Singletrack/MTB
Gravel/All-road
Dirt-road Touring
Fat-bike
2024 Bikepacking Gear of the Year
In the first chapter of our 2024 Bikepacking Awards, we celebrate the gear that impressed us most this calendar year. Explore our team’s top choices across 50 awards in 11 categories, covering standout bikes, components, camping gear, apparel, and more. Plus, check out our “Best in Show” bikes from this year’s expos…
PUBLISHED Dec 3, 2024
This year, we tested over 20 new bikes and a wide range of components, bags, and gear, featuring both major brands and independent makers. As we launch our 10th annual Bikepacking Awards, the 2024 Gear of the Year highlights a diverse lineup of standout products across 11 categories. Read on to see our picks for the best gear for off-road cycling, camping, and bikepacking, from tools and apparel to the bikes that truly wowed us.
As always, some of these products haven’t received in-depth reviews on the site quite yet, but they’re all items we’ve personally used and can wholeheartedly recommend. While the focus is on things that are new for 2024, these awards reflect the full spectrum of gear we’ve tested over the year, regardless of release dates. After all, the best gear isn’t always the newest. True quality lies in durability and balance, reminding us that bikepacking is about gear that stands the test of time, not just chasing innovation.
Bikepacking Gear of The Year
The Bikepacking Gear of The Year award is dedicated to bags, packs, and hardware made specifically for dirt-road touring and bikepacking. Even if your current bikepacking luggage setup works perfectly, it’s hard not to get excited about the steady stream of fresh developments in this niche corner of cycling.
Tailfin Bar Bag System
Tailfin has been making waves in recent years, forging their own path with creative and distinctive solutions for attaching bags to bikes. Long in the works, they finally released a complete system for the handlebars, the last of the major three bags to receive their unique approach. The Tailfin Bar Bag System is admirable in many ways, including features like the highly adjustable handlebar mount, the secure and reliable X-Clamp cam lock, a unique new WaveLock closure on the drop-bar models, and versatile mesh pockets for added storage. Kudos, Tailfin!
$305+ at Tailfin
Rogue Panda Blue Ridge Handlebar Harness
Smaller Arizona maker Rogue Panda also released their take on a hardware-based, clamp-mount handlebar system this year, which several of us tested and found to be quite impressive. Unlike the Tailfin Bar Bag, the Blue Ridge offers a simpler alternative, minimizing the concept and weighing in at only 240 grams. All parts (excluding buckles and webbing) are sourced and made in the United States. The Blue Ridge provides three bar mounting options: 35mm, 31.8, and 22.2mm.
$200 at Rogue Panda
Mica Rack
The Mica Rack is another innovative breath of fresh air that was released this year. This ultra-minimal rear rack from founder Skyles Des Roches in Canada is designed specifically to carry a dry bag on virtually any hardtail, with the key design considerations being universality, wide tire clearance, and the ability carry a rack-top dry bag and attach cages to three-pack mounts on each upright. At 375 grams, there’s nothing quite like it on the market, and it’s a brilliant option to turn any hardtail into a light, bikepacking-ready steed, whether it has rack mounts or not.
$185 at Mica
Gramm Handlebar Roll
Berlin’s Gramm Tourpacking quietly released the forward-thinking Handlebar Roll in 2018, and now that it finally caught our attention and a couple of us have put miles on one, it’s an easy pick for a 2024 award. The waterproof Gramm Handlebar Roll is a rock-solid roll-end bag with a 12-liter capacity. It locks firmly into place via an adjustable quick-release bracket, and two stabilization straps further secure it and offer points for lashing gear. A handy accessory bar provides space for mounting lights or a computer, and its compact profile opens up options for fitting all kinds of bikes.
€189 at Gramm
Revelate Designs Pitchfork
The Revelate Pitchfork stands out for its impressive and thoughtful craftsmanship. High-stress areas are reinforced, the hardware is top-notch, and the overall design is well-executed to maximize utility for folks using aero bars. Made in the United States with a mix of domestic and imported materials, it reflects the quality and attention to detail Revelate has long been known for. Despite being an ultra-niche product, we’re thrilled to include the Pitchfork in our Gear of the Year Awards, recognizing its innovativeness and utility for specialized setups.
$160 at Campfire
Ortlieb Frame-Pack Toptube and Dark Sand Bags
Several of us were excited when Ortlieb released the Dark Sand color option in several bags this year, adding a not-black technical bike luggage option. We also became enamored with the Ortlieb Toptube Frame-Pack. For folks seeking a simple, durable, and waterproof partial frame bag with thoughtful design and ample storage for day rides or bikepacking, the Ortlieb Toptube Frame-Pack is an excellent choice. It’s made in Germany with PVC-free materials and a robust construction, making it a top pick for riders who value sustainability.
$170 at Ortlieb
Top Six Bikepacking Bikes
We tested a fair number of bikes in 2024. We reviewed 20+ and have a few more still in the works. Here are our top six Bikepacking Bikes for 2024, some of which have a review on the way.
Stooge Dirt Tracker
A Stooge at the top of the list of best bikes two years in a row? Unexpected and uconventional are the defining terms here. Last year, Logan was convinced that the Stooge MK6 could theoretically be the last bike he owned, however, he was proven wrong when Stooge introduced the Dirt Tracker. To set the record straight, both bikes are unlike anything else available on the market, but the Dirt Tracker proved to be something even more special. To paint it with a broad brush, quoting his review, “The Dirt Tracker is the quintessential dirt-touring trail cruiser, a bike you can load up and happily pedal off into the sunset with zero complaints. Unloaded, it still delivers endless grins while chasing friends on trails, whipping through berms, popping over whoops, and carving turns until your heart’s content.” He admits he pushed hard to put this bike in the top seat, but until someone else can claim they discovered their favorite bike, ever, it’s hard to argue. It’s also a bike he says he’ll have in the stable until he can no longer ride bikes.
Surly Moonlander
While not the lightest or most agile bike, or even a bike that 90 percent of our readership would ever consider, the new Surly Moonlander is impossible to ignore. For one, Surly, yet again, went out on a limb with a new tire size/standard that opens up new doors and terrain. In addition, it’s surprisingly efficient on challenging surfaces where others might falter. It requires some creativity and big trip ideas, but if that appeals to you, this bike could be an ideal fit. And for us, a massive step out of the box is more than admirable. Check out our full review here.
Tumbleweed Sunliner
Contrasting the two previous bikes, the Tumbleweed Sunliner appears to be a relatively straightforward all-terrain bike at first glance—and in many ways, it is. But beneath its seemingly simple exterior lies a visionary approach to the rigid ATB category, one we felt deserved an award, without a doubt. Thoughtful attention to detail sets it apart, from its well-chosen standards and specs to a meticulously engineered frame that balances lively performance with a comfortable, supple ride. It’s also unmistakably built with bikepacking in mind.
Esker Lorax Ti
During our test period, the Esker Lorax Ti proved to be one of the most refined drop-bar mountain bikes we’ve pedaled. Its titanium tubeset and construction prioritize efficiency, and its high-trail geometry ensures stability and confidence on descents, blending two distinct riding styles and opening up a world of route possibilities and new ideas. It’s more nimble, playful, and stiffer than expected for a titanium frame, and it has plenty of gear mounting options, making it a bike that could be fit for an event like the Tour Divide. In sum, it’s a bike that simply motivates you to get out and pedal.
Specialized Chisel
The all-new Specialized Chisel is a unique in its own right. For one, its impressive aluminum frame makes it light, fast, and half the price of the Epic, a top contender in the short-travel full-suspension XC/race category. Punching well above its weight, the Chisel is an excellent choice for new riders, offering versatility for exploring various trails, developing skills, and pursuing new interests. It can grow with its rider, staying relevant in their collection for years while being upgraded and fine-tuned to perform at a level rivaling any carbon bike in its class.
Pipedream Moxie
The Pipedream Moxie Mx3 isn’t a fast-and-light hardtail built to win races, and it doesn’t come with all the provisions you might expect from a dedicated bikepacking rig. And, at its core, it’s just a steel trail-focused hardtail. However, there’s an intangible quality that elevates it—for Logan, its flawless combination of geometry, curves, and measurements paired with a supple steel tubeset feels smooth yet capable. It checks a lot of boxes and has undeniably become his favorite trail hardtail to date.
Collective Choice
Again this year, we asked our Bikepacking Collective members what they thought about the bikes we reviewed in 2024. We sent our supporters a list of all of them, asked them to select their favorites, and tallied the results. Here are the three that came out on top based on the Collective’s votes.
Tumbleweed Sunliner
The Tumbleweed Sunliner came out on top by a landslide in our Collective Choice vote. We have to admit, it’s refreshing to see that our members took stock in a well-executed, no-nonsense rigid steel bike, giving the highest award in this category to a bike with universal appeal that would make a great rig for nearly anyone. Congrats, Tumbleweed!
Surly Moonlander
As fate would have it, the all-new Surly Moonlander also gets another second-place slot for this year’s Collective Choice “Best Bike” awards, receiving the second highest number of votes from the Bikepacking Collective by a narrow margin. This show of popularity piques our curiosity; will we see a lot of Moonlanders out in the wild next year?
Kona Ouroboros
The impressive Kona Ouroboros got the third-highest vote tally for Best Bike in our Collective Choice survey this year, and we’re not surprised. This go-far, multi-purpose bike was high on our list, too, for its all-day comfort, quick and edgy demeanor, and modern take on a drop-bar bike that slots between gravel and mountain. Find Neil’s full review here.
Best New Component
We normally have a single winner for this award, but again, it was a little too close to call this time, so we have a tie for the top spot for Best New Component…
Vivo Enduro Derailleur and F3 Shifter
Vivo Cycling in New York released their Enduro Derailleur and F3 Shifter this year. And while we haven’t published a review of it quite yet, we’re pretty smitten. In summary, the Enduro is a meticulously crafted derailleur made specifically for 12-speed, 10-52-tooth drivetrains and rugged trail use. It features a fully CNC-machined 7075 aluminum body, oversized 16T aluminum pulleys, and titanium pivots, mostly machined and all assembled in the US. Spoiler alert: it shifts as brilliantly as it looks. To complement the derailleur, Vivo also introduced the F3 shifter, which is fully configurable via interchangeable 3D-printed paddles. It has a light touch that matches the derailleur perfectly. We’re excited to share more in a long-term review later next year.
$255+ at Vivo Cycling
Project 321 G3 Hubs
Released in April of this year, the Canada-made Project 321 G3 hubs debuted with a few interesting features that made us take notice and ultimately get a set in for review. The G3 has a clever 6-Lock mechanism that allows both center lock and six-bolt rotors to be mounted without the need for a lockring, a new axle/bearing layout that gave the company the confidence to offer them with a 10-year warranty, and a new quick-engagement freehub design that features eight pawls operating in pairs, delivering 1.25° or 288 points of engagement. After putting quite a few miles on them so far, we’ve been very impressed and will have a review together in the coming months.
$280+ at Project 321
Microshift Sword & Sword Black
This year, we put the MicroShift Sword and Sword Black groupsets through a thorough test and found them to be dependable, versatile, and budget-friendly options for gravel riders, tinkerers, and bikepackers alike. These groupsets stand out as practical alternatives to pricier drivetrains on the market, delivering more features than you might expect. What’s refreshing is Sword’s honest approach to the limitations of a 10-speed mechanical groupset: it embraces them rather than trying to disguise or overcompensate. And let’s face it: 10 speeds are more than sufficient for most cyclists. If you prioritize durability and reliability over cutting-edge flash, Sword is well worth considering.
$304 at microSHIFT
Wheels MFG Solo
With the HG freehub standard dating back to the ‘80s, the introduction of the Micro Spline and XD freehubs several years ago marked a significant shift. Considering their likely relevance for decades to come, very few singlespeed cogs are compatible with either. Wheels MFG stepped in to fill the gaps with their Colorado-machined Solo-Spline and Solo-XD kits to offer two excellent singlespeed conversion solutions for those two freehub standards. A few of us have put a lot of miles on them this year and all agree that they’re well-engineered, easy to install, and perform as expected. Better yet, they feature replaceable cogs that are reasonably priced and compatible with a variety of chains.
$120 at Wheels MFG
Top Five Upgrades of 2024
This category usually represents top-shelf components that are rather pricey, but we decided to mix in some that were more literal this year. Still, there are a few high-dollar items that are well-designed and could be a worthwhile investment if you have the extra dough.
DT Swiss Ratchet DEG
The latest innovation from DT Swiss is the Ratchet DEG system, a high-engagement hub designed specifically for technical trail riding. The concept is relatively straightforward but is a giant step for the company. DT Swiss scaled up their proven, reliable ratchet system to make it faster and more durable. The larger ratchet size reduces stress on each tooth while allowing for more teeth—90 in total—to result in a rapid 4° engagement. This design excels in technical, rocky terrain, where quick acceleration and precise ratcheting are essential to avoid pedal strikes and maintain control. We’ll have a long-term review out later next year.
More at DT Swiss
Madrone Missing Link + Cage
Introduced at Sea Otter this year, Madrone Cycles’ suite of Eagle Derailleur rebuild components is nothing short of impressive. We recently upgraded an old, beat up X01 derailleur with a Madrone cage and links. It’s like new again and shifts smoothly and flawlessly. We haven’t put a ton of miles on it quite yet, but we were blown away by Madrone’s engineering, attention to detail, the level at which the service videos are made, and their commitment to our right to repair.
$148 at Madrone
Tumbleweed Titanium Pannier Rack
Released this year, the Tumbleweed Titanium Pannier Rack is a lightweight counterpart to their classic steel Pannier Rack, coming in at half the weight of its predecessor. It also received a couple notable upgrades, including a redesigned platform and integrated dynamo wire routing. It’s a true upgrade in all senses of the word and might be a worthy investment for riders who meticulously count grams (think toothbrush-handle trimmers and Dyneema tent enthusiasts) or anyone aiming to shed weight for a more agile, unladen feel, especially when using a dropper.
$400 at Campfire
Mattoc Pro Fork
Getting a perfectly dialed-in fork is difficult, but the Mattoc Pro seems to have solved that this year. Its Dorado Air Spring system with Infinite Rate Tune (IRT) allows precise mid- and end-stroke tuning, improving small-bump compliance and preventing bottom-outs. The MC2 Damper offers high- and low-speed compression adjustments, rebound control, and a hydraulic bottom-out for extra resistance during aggressive riding. It’s lightweight, easy to service, and adjustable from 110mm to 150mm of travel, making it versatile for both XC and trail use. While fine-tuning takes time, the confidence and support it delivers are worth the effort.
$1,050 at WWC
Doom/Stooge Tracker Bar
Every once in a while, a handlebar comes along that simply seems special. The Doom/Stooge Tracker bar is just that. It’s hand-bent in the USA from 4130 Chromoly steel by Doom Bars and has a nickel-plated finish that nails the look, especially with the Dirt Tracker it was designed for. The bar features a 70mm rise, 20° of backsweep, and comes uncut at 880mm wide (although Logan trimmed his to 820). It’s comfortable beyond compare and nails this category in an absolute literal and figurative sense. Unfortunately, it’s super limited, but perhaps Doom will make one for you if you ask nicely enough.
$150 at Stooge Cycles
Best Tools & Gadgets
For the Best Tools & Gadgets, there are always a lot of great options. This year’s winner is…
Coros Dura
The COROS Dura made waves earlier this year, thanks largely to its unmatched battery life. During a long-term test, Neil used the device for 70 rides, covering over 1,200 miles and 164 hours, and he only needed to charge it once! At $249, the Dura delivers exceptional value, coming in significantly cheaper than comparable units from Wahoo, Hammerhead, and Garmin—especially their solar models—while offering unparalleled battery performance. While they had some of the expected growing pains when launching a first-generation GPS head unit, the firmware has improved substantially over the last few months, making it a very solid debut that has the potential to shake up the cycling computer market. It’s become a favorite for several team members here. Read our review here.
$249 at Coros
Wolf Tooth EnCase Pump
We might sound like a broken record, but year after year, Wolf Tooth delivers when it comes to meticulous design and innovation. The EnCase Pump was this year’s hit. These no-frills mini-pumps come in two practical volumes, both ideal for off-road tires. The EnviroLock twist-locking handle and a well-designed pump head showcase its thoughtful execution. The added functionality of storing EnCase multi-tools is a brilliant bonus, and the inclusion of the Tire Plug Tool with oversized plugs shows the company’s understanding of bikepacking-relevant needs.
$64.95+ at Wolf Tooth
Silky Gomboy Curve 210
After the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene earlier this year, it was hard to get anywhere in the nearby national forest. Trees were down everywhere, blocking nearly every trail, gravel road, and path. This was Logan’s first experience with a folding Silky Saw, but he was immediately impressed. There are plenty of options, both smaller and larger, but the Gomboy 210 seems like the perfect size to toss in a frame bag, and it does a superior job at cutting tree limbs quickly.
$60 at Silky
NITECORE NU25 UL 400
The Nitecore NU25 UL 400 is a compact, ultralight headlamp that packs small and offers some great features, including a max output of 400 lumens, a bright white spotlight, a high-CRI floodlight, and a red light. Its dual-band bungee head strap is unique, reflective, and glow-in-the-dark. It offers a useful balance of functionality and minimalism that’s perfect for bikepacking.
$37 at Nitecore
Accessory of the Year
This award is specific to accessories that may not fit into the bikepacking bags category but are made for bikepacking and/or carrying gear.
Rogue Panda Alamo
The redesigned Rogue Panda Alamo top tube bag introduces a clever attachment system that eliminates the need for a head tube strap, offering a stable and more streamlined design than many comparable bags. It can be attached via straps or in a bolt-on configuration and comes in three sizes, including the spacious Gordito Grande option. Rogue Panda makes them in-house at their Flagstaff, Arizona, shop in readymade designs or custom-printed fabric options. The Alamo stands out as a fresh and clever solution from a small maker in an increasingly crowded bag market.
$75 at Rogue Panda
Old Man Mountain Axle Pack
After our suspension fork bushing test a couple of years ago, we learned that attaching bottle cages to suspension forks using pipe clamps is a no-no. Fortunately, Old Man Mountain figured out a solution with the Axle Pack, a unique fork-mount adapter that attaches to any fork using the axle to carry the load. The Axle Packs are rated to carry up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds) per pair, and we’ve been impressed with how stable the system is, its weight capacity, and the fact that it’s compatible with any fork that uses a thru-axle.
$60 at Old Man Mountain
Restrap Race Top Tube Bag
The Race Top Tube Bag is another unique option that impressed us this year. It’s a lightweight, stable, and user-friendly bag packed with smart features and details. It offers both strap- and bolt-on mounting options, durable Hypalon reinforcements, an internal organizer strap, and convenient mesh pockets for snacks, wrappers, or other handy items. Thanks to its unique steerer attachment system and minimal internal structure, the bag remains exceptionally stable, making it a reliable choice for any ride.
$84 at Restrap
Drust Rear Light Mount
Framebuilder Konstantin Drust from Berlin was painstakingly fabricating his rear light mounts by hand for some time before finally taking the plunge and having an initial production run made earlier this year, and we’re so glad he did. Built to last a lifetime, the inexpensive Drust Rear Light mount is the perfect blend of form and function and offers an elegant, hassle-free way to hold your dynamo taillight. It’s delightfully simple and done exceptionally well, something we’d love to see more of in the broader bike industry.
€20 at Drust Cycles
Outer Shell DHB
The nearly endless front bags on today’s market tend to blend together, but Outer Shell’s Drawcord Handlebar Bag stands out. It’s an update to a prior iteration, and the new design is an improvement on an already brilliant design. Lucas and Nic have both put tons of time into the prior and current versions, with the latter offering a clear plastic topper, increased capacity on the front and sides, and a slightly sturdier frame. Though its capacity keeps it firmly in the day-ride department, it can just as easily be used as an accessory to a larger setup or harness-style bag.
$130 at Outer Shell
Camping Gear of the Year
This award goes to camping gear we’ve tested in 2024 that has proven to be reliable and outstanding in its class.
SlingFin Portal 1
The Slingfin Portal 1 was a sleeper this year, but it caught our attention when Neil stated that was one of the best one-person tents he’s ever used, thanks to its exceptional attention to detail, practical features, and overall craftsmanship. The Portal 1 has a freestanding body design and a full-length rainfly that are both intuitive to set up. It also offers generous headroom along with an ample footprint width and length, providing a comfortable nest for solo bikepackers, including Neil’s 6’4” tall friend who tried it on for size. Read our complete review here.
$510 at Slingfin
Nemo Moonlite Elite
The Nemo Moonlite Elite is an impressive example of ultralight engineering in the realm of “legged” camp chairs. Its design sets a high standard, and Nemo showed their commitment to sustainability with its durable 100% post-consumer seat fabric. The frame and junctions are exceptionally well-constructed, too, delivering an admirable level of stability for such an ultralight product. While it may not be ideal for taller individuals, smaller and mid-sized folks on our team love it.
$179 at Nemo
Tarptent Protrail Li
In 2016, Miles bought a TarpTent ProTrail as his first dedicated bikepacking tent. It served him well for several years, and he remembers appreciating how much living space there was for an ultralight one-person tent. When TarpTent announced an updated Dyneema version in 2020, he knew he had to get his hands on it. Shedding over 100 grams off the polyester version, the TarpTent ProTrail Li weighs an impressive 504 grams (17.75 ounces) before adding support poles, has a generously sized bathtub floor that’s great for tall folks, and is relatively easy to set up compared to other trekking-pole style shelters. Stay tuned for a full review.
$529 at Tarptent
Cocoon Pillow
Having bought this $30 REI pillow at the start of his bikepacking ventures, Nic was prepared to have to replace the Cocoon camp pillow at some stage in the gear life cycle. Because of its modular design, sleek pack system, unrivaled comfort, and durability across five years of consistent use, the cocoon has become a mainstay of his setup. The fist-sized Cocoon inflatable pillow is light, quilted on the resting side, packable, and adjustable to whatever level of firmness the user desires. For a relatively affordable camp pillow that’s consistently stocked at the biggest outdoor gear store in the country, the Cocoon camp pillow is a game-changer for nights under the stars.
$30 at REI
Best in Bikepacking Kitchen
This award category is designated for packable food, recipes, or camp kitchen utensils that have impressed us in 2024.
MSR Titan Kettle and Cookware
The MSR Titan Kettle is a legend in the ultralight bikepacking sphere. The brand updated it this year with several well-conceived improvements. The lineup stands out with thoughtful details across each product, ticking nearly every box for a well-rounded cookware set. All the new Titan products we tested were impressive enough to warrant this award. The Titan Kettle and cookware set is built to last a lifetime and comes with unique features, such as precise nesting compatibility, silicone handle sleeves, and volumetric graduation marks. Overall, MSR’s Titan redux implements are practical and cleverly designed, making them a worthy addition to any bikepacking cook kit.
$65 at MSR
Pretty Great Instant
After years of trying to balance the perfect gear-to-effort-to-taste ratio, Nic may have finally found his holy grail of coffee brewed outside. Pretty Great Instant stood out in side-by-side taste tests time and time again. Most importantly, it’s the least time and gear-intensive manner to have the best cup of coffee on the go. Whether you’re on the side of a mountain or just want something better than diner coffee on a multi-day trip, Pretty Great Instant is worth a try.
$11 at Pretty Great
HydraPak Breakaway Bottle
The Breakaway+ Bottle Filter may not introduce groundbreaking tech to the water filtration, but it seamlessly integrates useful functionality into a simple, effective, user-friendly design. The mouthpiece mudguard is a useful addition, the rotating cap works smoothly as intended, and its backflush capability is a standout feature, helping extend the filter’s lifespan compared to non-backflushable alternatives. It shines as a convenient, all-in-one system that fits neatly in your bottle cage and is ready when needed.
$46 at Hydrapak
Opinel Carbon
While it’s not something Nic imagined he was ever going to need, the number of times this handy, sturdy, beautiful, and compact knife came to the rescue on bike tours and daily rides is simply astounding. From cutting fruit and vegetables for a more upscale trailside experience to a worthy addition to any repair/camp kit, the Opinel is the gold standard for affordable knives that get the job done. With exactly one moving part, they never really get wiggly or unreliable. Through dust, sand, moisture, and extreme heat, the Opinel is the pack knife you didn’t realize you needed.
$19 at Opinel
Outdoor Apparel of The Year
The Outdoor Apparel of The Year award is for clothing and outwear we’ve tested in 2024 that’s exceptional and has proven to be long-lasting.
Da Brim
Da Brim isn’t new by any stretch of the imagination. However, several of us happened to pick one up this year and collectively thought, “Why didn’t I buy one of these sooner!?” Unconventional by mainstream cycling standards, it might be the ideal accessory for exploratory rides in sunny climates. Da Brim’s helmet-compatible design provides effective protection from both UV rays and heat while maintaining airflow to keep you cool. Bikepackers and long-distance cyclists—who often spend full days in the saddle—will undoubtedly appreciate its practical benefits. As Josh summed up in his excellent review, Da Brim embodies self-care, embracing the journey, and letting go of concerns about appearances or external judgments.
$53 at Da Brim
Ornot Hooded UV Trail Shirt
Ornot expanded its apparel lineup this year with the introduction of the men’s and women’s UV Trail Shirts. Made from fabric spun from mostly recycled fibers, these shirts provide UPF 30 sun protection and are lightweight and quick-drying. A few of our team members have found them to be perfect for all-day rides. Available in both hooded and non-hooded versions, the UV Trail Shirt comes in a range of sizes and colors, too.
$85 at Ornot
Five Ten Trailcross CL
After a lot of hard use this year, the Five Ten Trailcross CL shoes rose to the top of our list of favorites based on their durability, breathability, and the fact that they rise to the occasion during any hike-a-bike-laden adventure. You can find a full rundown in our review, but in summary, they strike an ideal balance with enough forefoot flex for hiking and still maintain a sufficiently stiff shank for efficient pedaling.
$165 at REI
7mesh Glidepath Pants
This spring, 7mesh in British Columbia released an updated version of their popular Glidepath Pants, and they became an instant favorite for Miles. The Glidepath Pants are made from a lightweight, four-way stretch fabric, have elastic ankle cuffs, and like all 7mesh gear, feature an articulated fit that’s designed specifically with cycling in mind. The latest version is more comfortable and shows no signs of wear after plenty of day rides and bikepacking trips.
$170 at 7mesh
Best in Show
We attended quite a few expos and bike shows in 2024 and saw a wealth of great-looking handbuilt creations. We decided to put our heads together and vote on the top bikes from each show. Here they are in no specific order…
Clandestine Carrier (Bespoked, UK)
Clandestine had two impressive versions of the “Carrier” on display at the Bespoked UK show. The latest iteration of the builder Pi Manson’s flagship bike has undergone several updates and refinements over the past six years, including the addition os some impressive custom racks built around the Wizard Works Shazam bag. The rear rack is a standout feature, expertly cradling the Shazam while incorporating a top bar with lugs for Voilé straps, uprights with three-pack bosses for extra cargo, and intricate loops for securing a drybag between the upper struts. Both of the Carriers, including the Pinion version, were complete packages that stole the show. Find the original coverage and more photos here.
Drust Cargobike (Eurobike)
While photographing Drust’s impressive drop-bar mountain bike at Bespoked UK, builder Konstantin Drust said, “You should wait and just photograph the cargo bike I’ll have on display at Eurobike. Logan is glad he photographed both, but the cargo bike was incredibly impressive. As pictured in our coverage from Eurobike, this beast has a lot of bells and whistles, including a Pinion gearbox, custom racks, and a really cool colorway. Kudos, Konstantin. We can’t wait to see what you dream up next.
Meerglas Explorer (Bespoked, DE)
Lucas and Josh were tasked with picking the “Best Gravel Bike” at Bespoked 2024 in Dresden, and it only took a quick lap around the space to find their winner in Thomas Becker’s Meerglas Explorer. It would have been their winner regardless of category, as it’s a timeless tourer that defies genres and embraces time-tested standards and components, reminding onlookers that the latest isn’t necessarily the greatest. Take a closer look at the staggeringly beautiful build in their original coverage here.
Bourdeau All-City Space Truck (Sea Otter)
Among the sea of high-end bike bling at the Sea Otter Expo this year, Logan’s personal favorite was Josh Flores’s Bourdeau/All-City “Space Truck.” It had an unpolished charm that stood out beautifully, and with All-City recently becoming another casualty of the ever-volatile bike industry, it felt fitting to see this bike rolling through a show dominated by carbon frames, high-tech e-bikes, and ultra-expensive components. Find more photos and the backstory here.
Retrotec (MADE Bike Show)
A fixture in the custom U.S. mountain biking community, Retrotec showcased a striking yellow-and-red hardtail at the Made Bike Show this year. Built by Retrotec owner Curtis Inglis, the bike features beautifully integrated racks by Hunter Cycles attached to the rear triangle, Paul Components stem plate, and fork legs. It’s a dream bikepacking bike, for sure. All it needs is bags and somewhere to go! Find the original coverage here.
Significant Other (MADE Bike Show)
Ashley King is a talented framebuilder out of Golden, Colorado, doing some fantastic work through her small, independent company, Significant Other. Be it her hyper-custom, double-top-tubed, titanium gravel rig with a Pinion that features an homage to the customer’s love for cats to the subtle but stunning pearlescent hardtail, Ashley’s builds are something to behold. Learn more about Ashley in our 2024 MADE coverage here.
Stay tuned for more from our 2024 Bikepacking Awards, including honors for the best Photography, Video, and Creative work, as well as the best routes and most influential individuals of the year…
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Further Reading
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