For reference, my current bike is a Trek FX-2. It’s more of a sports bike but I think it will get the job done. What parts and accessories do I need to make it a worthy bikepacking bike? Will it need any special modifications?
Have you seen these giant helium balloons for hiking? They’re maybe four feet in diameter, tie the balloon to your bike or pack, tie the bike or back to your wrist. Let the balloon carry the weight, and you just tow it along.
I don’t know. I’m sure this will be no use to you. I just think it’s cool, I saw yesterday, and I wanted to talk about it.
Think of the drag, also it might actually drag during fast descents
Gravel tyres with good rolling resistance on road, paniers and rack, tough phone mount, consider raised handle bars and aero bars for long distance comfort. Two water bottles is good if you don’t want a bladder in a pack. Go as light as possible. Tent, sleeping bag, mattress, etc. all super super light and compact hiker stuff.
This is all great advice. I’d like to add:
- earphones for the GPS directions on the move
- Puncture repair kit
- pump
- spare inner tube
- some sort of stove and pan
- lights
I’m a long distance road biker, I’d say upgrading the saddle and getting some reasonably comfy padded tights is well worth the money. You don’t have to be in spandex.
Saddle currently: Selle TRK (pick a width based on how wide your sitz bones are) Bibs: you gotta decide here. I might recommend Patagonia’s MTB stuff if you want something fairly multipurpose that works with camping (if you’ve got the money)
