Rigid & Plus Bike Reviews Archives - BIKEPACKING.com https://bikepacking.com/bikes/plus-bikes/ Bikepacking Routes, Stories, Gear, and Inspiration Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:23:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.1 Wilde Supertramp Review: Superfluous Specificity https://bikepacking.com/bikes/wilde-supertramp-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/wilde-supertramp-review/#comments Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:43:14 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=192025 Wilde Supertramp ReviewThe Wilde Supertramp is a steel ATB with clearance for massive tires, a ton of mounting options, and unique lines ready to take on any terrain. With bikepacking-focused design, Nic was curious about how this affordable, versatile platform would perform across the multifaceted style of riding he prefers. For more on the Wilde Supertramp, read on…

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Crumbworks Chunk Review: Against the Grain https://bikepacking.com/bikes/crumbworks-chunk-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/crumbworks-chunk-review/#comments Wed, 27 Nov 2024 12:32:20 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=191713 Crumbworks Chunk ReviewEvery so often, a bike turns up with that extra-special something and makes you think, "Dang, I need to ride that,” even if it’s difficult to explain why. With its mesmerizing lines, unique specs, and room for 27.5+ tires, the Japan-made Crumbworks Chunk is one such bike. Miles pieced together a custom build to see if it rides as well as it looks and figure out how much rough stuff the Chunk can handle. After several months of day rides, exploring, and bike-rafting, find his Crumbworks Chunk review here…

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29+ Bikes (The Complete List) https://bikepacking.com/index/29-plus-bikes/ https://bikepacking.com/index/29-plus-bikes/#comments Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:30:09 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?page_id=51292 29+ bikes 29-plusUpdated October 2024, Originally published February 2019 Believe it or not, it wasn’t until the summer of 2012 when plus tires first debuted. Surly Bikes was the originator, launching both […]

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Tumbleweed Sunliner Review: The People’s Bike https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tumbleweed-sunliner-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tumbleweed-sunliner-review/#comments Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:23:31 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=177440 Tumbleweed Sunliner ReviewThe new Tumbleweed Sunliner is the brand’s third bike model, and fittingly, it slots neatly into their lineup between the Prospector and Stargazer, harmonizing several of their strengths. We’ve been testing the Sunliner for six months on all sorts of day rides and bikepacking trips to decipher its nebulous skill set for this detailed review…

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Pinion Bikes for Bikepacking https://bikepacking.com/index/pinion-bikes/ https://bikepacking.com/index/pinion-bikes/#comments Fri, 12 Jul 2024 12:12:03 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?page_id=179219 Pinion Bikes for BikepackingWhether you’re running the latest wireless drivetrain or a mechanical one, derailleur-based drivetrains have some obvious shortcomings. They require regular maintenance and cleaning to function correctly, the parts wear out, […]

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Bassi Coyote Review: Over Deliver https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bassi-coyote-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bassi-coyote-review/#comments Mon, 24 Jun 2024 11:30:34 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=178862 Bassi Coyote ReviewBilled as an off-road, all-terrain adventure machine, the Bassi Coyote sports a Chromoly steel frame and matching fork, loads of mounting points, clearance for cushy 27.5+ tires, and many thoughtful details. Miles has been exploring his backyard in the Pacific Northwest on one for nearly six months to see how it stacks up against a growing list of steel ATBs and where it falls between a big-tired gravel bike and a rigid mountain bike. Find his Bassi Coyote review here…

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Stooge Dirt Tracker Review: Convergent Evolution https://bikepacking.com/bikes/stooge-dirt-tracker-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/stooge-dirt-tracker-review/#comments Tue, 14 May 2024 11:02:06 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=175412 Stooge Dirt Tracker ReviewThe Stooge Dirt Tracker is a modern 29+ tribute to British tracker bikes from the 1950s, ‘60s, and ‘70s, which arguably could have been the first mountain bikes. We had the chance to dig into the history that inspired the 21st-century version of the Dirt Tracker and spend some time with this beauty while trail riding and bikepacking for a full review. Dive in here…

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Introducing the Hudski Dualist (Sea Otter Classic) https://bikepacking.com/bikes/hudski-dualist-intro/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/hudski-dualist-intro/#comments Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:09:32 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=174392 Hudski DualistFrom the minds and quirky beach trailer of Hudski Bikes comes a brand-new bike that's an evolutionary sequel to the Doggler. Read on for details about the Hudski Dualist, an interesting, do-it-all aluminum ATB featuring adjustable front/rear axle placement, added tire clearance, and a few clever upgrades to the acclaimed platform...

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Titus Silk Road Review: Adventure Titanium on a Budget https://bikepacking.com/bikes/titus-silk-road-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/titus-silk-road-review/#comments Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:00:03 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=162391 Titus Silk Road ReviewFeaturing an expedition-ready titanium frame and a carbon fork with cargo mounts, the relatively unknown Titus Silk Road is a peculiar go-anywhere machine that comes in at or under $2,000 complete. Intrigued by its value proposition, Lucas pedaled one around Colorado throughout several seasons. Find his detailed Titus Silk Road review here…

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Esker Hayduke LVS Review: A Future Classic https://bikepacking.com/bikes/esker-hayduke-lvs-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/esker-hayduke-lvs-review/#comments Wed, 07 Feb 2024 12:34:32 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=166747 Esker Hayduke LVS ReviewThe Esker Hayduke LVS is the latest sibling in the now-classic bikepacking-oriented Hayduke lineage. However, with 600mm chainstays, a feature-laden titanium frame, and a unique overlanding rear rack, the LVS is completely different from its predecessor. We tested the Hayduke LVS for several months in all sorts of permutations. Find out how it stacks up as a gravel bike, a trail ripper, a wheelie machine, and a cargo-carrying rig in this detailed review…

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Crust Scapegoat Review: ScapeBot Touring Through Time https://bikepacking.com/bikes/crust-scapegoat-review-scapebot/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/crust-scapegoat-review-scapebot/#comments Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:28:15 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=162708 Crust Scapegoat ReviewThe latest generation of the Crust Scapegoat (ScapeBot) features plenty of the specs we’d hope to see from a ride-around-the-world rigid mountain bike, including geometry tuned for heavy hauling, loads of mounting points, and clearance for 29 x 3.0” tires. After nearly a year of dirt-road rambling, packrafting, and bikepacking, find our long-term Crust Scapegoat review here…

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Stooge MK6 Review: (Not) Using Technology https://bikepacking.com/bikes/stooge-mk6-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/stooge-mk6-review/#comments Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:34:25 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=161540 Stooge MK6 ReviewAfter a lot of waiting, we finally got ahold of a shiny new Stooge MK6 and proceeded to get it dirty while putting tons of miles on it throughout all manner of trail rides and bikepacking trips around the Appalachians. Find an extensive write-up on the MK6 featuring some Stooge history, a rumination on riding rigid mountain bikes, loads of photos, and an in-depth review here…

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Rigid Steel Mountain Bikes (The Best Off-road Touring Bikes) https://bikepacking.com/index/rigid-steel-off-road-touring-bikes/ https://bikepacking.com/index/rigid-steel-off-road-touring-bikes/#comments Thu, 12 Oct 2023 14:00:42 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?page_id=51344 rigid steel mountain bikes and off-road dirt touring bikesUpdated October, 2023 (originally published January, 2019) In our opinion, fully rigid steel mountain bikes—especially those with plus-sized tires—have inherited the crown of the first ATBs (All Terrain Bikes), offering […]

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Curve GMX+ Titanium Review: Performance Overlanding https://bikepacking.com/bikes/curve-gmx-plus-titanium-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/curve-gmx-plus-titanium-review/#comments Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:19:34 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=150250 curve gmx+ reviewInspired by Australia’s long-rooted history with overlanding, the Curve GMX+ Titanium is designed to handle big rides through challenging terrain, move swiftly in a variety of conditions, and easily carry everything needed along the way. Miles and Emily spent around two months living aboard the GMX+ during their recent trip to Australia and report back for this review. Find heaps of photos and their findings after 2,000 kilometers of pedaling here…

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Bike Friday All-Packa Review: Small Wheels, Big Pedaling https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bike-friday-all-packa-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bike-friday-all-packa-review/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:00:59 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=141199 Bike Friday All-Packa review, folding gravel bikeThe Bike Friday All-Packa is a first-of-its-kind, dirt-forward 20" folding bike with room for 2.4" tires and loads of provisions. After thousands of miles of use and multiple bikepacking trips, Joe weighs in on it with this thorough review...

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Jones Titanium Plus LWB Spaceframe Review: Magic Carpet Ride https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-titanium-plus-lwb-spaceframe-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-titanium-plus-lwb-spaceframe-review/#comments Thu, 01 Sep 2022 11:35:22 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=130549 Jones LWB Spaceframe TitaniumCoinciding with Jones Bicycles' 20th Anniversary, Cass knuckles down to write a long-term review of his dream bike, the Jones Titanium Plus LWB Spaceframe. After months of daily use, technical singletrack climbs, enduro trail descents, multi-day bikepacking trips, and trailer pulling, he attempts to explain why the latest iteration of Jones's iconic mountain bike is as special as it's always been...

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Tanglefoot Hardtack Review https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tanglefoot-hardtack-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tanglefoot-hardtack-review/#comments Tue, 23 Aug 2022 11:27:18 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=127951 Tanglefoot Hardtack ReviewAt the end of last year, Joe reviewed the Tanglefoot Moonshiner, a sure-footed ATB conceived for woodsy New England terrain but suitable for all manner of bikepacking in rugged environs. Readers will remember that he loved the Moonshiner for its handling and flat-out prowess on his favorite kinds of exploratory rides. The Hardtack is a lighter-duty sibling to the ‘Shiner, and it shares its dominant philosophy. Read on to find out how Joe thinks the two compare...

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Panorama Taiga Review: A Case for the Semi-Rad Steel Hardtail https://bikepacking.com/bikes/panorama-taiga-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/panorama-taiga-review/#comments Tue, 01 Feb 2022 13:11:06 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=115583 Panorama Taiga ReviewCanada's Panorama Cycles released their first hardtail mountain bike, the Taïga, last summer. With a Reynolds 725 steel frame, clearance for 29 x 2.8” tires, sliding dropouts, and lots of mounting options, we were interested to see how it stood up against other similar steel hardtails. After riding the Taïga for several months with both a 120mm travel fork and with Panorama’s own rigid carbon fork, Miles shares his full review here…

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Tanglefoot Moonshiner Review: Triumphal Pedaling Toward Retro-Futurism https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tanglefoot-moonshiner-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tanglefoot-moonshiner-review/#comments Thu, 09 Dec 2021 13:18:31 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=108965 Tanglefoot Moonshiner ReviewThe Tanglefoot Moonshiner is a woods exploration bike conceived in and for the kind of riding you’ll find in Vermont and throughout New England. But its prowess doesn’t end there. It’s a bike for getting outside in the playful adventurous spirit that all-terrain bikes were supposed to be for. Dig in to this lengthy discussion to find out why—after riding one in a variety of conditions for a couple of months—Joe is excited and enthusiastic for what Tanglefoot has achieved.

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Miles’ Parts Bin Xtracycle EdgeRunner Cargo Bike https://bikepacking.com/bikes/xtracycle-edgerunner-cargo-bike/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/xtracycle-edgerunner-cargo-bike/#comments Wed, 13 Oct 2021 12:20:53 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=108347 xtracycle edgerunner cargo bikeAfter picking up a rusty cargo bike frame for $75, Miles worked with his local bike shop on a budget parts-bin build to give a second life to a bike that was in desperate need of a new home. Learn more about his new Xtracycle EdgeRunner here...

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Tumbleweed Stargazer Review: Another Steel Drop-bar bike? https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tumbleweed-stargazer-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tumbleweed-stargazer-review/#comments Tue, 17 Aug 2021 15:05:18 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=101828 Tumbleweed Stargazer ReviewThe new Tumbleweed Stargazer is the second bike from the Idaho-based brand, and it’s vastly different from its predecessor. With a frameset featuring Boost spacing, clearance for 29 x 2.5” or 27.5 x 3.0” tires, a mountain bike demeanor, and a few interesting nuances, the Stargazer also sets itself apart from many other bikes in the category. Find our full review here after hundreds of miles trail riding, gravel grinding, and bikepacking…

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Brodie Mega Tour Review: Mega Affordable https://bikepacking.com/bikes/brodie-mega-tour-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/brodie-mega-tour-review/#comments Mon, 26 Jul 2021 12:41:22 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=101338 Brodie Mega Tour ReviewThe Brodie Mega Tour is positioned as an “alternative adventure touring bike” and is based around 29” wheels, a rigid aluminum frame and fork, and a good selection of mounting options and rack compatibility. Retailing for just $1,300 USD, we were curious to see how its value held up in the real world. Find Miles’ review here after some coastal rambling and route scouting…

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An Elegy for the Surly ECR… is 29+ Dead? https://bikepacking.com/bikes/surly-ecr-elegy/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/surly-ecr-elegy/#comments Fri, 11 Jun 2021 12:10:09 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=99031 Surly ECR, Is 29+ deadIn case you haven't gotten the inside scoop, Surly has discontinued another classic. The ECR is no more, and we're sad to see it go. Read on for our thoughts about this decision and how the ECR bridged the gap between bikepacking and long-distance touring. Plus, watch our latest video, "Is 29+ Dead?"

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Nordest Sardinha Review: One Size Fits https://bikepacking.com/bikes/nordest-sardinha-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/nordest-sardinha-review/#comments Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:23:41 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=92375 Nordest Sardinha Review, Sardinha IIWith compelling geometry, all the right provisions, and an historically contemplative name, the Nordest Sardinha has been on our radar since it was first announced. Fortunately, we finally got to put the Sardinha II through its paces for this long-term review. Find all the details and loads of photos here...

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Esker Japhy Review: Next-Gen Steel Hardtail https://bikepacking.com/bikes/esker-japhy-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/esker-japhy-review/#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2021 13:23:04 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=94136 Esker Japhy ReviewReleased as a 29” alternative to the incredibly versatile Hayduke, the Esker Japhy is a chromoly steel hardtail with 29+ tires, a 120mm travel fork, and three value-packed builds to choose from. We’ve been testing the mid-range Japhy J2 for the last few months to find out what it’s capable of. Find the full review here…

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Hudski Doggler Review: The Kids are All Right https://bikepacking.com/bikes/hudski-doggler-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/hudski-doggler-review/#comments Wed, 20 Jan 2021 13:50:37 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=90339 Hudksi Doggler ReviewThe Hudski Doggler is a do-everything bike that's offered in three builds: Gravel, Mountain, and City, each with a $2,000 price tag and a well-rounded component group. We tested the Doggler in Gravel and Mountain mode to find out what it's capable of. After riding one for a few months and swapping between 700c x 50mm and 27.5 x 2.6” tires, here’s our full review…

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A Nod to the Surly Bridge Club https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bridge-club-beginner-bikepacking-bike/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bridge-club-beginner-bikepacking-bike/#comments Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:58:43 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=85685 Surly Bridge ClubWhen planning for the Ruta Chingaza trip, we helped outfit three riders who had never been bikepacking. When trying to decide on the ideal bikes to get them for the trip, the Bridge Club was one of the first to come to mind. Here’s why it might just be the best beginner bikepacking bike, out of the box...

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Jones SWB Titanium Review: A Dream Bike and Dream Build https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-swb-titanium-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-swb-titanium-review/#comments Thu, 03 Sep 2020 12:59:33 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=81814 Jones Plus SWB Titianium reviewWe take Jones' premium, all titanium SWB—clad in a wardrobe of boutique parts—for an extended test ride. And we ask the question: if money is no object, can one frameset really provide a viable heart and soul for a bikepacking rig, a fast gravel machine, and a trail-worthy mountain bike? Read on to find out...

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Meet The New Why Wayward V2 (SquidWard!) https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2020-why-wayward-v2/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2020-why-wayward-v2/#comments Thu, 05 Mar 2020 13:33:27 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=71889 2020 Why Cycles Wayward with Oddity Squid ForkThe 2020 Why Wayward V2 was redesigned with a higher stack, more tire clearance, and a few other tweaks to improve its ride quality. We got our hands on the high-end build, featuring the new Oddity Squidfork and Lowrizer handlebar. Dig in for our initial impressions on the "SquidWard" and find all the specs, plus loads of photos...

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Bearclaw Beaux Jaxon Review: A Niche Within A Niche https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bearclaw-beaux-jaxon-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bearclaw-beaux-jaxon-review/#comments Mon, 09 Dec 2019 13:39:22 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=64919 Bearclaw Beaux Jaxon ReviewEven as modern gravel bikes continue to fit ever-larger tires, some bikes still exist within a niche of their own. As a titanium drop-bar gravel bike with clearance for plus-sized mountain bike tires, Bearclaw Bicycle Co.’s Beaux Jaxon is one of those bikes. Miles spent a few months on a top-end SRAM AXS build tackling a wide assortment of terrain around his hometown in Ontario, and as far south as Big Bend, Texas. Check out the full review here…

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First Look: 2020 Bombtrack Beyond+ ADV https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2020-bombtrack-beyond-adv/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2020-bombtrack-beyond-adv/#comments Fri, 23 Aug 2019 12:11:54 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=61511 Bombtrack Beyond ADV2020 sees a few tweaks to Bombtrack's big-wheeled Beyond+ ADV, including three-pack cage mounts on each seatstay. Here are all the details, the full build kit, and a few thoughts on how it rides.

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Jones Plus SWB Complete Review: Jones Magic for Less $ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-plus-swb-complete-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-plus-swb-complete-review/#comments Thu, 27 Jun 2019 13:56:55 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=58541 Jones Complete SWB Bikepacking reviewOnce the domain of the fully-fledged bike geek, Jones' Plus SWB Complete has opened up a very distinctive, capable, and comfortable bike to a far broader audience. After spending half a year riding one, read Cass Gilbert's in-depth review, along with SWB and LWB comparisons...

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Hecho en Tucson: Hubert’s Custom Bikepacking Machine https://bikepacking.com/plog/huberts-madrean-dream-machine/ https://bikepacking.com/plog/huberts-madrean-dream-machine/#comments Fri, 22 Mar 2019 13:25:25 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=54065 Hubert d'Autrement Madrean Cycles Bikepacking bikeWe head out for a night bivying under the skies of southern Arizona with Hubert d'Autremont, framebuilder and tortilla maker, and find out about his custom bikepacking rig...

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Tumbleweed Prospector Review: Wolf in Mule’s Clothing https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tumbleweed-prospector-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tumbleweed-prospector-review/#comments Tue, 12 Mar 2019 13:41:34 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=54116 Tumbleweed Prospector review, 29+The second version of the expedition-ready Tumbleweed Prospector was released just a couple months ago, and is available now. We got ahold of a V2 sample frame and fork, built it up with 29+ tires, took it for a test ride on Ethiopia’s rugged dirt tracks, then brought it back to the rough and tumble singletrack trails and forest roads of Pisgah to see what else it can do. Here’s the full review...

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Tout Terrain Outback Review: Vorsprung Durch Technik https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tout-terrain-outback-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/tout-terrain-outback-review/#comments Thu, 07 Mar 2019 13:15:56 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=53106 tout terrain outback reviewWell established within the world of traditional touring, Tout Terrain’s first foray into the bikepacking realm comes by way of the 27.5+ Outback. Like other products in this German company’s extensive range of steel bikes, the Outback is a modern hardtail that embraces the technological marvels of an internal drivetrain, in the form of the Pinion C1.12. We take one to France's Alpes-de-Haute-Provence to find out what it's about...

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Why Cycles Wayward Review: The Unicorn https://bikepacking.com/bikes/why-cycles-wayward-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/why-cycles-wayward-review/#comments Thu, 20 Dec 2018 14:12:28 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=51174 Why Cycles Wayward Review, 29+ Titanium BikeFor bikepackers, 29+ is the stuff of legend. Added traction, floatation, suspension, and rollover make it the ideal platform for backcountry exploits. From afar, the latest rig in this niche, the titanium Why Cycles Wayward, looked to be the perfect specimen. TJ Kearns tested one on countless trail rides and several bikepacking trips to find out if it was indeed the mythical beast he’d been seeking...

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Brother Cycles Big Bro Review: Old Meets New https://bikepacking.com/bikes/brother-cycles-big-bro-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/brother-cycles-big-bro-review/#comments Wed, 07 Nov 2018 13:07:02 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=49609 Brother Cycles Big Brother ReviewEven in a world of long and slack full-suspension rigs, the humble, fully rigid MTB still has a place, especially when it comes in a plus-tyred flavour. We took the Brother Cycles Big Bro up and down the steep inclines of Dorset's Isle of Purbeck. Here's how it fared...

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Bombtrack Beyond+ 2 Review: Up and over the Alps https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bombtrack-beyond-plus-2-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bombtrack-beyond-plus-2-review/#comments Thu, 11 Oct 2018 15:12:08 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=48108 Bombtrack Beyond Plus 2 ReviewWith just six years of business under its belt, Germany-based Bombtrack Bikes has grown quickly. It now offers a wide and exciting range of adventure-ready bikes, many of them designed with bikepackers in mind. Cass Gilbert takes a Bombtrack Beyond+ 2 up and over the European Alps, and reports back on the ride...

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Pivot Mach 429 Trail Review: The Ideal Full-suspension Bikepacking Rig? https://bikepacking.com/bikes/pivot-mach-429-trail-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/pivot-mach-429-trail-review/#comments Fri, 06 Apr 2018 12:55:00 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=42348 Pivot Mach 429 Trail Review, Full-suspension Bikepacking BikeWhen choosing a new trail bike, bikepackers bring their own set of requirements to the table. After demoing several different full-suspension 27.5+ bikes, trying to find the perfect bikepacking/trail machine, the Pivot Mach 429 Trail got the nod for Gin's long-term review. Plus, our take on what's required for a full-suspension bike to make a great bikepacking rig…

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Trek 1120 Review: Footsteps of Giants https://bikepacking.com/bikes/trek-1120-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/trek-1120-review/#comments Mon, 05 Feb 2018 14:11:27 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=40308 Trek 1120 Review, BikepackingThe Trek 1120 follows in the same 29+ tracks that many bikepacking-specific rigs forged ahead of it, but this bike cuts its own trail with an innovative front rack, a thoughtfully designed rear harness system, and surprising trail prowess... all at a lighter weight than we expected. We’ve been quietly testing one over the last few months; here’s the full review.

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Niner SIR 9 Review: Tested On The Colorado Trail https://bikepacking.com/bikes/niner-sir-9-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/niner-sir-9-review/#comments Wed, 25 Oct 2017 13:44:15 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=36897 Niner Sir 9 ReviewNiner's latest SIR 9 is the company's third iteration on their cult classic hardtail. For 2017, it retains the high-end Reynolds 853 tubeset for which the bike is known, infusing its new frame with an up-to-the-minute geometry, all the latest industry standards, clearances for 27.5+ tires, and a host of bikepacking-friendly braze-ons. Given that the company is based in Colorado... it only seemed fitting to it out on the technically demanding and physically challenging Colorado Trail.

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Why Cycles S7 Review: Rodeo Bikepacking https://bikepacking.com/bikes/cycles-s7-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/cycles-s7-review/#comments Tue, 25 Apr 2017 12:34:31 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=33021 Why Cycles S7 Review, 27.5+ titanium hardtailJoe took the 27.5+ titanium Why Cycles S7 to southeastern Utah for a bikepacking trip and trail rides on several Moab classics. Read the review to find out what this beautiful beast is all about, down to the engraved Ed Abbey quote and the torx-head bottle mount bolts...

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Viral Skeptic Review + The Pinion P1.12 Gearbox https://bikepacking.com/bikes/viral-skeptic-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/viral-skeptic-review/#comments Tue, 04 Apr 2017 13:07:23 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=31247 Viral Skeptic Review, 27.5+With a belt drive, Pinion Gearbox, 27.5+ tires, and an oddly colored titanium frame, the Viral Skeptic might come off as something of a concept bike when it’s clean and shiney. But after a couple months getting it dirty, the sum of its parts equals a rather slick future-proof rig. Read our comprehensive review as well as a detailed look at the Pinion P1.12.

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2017 Surly Ogre Review: ETs, Molokos, 27.5+, and a braze-on fiesta… https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2017-surly-ogre-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2017-surly-ogre-review/#comments Mon, 27 Feb 2017 13:47:06 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=28891 2017 Surly Ogre ReviewFollowing the Troll's recent revamp, it was only a matter of time before Surly's 29er all-rounder, the Ogre, underwent a similar transformation. Read on to discover details of its 2017 incarnation and thoughts on its frameset, set up with 27.5+ wheels. Also included are musings on the relative merits of different Plus sizes, depending on the style of your backcountry explorations.

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Kona Big Honzo DL: Long-term Review https://bikepacking.com/bikes/kona-big-honzo-dl/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/kona-big-honzo-dl/#comments Tue, 13 Dec 2016 14:58:42 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=27680 Kona Big Honzo DL Review, BikepackingAs the popularity of multi-day mountain biking soars to new levels, many bike manufacturers have set out to build bikepacking-specific models, aiming to split the difference between a touring bike and a mountain bike. Kona has made no such effort within their Honzo hardtails. The Honzos were built to be fun and capable trail bikes, with no apparent consideration toward the idea of carrying more than a single water bottle. Yet, by refusing to compromise on trail handling, Kona has by accident created an outstandingly comfortable and capable bikepacking machine – the Big Honzo DL…

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Interbike 2016 Outdoor Demo: Lucky 7 https://bikepacking.com/bikes/interbike-bikes-2017/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/interbike-bikes-2017/#comments Thu, 22 Sep 2016 14:59:40 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=24394 Masi Giramondo 2017 650bSeven new bikes with a lot of adventure potential from the 2016 Interbike Outdoor Demo...

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Salsa Woodsmoke Review (29+ GX): Space Oddity https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-woodsmoke-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-woodsmoke-review/#comments Wed, 14 Sep 2016 13:40:04 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=22745 Salsa Woodsmoke Review, 29+ BikepackingThe latest progeny in Salsa’s eccentric lineup is aimed to bridge the gap between trail ninja and adventure rig. In addition to a fair share of trail rides, we took the Woodsmoke 29+ GX1 on a 1,000km expedition in Kyrgyzstan to see if it lives up to its pedigree…

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First Look: Salsa Timberjack, Fargo 27.5+ & the New Mukluk https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-timberjack-fargo/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-timberjack-fargo/#comments Wed, 27 Jul 2016 13:44:36 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=22825 Salsa Fargo 27.5+, PlusAt this weeks Saddledrive, with the introduction of a bikepacking bag kit, two new bikes, and major upgrades to several existing models, Salsa hammered their stake a little deeper in the Adventure cycling category. Here’s our first ride impressions on the Fargo 27.5+, the affordable Timberjack, and the redesigned carbon Mukluk…

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First Look: Surly Karate Monkey 27.5+ & 2017 Troll https://bikepacking.com/bikes/surly-karate-monkey-27-5-troll/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/surly-karate-monkey-27-5-troll/#comments Tue, 26 Jul 2016 15:34:12 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=22771 Surly Karate Monkey 27.5+At SaddleDrive this week, Surly reintroduced two of their classics — each completely overhauled with a few very interesting features. We had a chance to look them over and take a few rides... here are our initial impressions.

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Salsa Pony Rustler Review: Smarten up, dumb down. https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-pony-rustler-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-pony-rustler-review/#comments Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:27:11 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=21500 Salsa Pony Rustler Review, BikepackingLines ignored. Corners railed. Roots degreased. Rock gardens manicured. Are trails being over-tamed by full-suspension plus tire bikes such as the Salsa Pony Rustler? Preface: this article is one part opinion, two parts review...

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Jones Plus Review: A Bike Like No Other https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-plus-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/jones-plus-review/#comments Wed, 20 Apr 2016 12:15:20 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=17208 Jones Plus ReviewWith its unusual frame geometry, eye-catching truss fork, 29+ wheels, and rigid-specific design, the Jones Plus sets out to rewrite the rulebooks. We took this unconventional rig bikepacking, trail riding, and touring, and were more than a little surprised by what we found...

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Velo Orange Piolet Review: A Modern Classic. https://bikepacking.com/bikes/velo-orange-piolet-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/velo-orange-piolet-review/#comments Mon, 29 Feb 2016 12:37:53 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=16067 Velo Orange Piolet ReviewClassic. From the segmented fork, to the clean lines, to the solid cerulean paint with brushed metal headbadge, Velo Orange’s Piolet harkens back to a time in mountain biking that predates suspension and indexed shifting. Its looks, however, are where the similarities end: unlike the early mountain bikes that heralded the off road boom of the 80s, the Piolet has disc brakes, 29” wheels (with 27.5+ compatibility), huge tire clearances, and more braze ons than you can count. I guess that would make the Piolet a “modern classic”.

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Advocate Cycles Hayduke Review: Baja Winter https://bikepacking.com/bikes/advocate-cycles-hayduke-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/advocate-cycles-hayduke-review/#comments Tue, 09 Feb 2016 11:57:33 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=14668 Advocate Cycles Hayduke Review, 27.5+, Bikepacking, Revelate BagsIn 2010, I rode through Baja, Mexico on a Surly Long Haul Trucker. On our first off-pavement excursion, Nick and I pushed our bikes through long sections of sand and washboard. It wasn't fun. We needed bigger tires. After this experience, we stuck to Highway 1 and pedaled past all the dirt tracks, wondering where they might lead. There is a lot more dirt than pavement on the peninsula. Five years later, Baja was still a huge question mark. This winter I came back with an Advocate Cycles Hayduke.

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Marin Pine Mountain 2 Review: In with the old https://bikepacking.com/bikes/marin-pine-mountain-2-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/marin-pine-mountain-2-review/#comments Tue, 26 Jan 2016 15:52:16 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=13873 Marin Pine Mountain 2 Review, Bikepacking, Revelate BagsIn with the old, in with the new. That’s how Marin approached the 2016 Pine Mountain 2. We had the opportunity to thrash this steel 27.5+ adventure hardtail on southern Spain’s unyielding rocky trails. Here’s how she performed…

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Chumba Ursa 29+ BC Review https://bikepacking.com/bikes/chumba-ursa-29-bc-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/chumba-ursa-29-bc-review/#comments Tue, 08 Dec 2015 15:19:47 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=13119 Chumba Ursa 29+ BC, bikepacking bikeThe Chumba Ursa 29+ BC tested on dirt roads, singletrack, rough cattle trails, and equestrian trails throughout the Eastern Sierra...

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Interbike 2015: Outdoor Demo Lucky 7 https://bikepacking.com/bikes/interbike-2016/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/interbike-2016/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2015 16:47:12 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=10216 Jamis Dragonslayer 27.5+Seven bikes that are worth noting from the 2015 Interbike Outdoor Demo...

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Salsa Deadwood Review: Trail Tested https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-deadwood-review/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/salsa-deadwood-review/#comments Mon, 31 Aug 2015 16:16:25 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=9798 Salsa Deadwood Bikepacking - Bedrock BagsIf the last few years have taught me anything, it is to keep an open mind with regard to bicycle design. Conceding that resistance to change is futile, I have since become eager to adopt all the strange and new offerings on the market like the forthcoming Salsa Deadwood.

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Gabe’s Carver Gnarvester Review: Camp + Shred https://bikepacking.com/gear/carver-gnarvester-review/ https://bikepacking.com/gear/carver-gnarvester-review/#comments Wed, 17 Jun 2015 11:23:07 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=8444 Carver Gnarvester Review - Bikepacking Porcelain Rocket Framebag and Seat Pack"I can pick my way up tight lines, ride skinnies, drop ledges, and then unpack and make a cup of pourover..."

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Bike Touring with the Surly ECR: 1,000 km Impressions + Build Specs https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bike-touring-surly-ecr-1000-km-impressions-build-specs/ https://bikepacking.com/bikes/bike-touring-surly-ecr-1000-km-impressions-build-specs/#comments Thu, 02 Jan 2014 21:05:55 +0000 https://bikepacking.com/?p=3565 Surly ECR - Off Road Bike Touring - South Africa“I think they [Knards] will be too slow.” “You won’t find 29er tires or tubes in Africa.” “That thing is going to be heavy.” I pretty much ignored the aforementioned comments, among a couple other worries that were floating around in my skull, and rolled into Africa with the ECR, complete with Knards. Here are my thoughts after 1,000 KMs.

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