A (San Rafael) Swell Night (Day) Out

Opinion: route is more enjoyable as a day ride on an XC Bike.

Rode the overnighter route from Bikepacking.com in a day yesterday with an amazing crew. And in 2023 I rode the Stone House Lands Loop that shares the first roughly 50miles with this route.

For the Stone House Loop I used a Salsa Fargo with a 100mm fork and 2.6 Vittoria Barzo tires, it felt sufficient at the time, however there were a few descents on the behind the reef that felt pretty white knuckle.

This go round I took my Rocky Mountain Element running 2.4 Rekon Race, and the difference in speed and enjoyment is substantial. I used to think it was cool being able to thrash myself all day on a gravel bike, but damn under-biking is so overrated. Just in case anyone was trying to decide which bike to take, you'll be faster and have more fun on a hard tail or even better a 120/130FS. Just my two cents.