My kind of bikepacking list: Tools First aid kit Lights Action Camera (it’s a must!) A pair of clothes and underwear Energy bars Camping shower Tent Sleeping Bag Slippers Extra tubes for puncture Cellphone for navigation Powerbank with cables and outlet Wallet with cash, ID and card But most importantly, prepare yourself and be sure to enjoy every ride safely and let yourself immerse with nature and breathe the fresh air! 🚵♂️🏕️⛑️
I really appreciated how non-elitist this video is. So often, the bike-packing scene is all about gear, but Connor, I liked how you tried to make bicycle touring as accessible as possible. So many people believe you need a whole lot of fancy gear to go on a bike adventure, but really, the only truly essential bit of kit is, well, the bike (that you possibly already own). Cheers!
There's a couple of additional things I do I could add. First is carrying my tools in a bottle Tool box in an extra bottle cage under the downtube. If your bike doesn't have bosses for this you can get bags that strap on there too. This places the heaviest items as low and centrally as possible. I also have two set ups - a camping one with a bar bag and full frame bag and a "credit-card bikepacking" set up with only a half frame bag and no bar bag. But I do carry a bike cover when "credit-card bikepacking" so I can take my bike into my hotel room every night (I have a velosock cover). I also have a Litelock gold lock that wraps around my seat pack so I have a reasonably secure lock that isn't too heavy and easily carried, particularly for use when camping.
@bobtheduffelbag7198 I have a Pro (Shimano) wouldn't recommend. I then got an Elite that zips along its length and has compartments in each half. Strongly recommend that one. Also have a cheap large bidon sized one (Decathlon?) which is OKish too.
1- cheap saddle bags + waterproof liners can work better and far cheaper 2- protective frame tape if you care about your paintwork 3- spare spokes taped to down tube (like the hanger mentioned, zero chance of a random bike shop having a niche size) 4- saddle bags kinda work better with soft stuff only 5- safety pins for drying any damp kit pinned to your bags as you ride!!!
Great points. As for cheap liners, trashbags work great. And for protective tape, ducttape works in a pinch and I have used cheap, sliced open gardenhose held on with zipties to prevent chafing on racks by bags and such.
A minor thing to point out is the difference between a backpacking tent and a bikepacking tent. Bikepacking tents have poles designed to break down further so the tent fits in bikepacking bags/handlebar, backpacking tents have longer poles that don't neatly fit in bikepacking bags. Just an observation new bikepackers may appreciate because Nemo makes the same tent with different item numbers denoting the difference. Backpacking tents will definately work well on a bike but you have to plan around them more.
I've gave up the bikepacking thing, my roadbike is just to small to get all the camping gear and stuff I need with me. Even with ultra light and small camping gear it is not possible to do. So I bought a touring bike, much better space for stuff with 4 panniers and not that much slower to ride either. Sometimes, going old school is the best option , especially if the bike you ride is small.
Great job of describing self-contained bike tour luggage in under 15 minutes. You nailed it down to the puffy jacket. In warm weather I forgo even a light weight down sleeping bag and go with a bivy bag, sleeping pad and a microfiber bed sheet sewed into a rectangle bag. That plus the down hoodie and you will be comfortable even if the temperature drops a wee bit. Don't bonk may the most important thing you said, by staying hydrated and nibbling all day. Hose clamps are a good way to attach racks and cages to the bike frame, Easy to relocate. for the beginner You don't need special clothing. You already have a shirt and cargo short in your closet. I have been touring since the early 1970's. there are so many ways to do it. there is no best way. I have met riders crossing the USA traveling very Spartan and others bringing everything but the kitchen sink and they were carrying everything they needed. There is no right way there is only what you want the ride to be.
I do love bike travelling!! 😍 I'm italian, and I've made several bike travels through the Alps and the Appennines, riding my ante-litteram gravel bike 😄 (I bought it 10 years ago, when they weren't popular yet). For an 8/10 days travel, my normal configuration is: a back rack with a double hanging bag (total 25 liters) + a very small backpack (10 liters) + a small saddle bag for repair tools. The total weight (bike+rack+bags+backpack) is about 18/20 kg. Obviously, I sleep in hotels/B&Bs. 😁
As a veteran of many multi-day bike packing adventures - if I can pass on a couple of tips. Try to avoid carrying a backpack. I do sometimes carry a small Camel Back for extra water during warmer trips and put a few small things in it but that's about it as weight on your back just ends making you sore and more fatigued and that detracts from the enjoyment. Secondly, it always intrigues me when I see bike packers on UA-cam take one or 2 pairs of shoes as well as mtn bike shoes they ride in. Invest in a pair of mtn bike shoes with recessed cleats (mine from North Wave are great!) and are fine for hiker biking if necessary and going to the cafe or pub in. Make sure your 'sleep system' is warm and comfortable enough. I think this is probably the most important thing because you'll enjoy it so much more on adequate, quality sleep! Finally, in my 1st couple of adventures I packed too many items of clothing. Take only 2 pairs of knicks so u can wear 1 pair while the 2nd pair is washed and out drying on your rear bag while riding. Take 1 short sleeve jersey and maybe 1 warm long sleeve jersey if it's going to be cold and invest in a good quality Goretex jacket to stay dry and warm if it's wet and windy. I take 1 multi-tool kit with a knife, a couple of rubber Bungy straps, a small 1st aid kit, tooth brush, small toothpaste and a small roll-on deodorant, a couple of spare tubes and puncture repair kit-levers, and invest in a light, compact, good quality tent of which there is a plethora now to choose from. Horses for courses - if you're planning on bikepacking for several weeks or months or around the world, then yes, you'll need more but if you're only going for a few days around your local area-region, my experience is, you don't use much of the stuff you pack.
I feel as that you've made more "how to bikepack" videos than actual bikepacking videos? I remember those Simon did a couple of years ago abroad, those were really good, so sponsor one of your guys to do a multi-day adventure in a place like France (the nature, the food, the culture etc are all great #content worthy) and document it. Looking forward!
Wrapping an old inner tube around the seatpost really helps stop the sway from the saddle bag. A water bottle with a filter in is also really handy to replenish water (and nicer than using purification tablets)
Super tips Conor & gcn!!! Love this content! To the list I would add what you Brits call 'Gaffer Tape' In North America, we call it Duct Tape. I don't take a whole roll of course. I just wrap a yard or two around a pencil. I also find that a head lamp is invaluable because it leaves both your hands free as you set up camp/look for something in the dark. When I am doing rail trails in southern Ontario, I sometimes need a water filter system, like the Platypus (no, Conor, not the unleashed one:) Light plastic sandals are helpful as is a battery pack. Get out there and have fun everyone!
A basic first aid kit and something to heat water/food. Coffee is great but Tea is essential! A deeper dive into the cooking equipment available would be great as I love the adventure more when it can include a self made outdoors feast 😁
For short trips (1-4 days) get yourself an alcohol stove. They are super small and ultralight. There are DIY videos ou there on how to make one from a coke can but even titanium stoves are quite cheap nowadays. Get a cheap titanium pot as well. Fill a small bottle with denatured alcohol and pack enough water to drink and cook. I love ramen soups but there is also a huge variety of dehydriated expetition food you could try. Super easy to carry, quick to cook and so much better outdoors! 😊
I use a jet boil stove which packs down small. I also use Starbucks VIA instant coffee which keeps you from having to use extra weight gear dedicated to coffee.
With clothing always take clothing that works together and that you can combine it will safe space and give you more options. Also wrap some tape around a pump, lighter etc. dosen´t add a lot of weight or space but it can definitly help having some tape with you. also if you are camping you can wrap on of your straps that tie down your tent around your spokes as extra security if someone starts moving your bike they will most certainly wake you up.
actually what I forgot is you can put your tent poles inside your saddle bag and it might limit the amount of sway it´s basically free in terms of price, weight and space. you gotta pack it up really tight tho for it to work
‘It's a tough universe. There's all sorts of people and things trying to do you, kill you, rip you off, everything. If you're going to survive out there, you've really got to know where your towel is.’
My backpacking essentials start from the luggage I use. I hate the sway and limited access of longitudinal bikepacking saddlebags and never use racks or supports, so I use a transverse Carradice saddlebag that does not swing and has a big flap opening and a couple of side pockets. Up front I use a simple Ortlieb handlebar bag that carries all my valuables so I can take it off the bike easily whenever I go into a shop.
If you are intending to go bike packing and camping at night know that carrying all the necessary gear makes for a heavy bike. It is more like cycle touring. Backpacking rucksacks typically are about 45 litres capacity, now work out how many bike packing bags you need for similar capacity. Streamlined it isn't. Only in Summer conditions with lightweight high quality gear can you even begin to carry a minimal and light weight set up. You're better off using a rear pannier and strapping dry bags to it to carry your equipment plus a handlebar bag. Fitting 'anything cages' to front fork legs creates a lot of aerodynamic drag although it is a useful option to increase load space on the bike.
Good video. In my experience it's amazing how light you can travel when you really put your mind to it. Having jerseys with big deep pockets is very helpful (tends to be the budget ones such as Decathlon/Sports Direct). Also I use an Osprey waist bag which is far more comfortable than a backpack.
One thing's for certain. If I would have a frame size like Conner, I would look into custom frame bags. There are plenty of companies offering those, and they max out the space that you can use in the inner triangle of the frame, even with he bidons taken up the lower part of it. Some aero gains included maybe. :)
I decided to replace my pannier rack & bags with a saddle mounted bag (17 litre) frame bag (5litre) and a top tube bag (1.5 litre). I lost about 15 litres of capacity, but gained massive performance, comfort, aero and subsequent endurance. Never going back to the rack...😁👍
Out of curiosity why do you find panniers less comfortable? I definitely understand about aero and performance gains. Personally I quite like the simplicity of having my stuff in 2 easily detachable panniers.
@dlucey123 I don't necessarily find pannier bags uncomfortable. Just no longer needed. If there's a zombie apocalypse, I will certainly re-visit the rack & bag system. Otherwise, I can easily fit a week's worth of necessities in my new system without seeing civilisation.
I can't speak for all of us Yanks, but every time I encounter content such as this, I have to chuckle. Here in the States, simply riding till dark and pulling over and setting up camp isn't a thing, unless you're in the state or national parks or forests, or using commercial campgrounds.
@@bernardofernandes1826 Because there really aren't suitable places outside of campgrounds and the park systems. We don't have Right to Roam here, like in the UK. www.gov.uk/right-of-way-open-access-land/use-your-right-to-roam One can't simply camp on private property.
I use a real long waterproof tarp and wrap that around my bike so i have a tunnel. Then i throw another tarp over it to cover up the ends. Feeling like a kid creating caves out of tables and blankets... :D
can the attachment for rear racks ruin the painting of the bike under seat e.g. when there is 15kg packages on the rack and jumping off and on pavement bumps in city? (front suspension only)
@@gcn panniers have stood the test of time, good ones are qaterproof, never sway and have far greater volume than Connor's setup. I use them for camping, errands and shopping on an old gravel bike with mudguards for all year round use.
If your drivetrain has a battery life of less than a couple weeks bring chargers or extra battery packs. Part of why I switched my fat bike back to mechanical, the slightly better shifting from wireless wasn't worth the hassle of batteries and wireless communication
Hey this was very helpful and useful. For women bikepackers... are there any cycling shorts that enable us to swap out our chammies? I need to wash my cycling shorts after every ride or risk a cycling related UTI. So for women, specifically, can you consider putting out a bikepacking video for us?
If I were to sleep under the stars in Missouri, the mosquitos would eat me alive. Not to mention I would roast in that bivy bag set up. I have a simple mesh tent with rainfly and swap the sleeping bag with a light sheet in the warmer summer months.
@gcn I'm in Regional town area in Australia of sale Victoria. That it has a lot of great bike tracks and it's really good a good bike to the Coast is 43 kilometres away witch is two and a half hours ride
Have u ever compared the difference between riding a road bike and a hardtail, i am 59 years old and i ride a hardtail on roads, and i am amazed at the average speeds i see when watching cycling youtubers on road bikes compared to my average speeds. obviously at my age i am gonna be slower, but i would be curious to see the difference in time and average speeds if a gcn presenter were to test themselves on a road bike and then a hardtail, say over a 15-20 mile distance.
@@gcn i also do ride on gravel trails and rough terrain as i like the freedom of a hardtail. its a go anywhere bike without the worry of punctures etc. so no, road bikes are not for me.
Looking for a saddle pack that'll fit mini tool, spare tpu tube, levers and a cheese and pickle sandwich (I have a frame mount for my mini pump). I want something that is low profile and unobtrusive. Frankly I'm stuck with it, there's not much out there that ticks all the boxes and looks good. I have a 1 litre Evoc Tour but it ruins the aesthetic of the bike IMO. Looking at the medium Specialized seat pack, but seeing reviews that it's not all that secure and I want to be able to do the odd bunny hop without losing my stuff. Can anyone suggest a solution please?
@@br5380 I have various hip packs and backpacks for all day rides, looking for something super discrete for shorter rides, just basic flat kit. Have been shopping around online and maybe something like the Topeak Elementa is what I'm looking for. A frame bag isn't what I had in mind, but thanks for the suggestion :)
@@br5380 Thanks for the suggestion, although I have hip packs and backpacks for all dayers. I really want to go minimal on the bike, something like the Topeak Elementa maybe, just for a basic flat kit. I would probably go handlebar bag before frame bag, although I have a Future Shock rubber boot on my headset, so don't want to put velcro anywhere near it
Topeak mondopack. 2 side pockets, hangs from the rails on qr and sits behind the post. I use it on its own and sitting in front of the mtx trunk bag when it's on.
@@snab80 the mondopack looks like a good bit of kit, although too large for what I need, I want something for shorter rides (think Topeak Elementa size) that will fit tyre levers, a mini tool (Crankbrothers M19, which is quite large), a TPU tube (700 x 38 with presta) and that's about it. I want it as small as possible, shades can go in the helmet, credit card sleeve and phone will zip into my trail shorts, mini pump and water bottle/s are frame mounted, packable rain jacket and any other bits and bobs can get stuffed in my jersey pocket. I already have a 1 litre saddle bag that I only want to use on longer rides as it basically looks awful and ruins the aesthetic
Forget the kick stand. Use a voile or similar strap between your front tire and frame to keep the the handle bars from turning and just lean your bike against a tree.
Trees are not always planted where I am needing a tree to be. Kickstands are handy, they stay by your side and follow you around just waiting to be kicked.
Shouldn't you be disclosing when it's a promotional video? Nothing against it, but some transparency about it wouldn't harm the reputation and credibility of the channel
I Like the rucksack, because it doesn't change the feeling or the weight of the bike... And for accelerating a sluggish bike is like the feeling of riding in mud, or going uphills.the drag is unbearable.. and a rucksack has not a real aero concern riding my tempo....
@@gcn The same items if I go hiking. 45 liter max... but 35 ist what I normally like to carry. But I do prefer 2 days out or maybe three. And plan the route accordingly for all the amenities I wish for... So never wanted to travel to Kamtchatka or into british colombia 🙂 Easy weather and easy travels !
@@br5380 i'm used to that..Hiking and climbing.. And on single trails steep and rooty, it's really a problem if the bike isn't agile ...can't bring it around corners. Or if You have to get off the bike to push it in steep terrain, it gets impossible..., also if you stop for a break one has to have a place to lean the bike on, because the weight ist too much for a typical bikestand... it's a nusiance.. But If you have the load on your back, it's like it always was... a normal bike...Much easier carryin 10+ kg on your body.... but if riding only straight on tarmac or some gravel in a flat plain...I see your point
Ha yeah I do like to go off road when bikepacking... you get some quieter routes! But to be honest, even on solely paved surfaces... I'd still opt for chunkier tyres just feels comfier and the trade off in speed isn't that much when fully loaded
I always bring my gun, because I never want to be murdered while riding like these poor fellows were... Billy Chastain, 30, and Mark Chastain, 32, and their friends, 29-year-old Alex Stevens and Mike Sparks, 32
Again a video about bikepacking...maybe the 25th for the past 2 years...not every bikepacker use a very expensive bike...your videos should be more realistic and done by real bikepackers..
Share with us your bikepacking check list 🏕
Near the top on my list of bikepacking essentials is coffee kit!
@@BrianRPaterson It's the first thing right! Before the bike and all that nonsense 😉
My kind of bikepacking list:
Tools
First aid kit
Lights
Action Camera (it’s a must!)
A pair of clothes and underwear
Energy bars
Camping shower
Tent
Sleeping Bag
Slippers
Extra tubes for puncture
Cellphone for navigation
Powerbank with cables and outlet
Wallet with cash, ID and card
But most importantly, prepare yourself and be sure to enjoy every ride safely and let yourself immerse with nature and breathe the fresh air! 🚵♂️🏕️⛑️
@@BrianRPatersonThat‘s something I am looking at for my first bikepacking trip. I‘m not functional without. What‘s your solution?
VISA card.
I really appreciated how non-elitist this video is. So often, the bike-packing scene is all about gear, but Connor, I liked how you tried to make bicycle touring as accessible as possible. So many people believe you need a whole lot of fancy gear to go on a bike adventure, but really, the only truly essential bit of kit is, well, the bike (that you possibly already own). Cheers!
There's a couple of additional things I do I could add. First is carrying my tools in a bottle Tool box in an extra bottle cage under the downtube. If your bike doesn't have bosses for this you can get bags that strap on there too. This places the heaviest items as low and centrally as possible. I also have two set ups - a camping one with a bar bag and full frame bag and a "credit-card bikepacking" set up with only a half frame bag and no bar bag. But I do carry a bike cover when "credit-card bikepacking" so I can take my bike into my hotel room every night (I have a velosock cover). I also have a Litelock gold lock that wraps around my seat pack so I have a reasonably secure lock that isn't too heavy and easily carried, particularly for use when camping.
Oh - camping set up bikeacking NEEDS a good coffee maker 🙂 I use an aeropress Go!
@@frazergoodwin4945 any particular blend of coffee? Nescafe Gold?
@@gcn fresh ground espresso coffee only. Illy usually
Any recommendations on what bottle tool box to buy
@bobtheduffelbag7198 I have a Pro (Shimano) wouldn't recommend. I then got an Elite that zips along its length and has compartments in each half. Strongly recommend that one. Also have a cheap large bidon sized one (Decathlon?) which is OKish too.
1- cheap saddle bags + waterproof liners can work better and far cheaper
2- protective frame tape if you care about your paintwork
3- spare spokes taped to down tube (like the hanger mentioned, zero chance of a random bike shop having a niche size)
4- saddle bags kinda work better with soft stuff only
5- safety pins for drying any damp kit pinned to your bags as you ride!!!
Great points. As for cheap liners, trashbags work great. And for protective tape, ducttape works in a pinch and I have used cheap, sliced open gardenhose held on with zipties to prevent chafing on racks by bags and such.
6- a chain tool. I had a chain break once and no one I encountered as I waited for a friend to pick me up had one.
Every ride!!! Not just bikepacking.
A minor thing to point out is the difference between a backpacking tent and a bikepacking tent. Bikepacking tents have poles designed to break down further so the tent fits in bikepacking bags/handlebar, backpacking tents have longer poles that don't neatly fit in bikepacking bags. Just an observation new bikepackers may appreciate because Nemo makes the same tent with different item numbers denoting the difference. Backpacking tents will definately work well on a bike but you have to plan around them more.
Possibly because Conor is like me and tall enough with a big frame that means we can carry standard sized poles in a frame bag.
I've gave up the bikepacking thing, my roadbike is just to small to get all the camping gear and stuff I need with me.
Even with ultra light and small camping gear it is not possible to do.
So I bought a touring bike, much better space for stuff with 4 panniers and not that much slower to ride either.
Sometimes, going old school is the best option , especially if the bike you ride is small.
You gave up on bikepacking so you bought another bike specifically to go bikepacking?
Just went for a test ride with a buddy today.
Popped up a tent and cooked up some Japanese ramen, had some coffee and cake then came home.
Good times.
Oooo that sounds amazing! Can we come next time? 🍜
The dream!
Great job of describing self-contained bike tour luggage in under 15 minutes. You nailed it down to the puffy jacket. In warm weather I forgo even a light weight down sleeping bag and go with a bivy bag, sleeping pad and a microfiber bed sheet sewed into a rectangle bag. That plus the down hoodie and you will be comfortable even if the temperature drops a wee bit. Don't bonk may the most important thing you said, by staying hydrated and nibbling all day. Hose clamps are a good way to attach racks and cages to the bike frame, Easy to relocate. for the beginner You don't need special clothing. You already have a shirt and cargo short in your closet. I have been touring since the early 1970's. there are so many ways to do it. there is no best way. I have met riders crossing the USA traveling very Spartan and others bringing everything but the kitchen sink and they were carrying everything they needed. There is no right way there is only what you want the ride to be.
I do love bike travelling!! 😍 I'm italian, and I've made several bike travels through the Alps and the Appennines, riding my ante-litteram gravel bike 😄 (I bought it 10 years ago, when they weren't popular yet).
For an 8/10 days travel, my normal configuration is: a back rack with a double hanging bag (total 25 liters) + a very small backpack (10 liters) + a small saddle bag for repair tools. The total weight (bike+rack+bags+backpack) is about 18/20 kg.
Obviously, I sleep in hotels/B&Bs. 😁
As a veteran of many multi-day bike packing adventures - if I can pass on a couple of tips. Try to avoid carrying a backpack. I do sometimes carry a small Camel Back for extra water during warmer trips and put a few small things in it but that's about it as weight on your back just ends making you sore and more fatigued and that detracts from the enjoyment. Secondly, it always intrigues me when I see bike packers on UA-cam take one or 2 pairs of shoes as well as mtn bike shoes they ride in. Invest in a pair of mtn bike shoes with recessed cleats (mine from North Wave are great!) and are fine for hiker biking if necessary and going to the cafe or pub in. Make sure your 'sleep system' is warm and comfortable enough. I think this is probably the most important thing because you'll enjoy it so much more on adequate, quality sleep! Finally, in my 1st couple of adventures I packed too many items of clothing. Take only 2 pairs of knicks so u can wear 1 pair while the 2nd pair is washed and out drying on your rear bag while riding. Take 1 short sleeve jersey and maybe 1 warm long sleeve jersey if it's going to be cold and invest in a good quality Goretex jacket to stay dry and warm if it's wet and windy. I take 1 multi-tool kit with a knife, a couple of rubber Bungy straps, a small 1st aid kit, tooth brush, small toothpaste and a small roll-on deodorant, a couple of spare tubes and puncture repair kit-levers, and invest in a light, compact, good quality tent of which there is a plethora now to choose from. Horses for courses - if you're planning on bikepacking for several weeks or months or around the world, then yes, you'll need more but if you're only going for a few days around your local area-region, my experience is, you don't use much of the stuff you pack.
The reality is months long trips requires not a lot more if any more at all.
I feel as that you've made more "how to bikepack" videos than actual bikepacking videos?
I remember those Simon did a couple of years ago abroad, those were really good, so sponsor one of your guys to do a multi-day adventure in a place like France (the nature, the food, the culture etc are all great #content worthy) and document it. Looking forward!
Hi, thanks for the comment! Who should we send and where? We get the impression Ollie would hate it, where should we send him? 😂
@@gcnsend him to the isle of Corsica
@@gcn Slovenia
Second for sLOVEnia! Underrated and beautiful! NTM the home of some kinda big names
The Netherlands. Great flat and highspeed biking lanes. Can he do some highspeed bikepacking :-)
Wrapping an old inner tube around the seatpost really helps stop the sway from the saddle bag. A water bottle with a filter in is also really handy to replenish water (and nicer than using purification tablets)
Super tips Conor & gcn!!! Love this content! To the list I would add what you Brits call 'Gaffer Tape' In North America, we call it Duct Tape. I don't take a whole roll of course. I just wrap a yard or two around a pencil. I also find that a head lamp is invaluable because it leaves both your hands free as you set up camp/look for something in the dark. When I am doing rail trails in southern Ontario, I sometimes need a water filter system, like the Platypus (no, Conor, not the unleashed one:) Light plastic sandals are helpful as is a battery pack. Get out there and have fun everyone!
A basic first aid kit and something to heat water/food. Coffee is great but Tea is essential! A deeper dive into the cooking equipment available would be great as I love the adventure more when it can include a self made outdoors feast 😁
That's a great point! First aid kit is a must 🩹 Tea over coffee... very controversial!
Good shout.. i've got a few cook options going. Also every coffee making (not tea sorry!) apparatus under the sun
For short trips (1-4 days) get yourself an alcohol stove. They are super small and ultralight. There are DIY videos ou there on how to make one from a coke can but even titanium stoves are quite cheap nowadays. Get a cheap titanium pot as well. Fill a small bottle with denatured alcohol and pack enough water to drink and cook. I love ramen soups but there is also a huge variety of dehydriated expetition food you could try. Super easy to carry, quick to cook and so much better outdoors! 😊
I use a jet boil stove which packs down small. I also use Starbucks VIA instant coffee which keeps you from having to use extra weight gear dedicated to coffee.
Considering I’m in the process of putting together a shopping list of things I need to buy for my first bikepacking tour, this timing is incredible
You're welcome! It's amazing what we can do when we look through your living room window and see your shopping list! 😉
Can you please advise what rear mudguard that is on the Canyon? Thanks
With clothing always take clothing that works together and that you can combine it will safe space and give you more options. Also wrap some tape around a pump, lighter etc. dosen´t add a lot of weight or space but it can definitly help having some tape with you.
also if you are camping you can wrap on of your straps that tie down your tent around your spokes as extra security if someone starts moving your bike they will most certainly wake you up.
Some great tips here 🙌Have you done lots of trips? Sounds like you know what you're doing!
@@gcn yeah ive done a couple next goal is the north cape fingers crossed
actually what I forgot is you can put your tent poles inside your saddle bag and it might limit the amount of sway it´s basically free in terms of price, weight and space. you gotta pack it up really tight tho for it to work
I usually use flat shoes meant for MTBing, means I don't need to carry a camp/hotel/spare pair.
First bike packing trip coming up in June! Super excited.
Me too!
Just imagine how big a frame bag Conor can use, and still run a pair of bottles 🙂
I was just thinking the same thing, he has all that space in there and has a massive bag waggling off his saddle.
I love the bikepacking videos. Go Conor. Would love to see Manon take part in one of these videos for different perspectives on what to bring.
You forgot the most vital item: never, ever go anywhere without your towel. Read "the Hitchhikers' Guide to the Galaxy"
‘It's a tough universe. There's all sorts of people and things trying to do you, kill you, rip you off, everything. If you're going to survive out there, you've really got to know where your towel is.’
Thnx! been a minute since I've been bikepacking.. This is great inspiration to get back out.. will send pics of 'battlecat' to bike vault. ;)
My backpacking essentials start from the luggage I use. I hate the sway and limited access of longitudinal bikepacking saddlebags and never use racks or supports, so I use a transverse Carradice saddlebag that does not swing and has a big flap opening and a couple of side pockets. Up front I use a simple Ortlieb handlebar bag that carries all my valuables so I can take it off the bike easily whenever I go into a shop.
nothing worse than something swaying away! Have you been anywhere nice on your bikepacking adventures?
@@gcn Across USA, Rt1 around Iceland, LEJOG and then back to London and many more week to 2 week trips.
SPD pedals and mtb shoes. When you are done for the day, you don’t want to totter around in road shoes and cleats.
I bring really thin Flip-flops or sliders, lightweight and give your feet a rest
If you are intending to go bike packing and camping at night know that carrying all the necessary gear makes for a heavy bike. It is more like cycle touring. Backpacking rucksacks typically are about 45 litres capacity, now work out how many bike packing bags you need for similar capacity. Streamlined it isn't. Only in Summer conditions with lightweight high quality gear can you even begin to carry a minimal and light weight set up. You're better off using a rear pannier and strapping dry bags to it to carry your equipment plus a handlebar bag. Fitting 'anything cages' to front fork legs creates a lot of aerodynamic drag although it is a useful option to increase load space on the bike.
Good video. In my experience it's amazing how light you can travel when you really put your mind to it. Having jerseys with big deep pockets is very helpful (tends to be the budget ones such as Decathlon/Sports Direct). Also I use an Osprey waist bag which is far more comfortable than a backpack.
Superb video!
One thing's for certain. If I would have a frame size like Conner, I would look into custom frame bags. There are plenty of companies offering those, and they max out the space that you can use in the inner triangle of the frame, even with he bidons taken up the lower part of it. Some aero gains included maybe. :)
I decided to replace my pannier rack & bags with a saddle mounted bag (17 litre) frame bag (5litre) and a top tube bag (1.5 litre).
I lost about 15 litres of capacity, but gained massive performance, comfort, aero and subsequent endurance.
Never going back to the rack...😁👍
Out of curiosity why do you find panniers less comfortable? I definitely understand about aero and performance gains. Personally I quite like the simplicity of having my stuff in 2 easily detachable panniers.
@dlucey123
I don't necessarily find pannier bags uncomfortable.
Just no longer needed.
If there's a zombie apocalypse, I will certainly re-visit the rack & bag system.
Otherwise, I can easily fit a week's worth of necessities in my new system without seeing civilisation.
If you can stuff it in somewhere, a pair of regular, non-cycling shoes for walking around. I prefer canvas slippers with thin, flexible soles.
I can't speak for all of us Yanks, but every time I encounter content such as this, I have to chuckle. Here in the States, simply riding till dark and pulling over and setting up camp isn't a thing, unless you're in the state or national parks or forests, or using commercial campgrounds.
Why? Robbers?
@@bernardofernandes1826 Because there really aren't suitable places outside of campgrounds and the park systems. We don't have Right to Roam here, like in the UK. www.gov.uk/right-of-way-open-access-land/use-your-right-to-roam One can't simply camp on private property.
I use a real long waterproof tarp and wrap that around my bike so i have a tunnel. Then i throw another tarp over it to cover up the ends.
Feeling like a kid creating caves out of tables and blankets... :D
I recommend Greenbelly's "Meals 2 Go" 665 calories, no cooking required. Inline packs allow you to bike and hike without kicking your panniers.
can the attachment for rear racks ruin the painting of the bike under seat e.g. when there is 15kg packages on the rack and jumping off and on pavement bumps in city? (front suspension only)
I still can't believe you took Alex bikepacking in winter to a remote bothy up one of the hardest climbs in the UK with a trailer.
Has to be rear panniers for me for my garments and life’s essentials.
Panniers are classic 👌
@@gcn panniers have stood the test of time, good ones are qaterproof, never sway and have far greater volume than Connor's setup. I use them for camping, errands and shopping on an old gravel bike with mudguards for all year round use.
If your drivetrain has a battery life of less than a couple weeks bring chargers or extra battery packs. Part of why I switched my fat bike back to mechanical, the slightly better shifting from wireless wasn't worth the hassle of batteries and wireless communication
Hey this was very helpful and useful. For women bikepackers... are there any cycling shorts that enable us to swap out our chammies? I need to wash my cycling shorts after every ride or risk a cycling related UTI. So for women, specifically, can you consider putting out a bikepacking video for us?
If I were to sleep under the stars in Missouri, the mosquitos would eat me alive. Not to mention I would roast in that bivy bag set up. I have a simple mesh tent with rainfly and swap the sleeping bag with a light sheet in the warmer summer months.
Sounds awesome! Can you still see through the tent? A bit of bedtime star gazing? ✨
I vastly prefer the convenience and weight of a Bivy.
Why does Conor use saddlebag rather than framebag? Capacity?
I wish I had half the clearance above the rear wheel for my saddle bag…
where is the rear mud flap from?!
Ass Savers WinWing
Work brilliantly.
Do you use wet wipes to clean yourself up after a long day of riding?
I'm definitely doing cycling camping
Where are you planning to go?
@gcn I'm in Regional town area in Australia of sale Victoria. That it has a lot of great bike tracks and it's really good a good bike to the Coast is 43 kilometres away witch is two and a half hours ride
@gcn my bike is felt f85 2015 I think it is
nice video
Do you take poles for your tarp? If so what?
Have u ever compared the difference between riding a road bike and a hardtail, i am 59 years old and i ride a hardtail on roads, and i am amazed at the average speeds i see when watching cycling youtubers on road bikes compared to my average speeds. obviously at my age i am gonna be slower, but i would be curious to see the difference in time and average speeds if a gcn presenter were to test themselves on a road bike and then a hardtail, say over a 15-20 mile distance.
The biggest difference will come from the body position and tyre choice 💨Would you ever buy a road bike?
@@gcn i also do ride on gravel trails and rough terrain as i like the freedom of a hardtail. its a go anywhere bike without the worry of punctures etc. so no, road bikes are not for me.
Then gravel bike is what you need! @@teclo1057
I recently switched to an Ortlieb qr seat pack as it makes taking the bag on and off really easy and there is no wobble.
Sounds like a good option! Any big trips planned?
Looking for a saddle pack that'll fit mini tool, spare tpu tube, levers and a cheese and pickle sandwich (I have a frame mount for my mini pump). I want something that is low profile and unobtrusive. Frankly I'm stuck with it, there's not much out there that ticks all the boxes and looks good. I have a 1 litre Evoc Tour but it ruins the aesthetic of the bike IMO. Looking at the medium Specialized seat pack, but seeing reviews that it's not all that secure and I want to be able to do the odd bunny hop without losing my stuff. Can anyone suggest a solution please?
Frame bag, slim enough so you can still run bottles (and move the bottles as low as they'll go with adaptors.
@@br5380 I have various hip packs and backpacks for all day rides, looking for something super discrete for shorter rides, just basic flat kit. Have been shopping around online and maybe something like the Topeak Elementa is what I'm looking for. A frame bag isn't what I had in mind, but thanks for the suggestion :)
@@br5380 Thanks for the suggestion, although I have hip packs and backpacks for all dayers. I really want to go minimal on the bike, something like the Topeak Elementa maybe, just for a basic flat kit. I would probably go handlebar bag before frame bag, although I have a Future Shock rubber boot on my headset, so don't want to put velcro anywhere near it
Topeak mondopack. 2 side pockets, hangs from the rails on qr and sits behind the post.
I use it on its own and sitting in front of the mtx trunk bag when it's on.
@@snab80 the mondopack looks like a good bit of kit, although too large for what I need, I want something for shorter rides (think Topeak Elementa size) that will fit tyre levers, a mini tool (Crankbrothers M19, which is quite large), a TPU tube (700 x 38 with presta) and that's about it. I want it as small as possible, shades can go in the helmet, credit card sleeve and phone will zip into my trail shorts, mini pump and water bottle/s are frame mounted, packable rain jacket and any other bits and bobs can get stuffed in my jersey pocket. I already have a 1 litre saddle bag that I only want to use on longer rides as it basically looks awful and ruins the aesthetic
Kin ay have a road bike for may birthday in October 31 in pillipines masbate
👑
A couple of times there were shots of tents next to buildings. Tip: leave the tent behind. Sleep in the building.
Hahaha that's cheating 😉
1:16 Man I was hoping another thing was being thrown your way.
😂 For extra points while watching this video, spot the continuity problems with the frame bag!
How many did you spot?
7:32 You pack a tape measure?
Always checking how much he's grown 🤣
And a level??
Best best Morocco❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
For a bikepacking trip? ⛺
On my bucket list!
Pull out the GCN merch and wack it on!
Busy video week for you Conor, has everybody else quit?
Has GCN considered posting their videos on Rumble yet? I don't like the distrating ads that pop-up on your videos.
1. Get UA-cam Premium for next to nothing 2. No adds 3.Job done
Thanks Conor....Tailfin !?? Oh yes ..
Do you use a Tailfin for all bikepacking rides?
@@gcn I do , it’s sooooo easy and works ! I’ve got a frame bag too , but the tailfin holds a ton
Have your f-it plan sorted before you leave, while you still feel good. Then you aren't making decisions while frustrated, cold, and hungry.
Quite an advertisement for Topeak...
We're very lucky to be supported by great brands like Topeak. That said all these tips will work across loads of brands and products 🙌
Bike packing is best done on a bicycle with sturdy front and rear racks.
Don't for get the 🥾 kick stand.
Forget the kick stand. Use a voile or similar strap between your front tire and frame to keep the the handle bars from turning and just lean your bike against a tree.
Person from Australia: what tent would you use? No way I’m not using a tent with snakes, insects etc.
How do you guys camp? Hammocks?
Trees are not always planted where I am needing a tree to be.
Kickstands are handy, they stay by your side and follow you around just waiting to be kicked.
What makes me think this guy has never done bike packing in his life 🤔mmmm
Conor... Paper maps... really? What's next? Which Walkman is the best for cyclist 2024 edition? 🤣
Well,I was lucky that I had a paper map in kyrgyzstan,after I lost my phone(used for navigation)!
@@DorinNicolae so you got to use that Walkman? 🤣
Get a tailfin!
Real food, not gels. If you are riding all day long you need nourishment and something to fill your stomach.
Shouldn't you be disclosing when it's a promotional video? Nothing against it, but some transparency about it wouldn't harm the reputation and credibility of the channel
I Like the rucksack, because it doesn't change the feeling or the weight of the bike... And for accelerating a sluggish bike is like the feeling of riding in mud, or going uphills.the drag is unbearable.. and a rucksack has not a real aero concern riding my tempo....
How much kit are you taking on your back though?
@@gcn The same items if I go hiking. 45 liter max... but 35 ist what I normally like to carry. But I do prefer 2 days out or maybe three. And plan the route accordingly for all the amenities I wish for... So never wanted to travel to Kamtchatka or into british colombia 🙂 Easy weather and easy travels !
I hate carrying a rucksack, put the weight on the bike.
@@br5380 i'm used to that..Hiking and climbing.. And on single trails steep and rooty, it's really a problem if the bike isn't agile ...can't bring it around corners. Or if You have to get off the bike to push it in steep terrain, it gets impossible..., also if you stop for a break one has to have a place to lean the bike on, because the weight ist too much for a typical bikestand... it's a nusiance.. But If you have the load on your back, it's like it always was... a normal bike...Much easier carryin 10+ kg on your body.... but if riding only straight on tarmac or some gravel in a flat plain...I see your point
Pack some toilet paper or paper towels
This video is on the wrong channel.. road cycling??
Sorry everyone 😁
Thank you for the video 👍
No need to go off road for bikepacking 👀 That just happens to be Conor's favourite bike for this style of riding
Ha yeah I do like to go off road when bikepacking... you get some quieter routes! But to be honest, even on solely paved surfaces... I'd still opt for chunkier tyres just feels comfier and the trade off in speed isn't that much when fully loaded
@@conordunne219 The original comment was a bit of a joke 😁
But now I can tell all my friends that Conor really paid attention to my message 💪
@@Jari1973 Enjoy the riding Jari!!
😂 Everytime I see homeless person on bicycle I'll send them to this video ......
Where is useless Manon?
I always bring my gun, because I never want to be murdered while riding like these poor fellows were... Billy Chastain, 30, and Mark Chastain, 32, and their friends, 29-year-old Alex Stevens and Mike Sparks, 32
Must be American
Again a video about bikepacking...maybe the 25th for the past 2 years...not every bikepacker use a very expensive bike...your videos should be more realistic and done by real bikepackers..