Neil Beltchenko

It was a long time coming, but Shimano finally launched their fully wireless XTR drivetrain. Was it worth the wait? To find out, we real-world tested the Shimano XTR Di2 wireless system on trail rides and bikepacking trips over the last few months for this full review, complete with actual weights and prices compared to other drivetrains…

In his latest video, Neil takes a look at the all-new Pact Ultra Lite Bathroom Kit, an impressively compact and light trowel system that contains everything you need to do your business in the woods. Find the full Pact Ultra Lite Bathroom Kit review video here…

The titanium Viral Wanderer is an adventure-focused drop-bar bike built around a Pinion Smart.Shift system. Neil spent several months testing one on off-road rides around Colorado to determine if this uniquely comfortable, durable, and low-maintenance rig could be a true “forever bike.” Find out in his video and written Viral Wanderer review here…

Two weeks ago at the 2025 Sea Otter Classic, we asked nearly everyone we interviewed whether tariffs were already affecting their business—or if they expected them to in the coming months. Hear a broad range of perspectives and find out what we learned in Neil’s latest video here…

Just announced, the new Tailfin CargoPack (formerly 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…