Plan & Prepare

What does “self-supported” really mean? In this essay, Jackie Baker works to define it in the ultra-endurance bikepacking context and outlines three self-supported principles to help ensure the integrity and longevity of the sport. Find her takeaways from interviews with all kinds of racers and organizers and a massive gallery of images from some of our favorite events here…

In contrast to our “Why Go Bikepacking Alone” piece from last year, Neil’s latest video on our YouTube channel explores the merits of bikepacking with a group, including tips and strategies and the social benefits. Watch it here…

The Hammerhead Karoo 2 promises a gorgeously detailed display and a host of training features. But is this premium device also suitable for bikepackers riding on and off the grid? For this long-term review, Cass tries it out on extended bikepacking trips and day rides to see if it’s enough to tempt him away from his trusty Wahoo…

In this detailed article, the folks from the Atlanta chapter of Radical Adventure Riders (RAR ATL) share an in-depth look at how they built a bikepacking gear library so that other communities might be inspired and empowered to do the same. Read their informative rundown here…

In our ongoing effort to curb the use of single-serving plastics, we took a deep dive into what “biodegradable” packaging really means and gathered dozens of bikepacking-friendly snacks and dehydrated camping meals that come in compostable packaging and put them to the test. Find our reviews and a roundup of options here…

As Oaxaca’s eco centres open their gates to outsiders, Cass heads back into the mountains to re-ride a familiar route with new friends—and a dog in a trailer behind him. Doing so reveals that even in the height of the dusty dry season, the Sierra Norte remains awash with life, as long as you take the time to look around you…

Originally published in 2015, “Leave No Trace for Bikepackers” is a living set of ethical guidelines designed to help our community grow responsibly and sustainably by providing the proper information and resources to preserve where we ride, lessen our footprint on the landscape, and interact with the land and each other in a positively impactful way…

In our latest route report, Miles and Patrick reflect on their time riding the Queen’s Ransom route in Arizona a few months back. Find their impressions of the route, stories of how their friendship helped them make it through, details about their rigs, and a little about how their experiences differed here…

There are several ways to attach a patch. Some people like to sew them on, others prefer an iron, but if you don’t want to spend your precious time doing either, there’s an easy alternative. In this video, Neil introduces Badge Magic and shares step-by-step instructions on how to install a patch quickly and effectively. Plus, find a few reader recommendations on how they attach their patches…

At the north end of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, two ferry rides away from the city of Vancouver, is the qathet Regional District and the city of Powell River. In our latest local’s guide, Miles reflects on living there for the last year, several local bikepacking routes, and the community that has drawn him in…

If you’re a shorter rider who struggles to find a place to fit all of your gear on your frame, this guide’s for you. Find our guide to packing small bikes for big adventures here, complete with tips for storage, suggestions for smaller gear, and more…

Newbie dogpackers Cass and Huesos share their experiences – and experiments – in cratepacking. Read on to find out all the details of their current setup and those they aspire to, along with a selection of photos from recent dirt road rambles in Oaxaca, Mexico…