Neil Beltchenko

Just announced, the new Tailfin AeroPack Cargo features expandable cargo pockets, roll-top access to the main body, optional cage mounts, and a few more interesting features. Plus, it’s backward compatible. Neil used one for a couple of months ahead of today’s release for this review…

The Spearfish has been Salsa’s XC-focused bike for more than a decade, and today, they launch the fourth iteration, an all-new short-travel full-suspension platform with adventure at its core. Neil’s been pedaling the redesigned 2025 Salsa Spearfish C for a couple of months for this review…

Neil’s latest video, “Cycling Past the Winter Blues in Rabbit Valley,” is a more emotional view of his recent bikepacking experiences. With so much going on in the world, Neil zooms out and reflects on a recent trip that stuck with him…

Over the years, Neil has picked up plenty of insights about bikepacking and the challenges that come with it. And while many readers are familiar with the frustrations, a few annoyances might take newcomers by surprise. Here’s Neil’s list of 13 frustrating things about bikepacking, why they happen, and how to prepare for and overcome them…

Are our cycling routes and public lands in danger? Last Wednesday morning, Neil woke up to some troubling news that hit close to home. In our latest video, he explores the issue and sits down with his local county commissioner to unpack the challenges facing public lands under the new administration with staffing cuts and the recently introduced Productive Public Lands Act. Watch it and learn what you can do here…

Inflatable pads are an essential part of a good night’s sleep while bikepacking, but they’re also prone to punctures. In this video and written guide, Neil shares some tips for locating and repairing holes in your sleeping pad at home and in the field. Dive in here…

Just announced, the completely redesigned Industry Nine Hydra2 hub offers a burlier axle, improved bearing design, 60% less coasting drag, and a whopping 870 points/0.41° of engagement. We had the chance to put several hundred miles of trail riding and bikepacking on one ahead of today’s release. Find our full Industry Nine Hydra2 review here…

Garmin just released its 2024 report on satellite messenger SOS calls, detailing who made the calls, where they originated, what activities were involved, and more. In our latest YouTube video, Neil shares some insights and unpacks trends from the data. Watch it here…

With today’s launch of the Old Man Mountain Hemlock Fork Packs, we take a look at the four preeminent quick-release fork pack options on the market in this video review roundup. Find it here…

After testing both the inReach Messenger and the new iPhone satellite messaging feature on a recent trip, Neil had a realization that could save him money, space, and frustration. Find out what he learned in his latest video…

In his latest video, Neil shares a detailed walkthrough of how he loaded up his new Goodday Curiosity hardtail for a five-day winter bikepacking trip along the Fool’s Loop in Arizona. Watch the video and find a list of everything he packed here…

During a recent bikepacking trip in Arizona, Neil checked with his riding companions Joe Cruz and Willie Hatfield who tackled the route with ultra-minimal sleep setups. In our latest video, he sits down with them to hear the thought process behind their bivy-centric gear choices. Watch it here…