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Random Pastimes
United States
Приєднався 8 сер 2020
Random videos of things I like to do... in no particular order.
Replicating Osprey's Stow on the Go Trekking Pole System on the Gregory Baltoro Pack
I really like Osprey's Stow on the Go trekking pole system, but thr Gregory Baltoro fit me better. However, I was able to replicate thr trekking pole storage system on my Gregory pack for about $10 in materials. This video shows how I did it!
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Відео
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Review
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Review of the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX boots with comparisons to the Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX and the Altra Lone Peak Hiker boots.
2021 vs 2022 Gregory Baltoro Backpack Comparison
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Gregory updated their Baltoro backpack line for 2022. This video compares the features of the updated 2022 model with the previous version of this pack. On thing I forgot to mention in the video is the backpanel on the 2022 Baltoro suspension seems to conform to the wearer's back a little more than the older one. Almost like a mini trampoline style suspension, but while still keeping the pack c...
Bontrager Sport Bike Saddle Review
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This is a review of the Bontrager Sport bike saddle I have on my 2021 Giant Stance 29 2.
2021 Giant Stance 29 2 Review
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Brief review of the 2021 Giant Stance 29 2 Mountain Bike, a great entry level full suspension bike with a lot of capability.
Northshore DORBA Trail Ride August 8, 2020
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Just a few highlights from my ride on Loops 1 - 4 on August 8, 2020. Northshore is a DORBA trail on Lake Grapevine in Grapevine, TX.
Really nice review and diction/audio is terrific. Love watching these and comparing the newer iterations of the Baltoro 65 with my 1010 version, (that I love, BTW.)
Thank you! I try to provide key details while not making the review drag on longer than necessary.
I was always a medium fit, with the new models, seems as though 2022+, I am now a small. With the medium, even on the smallest possible setting, its too big. I have to go small and expand it to the largest setting for a proper fit. Weird.
That is interesting. It sounds like you're right on the border between the small and medium sizes. I do really like the Baltoro 75, it served me very well on a 10 day trek at Philmont Scout Ranch last year.
謝謝，很棒的視頻
I've got 4 wtb got the new comfort to try all crap! I want the Bontrager P3 come on trek can't buy it one the best 145mm your sport sounds interesting im bigger set just now i need more padding for a first wee while
I've got the new one and it comes with a rain cover.
Interesting. A common complaint about the new one is that Gregory no longer included the rain cover. Who knows, maybe they started including it again or you got lucky.
Thanks! The size difference between 65 and 75 is so little that there is no point going with 65. Do you agree?
That is exactly how I saw it. The weight difference between the two is negligible and I really appreciated the extra space at Philmont Scout Ranch last year that the 75L provides. I really don't see a reason to choose the 65L over the 75L.
@@christophermartin1421 thanks a lot. All the best!
Nice bike.
Thanks!
is the top lid detachable on new model?
The top lid can be removed, but it is not meant to be taken off on a routine basis and is not set up to use as a separate pack. To remove it you have to take three straps through the buckles so it's not a "quick detach" proposition.
@@christophermartin1421thanks for the answer! I am looking for a backpack which I can remove the top lid easily. It doesn't have to be a daypack, I just want to carry a smaller bag on a plane etc. However, smaller bags are not convenient for mountaineering activities.
Super helpful review! Been comparing these two versions for a few days. It really just seems like were deciding between the raincover/hydration sleeve day pack combo/cheaper on sale price vs better suspension system/more useful hip belt pockets and id agree a better designed brain pocket setup from the looks of it... hard to choose!!
Thank you! For what it's worth I would go with the more comfortable suspension and usable hip belt pockets over the hydration sleeve and cover. A cover can be purchased from Amazon for $15, and the hydration sleeve isn't needed.
Does the saddle still work today?
That’s great to hear that they relax and loosen up a little. I tried the the “wide” and felt a little loose in the fore foot. I hate loose or sloppy shoes that let your feet slop around. I want a comfortable but well fitting boot
Very helpful. Thank you.
Glad you found it valuable!
My wife just got these from rei for $90. They were only used 1 time. They are the best hiking boot I’ve ever had.
I wore these during a 10 day, 55 mile backpacking trip at Philmont Scout Ranch this summer in the mountains of New Mexico. They were outstanding.
I'm new to mountain biking and bought this 2021 Stance 2 crest in mint condition. What do you think of it as a beginner bike?
I think it is a great beginner bike and, depending on what type of trails you ride and your style, could be a long term bike for you.
Nice looking bike but poor quality control or poor transport.Rear wheel has major issues right out of the box. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L Rear axle is bent! Derailleur is misaligned.Since the rear wheel comes assembled I would have expected better.Assembly instructions poorly written, but that was not unexpected...just annoying.I just had the bike checked at a shop and was told that I should contact the seller about getting a whole rear wheel assembly with cartridge. (The bike shop could not do anything to help me).Not a good experience with this bike, so lesson learned.Added 3 stars for excellent customer serviceUpdate Sept 8 2020Just received a complete replacement wheel for free. Great service and an otherwise fine bike.
Do you think the back breathability alone is worth the upgrade or that significant of a difference? I found the older version for 120$ less
That's hard to say. My son and I just came back from a 12 day trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. He had the older 65 liter pack, I had the newer 75. Both of us were fine, but because I didn't use the 65 extensively I can't really compare it to the 75. There is nothing wrong with the older pack and it was loved by many, I just know I like the newer pack that I used.
@@randompastimes thanks for the input!!
Very helpful review. Thank you.
Thanks!
Today my new Baltoro 75L came, and im really hapyy with it!. In the end of the month i will give it a solid try on 4 day trip. I was kinda dissapointed though that the internal smaller backpack was not included. It seemd like a great addition to a backpack for such a price. Still, rest of it seems excellent! Thanks for comparison and have a nice day!
Cool, best of luck to you! Yes, it would have been nice if Gregory had included the smaller pack as well as a rain cover. The absence of a rain cover is, to me, the biggest negative. But, I do really like the pack and am still very happy with it!
I just purchased one 2 weeks ago from REI, to start my new interest of backpacking. I’ve hiked and camped in my younger day, but never to the point of needing a backpack. I’m section hiking the AT. I did a couple of days as a trial run 3 weeks ago and made it from Springer Mountain to Woody Gap. I used a borrowed pack then and realizing this was going to be doable, I’m back today. I had trail support to pick me up after going from Woody Gap to Neel’s Gap today with a day pack. However, tomorrow I will leave Neel’s Gap using my new Gregory Baltoro 65. I plan to hike and tent camp to finish the Georgia section. I’m hoping to get this done in 4 days and 3 nights. I appreciate the video going over some of the features. I was a little disappointed that it no longer comes with a rain cover. However the comfort of the pack after trying with weights in it at the REI store sold me. I tried an Osprey but it didn’t fit me as well so I went with the Gregory. I’ll try and report back after my completion of the Georgia section of the AT.
Have you had any issues with it squeaking/creaking?
@@enterprise8979 yes I have. It does tend to squeak and creak. I just finished going through Great Smoky Mountains and noticed it. It’s not so loud though that it bothers me that much.
Thanks man!! - Godspeed
No problem!
I have the same bike with the original specs, Crest and Forecasters. Pro's: it really is a great bike for the price. Drive train is excellent, light weight, Crest fork is compatible with RS Recon or Reba, seat is better than mid price WTB, Shimano hubs are race quality, good bar, stem and rims for factory name equipment. (I've raced some enduro with it) Cons: grips, brakes fade and weak, rear shock is the weakest link on it, tubeless setup leaks and have to add air everyday, chain guide is essential if you shred on the DH's. With the right upgrades this is a very capable and compatible bike with any big brand bike in it's class.
I have not ridden in a bit, but enjoy this bike for sure. I'm not a "shredder" and think this bike is just about perfect for my style of riding.
Would you say the old one is a better deal for $170 new compared to the updated model?
In my opinion the older model would be the better deal, and it is a fine pack. With that said, I love my newer model Baltoro and love the suspension changes they made. I have had more opportunities to use my newer Baltoro 75 on backpacking trips since creating this video, and believe, for me, the newer model is worth the extra price. However, the older design is definitely still a great pack, I just feel the newer suspension is worth the extra investment for me.
Compare it with the osprey aether 60 plus please
I do not own an Osprey Aether so unfortunately I cannot compare those two packs from personal experience.
This is awesome, thank you! The old ones are on clearance right now at the Gregory site
Yes, the old pack is a fine pack and is still a great choice. I will say the new model suspension is a dream though, I don't think I have ever worn a pack more comfortable.
@@randompastimes what other packs have you worn?
@@sansanych6163 I have had a cheaper Teton pack as well as an Osprey Xenith.
Awesome review. Thank you so much.
Thanks!
Be very careful about how you measure for large or medium. I measured myself and came up large with a few cm leeway. Bought the large and found it was too large, really have to cinch the shoulder straps to get them to take some weight off my hips, even then the hip belt is not high enough. I can only think, when you measure, it tells you to bend your neck forward to be able to feel the relevant vertebrae, I honk I measured with my neck still bent which lengthened the measurement. Because it was sent from Spain to UK I was loath to send it back. I kept convincing myself I hadn’t adjusted it correctly, not used it much, going to sell it on eBay and get another- it is a really nicely made pack, if it fit!☹️
Good point and you are very correct, especially if you are close to the lower or upper limit of specific sizing.
I agree that it's important to measure properly and not assume your size. I'm 6'2" and 210 lbs so I expected I'd want the large size. I went into a store that had the Baltoro 65 in stock and found that the Medium fit great and the guy who was fitting me even lowered the shoulder straps a bit.
I have the stance 2 29 2022 comes with a dropper... I ride it very hard it is a really capable bike! One thing I find is its really fast!!! Its rolling acceleration is surprising...
Awesome review! Just got this pack and was confused about the different versions, good to see it broken down with the older & newer versions compared side by side.
Thank you, glad it was helpful! The Baltoro is the best feeling pack I have owned. I used a less expensive Teton Sports pack and had an Osprey Xenith for a bit as well. This Gregory has me very happy.
Thanks for the advice. I just returned a Gregory Paragon 58….I needed more room haha But I really liked the suspension. Was considering Paragon 68 but the Baltoro has a lot more to it. Thanks again for the video and confirming my belief that Gregory makes comfortable packs! I have 3 “ultralight” packs on the shelf, they are only good for warm summer trips. Thanks again pastimes !
@NinerK glad the video helped! I think you'll find the new model Baltoro's suspension is very similar to the Paragon. The pockets and overall organization of the Baltoro is hard to beat, it's a great pack!
Very useful, thank you!🙋♀️
You are welcome, glad you enjoyed the video!
Upgraded my Volt saddle to this one because of your review. My butt thanks you:)
Glad it is working for you! I tried multiple WTB saddles and really thought I would like the Volt, but this Bontrager just felt right to me.
Hi I was wondering if you could send one of the bags to me I really need one for my up coming Philmont trek I think it would work well.
Both of these bags are already in use, but if you are going to Philmont I would encourage you to speak with your Scoutmaster and other local Scouting community regarding your need. Often times people may have extra gear they are willing to lend. Additionally, Philmont has rental packs you can use for a small fee as well. Best of luck.
Thanks for going more in depth on this! I just picked up my new Baltoro and was disappointed it didn't include this like the Osprey so this is great. In your last video you mentioned you got a rain cover off of amazon, which did you get and have you gotten to test it yet?
This is the rain cover I purchased. It appears well made, although I have not yet tested it in rain conditions
It looks like the hip-belt on the newer model doesn't swivel, is that correct?
That is correct, is a permanently built into the pack and does not swivel.
*I love the **Latest.Bike** . The standard seat that cMe with the bike was incredibly uncomfortable, but a quick seat swap made the bike so much more enjoyable.*
Yes, the stock saddle was not very comfortable for me either. I ended up testing out quite a few and, surprisingly, ended up with a Bontrager Sport saddle on my Stance.
Hi I 'm planning to get the Baltoro 75 older one for the reason that its like a 100 dollars cheaper than the new one. Is getting the new one worth it that the money you can save on the older model?
That's hard to say. The old model is a great pack and there is nothing wrong with it. I do like the suspension on the new pack, I feel like it conforms to my body better. And I also like the larger hip belt pockets on the new pack. But besides that you likely will not notice much difference. The older pack is solid and I wouldn't hesitate to get it.
From Gregory's website on 2022 model listing: Custom fitted raincover included - stows in a quick access zippered pocket on the underside of the top lid I confirm! A raincover came with my 2022 baltoro 75.
Are you in the United States? Manufacturers often have slightly different features in different countries. The Gregory website in the United States does not list this as a feature, and my Baltoro 75 did not come with one. Here is a link to another review where they talk about the 2022 Baltoro 75 not including a rainncover. www.switchbacktravel.com/reviews/gregory-baltoro-75#like
@@randompastimes I think you are absolutely right. No, I am in Greece and I bought it from a shop in Germany. But i believe this is not fair! It rains more often in Europe or what Gregory?
@@orestiskaramanos1756 Osprey does this as well, the specs on their packs on Europe are slightly different in some cases than in the United States.
I live in Sweden and I also got a raincover
The velcro seems like a point of potential failure. Also tare the new hip pockets waterproof? The old one stated it was, idk about the new.
Both the right and left hip pockets are lined with a rubberized feeling material for waterproofing. Keep in mind on the old pack the right hip pocket was waterproof but the left one is open mesh. I wouldn't worry about the velcro, Osprey and many other manufacturers have been using the velcro system for years and most of the other Gregory packs us it as well.
Do the new version stil have thet tilting hipbelt?. by the looks of it it dosen't.
The older one is award winning pack. You can see how they downgraded the new one.
Interesting perspective. What features do you feel are a downgrade on the new version of the pack? The old version is a great pack for sure, but I do like the changes they made to the suspension and hip belt pockets on the new one.
The 2021 looks a lot like my older model. I really wish my belt pockets were bigger, haha! Kinda silly, but true. The day pack has endured a load of abuse. My son used to use it when climbing
I believe Gregory used the same design for at least a couple years up through 2021. Yes, the belt pocket size was my on criticism of the older model, although I will say the suspension on the newer model is like heaven!
I recommend you the Wittkop Medicus saddle and the Kitsuma Trans X dropper post , thank me later .
Followed the instructions. Excellent outcome. Thanks!
Great, I am glad it worked out for you!
Any recommendation on size of the La Sportive shoe to buy given I wear 9.5 sneakers. Also since you had Solomon Ultra and you liked those so why didn't you go for the same one again? Did you find La Sportiva Nucleo better than your Solomon?
I wear a size 10 sneaker and the size 43 LA Sportiva fit me well. I would guess a size 42 or 42.5 might work for you? REI has these on sale this weekend so now is a good time to buy. I had thr Salomon Authentic LTR GTX before, but that boot is not made anymore. I liked it but the La Sportiva seems to have a bit more cushion in the sole which I appreciate.
@@randompastimes Thanks for your quick response. I did end up picking La Sportive from REI today,
@@gvs550 great, I hope you enjoy them! Mine felt a little tight at first but they loosened up after breaking in and feel great now. I love them, most comfortable boots I have ever owned.
it seems that the new version you have is Baltoro Pro 85 here in Europe. And raincover is included.
I bought a pair today, returned them for a wide, I definitely think these are a great pair of boots. Thank you for the review.
I hope the wide works out for you!
@@randompastimes 🤞
Just checking: Are you sure there is no built-in rain cover in the new model? Gregory's website in Europe shows the new model and the description says that a rain cover is built-in.
Yes, 100% sure there is no raincover. Keep on mind I am in the United States, if you are looking at their Europe website the specs on packs there may be different. Osprey also has different specs on some of their Europe packs.
@@randompastimes Thanks!
@@ericblackwell9254 Mine here in Switzerland came with a raincover
@@SCa5100 Thank you!
I bought a new model in Poland (Europe) and the rain cover is included.
Thanks for this, and I love the Osprey hack for the poles!! That was one feature I thought Gregory was missing.
My pleasure. I like the Osprey pole system as well and was glad to find it could be replicated on the Baltoro.
thank you so much!
You are welcome, I hope it was helpful!
ANY BODY THAT CAN CARRY AN 65L AN UP BACK PACK FULL OF STUFF. SHOULD TRY AN MILITARY OR MILITARY BACK PACK. FOR ONE A LOT OF MILITARY LARGE BACK PACK'S ARE SHORT AN WIDE. IMAGINE AN PACK UP TO 100L NO TALLER THAN AN 65L PACK AN CABLE OF ADDING ADDITIONAL POUCHES. IF YOUR NOT WORRIED ABOUT WEIGHT AN ALL THAT OTHER STUFF MILITARY BACK PACK'S ARE AWSOME. I DON'T GET IT? IF YOUR PACK WEIGHT A LITTLE JUST BUY LIGHT WEIGHT EQUIPMENT. I OWN A DUTCH MILITARY STING BACK PACK 80L AN IT'S AN TOP LOADING PACK WITH AN LID OR BRAIN AN TWO 10L SIDE POCKETS THAT UNZIP AN CAN FORM ONE DAY PACK. NEWER PACK'S ARE NICE BUT REALLY LACK IN USABLE SPACE. HOW YOU GONNA HAVE ALL THIS POCKET'S AN THERE BUILT IN TWO THE PACK IN STEAD ON THE OUT SIDE OF THE PACK?
Great review. Helpful to know that they stretch out. I tried a pair on and they did feel slightly narrow in the toes, might give them a shot since they stretch.
Yeah, I was a little nervous about them feeling a bit tight but after a few days of wearing them around town they stretched out nicely. Now, they feel awesome but they were tight at first!