Neil Beltchenko

Part five of our Sea Otter Classic coverage zeroes in on smarter bag systems, adaptable cockpit parts, and a few thoughtful component updates. Along the way, Neil checks out Old Man Mountain and Robert Axle Project, more 32-inch suspension developments from SR Suntour and KS, and Tout Terrain’s new Catalina prototype. Watch it here…

In part four of our Sea Otter Classic video coverage, Neil looks at some compelling new bikepacking bags from Revelate and Restrap, a new production bike from BTCHN’, Niner’s all-new RLT9 Steel, and much more. Watch it here…

Part three of our Sea Otter Classic coverage dives deeper into the sudden surge of interest in 32” wheels. Along the way, Neil checks in with REEB, Kenda, Neuhaus, Wolf Tooth, Stinner, and Vivo to explore new bikes, components, and prototypes that hint at where things might be headed next…

Neil got an early look at a refresh of a classic. For 2026, Salsa is revamping its storied Fargo model with 32″ wheels in both steel and titanium versions. After just a week and around 100 miles on the bike before Sea Otter, Neil’s first look at the new Salsa Fargo 32 is packed with insights. Find his impressions of the new wheel size and frame below…

Neil’s latest review explores the all-new Surly Sorceress, a 140mm suspension-corrected hardtail that he didn’t expect to like. Complete with a fresh dropout design that enables compatibility with singlespeed setups and modern drivetrains, there’s plenty to cover with Surly’s latest hardtail. Find the full review here, complete with 10 clarifying questions…

Neil’s latest review highlights his experience with the Six Moon Designs Lunar Orbiter, a one-person, single-wall tent. With plenty of nights across a multitude of seasons and bikepacking trips, explore his in-depth video look at this freestanding tent below…

Featuring a thoughtful design, a standout steel fork, and exceptional ride quality, the Sklar PBJ is a unique production ATB that offers a refreshingly simple yet highly capable platform for riding a wide range of terrain. After 350 miles of testing, learn why it left a lasting impression and renewed Neil’s appreciation for what a well-executed rigid bike can do. Find his full Sklar PBJ review here…

Neil’s latest video shares some of our best spring bikepacking routes. From European ventures through isolated Spanish towns to the peaks and valleys of Appalachia, Colorado, and Southern California, this inspirational list is sure to provide a spark for your next getaway. Watch the video below…

Announced last July, Old Man Mountain opened its FLiP cage design to several small bag makers across North America. With six distinctive sets of bags, Neil’s latest roundup put each of these FLiP cage designs to the test and examined how they use the mounting system to their advantage. Explore his findings in video and written formats below…

Neil’s latest video, “Why I Quit Racing,” explores his relationship with a high-performance lifestyle, the sacrifices it demanded, and why he ultimately decided to take a step back and pedal at a slower pace. Find the 12-minute video, a gallery of photos from throughout the years, and a written version of his story here…

The new microSHIFT Advent MX and MX Black groupsets are a redesign of the brand’s budget-focused Advent and Advent X systems. With claims of better shifting, increased durability, and a wider range, Neil put this fresh mountain bike group through its paces to see if it delivers the same affordable quality. Find his video and written reviews here…

After years of trying various techniques and packing styles, Neil shares the latest version of his layering system. For an in-depth breakdown of every element of his lightweight, all-weather-oriented kit, watch the video below…