Bikepacking on a mountain bike: equipment and preparation for off-roading

First, let's talk size. You're not going for a Sunday ride on an ATV (well, you are, but you know what I mean 😅 ). You're likely to find yourself on trails that demand sturdiness and, above all, agility. Start by choosing a bike that's right for you. That's the minimum, you might say. Yes, but be careful. I mean it. 🧐

Next, the frame. Aluminum or steel? Aluminum is light and responsive, ideal for energetic pedal strokes. Steel? Heavier, but better shock absorption. The choice is yours! 🤔

When it comes to suspension, now's not the time to flinch. For rough roads, a front suspension fork works wonders. It absorbs bumps and pebbles like a champion. On the other hand, for less rugged courses, soft gravel for example, a rigid fork may suffice. 🌄

Finally, the brakes. Hydraulic or mechanical discs? Hydraulics offer finer control, but require a little more maintenance. Mechanical brakes are solid and easy to repair, even in the wilderness. Choice is king! 👑

In the world of bikepacking, panniers and storage are the kings of the road, your faithful travel companions. Choosing the right ones is an art, a strategy, common sense... 🧳

Let's start with the saddlebags. Located under your (bike 😅) throne, they're spacious, perfect for storing everything you need. The trick? Balance and organization are the watchwords. Distribute your belongings carefully. 🫡

Next, the handlebar panniers, the keepers of your snacks and maps. Accessible in a flash (almost, you'll still need your hands 🤣 ), they're ideal for everything you need on the road. But be careful not to overload them, or your handlebars could look like an over-decorated Christmas tree. Lightweight and easy to access, that's their credo. 🚴‍♀️

And let's not forget the frame bags, the ninjas of storage. Nestled between the wheels, they're perfect for clothes and other medium-sized accessories. Think of them as secret pockets, hiding places for your personal treasures. 🥷

And there's more if you really want to take your home with you:

• Top tube bags, small and discreet, for your valuables.
• Bottle carrier bags, for those little extras (tools, energy bars...)
• Seatpost bags, for everything small but essential (a comforter? 🥰 )

After a day of taming roads and trails, a good night's sleep is your best ally. So let's talk about night gear, because when bikepacking, the quality of your dodo is as important as the bike itself! 🌙

First stop: the tent. Choose a light, compact model, because, let's be honest, you're not setting up a base camp on Everest. A low-volume tent that's easy to attach to your bike is ideal. Remember to check its water and wind resistance, you don't want to wake up in aquatic mode! 💦

Your sleeping bag is your nocturnal cocoon. Choose a model that combines comfort and compactness. Weight is crucial, especially if you're planning to cover distances worthy of a Tour de France. If you're heading out into cold terrain, a well-insulated sleeping bag is a must. Looking for thrills? Watch a horror movie, don't shiver in your bag! 🥶

For even more comfort, consider a bivouac mattress. A good self-inflating mattress works wonders. It keeps you from feeling every pebble or root, and it's much better for your back. Believe us, your spine will thank you in the morning. 🌤️

What about accessories? An inflatable pillow (bye-bye, stiff neck!), a tarpaulin to protect your tent and bike (because even your mountain bike deserves a dry night's sleep), and a headlamp for night-time travel. It's not a bikepacking adventure without a little exploring under the stars, is it? ✨

Remember, when bikepacking, every gram counts. So choose gear that offers the best weight-to-comfort ratio. 🏋️

Bikepacking is freedom on two wheels, but it's also a golden opportunity to respect our beautiful planet. How can we do that? By minimizing our environmental footprint. Here are a few tips to make bikepacking as green an adventure as possible. 🍃

Let's talk bikes first (didn't we do that until now? 🤔🤣). Go for a durable bike, with a strong, suitable frame. Whether steel, aluminum or carbon, the important thing is to choose a bike designed to last. Forget low-cost models that will be discarded after a few rides. A good bike is an investment for the planet and for you. 🚲

Next, tires. Quality tires, adapted to the gradient and type of terrain, are essential. Not only do they ensure your safety, they also reduce wear, which means less waste in the long run. 🌍

For electrical equipment, such as lights or GPS units, opt for rechargeable models. Fewer discarded batteries, less waste - it's as simple as that. And if you're choosing an electric bike for more arduous routes, make sure its drive line is efficient for minimum energy consumption. 🔋

Use sturdy panniers and bags made from durable materials. There's nothing sadder than luggage that lets go in the wilderness. Invest in quality panniers, your back and the Earth will thank you. 🎒

For your shoes, select models designed to last. Shoes suitable for bikepacking can make a huge difference, both in terms of comfort and environmental impact. Sturdy shoes mean fewer replacements and, therefore, less waste. 👟

For all other equipment (like your camping list, tools, etc.), the idea is the same: choose quality over quantity. Durable equipment will accompany you for many miles, reducing the need for frequent replacements. 🔧

Finally, check out the bikepacking community's reviews. Learning from the experiences of others is a great way to find sustainable gear and share eco-responsible practices. The bikepacking community is a goldmine of information for traveling greener. 💬