Currently getting set up for my first bikepacking trip around euroupe and wanted to share my set up!
Currently have a 26L waterproof roll top backpack on my rear rack with all of my camping gear plus a few clothes for around camp (went for this as we may and up doing hikes off the bike), 11L roll top handlebar bag will be for clothes and small bits like stove etc with a some space for food. Then my frame bag will be for electronics, repair kit and tools, first aid kit, then hopefully a little more space for food. Also planning on putting 2 bottle cages on the forks.
I’ve aimed to go reasonably minimalistic and weight conscious whilst still making sure I have the essentials, I have space for everything and am liking my setup currently, although I’m thinking maybe I need some more space for food, beer, and any items we end up accumulating on the way, as my handlebar bag will be pretty full. Considering putting some fork bags on then maybe mounting another bottle cage to the back of my frame? Also have the stem bags which I can keep water (alcohol) in.
We’re going on a roughly 2 month trip, probably going to wing it in terms of the route but roughly thinking start in Calais, go straight across to Berlin, down through Czech, into Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, then up into dolomites and finish in Switzerland. Maybe a little ambitious but we’ll see how we get on. It’s going to be about a 75/25 split of camping and scenery to going out and partying, we’ll mostly be camping but will probably get a few hostels or hotels along the way in cities as we don’t wanna be inviting girls to come back to our tents after a night out haha . We’re gonna start a YouTube and gonna record our trip too, bought an insta360 ace pro 2 with the handlebar and chest mount so really looking forward to that!
Bought the bike second hand for £460 it’s been built up by a bike shop owner around a sonder frontier frame and forks and I’ve also had it serviced. It’s a 1×11, which seems like it should be ok after I took it for a test ride loaded the other day. I’ve made a few upgrades like the brooks c17, riser bars, and schwalbe g one speed 29×2.35 tyres, thinking maybe I should have gone for the g one all rounds for a bit more grip on gravel but I think the speeds will do the job.
Hoping some of the veterans on here can give me any pointers or advice about my setup in general. I’ve got 3 weeks until I leave so can make a few adjustments beforehand if I need to 🤙
by Cute-Beautiful6208
3 Comments
Have you tested the comfort of the bike on a longer route? You have very little suspension and your back may suffer over time.
Also, do those little thumb horn things work? I’m considering getting those but idk if they’re worth it.
Just two things: a Brooks needs about 600 km to start feeling comfortable. And the tires you’re using are only for asphalt or a very good track—if you get muddy, it’s over. Have you considered more versatile tires?
And this is just personal: I take photos and drawings on my travels, but I try to keep it short. I like to just enjoy the trip. I know friends who even take a drone, but it’s not my type of trip.
If you can lower the load in your handlebar bar it would be great, the bike will be more comfortable to handle (because lower center of gravity). Look a the Ortlieb Fork Pack (or anything else).
If you store your sleeping bag and the tent in the same bag, use a a plastic bag to keep the fly separate. Also, dry the fly when stopping mid-day.
You will need more water than that.
I’m surprise at how light your setup is !