Anyone Can Go BikePacking | Bicycle Touring & Bike Camping - A Beginners Overview |
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- Опубліковано 11 вер 2024
- I feel that more people would enjoy traveling by bicycle but they think it is too complicated or expensive to try. In this video I ramble about my journey on learning to bikepack, cycle tour and just simply get out of town on an overnighter with bicycle. This is a rough idea of a beginner's guide.
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In case you want to see this set up in action - and then in the pouring rain! ua-cam.com/video/EgEahauWcG8/v-deo.html
Hey Tim...I happened upon your vids. I was born and raised in Erie. I left 50 years ago to pursue a career as a Hippie in SF. Forty years ago, I moved to the UK, and it is now my home. I thought you would like to know that at age 72, after having a stroke, I did my first trip (strictly low budget) from St Petersburg, Russia back to England, travelling about 2,000 miles. I blogged my trip as the “Old Hippie On A Bike”...raising money for charity. My 15 year old bike and all the bags was about £150 ($180). Just that bike, me and a tent for 43 days. Loved it!!! Now at 75...planning a longer trip! Keep up the good work, Kid!
Awesome story - thanks so much for sharing. I will Google your blog. To me it is all about getting out there. By the way - the first trip with bicycles I took my girlfriend on after building her a bike was to Erie. We rode around the city and Presque Isle.
Just came here to say I'm surprised anyone is from Erie. I'm from Erie and I didn't know anyone could be from there. Lol
fuck yes
Sometimes you just have to live your life!
Fantastic, can’t tell you how much I loved reading this. I’m 72 (female) and I love long distant riding/bike packing 👏👏👏⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great to see someone extolling the virtues of keeping it simple. All too easy to fall into the trap of buying more and more unnecessary kit. Loving your content - keep on doing what you're doing, mate.
Thanks! Yeah - nothing wrong with the fancy stuff - but it doesn’t need to be a barrier to entry.
I’ve never tried bike camping.But after watching this video, i want to go sooooooo much!!
You should try it for real! It has really become the my favorite thing. ...and for a while it is going to be the safest way to travel.
@@TimFitzwater i agree.
Safety note: speed shimmy on a loaded bike. Daughter and I just completed a 6-day tour, our first loaded, multi-day bike camping tour. We both rode vintage steel frame bikes, hers a mtb with road tires on, and mine a hybrid “dad bike.” We each took ~27 pounds of gear, loaded in rear panniers and strapped atop the rear rack. First significant descent, (~20 mph or so) daughter’s bike developed severe speed shimmy, aka death wobble, almost causing a crash. Unloaded, her bike wouldn’t shimmy at all at higher speeds, but loaded it was a problem. My bike never shimmied at these speeds. Reading up on this problem, I’m of the opinion that all bikes can shimmy under the right (or wrong!) speed and load characteristics. Next time we’ll try to distribute the load better, front, frame, and rear; lower to the ground; and if that doesn’t solve it we’ll be looking for a different bike.
Something beginning cycle tourers might want to pay attention to, as high-speed death wobble could ruin your day. Expect that a bike which you’ve ridden for years may behave quite different loaded vs. unloaded, and be mindful of load (weight) distribution. Test your loaded bike on some declines at higher speeds, preferably in an area with no traffic. And read up on how to “solve” speed shimmy should it happen to you (briefly: gently lose speed by applying both brakes; gently unload your seat by putting more of your weight on pedals at 3 & 9 positions; hug the top tube firmly with your knees to dampen frame vibrations; don’t grip handlebars too firmly; react quickly, but don’t panic & overreact). Daughter actually got good at speedy descents on our trip by firmly pressing a knee to the top tube, which got her through the tour without having to brake heavily on descents. But that’s clearly a sub-optimal set up from a safety & comfort standpoint.
Absolutely. When I first loaded my Trek 500(a normal 80s road bike) I had all the weight in the back and it handled horribly. One of the reasons that I mention doing shakedown rides or quick over-nighters first with any set up. If the bike is not a touring bike the short chain stays can be a problem if you don't get some weight toward the front.
Thanks Tim,
Good, solid info for the beginning cycle tourist. I remember my first overnighter and how the minute you get on the road you start realizing what you want to have with and how you want to organize/carry it on the bike. Before you actually roll out of your driveway it's all a big, intimidating mystery, but then it becomes clear mile by mile.
The key is, as you plainly put it, just get out there and enjoy yourself-it doesn't have to be expensive, hard or daunting-have fun.
For sure!
Experience is the best teacher.
I also love to promote the idea of not having to spend so much on the latest and greatest.
Cheers!
This guy’s voice has so much confidence, and so much pure baritone.
His voice is like a deep wind instrument.
A face for radio - a voice for TV. Figure that one out - I’m drunk. 😎
Very practical help. Have fun. I was on a trip with friends where the women wore their Little black dress and the men dressed in slacks and a shirt for a restaurant every evening for supper.
Love the “just do it” mentality!
Yeah - I'm afraid all the fancy gear reviews on UA-cam will make people think they can only do this by spending tons of money. Thanks!
Hola Tim, gracias a tus consejos pude hacer mi primer bike packing, solo fue de un fin se semana y lo que me motivó fue lo que dijiste que uno puede salir con lo que tienes mano y no necesariamente gastando mucho dinero. Bajo esa filosofía, pude armar mi bici con lo básico y pude hacer una ida de 140 kilómetros.
Awesome!
Good stuff. I like any “chuck it together and go” approach. You have a great narration voice, btw.
Thanks! Yeah - there is nothing wrong with all of the fancy expensive gear - but not having it shouldn't prevent anyone from giving bike camping a try.
Thanks for sharing this, and I appreciate your approach. With a bike and some ingenuity, there are endless possibilities.
I did a lot of touring with a very unique set up. I took a frame backpack and mounted it on the back of the bike so that it worked much like a truck bed. I had the frame backpack already, but I made this modification with only having to buy some wood screws.
I was in Florida, and operating on a serious shoe string budget, so I actually mounted the frame of of the backpack on the bike using palmetto fronds. They are weak as one, but very strong together.
I created a system that allowed my cheap bike to carry 90+ pounds of cargo. I figured the fronds would break, so I just carried extras to repair when needed.
This system worked amazingly well, and I carried 90+ pounds of gear all over Florida. The bike was very heavy, and I had to be careful not let it list. And I had to learn new ways to keep the very heavy bike from falling when I was off of it.
I actually found some sturdy bamboo, and I made a system to keep the bike upright when not in use. The bike was as heavy as a motorcycle, but I found a way to ride it and take care of it, and it lasted for as long as I needed it.
The point of my story is what I said before, there are endless ways to hack a bike to get it to so all kinds of cool stuff.
Awesome - that sound amazing! Do you have a link to a photo of that set up!?
in 2007 i toured from phoenix to san diego, to seattle, to portland, to chicago, then saint louis. took about 4 months. it was fun. rent is killing me... need to go bike camping again in april
4 months - amazing! I would love to do something big at some point. Across Ohio in a week is my longest.
Went on my first trip. Wonderful!! Prerides loaded and organized packs. Starting out small is the key to success for new people like me. Can’t wait to go out again even just for an overnighter. Great info and encouragement.
Awesome - glad you’re gonna get out there!
A bike that functions and is safe to ride and rides decently is not worthless at all. Just remember that. Its still a usable machine and that has value
Bike hammocked in the south of Italy 3 years ago.
Man, they spaced those olive trees just right.
I know this video is 3 years old and my comment probably won't be seen, but I really appreciate the info. I've been wanting to try out bike camping/bikepacking/bike touring for a while now after discovering it during COVID via social media, but it's very hard to not fall down the rabbit hole of bikepacker gear UA-cam and forums. Many in those parts of the internet would tell you you will die or get stranded if you don't have a steel frame bike with the right gears, chainstay, etc., etc. It can be a bit gatekeepy.
I'm hoping to finally give bikepacking a try this year once the weather in my area is nicer (PNW so cold and rainy this time of year). I have most of the gear I would want already, and what I don't have I can rent, borrow, or get inexpensively and give it whirl!
Yeah - it seems everyone wants you to think you have to dive in head first and spend a ton of money on the perfect stuff. There are definitely nicer items I've bought myself now that I have more experience and know it is the way I want to spend my vacations - but that is a choice.
I've built up a hardier rig for more off-road stuff too.
Cheers - thanks for the comment!
Thanks for upload Mr. Tim. You are a good presenter.
Thanks - I appreciate that!
I love that you said just about any bike can be used for bike touring/bike packing. Seriously, nearly anything that rolls on two wheels can accommodate some extra gear, and then you]re off. I bought a 2012 Trek 7000 from a college student for $35.00 and only had to adjust the brakes a bit and put new tires on it. That bike will be up for sale soon, since I have bought a new Giant Escape 3 for some rails to trails riding and camping adventures. Probably not the best bike for bike packing, but it sure is comfortable to ride and that means everything.
Like you say, just grab a bike and fit it with some gear carrying mods, and get rolling. That's what I love about this hobby, it is so easy to do everything.
Great video with great information. Thanks so much for sharing it with us!
Thanks - appreciate the comment! I keep refining my gear and I do spend more money now - but I know I like it and it is pretty much the only way I vacation. But I still stand by the fact that your don't have to break the bank to dip your toe in. It seems everyone on YT want to sell you something brand new and makes it seem that is the only way you can do this. Cheers!
Thanks for the video. I enjoyed watching and found it very encouraging. I love the "give it a go with whatever kit you have" attitude.
Its the truth! great gear is great - but don't let it stop you!
Love your channel. Only found it a few hours ago. When I first bike packed back in the early 80's here in the UK I don't think it was even called bike packing? We toured with what we had, it was old school Carradyce gear or army surplus, heavy but it worked. Bikes had "suicide levers" - friction shifters on the down tube. It was our normal. Sleeping bags did NOT pack down and took up a lot of space. So we lined our panniers or rucksacks with them, opened up like a kid's Santa sack, we stuffed them with our gear. This saved so much space, besides they're usually the last thing you need to unpack at camp anyway. Great down to earth vid. Thank you.
That’s awesome. The packable gear has come a long way. I think they used to say “cycle-touring” more back then. I guess now “bike-packing “ is more to designate off-road and “bike-touring” usually means on road in the style you described. Thanks for checking out the vids!
AAA now officially has "bicycle service" as part of their roadside assistance and will send someone to pick up you, your bike, and your bike cart and take you to a place within your membership's range. I got the Plus which has a 100 mile "tow" range.
That is cool.
I would still want to be prepared to fix most issues that come up on the road myself though.
But sadly by giving money to AAA you are contributing to an army of lobbyists to fight against your interests as a pedestrian and bicyclist. AAA lobbyists defend the rights and privileges of automobile drivers above the interests of pedestrians, cyclists, users of public transportation, --and often fight clean energy and attempts to curtail carbon emissions.
@@eltamarindo Maybe if enough people sign up specifically for the bicycle service, there can be some leverage to change how they lobby. I don't know. All I know is, no one else was offering this when I was looking. Here's hoping someone starts an "AAA Specifically For Bikes E and Analog Alike"
@@TimFitzwater I'm not really saying "go unprepared" but rather, here's a level that "gets you out of trouble" when the preparations all fail. As O'Brien said, "In a crunch, I wouldn't like to be caught without a second backup."
This is great for a person with hiking, camping, biking experience who has been considering a first bike packing trip. Thanks.
Awesome - that is exactly what I was going for!
Thanks Tim that is exactly what I needed, I want to get started pretty soon.
It really is my favorite thing - no matter how you do it.
Love the video man. Just what I needed to see after researching expensive bikes today. Gonna go with what I already got and make it work
Thanks. Also - the longer you run what you got the more you’ll know exactly what you want when/if you decide to upgrade.
Hello neighbor! I bike the towpath near the falls all the time. Just started to learn to bikepack
Awesome!
Great opening 2 minutes to your video. I like how you brought up Airbnb for cyclists to use.
Thanks! They are such a great way to travel light!
Love this content. Learning tons, thanks.
You’re welcome- thanks for stopping by!
Great video Tim! Good call out on how bags will affect the weight distribution of your bike. At first with all my bags I couldn’t stand to pedal, but by day three I made enough adjustments and was able to stand to pedal for additional power going up hills. I wish I would have tested my full setup more.
Find a bike that you are comfortable on, be it a road/touring bike with drop bars, or a hybrid/mountain bike with more upright bars, with gears your good with. Then just ride, and ride, until you feel good on the bike. It will take some adjusting of handle bars and seat. I ride a recumbent, because of back and neck problems, and yes in 2012 I did RAGBRAI on my recumbent. Just take your time and figure out what and how you want t do it.
Exactly. Start small and if you dig it you can work your way up and dial in the set up as you go!
that is a sweet bike...steel like that can't be had unless you are willing to pay a king's ransom . You absolutely right regarding that less is more and I know on my first overnight trip about 30 years ago, I brought a cast iron skillet and the bike was so freaking heavy. I this stage I have smaller panniers and try to bring less. Cheers.
Too much of youtube is about having the latest and greatest - nothing wrong with that - but it shouldn't be a barrier to getting out there and getting started.
Thanks! I do motorcycle camping and can afford a bit more gear so its nice to know that most of my stuff will do :D
Cheers! Run what ya brung!
I need a new tent something with more space. Currently have a coffin tent.
I live off coffee during rides. I always take a pot of coffee and sugar.
A couple of beers for night when i stop.
I aways make a curry then freeze it, by the time i stop for the night its ready to cook.
Yeah - I am all about a tent with a bit of room. It is still tight with two people but I have to be able to sit up.
We've switched to bringing instant coffee - there is some decent stuff now made by the smaller quality brands - it isn't the same as ground beans but the convenience is worth it.
Frozen meals sound kind of heavy - but compared to the cost of freeze-dried camp meals I can see how it could be worth it for certain trips.
Hitting the gap trail tomorrow!!! Leaving from my doorstep in Pittsburgh. Super Stoked!!
Awesome - hope you are out there having a blast!
I'm bikepacking here in Florida, it's s great way to get out there. Next week I'm heading to another bikepacking trip to west coast Florida. Great video, following now. Thanks 👍
Awesome to hear and thanks! I still ride in the Winter but it is to cold to actually bikepack(for me anyways) until Spring - but I can't wait to get back out there. I've already started to plan a few trips! ....I see you have a channel too - I will check it out.
@@TimFitzwater The good thing about Florida is that winter months are the best time to do bike packing tours, sunny and perfect temperature usually. Thank you!
@@FollowThomas I can imagine - I have cousins in Sanford(near Orlando).
Great video Tim.... the foreshadowing of “no rain expected” was telling considering the monsoon you rode through 😉..... like the light suggestion.... i am throwing something for rain in all the time now 👍
I almost always at least bring some freezer bags for electronics- of course the time I don’t.... I’ll never make that mistake again!
Hi, Tim. I tried to fit my relatively lightweight tent and sleeping bag into my large Topeak MTX TrunkBag DX's panniers and there was no way. I had to leave them wide open. BUT, you have a great idea - pack them into the panniers WITHOUT first folding them into their respective pouches. Your strategy definitely maximizes the panniers' capacity much better - thank you! Liked and subscribed.
Awesome - glad there was a suggestion that helped!
Thats very informative, start simple n low cost! Thank you
You’re welcome
I'm relatively new to cycling (started biking to work when the buses went on strike, then kept it up during the pandemic), but I've done a lot of hiking and backpacking in the past and looks like a lot of the same gear will work.
Yup - especially the sleep system. If you really start to enjoy it then you can start to figure out if you want to invest in different ways to actually carry the gear on your bike. But doing a couple simple overnighters and you’ll start to know what you’d like to change. Have fun! 😎
Very inspiring, thanks. I should have done this years ago! I only just got myself decent tyres and slime innertubes a year ago, so I'm not phased with long journeys. I can fix, but it's a pain in the ass. I would definitely say they are a good upgrade for reassuring anyone venturing into the unknown that doesn't want to be deterred.
Great channel. Subscribed, thanks dude.
I have never tried the slime inner tubes. I'm thinking of touring this year on my gravel bike which is set up tubeless - that is nice since flats are super rare. Thanks so much for checking out the channel!
@@TimFitzwater sounds cool. Yeah, the slime has been a godsend to me on more of a budget bike. I was constantly getting punctures on my way to work, thorns and stuff. Also I notice they stay rock hard for ages. I only have to add a little air literally every 2 months.
I turned 40 recently, becoming more health aware, so maybe looking at investing in upgrading stuff Seems it's valuable, honest information here. I will definitely enjoy watching.
I really like this I have a 1980s Schwinn 10 speed that I daily ride to work and back and I've been building it out so I can travel far it's a lot of fun
Nice!
Thanks for showing me the basic needs. Take care.
You are welcome! I hope hoping this might help a few people get out there without worrying about having all the latest gear.
I actually used a coke crate made it stay in place with zip ties. And used bungle cords to keep my backpack from falling off .and used a old camcorder bag with zip ties to attach it to the handlebars . Personally I love to hammock camp . and it weighs about the same as.a.tent set-up.
I have yet to try the hammock - I ask everyone about them - I toss and turn so not sure I would like it.
I currently use a milk crate on a post mounted rear rack for take out pickups and rides to the beer store. It will be used for bikepacking as well! Great video and information. Thanks Tim!
Nice! If it work it works!
I really like Topeak’s racks with the top-mounting bags that clip in. It makes it a bit sticky to get that bag on & off while the panniers are mounted, and not all panniers will work with that set-up. But it’s a good system.
The one I have has the fold down panniers so it works well with the system.
Great video. I appreciate your approach in working with what you have and not pushing gear/brands.
Yeah - there is already enough of that on UA-cam. Nice stuff is nice - but not having it shouldn’t be a limiting factor.
I'm taking your advice this weekend I'm gonna take stuff in my short day trip,, thanks for the info
You're welcome - that is the way to do it for sure!
Really good, concise video! I'm gonna use this to help Danny get started on bike camping!
Awesome! I remember my intention trying to explain that you don't need all the fancy stuff or tons of experience - just get out there. It sounds like he is getting a pretty good set up going though.
Cheers for this!! I'm getting into this bikpacking vlogging thing and every bit of info helps!! All the best :-)
Awesome - I'm glad it did! I've been carrying my "real" camera more and more lately.
My first set of paneers were back packs from the thrift store.
Nice!
Love this approach, Tim. If you have a bike and a bag, you're ready. The rest is just details and upgrades. Most of my camping is in a hammock. It's great in Ohiopyle and along the C&O. Not so great in Wyoming's Great Basin, where trees aren't plentiful!
Thanks! People always try to convince me that the hammocks are comfortable- I’m a huge tossed and turner so I have a hard time believing it. I really do need to try one at a store(probably post-pandemic). I am almost always camping near trees.
@@TimFitzwater Well, they're not good if you're a stomach sleeper, but I'm usually in mine after a long ride. I could sleep anywhere after a long ride (and a beer!). I find it really comfortable. Ride hard, brother.
With the ride and obligatory beer I probably would pass out fine...it’d be the middle of the night early morning thing....
Excellent and encouraging video Tim. Thanks for putting it together.
I’m glad you liked it. If there is one thing to be positive about in 2020 it is definitely bikes!
Some excellent advice! Greetings from England.
Glad you liked it! Cheers!
I love your high-end bike stand! Where could I get something like that? 😉
This video is old so I am assuming it is the clamp at the end of the work table? 😂
I'm a big believer in go with what you've got. I'm also really pleased that you talk positively about credit card touring. There's absolutely nothing wrong with it if that's what you want to do. A good positive attitude.
For sure - I wish we could keep the tough guy/jock stuff out of cycling. Friendly competition is fine but no one is better than anyone else for how the decide to spend their vacations - that is what these are supposed to be! Sometimes I want to challenge myself - sometimes I just want to see something new and take a warm shower after.
@@TimFitzwater I'm so pleased to hear someone say this. If you go on tour and choose to sleep in The Hilton or in a ditch then so what? It's your choice and ultimately we're all two wheeled warriors and should stand together as one. Sleeping in luxury or in a tent doesn't make you any better or any worse.
Good video thanks for making
Really useful video, inspired me to have a go.I have a 30 year old mountain bike so I can have a go.
Decathlon do a decent two man tent for around £30.00 , not the lightest but I think it is manageable.
Cheers from the UK and subscribed as well.
David 👍🍺
Yes! Just do it! If you’ll learn about what works and if you end up loving it you can slowly upgrade. I’m out on a 6 day tour right now - it’s my summer vacation - I built up a 1990s MTB to do it but my camping gear now is all quite expensive. I justify it though because I’m not spending money on gas or plane tickets.
@@TimFitzwater Cheers mate and enjoy the break 👍🍺
One day ill be doing this, because e need it. Thank you
Do it! 😎
I did it...hammocking. Hard but rewarding
Ace video.
BTW: I lucked into one of those Topeak racks and bags that my LBS was selling off for US$20.
My panniers are the slightly smaller ones than on your bag. But hey, it was 20 bucks. It'll do!
I've subbed.
Cheers
Awesome. That is an amazing deal.
Thanks!
great video- thx.
I tend not to do anything that costs money when I bike camp so I bring along a tent and some food.
Yeah - do what works for you! I go both ways - from cheap as can be to more vacation like trips.
Its not going to rain? That really went sideways. Haha. Cool video. Really helpful for a lot of people.
Yup - total blunder! Thanks!
jeha thats the way 😍 you dont need the 5000 euro gravelbike withe these expensive bike packing bags... its ok to have buut yiu dont need. Love your videos greets from germany :)
Thanks! Yeah - if you can afford it cool - but not having fancy stuff shouldn’t be a barrier.
creepy background music...iloveit!
Thanks! I like to find interesting stuff! 🎶🎵
Can I ask you something Tim Would you recommend building a touring bike/ bike packing bike from a old rigid MTB 90s
Funny you ask - I just did that! This was more of a tour than anything gnarly - so I would say it depends on the terrain. I had a blast on it though and it worked perfectly! ua-cam.com/video/FFljfCgRlts/v-deo.html
bleu blanc rouge...blue white red on your hat.....french colors ???? nice to travel by bikes !!!!!
Yes! - it was made by a small company during the Tour de France
@@TimFitzwater ok !!!
Thank you!
Interesting
Great video ! thank you
For sure! Keep on riding!
Thanks for the video Tim, what kind of sadle bags are you using? I like how it has a top compartment as well.
Thanks! It is a Topeak bag that works with their track system. More if a commuter style bag as the weight is a little high but I’ve always made it work.
So my question is regarding weight limits. I live in Minnesota and I set off with what I thought was an okay weight. It had been significantly downsized but it was heavy--around 50 pounds estimated. I also had a backpack of around twenty pounds carrying tires, tools, a camera, some snacks, and odds and ends. It went relatively well until I ran into some hills around thirty miles out. I suffered greatly going up some steep hills. The distance for the total ride was 63 miles. I went from Bloomington, MN to Zumbrota, MN. When I got to Zumbrota I was completely dehydrated and cramping. Thank goodness I brought some magnesium tablets to reduce the muscle cramps. I was wondering is litter better. Should I have packed only 20 pounds? I have a steel mountain bike (Diamond Back circa 1990). It rides great, but my weight, the backpack, the rear pack, and the 39-pound steel bike were too much for me. Any advice you might offer? Thanks.
I think you answered your own question in a way- you need to figure out how to drop some weight. One simple too though is if you are going to carry a back pack don’t put anything heavy in there. Only clothes and maybe tent material or whatever. Good lightweight camping gear is expensive- but if you intend to do it often it is worth it. I try to go as minimal as possible. This is what I took on my latest tour that was 5 days. ua-cam.com/video/FFljfCgRlts/v-deo.html
That bag with the fold out panniers is genius. Where did you get it?
I got it from my local shop- but it’s a Topeak - which are widely available online.
@@TimFitzwater sweet, I’ll hunt one out. Have an enjoyable ride 👍
Killing it
Great video. I am curious what brand bike that is. It looks like a road bike with wider tires.
I’m looking for a steel 700c bike that will accept 35mm tires.
I’ve got a Surly, but I’m looking at something a little lighter but can accept wider tires than a pure road bike.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
It is a Roger Riviere. I fit wider tires by putting smaller wheels on it than it originally came with. I was using it as an example of a cheap bike that works.
A gravel bike is what you are looking for.
I don't ride anything below 44mm these days for tours.
Crust, All City, Surly, Salsa, Wilde - those are some of my favorite brands that make bikes like that.
@@TimFitzwaterThank you sir. I appreciate you.🚴🚴
hiya! ive got a good quality vintage hybrid cannondale that has the gears on the bottom frame. i love her but im not sure where to get started with backup equipment and how to prepare for accidents (chain breaks, popped tires ect) im considering a longer trip over next summer before I move abroad as a way to kinda say goodbye to my country. so months long and just kind of wondering around. I plan on wwoofing for longer periods
It is definitely worth learning how to deal with small mechanical issues. I had a chain break on my first long trip but luckily had a chain tool with me(I took out a few links and made sure not to use gears that required the long chain). Being able to fix a flat is an absolute must. One way to go about it is to watch some youtube videos and follow along. GCN has a lot of good videos like that - search their channel. As I say in the video - do a few short overnight trips to start to get an idea of how and what to pack. I'm not sure where you live but go talk to the folks at your local bike shop about what you are trying to do and they can point you in the right direction gear-wise. But as I always say - you don't need the latest and greatest - see what things look like new then do some ebay searching too. Good luck - and feel free to ask any more specific questions!
Nice video sir... very informative.. thanks
Awesome - glad you liked it!
Yes.. bike packing is fun... i also upload some of my little adventures. Hope you can ceck some.
I will!
Hi Tim ,thanks for your excellent videos. Just a quick question . I’ve been an on and off cyclist for fifty odd years ,I’m sixty nine now and still able to do a fair mileage every day. Recently I saw and subsequently bought a lovely Dawes Super Galaxy for next to nothing compared to a new Surly etc. l knew that it was a bit small for me , but couldn’t resist it. I have ridden maybe 150 miles now and I will either have to make some changes or sell the bike. I have the stem and seatpost out as far as I dare ,but could do with another inch to make the bike comfortable. I’m thinking of fitting an extra long stem and post. What do you think ? I’m not too bothered about aesthetics as long as the ride is good. Regards from England.
Thanks!
Its really hard to say without knowing the bike personally. The long seat post shouldn't matter too much(picture any mountain bike since the 90s) but messing with stem length can affect handling at some point. I've done something similar with a 1996 Team Marin - bumping the stem and adding a long seat post - I still ride it but the front is very "floppy".
If it was my main bike I wouldn't be happy with it.
The only hike I have is a fixed kompresser. Realistically, would this be ok for shorter weekend tours? I know it’s a stretch but I don’t have the cash to invest on a bike and too much gear :/ I really want to just go on a tour. I’ve been putting it off for some time now
It really depends on how comfortable you are on it. I think it would make sense to try and choose a relatively flat route so you aren't struggling up big hills with your gear - just know your limits. All bikes that people toured on originally were single speed though!
@@TimFitzwater I’m scooping out a smaller and pretty much flat area to tour. I’ve been doing some training on hills and it’s tough!
Great video. Nice you are not trying to sell me products like the other guys in youtube.
That's why I thought I would make a video like this...and I guess there was kinda a need for it because it is far and away my most popular. Even in my other world, which is cameras, it gets annoying watching every UA-camr just show the latest and greatest. Normal people don't buy a new bike bag/camera every time something gets released.
The brakes cables are way too long other than that nice bike and good advices, Have a good 2021 touring season!
Can never go wrong with a less harsh angle but to each his own! Happy touring!
Are panniers, front and frame bags available from Cambodia, Mexico, etc where they might be cheaper?
I’m sure they are. Used is the best way to save money though. Tons of cheap used stuff out there - eBay, Craigslist, Facebook marketplace etc.
I always think quality used is better than new cheap stuff.
Don't touring bikes have reinforced wheels (more spokes) ?
Some do - fairly old school as many wheels are stronger and lighter these days.
I’ve loaded vintage bikes with no special wheels. If you are going full month long tours and heavy, heavy loads good idea to have a rear with a higher spike count.
I have the bike,, but I don't know what bags to buy,, or what kind of food to take,, biggest ?? I'm van life, where do I start?? the beginning of the trails?? I'm 60 years old I'm in good shape,, I like dirt roads not streets
I'm not good at All with phone technology, like how to find the trails that's my biggest problem
Google - google maps. Turn on the bike map!
Bring the food you want to eat! Don't over-complicate it! Short trips is how you'll get the vibe of what you need.
What suitcase do you recommend for a beginner? (smaller budget)
What kind of riding are you trying to do?
I am trying to think of ways to bring fire fuel (not wood logs obviously). I'm on the gulf coast and there isn't really any wood or any substantial plants to be found on the beaches here. Very seldom there is a piece of drift wood, but they are normally very large (tree size). Maybe like a dura-log or something similar? Any suggestions? Definitely want this for something to stare at and for light as night will come early this time of year.
When full fires weren’t an option and I was car camping we would do candles, but making sure there is fire wood at our stops is a big deal. We have definitely dropped our gear and set up camp then went out to find wood - even if it meant buying a few bundles from a grocery store and bungeeing them to our racks and baskets. I don’t think I have a great answer for you though unfortunately.
You don't need to light a fire. I was pitched up and cooking an hour before dusk with an alcohol powered, homemade, tin can stove. A portable lantern or torch will do the rest then hit the sack. Believe me, you'll need the sleep.
@@Kitiwake Some nights you just want to pass out - but some nights we like to sit around a fire and have some beers. Just depends. We tend to like slow morning also - so relighting the fire and enjoying some coffee is worth it on certain days.
This year camp fires are just dreams here in Portugal
Is one water bottle all you bring for water? How do you get your water on the road?
I always carry two. On bikes that are vintage like my yellow one I strap another cage on since it doesn't have the mounts. In normal times we fill up at water fountains. Last year with the pandemic most were turned off so we would buy water from the gas stations. We would buy the gallons and all fill from the same ones try and cut down a bit on the plastics use. People who travel longer distances off the beaten path carry water filters - they are usually flexible bags that you fill in a stream then squeeze into your bottle through a filter. Search REI or backpacking stores for those.
Where can I get those adapters you have so I can attach a rear rack to my bike? Thanks for the video!
You’re welcome! Every bike shop I’ve gone into usually has some sitting around. I’ve never even paid for them.
@@TimFitzwater thanks!
Hi, how do you buy adaptors? How much are they? And what tent do you have? I’d like a small compact one!
Both of my local bike shops have had them and gave them to me for free. I would walk in and ask your shop. My tent is the Nemo Hornet. Very compact and light.
A better answer on those little adapter things would be - I don’t know what they are actually called to look them up online - but if your local bike shop does have them they wouldn’t be more than a few bucks.
I found this adapter and it works perfectly on my 90s MTB. I highly recommend it, if you can find it: ua-cam.com/video/lFgNknemAhw/v-deo.html
Since I have balance issues,I'm getting an adult tricycle. Any advice for someone going from Massachusetts to Washington State this summer?
Wow! Amazing! To be honest I have never done anything that far and I don’t know a thing about tricycles. But I wish you the best of luck! I hope you take lots of photos!
@@TimFitzwater o snap I didn't know you'd reply,thanks! Know any good free camp sites around the northern part of the US? The less I spend on motels and airbnbs the better
I’ve camped from North to South Ohio but on my trips out of state we have done the air bnb thing. One awesome website we’ve found though is hipcamp.com - it like air bnb but for camping. So while it isn’t free a lot are very cheap - can be something like a farmer with some land that will let you crash there. All different levels of amenities too - we’ve done some were for 5 bucks they’ll put fire wood out for you. Definitely check it out - we’ve even planned trips just by finding cool looking sites then riding there.
I’m in Columbus, any plans for Erie Ohio trail this year? Looking for a group to ride with.
We are planning to do another trip over the 4th of July - but we haven't decided yet if we are going to do OTET again this year or try something different. We have a Discord server that goes with the channel and there are a number of guys in there from Columbus. Everyone is being pretty safe right now but hopefully by summer meet-ups can happen. Check out if discord.gg/BeYHWrRb
@@TimFitzwater Thanks for the discord tip. I can’t wait for the weather to break.
Don't you use a sleeping mat?
At the time I made the video I was just sleeping on my sleeping bag. On the tour we just did I brought an inflatable sleeping pad and a sleeping bag liner - that set up was much more comfortable for warm weather touring.
I like that he used cheap bikes. If you can do it on those ....
Yeah - expensive gear is great - but not having it doesn't need to keep you from getting out there!
...what about the Bears?
Keep some beef jerky in your pocket?
Then they will eat me in my sleep@@TimFitzwater
Hello, why there are no mudflats on your bike?thank you)
not enough clearance - have fenders on other bikes.
how do you can go bathroom or take a shower in the back country
Well - you go to the bathroom the same way you always do and try to find swimming holes for the keeping clean aspect. Most of the touring we do isn’t in the back country though because I live in Ohio. There are lots of places to stop for facilities.
Anyway
Hobo biking?
Why would you put a backpack on? The bike is carrying the weight already, why burden your body?
For one - its a video about getting into it and trying it. Most people own a backpack - most down own bike bags. But yes - I see many experienced bike-campers who wear backpacks and I don't get it - I would much rather let the bike bags do the work.
Truth is many vintage bikes can't fit racks
I would disagree - I show a vintage bikes with zero mounts that I use with a rear rack. There are all kinds of solutions to make almost any bike into a touring bike. I show my friend's Schwinn single speed that he build his own solutions for. Tailfins while super pricey can work with almost any bike. There are seat post mounted options. On and on....
I'm in Porterville California suggestions
I have never personally been to California - I was supposed to go last year to ride bikes and make videos - but - you know. Anyways - I did do a search of your city and saw there is a rail trail. I would search hipcamp.com and see if there is any camping along it.
Thank you much
@@tonyabreu6912 Yes - good luck getting out there - let me know if you need any other advice!