Hi all, planning my first bikepacking trip. Will be maximum one week long, mixed route with both gravel and tarmac, hills and flats etc. I’m aware of the common notion that for a first bikepacking trip, it’s worth getting some miles in with whatever bike you have in order to understand your needs for future, longer routes. I have this ‘94 cannondale which is light, fast and fun for commuting, albeit too small but modified to my height with a tall stem. It’s comfortable and I can modify it to suit the trip where possible (more gears, comfy bars, tyres etc)
I thought I’d post it here to solicit opinions from some more seasoned bikepackers. What would you change? Is it worth getting something more appropriate? My main concerns are the rear dropouts which come out from the frame, which seems a little dangerous once loaded, and any other potential failures due to it being an older, aluminium bike. My trip would be in England so I’d never be far from civilisation if disaster struck but I’d like to avoid!!!!
by sideshowremi
2 Comments
Put some oil on the chain and you’re ready to go
Keep the bike. Maybe get a new cassette so you have more gear inch range to climb hills. Maybe spend on body/bike touch points so you’re more comfortable. Clean and oil chain. Just do it and observe before buying something new.