Bikepacking Simplified - Focus on these & leave the rest behind
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- Опубліковано 16 чер 2024
- 🚲 Hey there, fellow travelers! 🌎
Welcome back to my channel! I'm Giant Cheerio, a bikepacking adventurer exploring the world on two wheels since 2021!
Ever wish you had a roadmap as you began your bikepacking journey?
Well then, here we go!
This video is all about the stuff that I wish I knew when I started my first gravel bikepacking adventure.
I'll talk about the equipment you really need and the things you can leave behind.
⁉️What bike? What about water? Which tools do I need on the go? What are the essentials to keep you rolling?
So, lean back, enjoy watching, and if you've got any burning questions or suggestions, drop them in the comments below. ⬇️
Cheerio, Goodbye, Salut & Adios! 🚲✨
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00:00 Intro
00:00 Intro
01:41 What you don't need
04:25 What you don't need to know
05:46 Useful stuff for bikepacking
09:57 Useful tools for bikepacking
10:59 How much water do I need?
11:37 Camp spot, Route, Navigation
12:19 How many kilometers a day?
I'm a 63 Year old woman and last year I finally did, what people like you inspired me to: Went on a 6 week tour in Sweden, slept in the forest, close to a lake or wherever I found a place to put up my tent. Have to work some more years, but will go for the next trip soon. Go for it, ladies!
Thank you, your comment is inspiring ❤
Correct …. It’s safer than you think too. Very few robbers and murderers will find you in any wild place.
Well done 🚲⛺👍
@@davidalderson7761 I always waited for an elk to come in the night. But there wasn't even a mouse 😀
Queen! 👸
Good advice. One tip I would like to give to first timers. If you stop for a break. Before you set off, turn round an look back at where you were sitting! Getting 10k down the road to find you've left something behind will have just put a extra 20k on your day!
oh how could I forget to mention this :D done that, been there ! Thank you!!
What is your job to speak English
Do you speak Arab
Yes good tip. I always do this as I'm the one likely to leave something behind. Check,check,check!
Yes! I do the same when hiking :). I do a small round 2-3 times to be sure I didn't forget something. Also I try not to leave too much small stuff out of the backs when not in use. I always put it back in a plastic bag or something else when not in use.
Wonderful advice. As a 72 year old cyclist and bicycle tourer, I agree whole heartedly. When I was younger I used to push for 100 km per day. But, as I got older, I realised that there was no real fun in that. Going slower I had much more time to enjoy the surroundings, to meet people, to have nice, relaxing stops, etc. I still tour every summer, but I'm really never concerned about how many km I achieve. I'm more concerned about how I feel through the day. If I feel great, have a tailwind, and the sun's out, I might still manage 100 km. But, if I have interesting places to stop, difficult terrain, bad winds or weather, I might only ride 30-35 km. Or, I might hole up in my tent and take a day off. You'll enjoy your ride much more if you don't feel pressured to reach a difficult goal every day. --- All that said, if you have limited time for a tour, or a job / family to get back to by a certain date, then it's more difficult. My recommendation in these circumstances is to plan your trip with plenty of play room for unanticipated events that can slow you down. -- Laura, Love your videos.
The idea is not to do as many kms as possible but as little as possible without getting bored.
that is really good advice
Great attitude 👏
One thing to know is that you will never feel fully ready to go for such a trip. The need of learning things, comparing the equipment brands, watching tons of videos about bikepacking, all this is just the expression of your fear for leaving. Heavy paniers are just full of anxiety. As Giant Cheerio said, learning by doing is the only way. Then hey ho let's go !
This is a great comment. SO true.
Excellent perspective! ❤
What you say about daily distance, after 40 years and a heart attack, I've started to learn - daily distance isn't the goal of a cycle tour. At most, it's a target, not a challenge. Obviously "holiday road warriors" like me have only so much annual leave and aren't doing it for "a job" like you call your travels at the start, but a cycle tour of any length should be primarily be about the experience and distances chosen to improve the experience, not the primary goal. Gear, too, totally agree - my motto has always been ride what you bring - any rider, on any bike, is welcome in my "peloton."
I would suggest for beginners that you go out with everything you are going to carry for a weekend. You will know if you sleep well, are warm enough, have the correct cookware, etc.
I would also suggest that a beginner take off your tire and put it back on at home where you are comfortable. Use only the tools you will take on your trip. The first time changing a tire takes much longer than the next time especially if you are being eaten by bugs or it is raining.
Great advice. If you have any concerns, just build up slowly, start gently and stay local. No need to rush, and if poss, find a person who shares your interest. 👍
Lucky you live in the age of UA-cam. Therefore, you can learn almost everything on the fly. When I was young, I had to learn some things the hard way. Like walking hours after hours because of a puncture of the tier. And there weren't neither mobile phones nor UA-cam.
Gosh, I must sound like someone from the stone ages.
"Start with the bike, you already own" I agree 100%
It might be a good idea to be sure that all the tools on your multitool are the right one for the scews and nuts of your bike. Modern bikes have often torx bolts instead of hex.
One of the tools with the most value on tour for me is the Mini Knipex 8603125.
It can replace all wrenches including pedal wrench.
Second best for me is the victorinox bit set. Replace all bits for the one you need on your bike. Save weight and space.
just ordered one last night.. very funny
I recommend first looking at the screws, then deciding whether to buy a big and heavy multitool. I'm better off with a hex tool and tire levers
Second on the knipex pliers wrench. I use this as a mechanic for all sorts of jobs. Things that you can easily do with it:
- true a wheel (put some soft cover over the jaws first)
- install a pedal
- crimp a ferrule
- open a shimano bleed port
- tighten any accessory system using an exposed nut
Le monde serait plus beau si tous les gens étaient comme toi 😘
Yup, solid recommendations. I thought about buying a new mountain bike for my bike packaging trail through Tuscany. So glad I didn't do it. Rather I put new tires and tubes on my good old gravel bike, used my old waterproof Ortlieb panniers. I fully agree with the saddle, also with the powerbank. I have mine in a little fuel bag on the top tube to charge while I ride. The spare derailleur is new for me. Interesting
Mutig ohne zu wissen wie man einen Platten behebt auf Bikepacking-Tour zu gehen. 👍Apropos Tools: Ein Tool was ich auf einer meiner Touren dringend hätte gebrauchen können war ein Speichenschlüssel. War ein relativ neues Bike und ob der Beladung hatten sich einige Speichen am Hinterrad gelockert. Ich habe damals überall rumgefragt (die Leute wollten mir wirklich helfen) aber niemand hatte so ein Ding bei sich oder in der Garage. Das Ding ist klein und wiegt fast nix, seitdem habe ich immer einen Speichenschlüssel dabei.
Yes! Ortlieb paniers, a Brooks saddle, and a bicycle that has a strong frame (ideally a steel frame) to handle the weight of all that luggage!
Also try to take just the minimum of items (you can buy most non-essential items on your travels anyway)
I don't think you need either Ortlieb, Brooks or steel. These are just marketing schemes to get you to consume certain brands. There are thousands of different bike and equipment manufactures. How can only 3 of them allow you for to successful trip? I still use my original stuff, all bought at a major department store and nothing has broken even after thousands of km off-road. Once when stopping at a fountain a couple, with all the proper must have equipment, scorned a me for my cheaper stuff. I asked them, but aren't we both here? Are you saying you had a better time getting here than me? The money you spent on your bike I could spend an extra year touring.
@@antoniocruz8083 You're not wrong with your argument. Admittedly I've not tried out the competition, and what I've listed is top end - but generally with equipment, you get what you pay for. What I've referenced is very reliable and comfortable though and I'm more than happy with it. One thing that I personally would insist on is the steel frame. Through sheer weight, (I weigh 90kg, all muscle of course 😉), adding 16kg of luggage, I think I would have broken an alu or carbon frame by now. Anyway, as Cheerio rightly says, any equipment will do, and after that it's a matter of comfort, reliability and of course finances!
Oh, and finally, my steel 1980s Peugeot - I bought it second-hand for €80 ten years ago, and even though it weighs a bit, it's perfect for long trips - strong and comfortable!
@@richjs1 Are airplanes made of steel? I have met 2 different tourers who had their steel bikes cracked close to the crankshaft. I have never seen a mtb cracked even after regular jumps. As an engineer I know that stronger than a material is its cross section. If you notice a mtb frame uses large diameter tubing. This gives great strength and is possible because aluminium is light. Steel uses small diameter tubing to save weight. These thin tubes are not stronger than the wide aluminum. There are also really expensive aluminium touring bikes specific for heavy weights, no need for steel. I don't understand the focus on old technology. Above all, a tourer should not have to carry is house with him but just the necessary, around 15kg without food and water. Just about any bike can handle this. Also, to spare the frame from hard shocks one can use less tire pressure and a suspension post. Another thing, Brooks saddles, once again 100 year old technology, are very bad for you. They deform to your butt which is exatly what they are not supposed to do. With time they create a pertruding ridge in the middle which creates pressure in your soft tissues. Your weight should be on your sit bones and in the surrounding butt muscles, the middle should be empty. Again, what's the fixation with old technology, old materials, old bike geometries, old tire thicknesses, old V breaks and even old metal rattling fenders? Things evolve.
@@antoniocruz8083 Personally I trust more on technology that has proved to work for 100 years than a product that has just hit the market. If something is new it doesn't mean it's better.
@@antoniocruz8083you got the point! Standing ovation!👏🏼👏🏼
Watch all your videos... you're the best!
You inspired me to go touring...
Watch some of your early videos, wonderful...thank you for you time...
Thx for this nice Video. I'm exited for back on the road Videos. 🤘
Thanks for the great practical advice Lara
Excelent advices! To keep moving! Thk a lot!
I make a mental note of every fitting to make sure I have tool that will fit and if there is something that is not practical to carry (like all the crank tools), I double check those before I take off.
Welcome back and you’re absolutely right. If anyone saw my bike they would laugh. Just get out and have fun.
Yep,it's not a race,you want to enjoy the ride & your surroundings,great advice G.C.
That was very helpful... many thanks
Thank you for taking the time to make your videos . While watching yours and a couple of other cyclists who make touring videos, it inspired us to go touring on our bicycles . For many years we have been touring all over the world on a motorcycle but back in April this year we did our first bicycle tour across Spain and loved every minute. From now on we plan to do far more bicycle touring . Stay safe and Thank you.
Helpful tips. Have more great journeys
So much love for all that you do!
Thanks for the tips!
Thanks for sharing!
Wie immer ein tolles, hilfreiches Video - vielen Dank dafür!
ich danke dir :))
Excellent set of advices. Subscribed 👍
I really enjoy your videos. They are enjoyable and inspiring. I think we would all like to see more. You create great content
Great information nice to see your travelling experience and bike information, great experience in life for you thanks
Yes. Thanks. I can support all your advice. And depending on whether you want to see something or just get from a to b as fast as possible, going slower, doing less km per day, can be so much more rewarding. 😊
Great video setting off on my first tour next month and I'm taking mainly what i have but i have spent the money for the nicer bags already 🤑 So that's nice to hear.
Good advice! Learning how to make or repair bags is a good skill to have as well.
Very good info! Keep it simple. I spent a year travelling around Asia on a bike and also found that many of the things I tried to save money on didn't hold up too well. A decent bike that's the right size, and good bags. And you're right on about the seat. Mine was never entirely comfortable. One thing I would add to your list of "must haves" is good tires. I used the old standard Schwalbe Marathon and rarely had problems. All the best to you as you keep discovering the world!
Congratulations and keep going enjoying the Mother Nature. God bless
This is a really good video with loads of good advice which I also experienced. Congratulations to it and continued fun and good experiences!
Awesome video giant cheerio such practical and useful advice I love you’re I’ll figure it out approach to biking there pretty simple when it comes down to it. Hope to teach my kids to have this approach to life in general happy rides ahead
Wow nice story for bike touring I like it ride safe alway♥️👍💪
Great video thank you
if you're in India, consider heading south east to Singapore. A full crab dinner awaits in exchange for motivation for my 14 year old daughter. Your journey has been awesome!
I like GiantCheerio, she is cool! 😎
hey Lara,
Welcome to India. You're really an inspiration
Wow… i am so impressed. I have not really been following you to closely and i haven’t seen one of your videos for a while. I can’t believe how far you have come since i saw your earlier videos. I just rode through scotland and i’m about to edit my footage. You look so healthy right now too. Well done lass!
Good advice. I made my first tour in 2021 from Amsterdam to Gibraltar, and I just used my own bike with a rear rack on the QR spindle and brake block, and I thought I could get stuff I might find I needed along the way because i had plenty of opportunity, and it all worked out fine. Several trips later I'm actually still using the same bike and setup cos it worked well for me anyway, but I also know exactly my dream perfect bike if I ever win the lottery lol.
Wow you look so much… comfortable for some reason. Not as stressed as your other videos. Love that for you
Good advice regarding the distance every day.
Great video - a lot of very good advice. On the bike choice issue: I've toured in the "bikes I have" and it t worked fine, exactly as GC says. So her first advice is spot on. But then- inevitably - I started shopping for a "dedicated touring bike" and - as GC also said wisely -I spent a lot time researching - in a way, too much time - but some of that is unavoidable. I was agonizing over 2x or 3x especially..I settled on a used 2X 11 Gravel light touring bike, since I want to try "off road" touring; but since I am not sure I'll really want to do that "style", I figured a lower investment (but good quality bike and components) made sense. So far on test rides the bike rides great and the gear range i was worried about may not be so problematic. I'll find out this summer. It's all about whether to go into things progressively with investment or totally splurge, IMHO. The great thing about most component and baggage purchase is that you can get high quality right away if your budget permits, knowing full well that they can be swapped to a different bike later.
Thx for this nice Video lara
Great info. I would like to add that, regarding bike setup, having high load wheels is quite important.
My handy must have list is: USB hub (so you can charge everything on one socket), rain poncho (if the rain is so bad I use it to stand and wait for it to clear), travel hand sanitiser (when you stop for the toilet during the day), packet of zip ties (lots of temporary repairs can be made with them), and I also agree the power bank and the small lock to stop someone interfering rather than determined stealing. And sudocreme. Great vid
Hi, I've followed much of your early adventure and have seen you learn as you go. I've only done two camping bike tours, in 1984 and 1985 and both were like 'go as you are and find out...'. My bike was a Peugeot racing bike with 23mm 🤯tires and a skinny luggage rack on the back with a way too big dual side luggage bag with a top compartiment, tiny tent and sleeping bag in rolls on the top of that.., had some sketchy descends with that where the rear started oscillating ...
Lol, about "how many km's to cover in a day", we had one day where we went from camping "The bosrand" (border of the forest) to camping "The bosrand" 20 km further south... So be it 🙂
Great advice!
My only bike touring was also from 1984, on a Trek "sport touring" bike. At least I put on wider tires than you did! The big problem I had was that my gearing was not low enough, despite having added larger cogs to my freewheel. I was fine on day one in flat land, but after day one I was in hills and it was a problem. The other issue was that the frame's wheelbase was shorter than a proper touring bike's wheelbase so there were problems with heel clearance with the panniers. So, I'd actually disagree slightly with her advice of "just use whatever bike you have". She's correct that it doesn't have to be a super pricey touring bike, but you need low gearing and you need the right geometry to carry a load without it upsetting messing with your ability to ride your bike.
Love your videos. I’m happy you made it to India. Keep the videos coming.
I bought a bike frame about 8yrs ago to do the Paris-Roubais. Used the chain-set from an old bike, thinking '...this ride will destroy my bike...' I'm still using this bike for touring. Have to say I do ultralight touring. Been doing this for at least 10yrs. Just about to set off to Prague (and back) from England. Really enjoyed your video. Great advice. Thanks so much. Oh, one thing, don't forget your first aid kit 😊
The multi-tool only needs the sizes of bolts on your bike: typically only 3 and 5 mm.
It should have a chain break and install tool.
Tube patch kit.
And a boot to patch a tire cut, a folded one dollar bill works well.
True! I don’t use a multitool as I have the exact tools I need with me and tbh sometimes it was difficult to use the multitool because the handle is so thick. But a multitool is a great thing.
@@giantcheerio Wrapping the cardboard box of the spare tube in duck tape, in multiple layers, is also a tool kit item.
@@giantcheerio A pump and CO2 cartridges with the inflator tool is a safety backup.
Roll of electrical tape solves a lot of tire problems.
Muy buenos consejos para el que comienza y para que él ya un veterano eres una auténtica enciclopedia ya de la aventura y los viajes en bicicleta sobre todo tienes mucha capacidad y fuerza mental que es lo más importante para afrontar estas empresas de aventuras en bicicleta por el mundo estoy seguro que tus consejos ayudarán a mucha gente nos da gusto recordárnoslo a nosotros mismos lo que ya lo sabemos que no entremos en otra dinámica y sigamos tus explicaciones que son muy buenas para todos
Felicitaciones por el video!!!!
Es cierto lo de las bicis, soy de Argentina, tengo 63 años, recorrí la Patagonia en modo "bikepacking" con un Dahon (folding r.20') c/Nexus7.
Ahora estoy preparando una vieja "single speed" (r.700c, de acero), con mínimo equipaje. Pienso recorrer la parte central de mi país hasta los Andes.
👍✌️🇦🇷🚴
.
When I replaced my bulky rack & pannier bags with saddle & frame bags, it improved my experience exponentially.
I lost a few litres in space, but the aero I gained was a game changer.
Peace 🙏 And Love ❤️ from Tucson Arizona Desert!
Thanks, just need some advice at this moment. I’m on my first bike trip from holland to Spain. Halfway France at this moment and a bit in a dip. Do not know how to come over the Pyrenees. Think I have to dump al kind of stuff. You’re advices gives me the kick forward I need today. Thanks Laura!
You can go by Saint Jean Pied de Port. Not too bad a climb, I think 1000m tops. No need to shed weight, just take off all foods except snacks because in Spain there's a place to eat every 100m.
@@antoniocruz8083 Possibly.. I rode down that road from the pass coming in the other direction, and was damn glad I didn't have to cycle up it loaded or not! (Roncevalles: maps.app.goo.gl/YXV1zk4n5FxJorQR8). Another option is just "go around" by cycling to the ocean. Plenty of hills to choose from in Spanish Basque country once you get in.
great advise! I'm about to start tuscany trail ;)
Wow, India. Unbelievable. Can't wait to see the more travel videos. Tschüss und bis dann.
Great tips…i’d also get together a micro tool and repair kit…disabling the bike in other ways will help you keeping it! Paracord and caribener hidden will also help an opportunist as well as that lock you have 🙂👍🏻
Great video! Needed to hear the thing about kilometers at the end :)
One other thing I found out the hard way: You can carry all the tools for fixing a tire, but they won't help if you got a different kind of tire xD
Bought by first gravel bike without knowing about different tire designs and was surprised it didn't come of the rim after getting my first flat... Turns out it was a tubular tire which is glued to the rim :)
Love your attitude there’s too much I’ve got to have this or I’ve got to have that. There’s too much gimmicky in cycling today. Thanks for the video 🚵🏻♀️👍🎉
there are heaps of gadgets and as I said I've also gathered a small collection of gadgets by now but its definitely no must-have
Welch schönes Video, du sprichst mir aus der Seele. Ohne Ahnung losfahren, die Reise ist der Lehrer. Und mit dem Fahrrad starten welches vorhanden ist. Bin gerade von Köln 3200 km nach Lissabon (inc. Camino de Frances) gefahren, mit einem Klapprad. Grüße nach India.
I can't wait to watch your adventures in india!
Have fun.
My very first fully loaded cycling trip was on a single speed Gazelle Impala, back in the early eighties. Had a blast, and an awful lot of punctures. 🤣
Lara, ce qui m’aide le plus durant mes voyages vélo, quand la route est difficile, je repense à ta video sur un chemin boueux où tu dis plein de gros mots dans ta langue maternelle… Tu es formidable.❤
Thank you very much I love you
Thank you veryvery much for all your videos! I found myself in the middle of nothing, phone and powerbank emty. No sun for the solarpanel. No komoot. I learned...two powerbanks:-). Good luck auf all deinen Wegen! E
haha yeah sometimes these situations occur and no one can help it. Its the adventure I guess ;))
That is what we are looking for, yes! E
Great stuff!! Thank you - crossed Canada in 2022 and agree with everything. About to do some Euro tours ... how do you get cellular data to use Komoot and browser and such - do you get a new SIM card in each country? what is a good data point to purchase? Thanks for any insight you can give and well done on your touring and sharing!
I feel that I could listen to you speak about your bikepacking experience during hours :p
And I have one dream, meet you on the way one day ! ^^ (but not in Asia for sure xD)
I do agree on the bags, saddle and sleeping system, I would add a tent! Disagree on not researching which bike is suitable and not learning anything about bike repair and maintenance before starting your tour. Finding a bike can make a huge difference and it’s not necessarily an expensive one, an old 90´s with minor adjustments for example and talking to your local bike mechanic about how to can save you a lot of trouble or watching park tool videos, these tings don’t cost nothing, cheers!
Nice video!
Thank u.
Welcome to India Cheerio, Namaste! 🙏
It is very hot here in India,
Wish for your good journey and Beautiful memories
Beautiful and practical video! Two questions, why aluminum bottles instead of the traditional plastic ones? How do you strap them to the bike?
Great video. To the point and extremely helpful 🙂
Thanks for your video. Which handlebar attachment do you use?
Water I use a CRANKTANK 4L and a Gravity works filter 4L as it’s fast to filter and you can carry water in it too. Light weight strong but maybe bulky.
Lara, hello! Thanks for the new video) I always watch with pleasure!) As for the questions: I would like to know about financial security in travel. Where and how to get financing? It's very interesting!) And also, what are the expenses in travel and what does the main money go for?) Thank you!)))
Hi Lara, great channel 👍 what make of bike do you use now?
India?!! Go Girl!!
hobocyclist from NZ uses 25$ cheap folding bike. And! goes all around the world❤❤❤❤
I have stopped wearing cycling shirts since I started watching you. I just wear old workshirts with a collar and cuffs to keep the sun off me now. So thanks for that tip.
I think it’s totally fine to ride in old shirts and it’s also completely fine to ride wearing one of those cycling outfits. I like both. There is basically no rules
Best of luck. Few tips as indian 1. To hot weather now in May, so plan accordingly 2. Get a safe place to rest at night 3. Get local contacts if possible. 3. Pls visit Rishikesh, Uttrakhand. Also let me know if Come. I can help u here. Also weather is much cool here. Bye
Hey Cheerio,
Long time no see! Or have I just been missing out on your awesome vlogs? Anyway, this is super helpful. It's easy to end up taking way too much stuff. What do you actually need, right? Can't wait to catch up on your vlogs.
you didn't miss out on anything. Just started creating recently as I didn't have much time during the journey:)
Excellent advice on the bicycle, Though ive always been a bike afficionado, there are just too many memes out there about fancy, pricey bikes being fueled by 'you know who' and why a simple bicycle is now ridiculously priced.
I am inviting you to visit Aden, Yemen
mudguards are a game changer
When you don’t stop in a hotel every night you do need more. The common thing these days is BIKEPACKING became HOTEL HOPPING and those who do this never say they did. And carry a 500gram of kit.
You’re doing well.
You only really need what you got already. And if from scratch just do micro trips to find out what’s good.
I just discovered your channel. I recently started cycling and 2 weeks ago I did my first bikepacking weekend (solo). I struggled a lot with what to pack and where to put it on the bike. It's so different from packing a backpack. But somehow it was fun to evaluate each single item for its value for the trip.
What item do you take with you all time, which you would consider pure luxury?
Do you carry a life straw water filter or a sawyer bag water filter, small solar panel charger?
Namastè! 🙏🙂
Welcome to India❤ Hope we meet and I could be of some help along your journey! cheers!
👍
Welcome back Cheerio after so long time...... NAMASTEY from Indian Himalaya❤❤ I am your subscriber 😂
Namaste from the south of India!
@@giantcheerio oh really? you are in India ? I am from North....if you planning to visit North plzz let me know 👍
👌👍
Great video! If you ever come to London/ the UK..... don't lock the bike up with that lock! 😬
Won’t do that ;D
Hello, what kind of weight do you carry when doing a tour?