Mountain Bike (MTB)
Gravel Bike
All-Terrain Bike (ATB)
Fat Bike
Neil Beltchenko
Associate Editor & YouTube Host
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2023 Bikepacking Recap & Predictions (Video)
15 Jan 1 Neil Beltchenko / CultureKicking off the new year, Neil takes a look back at some of 2023’s key moments in our corner of the cycling world, including the state of the bike industry, a recap of some popular events, the status of bikepacking routes, new BIKEPACKING.com features, and more. Plus, he makes some predictions for the year ahead. See it all in our latest video here…
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Editor’s Dozen: Neil’s Favorite Gear of 2023
10 Dec 18 Neil Beltchenko / AccessoriesAfter another big year of trying out newly released gear and using some old products, Neil shares 12 standouts from 2023 in our latest Editor’s Dozen video, including everything from his favorite apparel to cargo-carrying equipment, bike accessories, and more…
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Tailfin Fork Pack Review
32 Dec 7 Neil Beltchenko / Bikepacking BagsThe innovative new Tailfin Fork Pack is a modular bag system featuring a low-profile aluminum mount that bolts to a fork or frame and a waterproof bag with an integrated X-Clamp system, allowing it to attach and detach quickly and securely. We had the chance to test the system for a few months before launch. Find our full review here…
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Pipedream Sirius S6 Review
46 Dec 7 Neil Beltchenko / Bikepacking BikesHow does the slackest bike we’ve ever ridden perform out on the trail? The answer might surprise you. Learn more in our review of the Pipedream Sirius S6, the brand’s latest hardtail that improves on the S5 we reviewed last year with the same unique geometry rolled into a beautiful titanium frame with loads of mounts…
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2023 Triple Crown Challenge Recap + Interview with Katya Rakhmatulina
3 Nov 7 Neil Beltchenko / CultureIn this piece, Neil recaps the unprecedented 2023 Triple Crown challenge results, highlights the top finishers of the Arizona Trail Race, and sits down with Katya Rakhmatulina, who won the 2023 Arizona Trail Race 800 and set a new Triple Crown Challenge Record.
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Santa Cruz Stigmata Review: Seven Thoughts on V4
68 Nov 2 Neil Beltchenko / Bikepacking BikesThe Santa Cruz Stigmata, the brand’s longstanding gravel bike, was recently updated with new geometry and some intriguing features that further expand its capabilities. Version four (V4) was marketed for “big races, big distances, or big dumb rides,” and we couldn’t resist putting it to the test. Neil’s been extensively testing the latest Santa Cruz Stigmata for several months for this full review…
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14 Bikepacking Mistakes Everybody Makes (and How to Avoid Them)
68 Oct 20 Neil Beltchenko / Bikepacking GuidesThroughout the past decade, our team at BIKEPACKING.com has learned from many mistakes, and we continue to make them from time to time. Here, we discusses these mishaps, reflect on what led to them, and offer some advice for avoiding similar misfortunes…
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Shimano GE5 Review: A New Perspective on Gravity/Enduro Shoes
6 Oct 16 Neil Beltchenko / ApparelDespite their gravity/enduro label, Neil found the new canvas Shimano GE5 shoes to perform exceptionally well while bikepacking. In his latest video review, Neil shares his experience with them and what makes them a good multi-disciplinary shoe. Watch it here and find a written review, pros and cons, and a selection of photos…
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Mountain Laurel Designs DuoMid XL Review
6 Sep 26 Neil Beltchenko / Bikepacking GearWhen bikepacking, your sleeping quarters are nearly as vital as your bike. After all, you often spend more time in your shelter than you do pedaling. In this review, Neil delves into pyramid shelters and, specifically, what sets the Mountain Laurel Designs DuoMid XL apart as an excellent option for two people. Read it here…
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31 mi. / 50 km 2 daysLost Canyon Overnighter
8 Sep 13 Neil Beltchenko USAThe Lost Canyon Overnighter offers a convenient loop that starts and ends in Gunnison, Colorado, taking riders through a fascinating geographical transformation. This 30-mile route begins in the arid high desert and ascends toward the Fossil Ridge Wilderness, a small but mighty range that tops out at 13,000 feet and is home to the preserved remains of many prehistoric sea creatures. Despite its challenging nature, this overnighter highlights the remarkable diversity of landscapes right in Gunnison's backyard... -
BikeYoke Sagma Review: A Suspension Saddle!?
18 Sep 6 Neil Beltchenko / Bikepacking GearCan a saddle with built-in suspension offer more comfort on long rides? The BikeYoke Sagma features integrated elastomers designed to reduce vibrations and remedy saddle suffering. In our latest review, we dig into the details after trail riding and bikepacking with the Sagma Carbon for several months…
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119 mi. / 192 km 2-3 daysGunni Grinder
26 Aug 31 Neil Beltchenko USAThe 119-mile Gunni Grinder is a beautiful gravel bikepacking route highlighting Central Colorado's vast and varied landscapes via a short 2-3 day ride. It takes riders through rolling hills and mountain passes that abound with wildlife, desert flora, and high alpine forests. This journey combines well-maintained gravel roads with less-traveled doubletrack to make a fantastic gravel loop from the bikepacking hub of Gunnison, Colorado.
