Neil Beltchenko

We’ve tested a lot of SPD shoes over the years, but with most of them built around a BOA closure or some similar fancy ratchet system, some riders find that they’re getting a little too complicated. In his latest video review, Neil goes back to laces with the Pearl Izumi Canyon SPD…

Key factors to consider in a bikepacking-worthy tent are packability, durability, and how well it can withstand the elements, all while being a comfortable place to hang out and sleep for extended periods. Neil found a good balance of all those things in the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL1, and in our latest video, he shares his experience with the brand’s lightest tent offering. Find that plus a comparison with eight other double-wall one-person tents here…

After a recent trip with friends where finding a suitable campsite added to the challenge, Neil made this video to cover some basic information on the subject. Watch his latest video with a bunch of insight on how to find a campsite while bikepacking here…

In “Sloppy Joe (with Cheese),” Neil Beltchenko takes viewers on a bikepacking trip to Moab, Utah, where Mother Nature served up a generous helping of the elements and a reminder that things are never guaranteed to go to plan. Although his group’s time on the trail left them soaking wet and covered in mud, it was a lesson in seeing the beauty behind even the messiest of experiences. Watch it here…

The Viral Dérive is a trail and bikepacking-ready titanium hardtail with a Pinion gearbox, Gates belt drive, and plenty of mounts. We’ve been testing one against “the theory of the Dérive” over dozens of trail rides and several bikepacking trips for this review. Find the video review alongside a photo gallery and some written thoughts here…

The 2023 Revel Ranger was just revamped and rereleased, and we had the chance to put this short-travel full-suspension 29er through its paces before today’s launch. Find out what’s changed and dig in to the full review here…

Bikepacking often takes us to remote areas with limited cell coverage. If something unfortunate happens to you or a group member, knowing you can communicate to get help is reassuring. Satellite messengers are nothing new, but they’ve gone through many refinements over the years. In our latest video review, Neil digs into the new Garmin InReach Messenger and discusses why he likes it over the InReach Mini.

The 2023 Esker Hayduke was announced a few weeks ago, improving the brand’s tried and true steel bikepacking hardtail. In our latest video, Neil and Andrew outline the bike’s new features, including updated dropouts, rack mounts, and geometry tweaks. Andrew also offers his thoughts on how it pedaled and shares a look at his loaded bikepacking kit…

HydraPak recently released several new filters and collapsible bottle systems, including the versatile HydraPak Flux 1.5L. We got a hold of one just before launch for this video review. Learn more here…

In our latest YouTube video, Neil shares his current family commuter and how it might morph into their future family bikepacking rig. Plus, find a list of the gear that’s impressed him along the way and thoughts on the process…

It’s that time of the year again when we share our Editor’s Dozen gear lists. To kick things off, here’s Neil Beltchenko’s video showcasing 12 of his favorite products that he tested in 2022. Watch it here…

We’ve seen many bike manufacturers launch drop-bar mountain bikes with high-volume tire clearance in recent years, including UK-based Pipedream Cycles, who recently released their third iteration of the A.L.I.C.E. In our latest video review, Neil introduces the A.L.I.C.E., highlights its unique features, and talks through everything else you need to know about this blue beauty…