Neil Beltchenko

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…

Since 2006, Jefe Branham has been tackling some of the most challenging self-supported bikepacking races out there. However, one that he’s yet to check off that list is the full Arizona Trail Race, an 800+ mile ride from Mexico to Utah. In our latest Rider & Rig video, Neil catches up with Jefe to learn about the race, his signature Why Cycles El Jefe, what he’s bringing along, and how he plans on carrying his bike through the Grand Canyon…

Eastern Kentucky may not pop to mind as a bikepacking destination, but hidden in the hills and hollers is the Sheltowee Trace, a beautiful hiking-centric trail that was established in 1979. More recently, a handful of folks have been developing and launching a bike-friendly version of the trail. In this video, Neil narrates his 2021 trip on the route and shares some of the highlights of the recently published Sheltowee Bikepacking Route…

In our latest YouTube video, Neil chats with PACT Outdoors Founder Noah Schum about the best practices for properly pooping outside while bikepacking in a way that minimizes impacts on our environment. Watch it here…

In our first video Rider and Rig, Neil catches up with Chris Besnia of Goodday Bike Works in Colorado to get the lowdown on the Rufous, a beautiful handbuilt rando-inspired gravel bike with a truss fork. Chris walks us through why he built it, gives an overview of the components, and shares his packing list for a recent overnighter…

After realizing he had a bit more space to work with in his new garage, Neil decided to try out a new bike storage solution. The Steadyrack is a unique “roll-in” bike hanger that rotates to optimize space. In our latest video, Neil walks us through installing Steadyrack and provides a review after putting it to use…

In our latest site visit, Neil pedals down the block to meet Chris and Arly of Goodday Bikes and Curiosity Bags in Gunnison, Colorado. Their integrated bike and bag setups are designed for modern-day adventure and take inspiration from old-school French randonneurs and classic Schwinns. Find a video tour of their operation and a profile on two of their custom creations here…

As bikepackers, we naturally seek comfort and ways to reduce wear and tear on our bodies. There are many ways to do so, and suspension seat posts are a popular option. Cane Creek has been at the forefront of such posts for some time, including their newest model, the eeSilk+. In our latest video, Neil shares some general thoughts on suspension seat posts, how the eeSilk+ fared, and how to fine-tune it…

Highly underrated as an adventure destination, the Northwoods region is home to miles upon miles of dirt roads and tracks that knit together lakes, rivers, thick forests, and small towns. It holds a special place in Neil’s heart, and last month, Neil and two friends set off to ride the Wisconsin Waterfalls Loop, a 380-mile route in the northern part of the state. In our latest video, Neil shares trip highlights and a day-by-day itinerary of their ride…