Took my second stab at bikepacking last weekend, and it was awesome!
My first attempt was about 3 years ago—bit off way more than I could chew. I tried tackling the Grande Traversée du Jura with homemade bags (they sucked), a heavy tent, way too much gear, and overly ambitious mileage for a first trip. Then life got in the way (kids, work, etc.), and I couldn’t get back to it… until now.
This time, I kept it simple with a solo overnighter—a scenic 80km loop starting from Besançon (France), packed with fun singletrack and amazing views. Turns out, starting small is the way to go. It let me properly test my gear and myself without burning out.
Most of my kit worked great, but my Topeak MidLoader framebag (medium) ripped at the seam opposite the zippers right at the start. I ended up losing my bike lights and had to tape it shut with electrical tape for the rest of the ride. That bag’s headed for the bin. I’m now planning to order a custom framebag and toptube bag for my Cotic BFeMax.
Overall, I loved this trip. I felt confident about my gear and my route, wild camped in a great spot right next to the Doubs river, and even cooked myself some camp tacos in the evening—such a great time. I’m already excited for the next adventure next month : Planning to tackle a bigger loop next: the Grand Tour de Besançon, a fully marked 200km route. Can't wait !
by chuckolate
1 Comment
Nice ! Your bike looks a little bit like mine, a Ragley Mmmbop. Good to see someone on an agressive hardtail for bikepacking. The Doubs is so beautiful, I camped there once, a loooong time ago.
I also did a long ride in the Jura (Basel to Rolle), more bicylce touring though, and I had not checked the terrain (lots of hills, big hills !). It was an adventure, I just had too much stuff with me as I was travelling with my two daughters and carrying two tents, all the pots, stove, food for the 3 of us…
I’m now planning solo trips on my hardtail…