Bike-packing is an exciting activity that combines backpacking and cycling, and allows cyclists to enjoy a multi-day adventure on two wheels. Cyclists carry gear like tent, snacks, and tools, on their bike, and explore off-the-beaten-paths at their own pace. Bike-packing is not about speed, it has more to do with freedom and exploration. Hence, gravel bikes are considered to be perfect for the activity. As per Steven Rindner, gravel bikes combine the best features of road and mountain bikes. They can be stable on dirt, fast on pavement, and tough enough for unpredictable terrain.
Steven Rindner discusses valuable first-timer tips for gravel bikepacking
Gravel bike-packing can be a fun and refreshing way to explore nature and get away from the stress and hassle of daily life. One would not need any plane ticket or hotel booking for gravel bike-packing, simply their bike and basic gear would be enough. One does not have to be ultra-fit or an outdoor expert to try bike-packing. Any person can engage in the activity, as long as they have the right bike. Gravel bikes are especially considered partner for bike-packing due to their versatility.
Here are a few tips to follow while gravel bike-packing:
- Respect the road and people: When embarking on a gravel biking journey, it is essential to approach the experience with a sense of responsibility and mindfulness. Cyclists must always respect the rules of the road and the rights of fellow riders, whether cycling through public streets, gravel trails, or rural areas. Observing local traffic regulations, signaling intentions clearly, and staying alert can ensure safer interactions with vehicles, pedestrians, fellow cyclists, hikers, and even animals along the route.
- Ride light on the land: Cyclists must try their best to minimize the impact on the land they are exploring. This means staying on designated trails to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems and properly disposing of all waste that can disrupt local wildlife. Camping should be done responsibly and respectfully, adhering to all local guidelines.
- Take breaks: Gravel bike-packing is not a race, it is about the journey. Stopping at a scenic overlook, a local market, or a quaint roadside café provides a chance to rest, recharge, and may even become among the most memorable parts of the trip.
- Be open to encounters: Gravel biking often leads to unexpected encounters, a friendly conversation with a local resident, a shared snack with another cyclist, or a helping hand from a stranger. These interactions can become the highlight of the journey.
In the opinion of Steven Rindner, a successful bike-packing experience starts much before the first pedal stroke. Proper preparation, starting from route planning to smart packing, would be necessary to make sure that the journey is stress-free, safe and enjoyable. For one’s very first gravel bike-packing journey, it is important to keep the route manageable and simple. The cyclists should try to select a loop close to home, ideally on a terrain they are comfortable with. Gravel roads, quiet paths, and minimal elevation gain would be perfect for the first gravel bike-packing experience. One may plan for 30–60 km per day, depending on their fitness level.
