting race are doing so. Watch it here…

In his Snow Peak Titanium Spork review, Lucas looks back on two decades with his all-time favorite travel utensil, reflecting on how the pocket-sized tool has been a passport to countless meals and memories, proving that even the humblest gear can open the door to unexpected foods, places, and experiences. Read his thoughtful examination of the ubiquitous camp kitchen icon here…

Rogue Panda Designs has been designing bikepacking bags purpose-built for the rigors of the Arizona Trail and beyond since 2014, maintaining its position in the industry by innovating, embracing new manufacturing methods, and adapting. Miles spent a few days with founder Nick Smolinske in Flagstaff, Arizona, exploring the workspace and the local machine shop they partner with. Find photos from his visit and learn how Rogue Panda has labored to earn its success here…

The Magic Components Mothbar is a laid-back, swoopy handlebar with vintage-inspired design cues and a mandate to take it easy. Tom Powell swapped out his drop bars for a set on his Singular Gryphon, and they completely changed his relationship to the bike. From local jaunts around British Columbia to a journey across New Zealand, find his Magic Components Mothbar review here…

Shimano has released two new clipless pedals for trail and off-road riding. With a wider, XTR-inspired design, the DEORE XT PD-M8220 promises greater stability and traction, and the PD-MT520 replaces the longstanding PD-M520. Discover all the details below…

Shimano has entered its thick-rotor era. Its new 2.2mm rotors are significantly beefier than the company’s previous offerings and even surpass SRAM’s popular HS2 design, promising improved durability, more consistent braking performance, and reduced hand fatigue. Though they’re aimed at more aggressive mountain biking segments, the move could be good news for anyone tired of bent rotors and inconsistent brake feel on long descents. See details here…

The Southern Way 1000 is a new 1,000-kilometer bikepacking route through the dramatic and varied landscapes of Te Wai Pounamu, New Zealand’s South Island. Learn more here…

Following the release of their M7200/M6200 mechanical groupsets, Shimano has expanded its drivetrain options with the DEORE XT M8200 mechanical groupset. Featuring three new shifters and two rear derailleurs, this update brings their new SHADOW ES clutch technology to a practical, fully mechanical drivetrain. Read on below…

The attrition has begun at the 2026 Tour Divide. As riders battle elevation, crashes, knee pain, and respiratory issues, race leader Victor Bosoni seems almost unfazed, riding a powerful tailwind into Idaho and stretching his advantage. Meanwhile, Meaghan Hackinen continues to rewrite the women’s pace chart, while several top contenders have already shifted their focus from racing to simply enjoying the journey. Find all that and more here…

Hike-a-bikes have a habit of embedding themselves deep in our memories. Returning to Peru’s Cordillera Blanca after a long hiatus, Cass re-rides a “leisurely” overnight route with a “modest” hike-a-bike, or so he described it in his blog at the time. Will he think the same, almost 15 years later? Find out here and see other acclimatization day-ride routes for those headed off to tackle the Peru Great Divide…