
<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://www.takeatripbags.com" target="_blank">Take a Trip</a> is the moniker of bag-maker Michael Bock from Bend, Oregon. Michael's bags, brand, and use of social media are engaging, lighthearted and fun. We spoke with Michael about how he got into the game and where he's headed. Buckle up.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Meet Michael Bock, the man behind the vibrant and colorful bicycle bag brand, Take a Trip. Based in Bend, Oregon, Michael hand sews each stem, saddle, frame, and basket bag with precision and care, ensuring that each one is a work of art. We here at Bike Gear Database are huge fans of Take a Trip and all that Michael is doing in the world of bike bags.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">In an industry that is often serious and focused on minimalism, Take a Trip stands out with its playful use of bright colors and bold designs. Michael's bags not only serve a purpose but also add a pop of fun to any bikepacking setup. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">My interactions with Michael have been just as fun and punchy as his bags. He is a true character in the best sense of the word, and his passion for his craft shines through in every stitch. If you're looking for a bag that not only functions beautifully but also brings a smile to your face, look no further than Take a Trip. We can't wait to hear more from Michael and learn about the inspiration behind his creations.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did Take a Trip become a thing?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">My love for bikes began back in 2012 when I started commuting. Whenever I'd roll up to school, I'd feel disappointed that I had to stop riding. That's when I started noticing all the bicycle messengers in Seattle and eventually snagged a full-time gig as one. After three years, I knew that messengering wasn't a long-term gig for me, but I still wanted to stay involved in the bike world. So, I took on an apprenticeship in frame building, thinking that might be my calling. But as it turns out, I fell in love with sewing and that became my focus.</p>


<p className="readable narrow">For a while, I was making bags under a different name while I honed my skills and figured out what I really wanted to create. I wanted to break into the bicycle bag market with a fun brand that was all about creating solid products with a playful visual style. I am concerned with aesthetics as much as performance but wanted to keep things light and fun.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did you land on the brand?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">A lot of my creative ideas stem from free association and just letting my thoughts flow. When I was brainstorming for names for my brand, Take a Trip popped into my head. I really like the versatility of the name, as it can mean different things to different people. It can evoke a certain visual style, suggest how the products will be used, or convey a certain vibe. It's a name that can be interpreted in a lot of different ways, which is what I love about it. And it all started from just letting my thoughts wander and see where they would take me.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You love Wald baskets...</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Some of the designs I'm most proud of are all centered around Wald baskets. The funny thing is, I'd never actually used one until I came up with the <a href="https://www.takeatripbags.com/product/to-go-box/" target="_blank">To Go Box</a>. I've been on a lot of cargo bikes and used flat racks, which have some of the same problems. They're great for hauling boxes and big cargo, but not so great for small stuff like keys, wallets, and phones.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The Wald 137/139 is a great platform to build around. The baskets themselves have been made to the same specs for decades. This allows me to build features and functions in a very specific way knowing that they will fit any 137/139 regardless of when they were made. Since I started designing products built for Wald baskets, I've developed a soft spot for them. I appreciate how a basket can immediately change the vibe of a bike while adding tons of function.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You're not afraid of using color in your work.</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I have a passion for assembling color combinations and palettes in my designs. Despite my personal preference for earthy tones, I am consistently drawn to bold and vibrant hues. My source of inspiration for colors is diverse and comes from various aspects of my life, including emotions, nature, movies, music, toys, and numerous other unexpected sources. I am constantly on the lookout for new and unique ways to bring color into my work.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Who do you crush on in the bike bag industry?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">There are too many to list! The Swift Pannier/Backpack I was gifted in 2013 was probably the first time I fell in love with a bike bag. I am drawn to makers and brands that have a unique POV. A few that come to mind are <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bikecrud/" target="_blank">Bike Crud</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/trashmessengerbags/" target="_blank">Trash Messenger Bags</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rambler.bags/" target="_blank">Rambler Bags</a>.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What do you ride?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I have a few bikes. My primary ride is an early 2000s Gary Fisher I scored at the Seattle Bike Swap. It's got some retro mtb bling, a rigid Soma fork, a Cetma rack, and a basket. It's been a mainstay for commuting, gravel, and some touring. I also have a Bullitt cargo bike. I used it for messenger work but have since done a handful of tours including Chicago-NYC and Seattle to the Gorge. I also built a display around the Bullitt that I use for Take a Trip when we do events. The last bike I've held onto is a Ritchey P-29er in the classic Red White and Blue Team Ritchey fade. It's been great for the local trails around Bend.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What are your favorite local places to ride?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">One of the best parts of living in Bend is the access to great riding. We are lucky to have <a href="https://dirtyfreehub.org" target="_blank">The Dirty Freehub</a> local to us, they are a non-profit that researches and compiles gravel routes. Some of my favorite routes from them are <a href="https://dirtyfreehub.org/routes/oregon/green-ridge-lookout/" target="_blank">The Green Ridge Lookout</a>, <a href="https://dirtyfreehub.org/routes/oregon/alpaca/" target="_blank">Alpacka</a>, and <a href="https://dirtyfreehub.org/routes/oregon/water-lava/" target="_blank">Water & Lava</a>. When visiting a larger city, I always take the opportunity to blast around town on a bike. To me, there's nothing quite like riding, navigating, and learning a dense city on 2 wheels. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What can we expect from Take a Trip in the future?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I'm plotting a change to releasing product drops instead of making every bag to order through my webshop. This will allow me to continuously release new colorways, reduce lead times, and enable me to better control my time. I'm also working on an educational sub-brand to help share knowledge with others who want to make their own gear. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">In the past few months, I have been drawn towards designing bags that are more visual than functionally driven. I have a handful of ideas would like to explore that have 1 foot in the bicycle world and 1 foot outside of it. The <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnKQdswOQJz/" target="_blank">Rug Tote bag</a> is an example of that. It's a very visual tote bag that's great for any situation but has considerations about how it would be used on a bike.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Thanks, Mike.</h3>

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Take a Trip bags is the moniker of bag-maker Michael Bock from Bend, Oregon. We spoke with Michael about how he got into the game and where he's headed.

An Interview with Michael Bock of Take a Trip Bags

Take a Trip: Bold, Happy Bags


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bicyclesociety/" target="_blank">Bicycle Society</a> is a leaderless cult organized by Bill Scanga from Brooklyn, New York. Bicycle Society warns us to not follow the 'false metrics' and to explore our innerspaces as cyclists. In this interview we discuss the differences between hammering and shredding, whether cycling is a religion or not and how it's possible for anyone to find The Shred.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Over the last 4 years, I have embarked on a journey of self-improvement that has transformed me from a career-focused alcoholic into a freelance, forest-bathing bike writer. Along the way, I have perused every self-help book on the market and, more importantly, acted on most of them. I have become more mindful of the food I eat, the way I think, and the way I interact with others. This transformation has literally turned my life around, and I couldn't be happier. A significant part of my journey involved rediscovering my love for cycling and dedicating myself to it. However, as I delved deeper into the world of Strava metrics, average speeds, and KOMs, I began to feel like my old demons were creeping back. I found myself questioning if I was fast enough, if I rode long enough, and if I would ever race again.</p>


<p className="readable narrow">And then... I discovered Bicycle Society on Instagram—a source of support that we didn't even know we needed. Bicycle Society's feed is filled with motivational mantras that urge us to focus on The Shred instead of false metrics. You might be asking yourself, "What exactly is The Shred?" Is it a mindset, a destination? Well, that's what we're hoping to uncover in this interview. We had the pleasure of chatting with Bill Scanga, the self-proclaimed non-leader of Bicycle Society, who hails from Brooklyn, New York, to learn more about The Shred and the path to achieving it. Also a quick disclaimer for those of you that can't recognize satire… this might be. But then again, maybe it isn't. You decide.</p>


<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Are you a self-help guru or a cult leader?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Neither. The Bicycle Society has no leader and follows no guru. The Bicycle Society is a cult that is from within each of us. We are a self supported cult with no sweep van. We are each our own team captain and domestique. There is no hierarchy in the Bicycle Society. Bicycle Society is an internally laterally organized club with an infinite membership within each of us. You already are a member. We are all members and you are your own leader.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How does shredding heal while hammering hurts?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Hammering is a single minded obsession with false metrics. Metrics that require you to ride fast when there is so much more than speed. Metrics that require you to follow rules that were not made for you. The metrics were designed to be hurtful. The metrics were created to make a few people feel good at the expense of an infinite amount of others.</p>

<center><div className="quote mid"><h3>"The metrics were designed to be hurtful. The metrics were created to make a few people feel good at the expense of an infinite amount of others."</h3></div></center>

<p className="readable narrow">Shredding <em>is</em> healing. Shredding is everything and nothing. Shredding is the Ride and the recovery day. Shredding is the climbs and the descents. Shredding is the headwinds and the tailwinds. Shredding is holistic and inclusive. <em>Shredding is a healing force and includes everything</em>. Beauty and love can't be measured. Beauty and love are the Shred. </p>


<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">So, is cycling a religion?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Cycling is not unlike a religion but is not a religion. Religion is clearly defined. Religion includes what you should believe, why and how to do so. Certain groups of Hammerers and toxic bros would like you to believe this is true. That the false metrics are gospel and a path towards enlightenment but this is not true. Religion has rules and mandatory rituals.  </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Cycling is a spirituality. The metrics are a tool to be used not worshiped. We are more than the bike, the metrics, and our bodies. We are the ride. There are no specific gods, just what we find within ourselves.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do I change from someone who hammers to someone who shreds?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There are certain rituals and practices but these are not requirements. Candles, crystals and incense can be used but are not necessary. There is no prescribed way to Shred. We each find ways to shred that can be very different from others.  It may be waiting for your friend at the top of a hill, it may be sharing some extra snacks. Bombing a descent while stabilizing frame wobble, clearing a gap, a weightless feeling mid jump. It can include route making and trespassing. Pushing your bike or carrying your bike and eating pizza.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What do I do if I love someone who hammers?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">You can't love others unless you love yourself. The hammer is not a long term plan and eventually the one you love will find the more sustainable Shred. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Can everyone be saved? Or are some of us doomed for eternity?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">We all are already saved and there is no impending cataclysm. We are not a doomsday cult. The Doom should be embraced, the teachings of Black Sabbath, the elegy of Saint Vitus, and the dirge of Sleep are the hymns of the Bicycle Society. Along with new age drone music and self help instructional recordings doom is often used during the optional rituals. </p>


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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Can you tell us about who you are IRL and how you first saw the light?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I am a cycling enthusiast and bicycle nerd. I enjoy Randonneuring and MTB trail riding. I dislike triathlons and roadie bros. The light from within was sparked when with the purchase of a <a href="https://www.schwinnbikes.com/blogs/compass/the-history-of-the-schwinn-sting-ray-and-krates" target="_blank">Schwinn Sting Ray</a>. My friends and I quickly discovered we could remove the fenders, chain guards and banana seats to create an all-rounder bicycle that was suitable for all surfaces. This eventually evolved into BMX. During bmx racing in the 80's, it was made clear that racing was not my path. At that time cycling without racing meant bicycles were treated as child's play things.  Even though we were told that the car was the end goal, we discovered so much more in the bicycle. Eventually we bought early production ATB's (that is what we called MTB's then)  but were not entirely sure what to do with them. We commuted on them, rode them on our BMX trails and hiking trails, we turned them into touring bikes and bike camping bikes, but the light was still a spark at that point. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">I eventually moved to a large city where the bicycle could completely change the scale of the city. Riding in NYC was completely transformative. The riding was not very challenging and it led me to sort of fetishize the bicycle itself. Not sexual fetish, rather object worship. Each group of enthusiasts seemed to have their own way to build a bicycle, often not based on performance but rather on something else. I am currently a member (although not very active right now) of a vintage Schwinn club called the Classic Riders. This culminated in a block party called Bicycle Fetish Day. Similar to a car show we gave awards to different categories of bicycles. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Only within the past 10 years or so has the spirituality of the bicycle really become a raging fire. Riding longer distances and pushing beyond what I was actually capable of started feeding the fire. During organized rides like <a href="https://www.franklinlandtrust.org/d2r2/" target="_blank">D2R2</a> or <a href="https://ronsbikes.com/pages/nnev" target="_blank">The Nutmeg Nor'easter</a> it became apparent that something else was going on. Finding myself in a spiritual state mid-ride was happening more and more. I started to notice other groups and systems like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/smoothjazzlines" target="_blank">Smooth Jazz Lines</a> and <a href="https://mythicalstateof.com/" target="_blank">Mythical State Of</a> and these confirmed that others were having similar experiences. Randonneuring has taken that to another higher level.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do you come up with your ideas/mantras?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">The ride feeds the mind as well as the body. Pizza does too. That feeling after a ride when the mind is wide open ready to receive anything. Ideas can arrive like a supernatural appearance. What are we Shredding instead of? The hammer of course. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do you see shredding evolving in the future?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There is no future and no past, only here and now. Be present for every ride. The pedal rises and you push it down one pedal stroke at a time. Cycling can be a mindful meditation. A repeated mantra that carries us and takes us to the Shred. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Thanks, Bill 🙏 Join the cult on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bicyclesociety/" target="_blank">Instagram</a></p>

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We spoke with Bill Scanga, the self-proclaimed non-leader of Bicycle Society, a leaderless cult that encourages the path to finding your inner Shred.

Bicycle Society: The Singletrack to Enlightenment


<p className="readable-intro mid">The <a href="https://bcbikeshow.com/" target="_blank">BC Bike Show</a> is the biggest bike show in Western Canada and happened this past weekend. Barry headed to the show with a camera and without a clue. He came out with a new appreciation for the cycling industry of British Columbia and a few new friends. There was a lot to see including tons of great bikes and gear. Let's Go.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">It's been ages since I've been to a bike show, and I was super stoked to attend the BC Bike Show in downtown Vancouver for the first time. For me, going to Vancouver is "going to the city," so I was buzzing for this event. I had no clue what to expect, but with the show situated across the water from some of the <a href="https://www.trailforks.com/region/north-shore/" target="_blank">best trails on earth</a>, I knew it was going to be amazing. I must admit, I didn't do much homework beforehand, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the bike show was paired with an outdoor gear show, perfect for anyone interested in bikepacking. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">The BC Bike Show was a veritable who's who of local bike companies, including Brodie, Landyachtz, NOBL, We Are One, 7Mesh, and  many more. It was absolutely fantastic to have all these folks gathered in one spot if only for a weekend. It's easy to forget that behind these brands are real people, so I was thrilled to finally put faces to the names I've been emailing with over the past couple of years. It was great to see so many passionate individuals dedicated to their craft, and I left the event feeling even more enthusiastic about the BC bike community than I was before.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">While the show was an awesome event overall, one thing immediately stood out to me: <em>there was almost no mention of bikepacking anywhere</em>. Unfortunately, none of our local bag companies were able to make it to this year's show. I have an idea for next year: all you bag makers out there should pool together and get one booth. Despite the lack of bikepacking at the show, there was still some great representation from local outdoor gear companies, and I was able to find a few neat things for this year's bikepacking setup. But first, let's start by taking a look at some of the standout bikes that were on the floor...</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Landyachtz Gold AB-ST</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I couldn't contain myself when I found out that a new production color of the <a href="https://landyachtzbikes.com/bike/ab-st-gravel-bike/" target="_blank">Landyachtz AB-ST</a> (full review <a href="/bikes/gravel/landyachtz-ab-st">here</a>) is going on sale this week. As someone who absolutely adores my AB-ST, I was over the moon to see this new color, and I'm crushing hard on this bike. But it's not just about the color—the team has also locked in the build kit, which wasn't an option during the pandemic shortages. Everything you see in the photos is stock, with some great choices in build, including those sweet <a href="https://ritcheylogic.com/bike/handlebars/wcs-beacon-handlebar" target="_blank">Ritchey Beacon</a> bars that will literally change how you ride. The team has also adjusted the rim and tire size for some front fork clearance issues, something that I'll probably be doing to my own bike at home. Overall, I'm blown away by the attention to detail and thoughtfulness that the team put into this new version of the AB-ST.</p>


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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Landyachtz Custom Ti Hardtail</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">It's no surprise that Landyachtz had more than one amazing custom Ti bike at their booth—they're kinda known for it. Most of the custom bikes on display were the personal gravel bikes of the team, but the one that caught my eye was a custom progressive ti hardtail built for Mike, the owner of Landyachtz. Honestly, this thing hits all my pleasure centers, and I would love nothing more than to rip some trail on it. I even begged the team for a production model of this bike, but they just smiled politely as if to say "not gonna happen" ;) </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">We Are One 130mm Arrival</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">We don't typically cover full-suspension bikes on this site, but the <a href="https://www.weareonecomposites.com/arrival-2023-170" target="_blank">Arrival</a> from <a href="https://www.weareonecomposites.com/" target="_blank">We Are One</a> is one of the coolest machines on the planet right now and I was thrilled to meet the team. Owner Dustin Adams showed me their new 130mm rear travel Arrival and briefly described how the linkages and shocks in the Arrival can be swapped out to have anywhere from 130-170mm of rear travel. I was out of my depth in our chat and stupidly asked if they had any plans for a hardtail. Dustin mentioned that they were interested in going in the opposite direction and creating a downhill bike, with hopes of having a World Cup bike by 2025. This would be fantastic for the brand, British Columbia, and Canada as a whole.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I was also thrilled to meet Vlad, the designer behind the Arrival. Together, Vlad and I took some photos trying to find the best light to showcase the raw carbon frame. As a designer myself, I loved hearing Vlad's <a href="https://www.pinkbike.com/news/sequence-downhill-bike-crankworx-les-gets-2018.html" target="_blank">story</a> and getting to know more about his design process. We discussed how he and the team at We Are One are pushing the boundaries of what's possible with carbon fiber, creating bikes, wheels and everything else that are not only high-performing but also stunningly beautiful. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Reform Tantalus Saddle </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">One of the seemingly larger successes of the show was a new mtb specific saddle from <a href="https://www.reformsaddle.com/" target="_blank">Reform</a> called the <a href="https://www.reformsaddle.com/product/reform-tantalus-mtb-saddle/" target="_blank">Tantalus</a>. If you're not aware of who or what Reform is, simply put, it's a saddle that uses thermo-molded plastics to shape to your butt. The technology was created by the wizards at Landyachtz, but for business reasons, Reform is its own company and brand. Almost every bike worth mentioning at the show was rocking the new Reform Tantalus saddle, noticeable by its stunning anodized titanium rails. Apparently this new saddle was co-designed with the Rocky Mountain world enduro team. We hope to try one out soon and will let you know how it feels on the undercarriage.</p>


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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Bicycle Broker Insurance</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">During the show, I had a great conversation with Nick & Mike from <a href="https://bicyclebroker.ca/" target="_blank">Bicycle Broker</a> regarding modern bike insurance. As someone who owns multiple bikes and is always worried about theft, I was interested to learn more. While it's true that most house insurance policies cover bike theft, these huge companies may not be willing to replace the high-end components you've added to your bike post-factory. Bicycle Broker's policy, called <a href="https://bicyclebroker.ca/bikeplan/" target="_blank">Bike Plan</a>, not only covers theft but also damage and injury in a comprehensive way. I plan on doing some more research into this policy to ensure my bikes are fully protected.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Mint N' Dry</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">It was a genuine pleasure stumbling upon <a href="https://www.mintndry.com/" target="_blank">Mint N' Dry</a> at the show, as discovering Canadian cycling-related businesses is one of my favorite things in the world. Mint N' Dry produces environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and plant-based degreasers, cleaners, and lubricants. They have been in business for five years out of Montreal, where their products are made locally. Meeting the team, Pascale and Marie Claude, was a delight, as they greeted me with genuine smiles. As someone who struggles with keeping my bike and drive clean, I'm excited to provide a full review on Mint N' Dry products, and I hope their products will make me a more responsible bike owner.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Ace Camp Stove & Flamesticks</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Over the last three years, my go-to cooking setup for bikepacking has been my trusty Jetboil. However, I've been pondering the idea of exploring portable wood and alternative fuel stoves as a more sustainable option for cooking on the go. Serendipitously, I stumbled upon a compact stove made by gear manufacturer <a href="https://www.acecamp.ca" target="_blank">Ace Camp</a> from Vancouver. What's unique about this stove is that it is powered by clean, waterproof, and slow-burning fuel sticks from Germany called <a href="https://www.acecamp.ca/flamestick.html" target="_blank">Flamesticks</a>. The entire unit folds down to hold the fuel sticks, fire starter, and a flint stick. I can't wait to put this little guy to the test and see how it performs as a primary cooking stove during my upcoming bikepacking adventures.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Gogglesoc</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">While browsing through the booths at the show, I stumbled upon <a href="https://gogglesoc.com/" target="_blank">Gogglesoc</a> and was impressed by their stylish and easy to use ski goggle covers. Although not particularly relevant for cycling (unless you're an avid winter biker in Montreal), what caught my eye was their line of straps for sunglasses and regular glasses. The straps reminded me of my old Croakies that I used to wear as a kid when racing XC, and I absolutely loved them. All of Gogglesoc's products, including the straps and socks, are designed in Canada and the company is committed to environmentally friendly initiatives like 1% For The Planet.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">The Mindful Oat</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">When it comes to bikepacking, one thing that's always on my mind is meal prep and cooking. As someone who loves to find ways to make healthy and portable foods, I've been considering using powdered milk to create quick and easy breakfast options. However, after discovering <a href="https://themindfuloat.ca/" target="_blank">The Mindful Oat</a> at the show, I may have to reconsider my plans. The Mindful Oat is the first instant, organic oat milk powder in Canada, and I'm excited to see what I can create with it. With this new ingredient in my arsenal, I'm looking forward to experimenting and finding new ways to make delicious, nutritious meals on the go.</p>

<h4 className="readable-sub narrow">Apologies to everyone we couldn't meet and cover. Until next year.</h4>
<br/>






The BC Bike Show is the biggest bike show in Western Canada and happened this past weekend. Barry headed to the show with a camera and no plan.

The Best of the BC Bike Show 2023


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://ateliermedium.com/" target="_blank">Atelier Medium</a> is a colorful component and all-terrain bike brand hailing from Paris, France. During our interview with co-founder Julien, we discussed the brand's emphasis on versatility, expression, color, and how all-terrain bikes are becoming the new 'fixed gear' for adventurous riders. Let's go.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I was immediately drawn to the colorful components from Atelier Medium. Learning that they were from Paris only increased my intrigue. I am yet to come across any other All-Terrain focused bike companies from Paris, but feel free to leave a comment if I am missing someone obvious. What impressed me, though, was the company's willingness to embrace color and expression. It seems like the traditional black-on-black gravel aesthetic is prevalent in cycling, but I love companies that aren't afraid to be bold. For me, cycling isn't just about fitness and performance – it's about having fun and exploring the world around me. Atelier Medium made me question my own choices when it comes to bike setup. Why stick to dark colors when my bike could be a form of expression? It's something I've never really considered before.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">With the release of their first ATB, it's clear that Atelier Medium has a bigger vision in mind. Atelier Medium's latest creation has been designed to offer versatility and easy maintenance for all riders, setting it apart from big manufacturers who prioritize locking consumers into expensive formats with non-compatible components. We spoke with co-founder Julien about versatility, their use of color, and grinding dirt in France.</p>


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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did Medium enter the Universe?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Hey Barry, thanks for letting us chat about our brand and what we're all about. Medium officially became a brand in 2020, smack dab in the middle of the Covid craziness. My buddy Michael and I had a shed where we stored a bunch of bikes that we found on the street and that were left over from Cyclope Bikes (a sweet shop Michael started in 2008). After our friends started asking us for bikes, we figured we might as well start our brand and put out some sweet gear of our own. And that's how Medium was born.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What kind of company is Medium?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Medium ain't your regular old bike company. We don't care about your fancy Strava scores, your titanium parts, or if you spent a fortune on a bike just to grab croissants on a Sunday morning. Medium is part of something bigger—a movement that is for everyday people and street culture. Similar to fixed gear, which started on the track and was later adopted by bike messengers and is now used by anyone and everyone. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Riding a bike should be all about fun and freedom taking you wherever you want to go. That's why we're about offering parts to help you pimp out that old mountain bike and give it a second life.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Why 'Medium'?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Medium is the perfect middle ground. We are a brand made for the average Joe or Jane out there. We want to see more everyday people pushing past their limits and getting out of their comfort zones. We think the key to making that happen is by getting on a bike that's just right for you, no matter your age, and learning how to build it up, fix it, and upgrade it. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Then the real adventure begins! Maybe it's a chill weekend trip, some bikepacking, or just cruising around 50 km from home. Or hey, maybe you're feeling wild and wanna cross a whole dang continent. The point is, the sky's the limit, and we wanna help you get there.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How does being from Paris affect Medium as a brand?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Paris is an amazing city - it's right at the center of all these different cultures, and it's got a unique vibe that you can't find anywhere else. When we started Medium, we knew we wanted to take advantage of being in this hub of European activity. We make a point of working with local manufacturers whenever possible, which helps us keep our prices down and accessible to everyone.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Some of our parts are made right here in France, as well as in Poland and the UK. But when it came to making frames, we had to cast our net a bit wider. We ended up reaching out to factories in Taiwan for a couple of reasons. First, we needed a manufacturer that could handle some serious production volumes. Secondly, we wanted a partner with a ton of experience in frame-building, and the factories in Taiwan fit the bill. We're proud to work with them, and we think our frames are a testament to their expertise.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">We love the color of your products...</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">We think that life should be lived in color, not just limited to the drab world of black and white. And that's not just limited to how you express yourself, but it's also about how you approach the world around you. We want to help people break free from the monotony of sameness and embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Most factories anodize a few basic colors in large quantities, and that means small brands like ours don't get a lot of options to play with. But we're not the type to just sit back and accept the status quo! We've been hard at work trying to come up with a solution, and we're stoked to say that we've got something in the works that should be dropping soon. It's gonna let us offer a whole bunch of new colorways that you're not gonna find anywhere else.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Can you tell us about your new ATB?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">We wanted to create an incredibly versatile bike, so that anyone could easily assemble and maintain it, regardless of their level of knowledge. We wanted to make sure that the bike was also built to last so that it could be easily repaired in the middle of nowhere, if necessary. To achieve this, we had to make some difficult decisions, such as figuring out whether we wanted to use QR or Thru Axle for our fork/dropouts. This was a challenging process, and we still haven't fully decided which option is best for our bike.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">We understand the importance of creating a bike that can handle any adventure or challenge, and we're constantly exploring new ways to make our bikes even more versatile and user-friendly. We believe that a great bike should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill level or experience, and that's why we're so passionate about creating bikes that are easy to assemble, maintain, and repair.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What are the best off-road routes in France? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">If you're around Paris, then definitely check out <a href="https://www.komoot.com/discover/Chevreuse/@48.7097517%2C2.0420181/tours?max_distance=30000&sport=mtb" target="_blank">Vallée de Chevreuse</a>. This valley, located south of Paris, is a popular spot for mountain biking. The trails range from easy to difficult and wind through scenic countryside. Also the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/discover/Ach%C3%A8res-la-For%C3%AAt/@48.3574718%2C2.5604895/tours?max_distance=20000&sport=mtb&map=true" target="_blank">Forêt de Fontainebleau</a> is easily accessible by train (two trains stop there on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The stop is not listed on the line map but is a popular place for mountain biking. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">However if you have more time and can go a bit further from Paris stop by Les <a href="https://www.komoot.com/fr-fr/collection/1357275" target="_blank">Gorges du Verdon</a>. This canyon in the south of France has a variety of trails that offer views of the turquoise waters of the Verdon River. And of course there is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/collection/1161898/-transpyrenees-2022" target="_blank">Transpyrénéenne</a>. This legendary route (and <a href="https://www.transiberica.club/transpyrenees/" target="_blank">race</a>) runs the entire length of the Pyrénées Mountains, from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. It's a challenging and long-distance ride, taking around two weeks to complete.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's in the future for Medium?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">We are always thinking about how we can best help our customers achieve their cycling goals. Our goal is to expand our product line and offer more customizable and affordable bike options, so you can create a ride that truly fits your needs and style. We also want to continue building our brand and connecting with cycling communities and events, so you can feel like a part of something bigger than just a bike purchase. But above all, we believe in promoting a unique cycling culture that prioritizes adventure, sustainability, and self-sufficiency. We want you to be the hero of your own adventure story, whether you're commuting to work or exploring local trails. So, join us on this journey and start your own adventure with Medium.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Thanks, Julien.</h3>

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We spoke with Julien, the co-founder of Medium, an all-terrain bike brand hailing from Paris, France.

Atelier Medium: Colorful All-Terrain for the People


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sofianeshl/" target="_blank">Sofiane Sehili</a> is a French ultra-cyclist who has been dominating the most grueling races in the world for the past few years. We had the chance to chat with Sofiane about how he started, what it takes to stay on top, what comes next, and the type of music he listens to while grinding the cold and dark distances.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Chances are you have already heard of Sofiane Sehlili. But if you haven't, it's really quite simple - Sofiane is currently the best ultra-endurance bikepack racer <em>in the world</em>. He has triumphed in events such as the Tour Divide, Silk Road Mountain Race, and the Atlas Mountain Race, at times winning by significant margins. Watching Sofiane race leaves the mind a little boggled, and his performances raise a host of questions about what is truly humanly possible on a bike, and how he manages to stay on top. In this interview, we'll delve into the mind and experiences of this remarkable athlete and hopefully gain insights into what it takes to be the best in the world of endurance bikepack racing.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Let's go...</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">When you were a kid did you say, “I want to be an endurance bike racer?"</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Absolutely not. When I was a kid, I never really thought about adult life. Responsibilities seemed boring and I wanted no part of them. I just wanted to grow up to stop going to school and do my homework. I mostly wanted to be free from chores and adult supervision. Then as a teenager, I never really found what I wanted to do. Adult life was not very appealing to me. I thought of being a writer and worked in a magazine for a while, but it wasn't as interesting as I thought. Then right before turning 30, I discovered bike touring and I immediately knew this is what I wanted to do. Racing came afterward. I was already 34 years old by then. Being a racer has been a short part of my life and I'm not sure what the rest will look like. It will have bikes, that's the one thing I know.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">While racing, how do you handle the darkness that comes from lack of sleep and ultra-endurance day after day?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">It's the hardest aspect of ultra cycling—going through the dark, with nothing to look at, fatigue and sleepiness, sometimes for 10 to 12 hours. There's no magic recipe to make it easy. It's hard on all of us and doesn't get easier with time. The only way you can stand it is by being super strong mentally and extremely focused and driven. Only if you have a clear goal, like winning, can you withstand the kind of mental suffering that comes with long nights on the saddle. I have a few techniques that allow me to stay awake, but no trick whatsoever that makes riding through the night pleasant.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You often wear headphones while racing. What are you listening to?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I have several playlists. One is music that I discovered recently. One is rap and RnB. One is French music. One is just straight-up old fashion rock n'roll. And one has metal, punk, hardcore, and drone. The last two are the ones I listen to the most.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Are there any other racers that make you nervous?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There is a lot of talent out there. On the other side of the Atlantic, guys like <a href="https://instagram.com/kurt.refsnider" target="_blank">Kurt Refsnider</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/neil_beltchenko" target="_blank">Neil Beltchenko</a> have accomplished so much and are straight up legends. There are also very talented younger riders that are proving their value, like <a href="https://instagram.com/marinstex" target="_blank">Marin de St Exupery</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/robingemperle" target="_blank">Robin Gemperle</a>, who won the last two editions of the Atlas mountain race. If you look at ex or current pro cyclists, <a href="https://instagram.com/mattia_de_marchi" target="_blank">Mattia de Marchi</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/lachlanmorton" target="_blank">Lachlan Morton</a> have proven they belong with the very best by winning races in impressive fashion. I don't race much on the tarmac, but if you consider road ultras, racers like <a href="https://instagram.com/ubartholmoes" target="_blank">Ulrich Bartholmös</a> and <a href="https://instagram.com/straps_377" target="_blank">Christoph Strasser</a> have shown that they're virtually unbeatable.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What do you think about elite or pro racers in bikepacking events?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I think it's great to see racers with different backgrounds—some from the pro peloton, some that come from bike touring, or even bike messengers. The way that I see the future of bikepacking is shorter races dominated by pro or ex-pro racers in events lasting less than 72 hours. Their speed is a big advantage. However, on longer events, like Silk Road or Tour Divide, we have yet to see what they're capable of. I believe that experience and mental strength are as important as fitness when the distance requires to race for 5, 10, or 15 days in a hostile environment. I'm looking forward to seeing guys like Lachlan Morton take on really long races.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">There's a lot of chatter about media teams in races. What's your take?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Ultimately it is the choice of the race director to decide if they want to allow private media crews to document the race of only one athlete. Once the rule is set, it is the role of the athlete to respect it. Generally speaking, if there is a crew dedicated to one racer, it is best that they don't interact too much. There are situations where knowing that you have a crew following you can be beneficial, especially in remote countries. These teams have to be monitored and these situations regulated. Some of the oldest and most prestigious races don't allow for private media crews which I understand and respect. I also know that to get sponsors, you need content. But that content should be created in a way that assures the playing field is leveled for all the riders.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You have accomplished so much. What's the one thing you haven't done yet? The shining jewel, the crowning achievement?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">In terms of racing, personally, I don't think there's one thing that is left to be done. I could retire now and look back without any regret, just pride for what I have achieved. I've won the most prestigious and hardest races. I've done much more than what I originally set out to do. However, there is one thing I have been thinking about a lot, and that's a world record. I'd love to beat Jonas Deichman's <a href="https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/79633-fastest-bicycle-journey-across-eurasia#:~:text=The%20fastest%20bicycle%20journey%20across,at%20the%20age%20of%2015." target="_blank">record</a> of the fastest unsupported bike ride across Eurasia, from Lisbon to Vladivostok.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What do you do outside of cycling? Any other hobbies or interests?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I don't do much outside of cycling. I like to work on my bikes and the bikes of my friends. I watch a lot of movies and read sci-fi books. Honestly, I think that without cycling my life would be quite boring.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Self-sustained racing seems to be more popular than ever. Any advice for new racers?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I think the most important thing is to set out realistic goals and then work towards achieving them. Many people fail because they just go too hard and have unrealistic expectations. Not everyone can win, and not everyone is top-ten material. And that's okay. Just be aware of what you're capable of and don't push yourself too hard. For example, don't ride through the night during a race if you've never done it in training. Remember finishing a race twice as slow as the winner is still better than not finishing it. If you're just a beginner, you'll have many chances to improve in the future. Go step by step. You'll get mentally and physically stronger as you race.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Don't underestimate what you are about to undertake. It is one of the hardest things you can do and it will test your limits. So be prepared. I guess that is the main thing: be prepared. Train, experiment, do your research, and leave no room for failure. And one last thing: <em>always keep your butt and chamois clean!</em></p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Do you want to take a moment to plug your sponsors?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I'd like to thank <a href="https://www.vitusbikes.com/" target="_blank">Vitus</a> for providing me with great bikes, <a href="https://www.huntbikewheels.cc/" target="_blank">Hunt</a> for equipping them with fast wheels, <a href="https://www.renehersecycles.com/" target="_blank">René Herse</a> for fitting the supplest tires on these rims, <a href="https://www.shimano.com" target="_blank">Shimano</a> for the best groupsets out there, <a href="https://www.dhbsport.com/" target="_blank">dhb</a> for dressing me with the top-notch kit, <a href="https://missgrape.net" target="_blank">Miss Grape</a> for making sure everything I put in my bags stays nice and dry, <a href="https://www.northwave.com" target="_blank">Northwave</a> for putting comfy shoes on my fit and finally, <a href="https://supernova-lights.com" target="_blank">Supernova</a> for showing me the way when it's dark.</p>

<h4 className="readable-sub narrow">Thanks, Sofiane 🙏</h4>

<p className="readable narrow">Find Sofiane on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sofianeshl/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@sofianeshl" target="_blank">YouTube</a> and his <a href="https://sofianesehili.com/" target="_blank">website</a>.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">📸: Thibaut Mszk, Ruben Plasencia, Sergio Villalba, Fanny Bensussan, JP Mothes, Patrick Farnsworth, Carlos Mazon</p>



In this interview we delve into what it takes to be the best endurance bikepack racer in the world.

Sofiane Sehili: World-Class Endurance


<p className="readable-intro mid">Keaton Haire is the master bender behind <a href="https://www.doombars.com/" target="_blank">DOOM BARS</a>, a brand from Albuquerque, New Mexico that prides itself on creating stunning, hand-crafted handlebars. In this interview, we chat about what makes a good set of custom handlebars, how Keaton got started, whether cycling is a cult, and how he sources materials from hell.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Recently, I've become enamored with custom riser bars and the community of bespoke makers behind them. To be honest, I had no idea that custom handlebars were even a thing until I started to explore the topic. I always thought that handlebars were made by robots in Taiwan and that was just the way it was. But of course, they can be made to fit any rider, because why couldn't they be?!</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Coincidentally, around the same time Nick from <a href="https://www.senditsafely.us/" target="_blank">Send It Safely</a> introduced me to his friend Keaton Haire, the master bender behind DOOM BARS in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For the past three years, Keaton has been bending bars at his one-man workshop and has managed to build a strong community of supporters and fans around him. Not only are Keaton's bars stunning, but his brand stands out with its unique designs and a slogan, "Forged in Hell," that gives us a small chuckle. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to speak with Keaton about how he got started and how he creates his beautiful bars.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">So, forged in hell?! 🤘</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">We talked with God, but they thought there were already enough handlebars, and they really prefer drop bars anyway. So we had to make a deal with the devil. Now, all of our material is sourced directly from the fires of hell. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did you get into bending bars for bikes?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I have been a bicycle mechanic for most of my adult life, and an amateur frame builder for quite some time. I've made seven frames now for myself and close friends. I don't know if I'll ever try to make frames for money, but building frames is amazing and I hope to keep it up as a hobby, if nothing else. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">My first bar-bending experience was when I built a subtle, swoopy mustache handlebar for a sport-touring gravel frame that I built for myself. Patrick Franz, the owner of <a href="https://t-cycle.com/" target="_blank">Terracycle</a>, was gracious enough to allow me to use their tube bender. With his help, I was able to bend a few batches of handlebars to my desired shape and spec.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">DOOM BARS officially started in 2022 during the pandemic. I found a tube bender at a local used tool shop right after my work shut down for a couple months. I had a lot of time, and wasn't sure if I was going to have any income, so I started cranking out bars. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">In the beginning I was doing a lot of stuff by hand, and DOOM BARS are still a very “hand-crafted” product, but I've started collecting tools and working to make my processes more efficient. DOOM BARS acquired a lathe last fall, which has allowed me to face and debur tubes more easily, as well as pre-sanding tubes to help speed up finish work.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I also ended up with a mill recently when Dillen Maurer from <a href="https://www.baphometbicycles.com/" target="_blank">Baphomet Bicycles</a> moved out to the west coast. He lost part of his leg in an accident, and it wasn't feasible for him to transport his mill in the move. It's a really horrific situation. Dillen, good luck with your recovery, and thank you for the mill. I'll do my best to put it to good use. Dillen will be back building frames soon. Keep your eyes peeled for some sweet bikes in the near future. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How does a DOOM BAR come to life? What's the process?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Each DOOM BAR starts as a dream. Through witchcraft, trigonometry, and time; they become a reality. Our custom bars generally start with an email or DM. Some people have a dream handlebar nailed down, and we're able to bend it for them. Most of the time, we help sort out a design and dimensions. From there, we usually take half as a deposit, and it's about a month turnaround. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">I also try to keep at least a few production bars on the website. We have a few different production models and there are some great options for folks. Our production bars generally ship in 1-2 business days for those who aren't as patient. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Honestly, we thought handlebars were more of a preference than something that can be customized. Is there an ideal width, sweep and rise for each rider or is it all subjective?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There are definitely some general trends, basic realms for dimensions, and standard designs. But, everyone is different. Their bicycles and riding styles will vary. We put a lot of thought into designing ideal bars for specific riders, bikes, and types of riding. And there's always room for personal preference. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">I'm a huge fan of a bar with 13-20 degree backsweep. This seems to be a sweet spot for a bar that puts your wrists in a comfy position, and that can still be ridden aggressively. Rise really varies a lot depending on the rider and their specific bike. I have a bike with a 4” rise bmx bar and another with a 15mm rise bar. Both bikes work great, and the amount of rise seems appropriate. It just depends on the bike and the application. </p>

<center><div className="quote mid"><h3>"...no bar is perfectly symmetrical, but we don't let anything out the door unless it's pretty damn good."</h3></div></center>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's the holy grail of bar bending? </h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I guess a perfectly symmetrical bar is sort of the holy grail. It's the kind of thing where if you measure precisely enough, no bar is perfectly symmetrical, but we don't let anything out the door unless it's pretty damn good. We keep both sides of the bar within .2 degrees of each other in both the vertical and horizontal planes. This works out to both sides being within 1-2 mm of each other over the full width of the bar. Every once in a while we'll get a bar where there is no discernible difference between the two sides. That always feels good.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do you measure and find the right fit on a pair of custom bars and what do my nipples have to do with it?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">According to the internet, the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8722981/#:~:text=The%20ideal%20nipple%2Dto%2Dnipple,areolar%20diameter%20is%202.8%20cm." target="_blank">ideal nipple width is 21cm</a>, measured center-to-center. Everyone should check their nipple width, and compare themselves with this standard. Then, you should buy whatever DOOM BARS you want. I would share my nipple width, but you've got to keep some things a mystery. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">The DOOM bars site clearly states no drop bars. Tell us more.</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There are several reasons why we have refrained from making drop bars. Firstly, we prefer the setup of mountain bike controls over that of road bike controls. Secondly, drop bar controls are designed to be mounted onto 15/16" (23.8mm) material, which is different from the 22.2mm standard that we use for all our handlebars and that mountain bike controls mount to. Finally, the spacing between bends in our setup is 2.5 inches, meaning that any drop bars we would make with our current setup would be gigantic. As a result, we have decided to hold off on making drop bars for the time being, but there is always the possibility that we may consider it in the future.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Do you think cycling is a cult?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I think the beautiful thing about cycling is that there are 100 different cults. There are the casual believers, the weekend warriors, and the fair weather riders. You've got the roadies, the gravel folks and the mountain bikers. Within mountain biking there are cross country riders, downhill, enduro, all-mountain, and single speeders. The commuters, recreational riders, and die-hards all have their own sects. The followers of Jan, Grant, and Sachs may overlap at times, but they all have their own traditions and beliefs. DOOM BARS has built quite a following, but we're not trying to convince anyone to do anything. We just make handlebars.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Any other makers out there making things that inspire you? </h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There are too many makers out there that inspire me to list them all, but I'll start at the top with people that make bikes. James Bleakly from <a href="https://www.blacksheepbikes.com/" target="_blank">Black Sheep</a> first introduced me to hand built bicycles. Todd Heath from <a href="http://www.moonmenbikes.com/" target="_blank">Moonmen</a> introduced me to James and has gone on to build amazing bicycles. Sean Burns of <a href="http://odditycycles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Oddity</a> has more style than anyone I know. <a href="http://www.monebikes.com/" target="_blank">Cjell Mone</a> is always coming up with something unique and new, and those filets, damn. <a href="https://www.ahearnecycles.com/" target="_blank">Joseph Ahearne</a> is a wizard. Jackie Mautner of <a href="https://untitledcycles.com/" target="_blank">Untitled Cycles</a> puts a ton of thought into some really unique bikes. Marc from <a href="https://www.belladonnabicycles.com/" target="_blank">Belladonna Bicycles</a> is somehow punk rock and rando at the same time; he keeps cranking out classic beauties. I could keep going, but you get the idea. There are a ton of amazing makers out there. These are some that I've been fortunate enough to know. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What DOOM bars do you ride?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I've got DOOM BARS on all of my bikes at this point. The first bar I bent, before DOOM BARS was a thing, was a subtle mustache bar with 20 degree backsweep. It was a great bar for my Sport Touring (gravel) bike, but I trimmed it down to 765mm wide, which seemed plenty wide at the time. I recently replaced it with a 875mm titanium version, which is a little overkill, but it feels amazing. My 29” wheeled bmx cruiser has a 4” rise bmx bar on it. My old Black Sheep 29er has a 3.5” rise bmx bar on it, but I've also run a 3” rise titanium bar on that bike for some comfort in the chunk. Finally, I've got an old Schwinn Le Tour for a rainy day commuter, and it has some big swoops on it. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do we get some DOOM BARS?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">We try to keep at least a few production bars on hand, and Doombars.com has all of our production bars on the shop page. It's about a month turnaround for custom orders. Email/DM for custom orders.</p>

<h4 className="readable-sub narrow">Thanks, Keaton 🙏</h4>

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An interview with Keaton Haire, the master bender behind DOOM BARS, a brand that prides itself on creating stunning, hand-crafted handlebars.

Doom Bars: Forged In The Fires Of Hell

Doom Bars: Forged in the Fires of Hell


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://sanutildesign.com/" target="_blank">San Util Design</a> is the moniker of Adam Nicholson, a 27-year-old bag maker from Winter Park, Colorado. San Util has been creating beautiful and rugged hand-sewn hip and bike bags for the past two years. We spoke with Adam about how he got started which eventually led to more introspective themes like how to feel fulfilled in life. Let's go.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I was introduced to Adam of San Util by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kook.grin.media/" target="_blank">Kook Grin Media</a> and was instantly floored that his company San Util had not come across my eyeballs until that introduction. Poking around the website quickly reveals the pedigree that San Util has in the MTB space—with press from Pinkbike, Loam Wolf, and Singletracks. In fact, I wasn't even aware that any of those sites were concerned with bike bags until I came across Adam and San Util.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Digging deeper into the San Util site, I was as impressed with the maker of the bags as the bags themselves. Adam comes across as a thoughtful individual who seemingly has had the courage to make some great decisions in life in order to prioritize his happiness and understand his place in the universe. To push that idea even further, he created a character called Mr. SUDS to embody this energy and to tell us that hey, maybe life can be simple and, god forbid, maybe even fun. However, I don't want to give it all away so grab a coffee and enjoy.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">When and how did you get started making bags?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I started making bags about 5 years ago when I was living in Denver. At the time, I was working at <a href="https://c3bikeshop.com/" target="_blank">C3 Bike Bike Shop</a> and <a href="https://www.bentgate.com/" target="_blank">Bentgate Mountaineering</a> and was fascinated with the idea of riding from my house to a big multi-sport adventure. The goal was to develop bags that could hold ski gear for a ride from Denver to the summit of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Evans" target="_blank">Mount Evans</a>. I was hoping to go in the spring, ride to the lower gate, and ski to the summit. I tinkered on a home sewing machine and made a few packs, but got caught up with other goals and ended up putting it all on the back burner. A few years later, I started gravel riding and wanted to design some packs that could hold a bunch of beer and clothing while out on long rides. I sewed a half-frame bag and then a hip pack. Before I knew it, I was devoting a full day to sewing every week. A year later, I started San Util Design LLC. I designed a logo and character to represent the brand and we were off. Shortly After, I ran <a href="https://www.pinkbike.com/video/549023/" target="_blank">a Kickstarter campaign</a> and ended up quitting my job to give San Util a real go.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What does San Util mean?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">San Util translates literally to “without utility” or “without satisfaction”. Throughout my adult life, I have found myself trying to balance rigorous goal setting with simply enjoying life. I am often my worst critic and can be ruthless toward myself when I don't perform. San Util is a reminder to take life a bit less seriously and enjoy it.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Tell us about your studio.</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Haha, in the old days, everyone thought I ran my business out of a VW Van. Sometimes I wish that was the truth, but that would be brutal in such a tiny space. The van is owned by my good friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jamesbarkman" target="_blank">James Barkman</a>, a professional adventure photographer and mountaineer. James is the friend who pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and make the Kickstarter campaign. We worked on a commercial and photos for the campaign and I was excited to use such a sweet van for it.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">My studio started in my room with an industrial sewing machine in the corner. When I started working one day a week at San Util, I transitioned everything down to the garage, and then at the end of the Kickstarter, I decided it was time to get a real workshop. My current workshop is a 600 sq ft space in the back of a print shop. It's humble but it works great for me! <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/xSEqBW2S7qB9Hd4ZA" target="_blank">Swing by</a> if you are in the area, I love drop-ins (and often have beer in the fridge).</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What is the San Util process for custom bags?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Every bag starts on my website <a href="https://sanutildesign.com/" target="_blank">sanutildesign.com</a>. From there, folks can shop through two categories: Mountain/Race and Adventure/Life. Let's play one out… Jonny is looking for a sweet custom hip pack. He clicks on “Mountain/Race'' and selects the hip pack design he likes best. Jonny wants a larger hip pack, so he would click on the “Covert Hip Pack” (our 2.5L option) and choose between 20+ different colors and fabrics for the primary and secondary colors. He also gets to choose what type of buckle he wants, the color cord he likes, and what color webbing is going to match the bag best.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Most bags go through that process, but there are two exceptions. The Half Frame Bag and the Full Frame Bag are both fully custom bags. You will pick through options on the website like all the other bags, after you place an order I send an instruction sheet requesting a photo of your bike. That way the bag matches up with your bike perfectly.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Who is Mr. SUDS?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Mr. SUDS is a character I created to represent what San Util is all about. He died to do what the world tells us we are supposed to do but is now living out his dream. Mr. SUDS is <em>a reminder to chase our dreams and do things simply because they sound fun</em>.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You self-describe as “a feller who is trying to make sense of things by creating things to engage with the world”. There seems to be some decent introspection to you. Tell us more.</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">When I wrote that I thought that ever since childhood I have had deep thoughts and feelings towards the world. The cycle of “mountain top” to “dark valley” emotions are not a stranger to me. When I am in those heavy times, I am often thinking about what my place in the world is and why we are all here. Over the years, the simple answer I have come up with is that we are here to love each other, to create beauty, and to engage with the world and with each other. I am sure that will continue to change over the years, but my vision is that San Util will allow me an outlet to create things with people I love in an industry that gives me joy.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's the one thing you haven't done yet?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">There are so many things I haven't done yet. For San Util, I am working on building a “bag builder” feature on my website that will mock up bag colors as the customer selects them. It has been a difficult and long process developing the widget, but I am pumped with the progress.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">In life. I am pumped to build a house. To design it, and do as much as I can myself on it with my friends and family.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What other bag makers out there do you crush on?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">So many. I have been blessed by many bag makers out there and a lot of us are friends behind the scenes. In regards to design, I am a fan of <a href="https://www.bagsxbird.com/" target="_blank">BagsxBird</a>, <a href="https://www.huuungry.com.au/" target="_blank">Hungry</a>, <a href="https://www.seventeenthirtythree.com/" target="_blank">1733</a>, and <a href="https://www.pathfindergear.pl/" target="_blank">Pathfinder</a>. For community engagement, I look at <a href="https://www.takeatripbags.com/" target="_blank">Take A Trip</a>, <a href="https://www.thesaltyboob.life/" target="_blank">The Salty Boob</a>, <a href="https://thermalliftworkshop.com/" target="_blank">Thermal Lift</a>, <a href="https://www.fish-ski.com/" target="_blank">Fish Ski Designs</a>, and <a href="https://builtbyswift.com/" target="_blank">Swift Industries</a>. And in the MTB space companies like Troy Lee, POC, and Fox.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Where's this all headed?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">When demand gets to a place where I can scale the business, I can't wait to bring people on staff and continue this group project together. My vision is that my team and I can run a business that we love while supporting each other as co-workers and friends. Where we can support our families and make time to ride and race bikes while never forgetting the reason we are showing up to make San Util happen every day! </p>

<h4 className="readable-sub narrow">Thanks, Adam 🙏</h4>

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San Util Design is Adam Nicholson, a bag maker from Winter Park, Colorado. We spoke with Adam about how he got started and more introspective themes like how to feel fulfilled in life.

An Interview with Adam From San Util Design

San Util Design: Bike Bags & The Trail To Happiness


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://meaghanhackinen.com/" target="_blank">Meaghan Hackinen</a> is a Canadian ultra-endurance cyclist and writer whose adventures have brought her around the globe from Mexico to Europe and across Canada and the United States. Last summer, Meaghan had to drop out of a race at the last minute but still managed to find an adventure in Big Sky Country, Montana. Let's Go.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I pedal out of Bozeman, alone. Modern ranch-style housing developments recede as the pavement transitions to hard-packed gravel, heading north through the sweep of golden plains. My pace drops once I hit the climb, forehead and neck beading sweat. I ascend Rocky Mountain Road under a hard morning sun, eyes darting between hawks that alight on wooden fence posts.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The weight of my loaded Salsa Cutthroat surprises me, unnoticed on the flats but cumbersome with the slightest increase in grade. I glance down at my right knee, concealed within a black fabric brace. Further to my right, fields tumble into the foothills of the Bridger Range, a subrange of the Rockies that captivates me with its deep, furrowed gulches and imposing peaks. My route veers left—west—however, carving through arid ranch land on a rollercoaster of a road that dips, banks, and climbs until it drops into Three Rivers. There, I stop for pecan pie at the Iron Horse Cafe, the same restaurant that Big Sky Spectactulaire participants visited yesterday to earn their time bonuses.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The <a href="https://www.bigskyspectaculaire.com" target="_blank">Big Sky Spectaculaire</a> is a 1,435 km mixed-surface bikepacking race that takes place every year in late August, exploring Southwest and Central Montana on a fast yet challenging mix of pavement, gravel, and double-track. With time bonuses for pie and promises of “majestic views from sunrise to sunset and star-filled skies,” I was in.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Then an old knee injury flared up after finishing the <a href="https://www.transcontinental.cc/" target="_blank">Transcontinental Race</a> in mid-August. I departed for Bozeman, Montana in a knee brace, still hoping for a miraculous recovery. My partner, James (also racing), and I tackled the 800 km drive in two days, our lively conversations about sleep strategy and resupply interrupted only by gas station pitstops for terrible coffee. A pre-ride briefing provided an opportunity to meet other riders on the eve of the race, my knee out of sight, out of mind beneath the picnic table. But alone with James in the camper van that evening, I opened up.</p>


<p className="readable narrow conversation">“If you thought you had a fifty percent chance of DNF'ing, would you still compete?” I asked. “For instance, if the scratch rate usually hovers around fifty percent, and on top of that you personally only had a fifty percent chance of success, would you start if the likelihood of finishing was, say, twenty-five percent?”<br/>
“I'm not sure about your math,” said James, without looking up from his last-minute preparations.<br/>
“My knee is pretty bad.”<br/>
“You're not going to race?” he asked, turning to face me.<br/>
“We'll see.”</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The next morning, James and the rest of the grand depart left without me.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">My first day was a bust: at the pie shop in Three Rivers I noticed my Spot GPS tracker missing, and spent the afternoon retracing my tracks up Rocky Mountain Road to find the device nestled amongst fragrant sage. Discouraged and more than halfway back to Bozeman anyways, I returned to the van to ice my aching knee.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The next morning I'm back in the saddle, however, determined not to bail on two adventures. To shave off some miles, I opt for a more direct, paved route to Three Forks, and by noon I'm rumbling south on an unmaintained gravel road alongside hazy fields and cattle ranches, alone aside from the occasional pickup truck that dusts me in passing.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">My route—the whimsically named <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41684237" target="_blank">Spectaculaire-Odyssey</a>—was created by Graham Goff, race director of Montana's rival bikepacking event, the <a href="https://www.montanabikeodyssey.com/" target="_blank">Big Sky Odyssey</a>. Craftily linking sections of both routes, the Spectaculaire-Odyssey showcases regional highlights, including the Ruby Range, Big Hole River, and Cougar Canyon in a 570 km primarily off-pavement loop.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">After a beef dip sandwich at a classic American diner in Harrison and a brief stint breathing the fumes of big rigs on Highway 287, I peel off to follow rougher mountain roads over a short, satisfying climb. Rocky outcroppings punctate a green conifer forest that gives way to grassland as I soar down into the heat-drenched valley, around wind-chopped Ennis Lake, and then onto Ennis. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I am excited to be back in Ennis, a one-horse town that feels like a big city after the quiet solitude of backroads. In 2017, I passed through Ennis briefly during the Trans Am Bike Race, but other than the dingy motel that I holed up in to escape the havoc-wreaking headwind, I witnessed little. This time, I treat myself to a post-ride dunk in the river and stay the entire night. Rachel, my generous Warmshowers host, has three other guests: a young couple from the Netherlands touring the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and an American veteran crossing the country from west to east. We dine al fresco on Rachel's rustic patio, swapping stories late into the night and discussing everything from food—a favourite topic among cyclists of all stripes—to the quirks of life on the road as the stars pulse brightly overhead. Bellies full of bratwurst and heads thick with whisky. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">My knee buckles while I'm climbing out of Ennis. The joint gives so abruptly, I can do nothing but exclaim into the pain as I shift my weight to the other leg, continuing my achingly slow ascent into the foothills of the Gravelly Range. The loose shifting road surface adds another layer of instability, though all around is wonder: mighty distant peaks that emerge from a soup of cloud; the undisturbed blue of Axolotl Lakes glimmering in striking contrast to verdant woods.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I pause near the summit to soak in the view. I'm also trepidacious about continuing into unknown territory with an unstable knee, but it's not like I'm bushwhacking into Virginia City. Besides, it's more downhill than up. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Just take things at your own pace, I remind myself. And I do just that: braking for bulls that I mistake for black bears and pausing to assess the steep, rutted double track.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I'm soaked to the bone by the time I arrive at Twin Bridges Bike Camp that evening. The thunderstorm I'd been trying to outrun since Dillon caught up with me a few miles from town. My knee buckled again on the hot, heavy grind over the Ruby Mountains, but scarier still was narrowly avoiding a rattlesnake, sunning itself on the range road.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">But the highlights outweigh the lows: from an impromptu lunch with another bikepacker to expansive big-sky views, to the swashbuckling descent into Dillon where I transformed into a cowboy: pedals parallel and knees slightly splayed, tucked low in the drops as I steered my carbon pony—it's unbelievable how much can happen in an afternoon. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">Twin Bridges (population 351) is a fly-fishing mecca at the confluence of the Big Hole, Ruby, and Beaverhead Rivers, and my companion tonight is a drifter named Tom, hunkered down in the Bike Camp to recover from food poisoning. At first, I'm affronted. Tom's possessions sprawl on every surface—he doesn't even own a bike. But once we start chatting, I experience a change of heart: this cozy bunkhouse is a sanctuary for the weary traveler.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Still, I can't shake the discomfort of sleeping alongside a stranger in a small, confined space. After devouring a personal pizza from <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g45387-d3367914-Reviews-The_Shack-Twin_Bridges_Montana.html" target="_blank">The Shack</a> (highly recommend), I unfurl my bivvy on the grassy riverside, only to scurry indoors at the first clap of thunder. My body relaxes into the threadbare sofa while a few feet away, Tom's booming snores mingle with the deluge drumming against the metal rooftop. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I surprise myself by rising early, despite the absence of an alarm. A peek outdoors reveals crisp, clear sky and a few wispy clouds that hardly hint at last night's storm. Eager  to knock off some miles before the smothering midday heat, I pack up. Soon, I'm blazing north on unpaved range roads, the Tobacco Root Mountains rearing up to my right and the Big Hole River snaking S-bends on my left. I stop to apply sunscreen and snap photos that don't come close to capturing Montana's natural grandeur, but it's enough just to be here.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">In Whitehall, I check the race tracker as I dig into a farmer's breakfast: James is in the lead and rapidly approaching the finish. Instead of staying out for another night, I opt for a big push into Bozeman so I can celebrate his arrival. Luckily, a gusty tailwind helps me on my way as I breeze east over secondary roads that circumvent the highway in delightfully unusual ways.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Although I didn't accomplish what I set out to, after four days of exploring Montana's backroads and byways I've found fulfillment, despite the current limitations of my body. I didn't carve out space for touring in this season's busy event calendar, and that was a mistake. As much as I revel in the chase of bikepack racing, slowing pace to balance stop-time with motion has its own unique rewards, opening doors for human connection and increased self-awareness, off the beaten path. This journey has offered a preview of the Last Best Place, and I'll definitely be back.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Right now, however, I look forward to reuniting with James when he crosses the finish line. To the east, storm clouds are brewing, another afternoon downpour imminently approaching. But I couldn't care less. Each pedal stroke brings me closer to the end, and I plan to savor every last one.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Follow Meaghan on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/meaghanhackinen/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>

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Meaghan Hackinen a Canadian ultra-cyclist was forced to cancel a race due to injury yet managed to still find herself on an adventure in Big Sky Country, Montana.

Bikepacking In Big Sky Country, Montana

A Change In Plans: Bikepacking In Big Sky Country, Montana


<p className="readable-intro mid">Since 2020, <a href="https://buffalobagth.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Bags</a> has been creating bags small and huge from its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand. We spoke with the company's founder, Be, about how Buffalo Bags started, their flagship bag called the Big Buffalo, his crew of self-proclaimed bike nerds, and how Thailand is likely the next best cycling destination. Let's go.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Over the past couple of years, I have had the opportunity to get to know a bunch of makers and builders from around the world. Every maker I have met to date has inspired me in one way or another. A few of them have even become friends and I would put Be from Buffalo Bags in this latter category.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The cycling culture in Thailand seems to be strong and through Be (and his crew) I have been getting exposed to it more and more. Even though I have visited Thailand many times over the years I was never there to ride. It feels like the country could become the next big backpacking destination with its amazing food and hospitality, steep hills, and beautifully rugged terrain.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Be and Buffalo Bags seem a bit different to me than most makers. In my opinion, what sets Buffalo Bags apart, is the bag they produce called the Big Buffalo. The bag is huge and might even be all the volume you need for short trips. In an industry that is continuously fraught with the trappings of endurance sport, the Big Buffalo stands out as a beacon of slow-is-ok biking. But knowing Be and his crew, this is not a gimmick or marketing trick. It's how they live and ride.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did Buffalo Bags start?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">A little boy wanted to see more beyond his hometown and wanted to do it by bicycle. He wanted a bag to put stuff in while riding. He made and brought an ugly prototype of a bag to a friend. The little boy's friends own bike shops around town. They go out riding, riding, riding, and Instagramming, Instagramming, Instagramming. Notifications start to appear on the little boy's phone. Shit! That little boy turns into a bag maker and his friends turn into Buffalo Bags dealers.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">My name is Chatchaphong Kamoolsakpitak (but you can call me Be). I'm the founder, bag maker, email responder, janitor, and whatever else Buffalo Bags needs me to be. In 2020, Covid hit Thailand hard and everything shut down. Suddenly, I had a lot of free time to spend, and bikepacking just made a lot of sense to fill the time. I was hooked. I like to ride. I enjoy riding my bike with my everyday outfit of sandals, beach shorts, and a t-shirt. What can I say? I love having a bag on my bike for carrying camping gear or other stuff.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You recently moved locations. Can you tell us more about that?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Buffalo Bags Company has grown as a company. The old space no longer had room for me to roll around when I'm tired or lazy. The original space wasn't originally designed to be a workshop, it was an old dressing room that was 5 x 4 meters wide. Yup, some bathrooms are bigger than that. The new location has enough space to fit a large working table, more sewing machines, and room for a bike, and even allows the team to work here. Previously, our team was working in a different location. It was a real pain when something went wrong and we had to communicate by text or I dragged my ass to be there. It's great that we can work in the same space now and get drunk together after things are done (or not)...</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What makes Buffalo Bags different?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">My ego tells me to say “it's one of the best”, but that would sound stupid because I have not seen or used all the bags out there and it's better to stay humble. When making bags we focus on:</p>

<p className="readable narrow">1. Functionality - The best bags don't cause any inconvenience. The function of the bag should be designed to meet the needs of use. Compartments should be designed for things the user plans to use. Imagine, if you kept your chopsticks in your shoes. You could, but why?!</p>

<p className="readable narrow">2. Durability - Equipment that breaks during a trip is annoying so durability is extremely important. Every material in our bags was chosen for a reason. Don't get me wrong, going down on a rowdy trail can fuck shit up for sure. But when it breaks it should be able to be repaired, not just thrown away like a tissue. Products that are friendly to the environment are necessary and I am trying hard to design all of our bags to be long-lasting. A bag that you can pass to your grandchildren sounds eco-friendly to me.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">3. Fun!</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Tell us about the Big Buffalo.</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">The Big Buffalo was our first model of Buffalo Bags. I wanted to try something that had more room than a pannier, and be able to fit a bunch of stuff in it. The Big Buffalo is available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The large size might be able to fit a kitchen sink in it. I know ultralights are a thing now and nobody brings a sink camping anymore, you dummy. But who knows, maybe next season it might be the thing to do. The medium-sized Buffalo is my favorite. Not too big and not too small, perfect for when I go on a trip longer than two nights and need sleeping gear. The small Buffalo is cute. Well, small isn't so small…. if you know what I mean. Wink wink.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">If those examples confuse you, check this out. A small is 18 Liters, a medium is 26 Liters and the large Big Buffalo is a whopping 30 Liters. Thank Buddha for the variety of wide handlebars out there. We recommend a 700mm+ flat bar to mount the small size and 750-800mm for medium and large. For drop bars, 440mm at least for small and 500mm+ for medium and large. The Big Buffalo also comes in three options of fabric: canvas, CORDURA,, and XPAC.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Buffalo Bags looks like a gang. What can you tell us about your crew? How do they influence the brand? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">My friends and I have similar tastes when it comes to bikepacking and riding in general. When out on a trip I always carry a camera with me and friends who use my bags naturally become brand ambassadors, haha. Sometimes it makes people misunderstand who the owner of Buffalo Bags is... which is good! I take that as ego-reducing therapy.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">These guys are serious with their gear, it is useful to hear comments based in real-time. They sometimes say things that make no sense but end up turning into great ideas. I do appreciate the feedback and I need it as well. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Where do you find your inspiration?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Inspiration comes from my passion which is injected into the design of my bags with an emphasis on a unique user experience. I believe my bags speak to people who have similar lifestyles and activities. A lot of inspiration comes from stories of people I ride with and the places I have traveled through. All the people inspire me to create a bag that supports their journey. Naturally, my thanks go to my customers and their continuous support!</p>

<p className="readable narrow">As someone who earns a small profit from this vast ocean, I appreciate all that happens in this community. It keeps this boat afloat. I'm especially thankful for the media, who play a big part in driving the bikepacking scene continuously. It is not the norm that a small business receives media attention properly and sustainably.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What is the adventure cycling scene like in Thailand?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Currently, most of the routes are spread by word of mouth in local bike shops. Gravel bikes are hot. Dirtbag wanderers are still small. This place is still a diamond that hasn't been polished yet. It's common to see 'Farung' (a.k.a Western people... also, this word is not racist. It's quite cute, actually.) riding bikes all over the place, especially in the northern part of Thailand. Winter is the best time of the year to ride in the north. Not crazy hot and no smoke in the air. One thing I've heard from a foreign friend is “no matter how cruel the day is, at the end of the day, it is not hard to get comfy”. That dude has a Chang Beer in his hand every night. I confirm it.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's in the future for Buffalo Bags?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">My short-term plan is to add more models of bags for every part of the bike. However, one idea that has my interest is a weaving technique. Thai people have always known and used weaving as a way of creating things. Every family used to weave their stuff and I wonder if it could be used for bag making.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Also, there are many factories in Thailand with good machines and experienced workers. It is a pity if we only produce mass products from this potential. In the future, I want to build collaborations that create fabrics of high quality to be used in Buffalo Bags. Digging deep, understanding the whole process, and working with factories to create new products.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Follow Buffalo Bags on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/buffalo.bags/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>

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We spoke with Buffalo Bags founder, Be, about how he started, their flagship bag called the Big Buffalo, his crew of self-proclaimed bike nerds, and how Thailand is likely the next best cycling destination.

An Interview With Buffalo Bags from Bangkok, Thailand

Buffalo Bags: In The Workshop


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://roguepanda.com" target="_blank">Rogue Panda</a> is one of the best custom bag makers out there. Inspired by the local terrain of Arizona, Rogue Panda approaches bag making with a 'singletrack first' process. This ensures that their bags are ready for anything. Grab a coffee and enjoy our chat with Rogue Panda founder Nick Smolinske about how it all started, where it's going and about <a href="https://roguepanda.com/products/ripsey-seat-bag" target="_blank">a special new bag</a> they have been working on. Let's go.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Almost three years ago, I was looking to get my first custom bikepacking bag made for my new 2020 Surly Krampus. Until this point I was buying off the shelf bags which never really left me smiling inside. After a week of research I had narrowed it down to 2 or 3 makers who looked like they could handle the job. Rogue Panda designs was not on that list until a friend whose opinion I really trust said to me very plainly “don't mess around … get a Rogue Panda”. So I did.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I initially had doubts on how any company could create a bag for an inner triangle without seeing the bike in person. However, the Rogue Panda website was clear that this was their specialty utilizing a proprietary process they called Pandavision. Pandavision. I had a small chuckle at the name but ultimately I was sold, and I knew it. The Rogue Panda experience was fantastic from start to finish and the team blew me away at every step. Of course they were already prepared for my Krampus as they had probably knocked out 100s of frame bags for them before mine. I'll never forget how the bag showed up in a box without much fanfare which flared my doubts once again. Alas, the bag fit perfectly and ended any skepticism of remote custom bag building full stop. The bag has not come off my Krampus once in almost three years as you can <a href="https://www.bikegeardatabase.com/_next/image?url=%2Fproducts%2Folliepack%2Fshred-on.jpg&w=3840&q=75" target="_blank">see here</a>. And I'm not sure it ever will.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I was absolutely stoked when Rogue Panda founder Nick Smolinske agreed to chat about how they became one of the best bikepacking bag makers on the planet. I was even more excited when he started telling me about a new dropper post bag that they were working on and how they started a crowdfunding project to produce it. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How and when did Rogue Panda enter the world?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">The Rogue Panda brand launched in 2014, but the journey started a year earlier when I kept hurting my knees on hikes in the Grand Canyon. That led to me trying to lighten up my load. To do that, I broke out my mom's old sewing machine and started making my own lightweight tents, sleeping bags and backpacks. Once I had the gear-making bug, I started looking for other things to sew, and after an accidental bikepacking trip (that was meant to be a bike shuttle) I started making bikepacking bags. Soon I was taking requests from friends and decided to try to make a business out of it.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did you land on the name “Rogue Panda” and what does it mean exactly?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">The name comes from a peculiar act of vandalism that happened back in 2011, when I was in Flagstaff working for a conservation corps. On our way home from work one day, we passed an electronic road sign that had been hacked to say “Rogue Panda on Rampage”. When I was trying to pick a name for my bikepacking brand a few years later, it popped in my head and wouldn't leave.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Even though it started out as a bit of a joke, the name has come to symbolize our company ethos. Going our own way and innovating rather than following the crowd, and always keeping a sense of humor about ourselves while we're doing it.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Rogue Panda is known as one of the best at what it does. How do you think it got this reputation?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Tireless self-improvement, and a commitment to customer service. We're always trying new things and improving our processes and our products. We're big fans of reinventing the wheel - it's the only way to get better wheels!</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What inspires you at the moment?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Lately, I've been inspired by dropper-compatible seat bags. It's been a long-term obsession with prototypes dating back at least to 2016. But the newest design is a leap forward in terms of tire clearance and stability, and we're really proud of it. Actually bringing one to market is a lot trickier than other products we've made, because we can't make everything in-house.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Great segue… What can you tell us about your new seat bag?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Our new Ripsey seat bag is the culmination of years spent working on dropper-compatible seat bags. We've sold a couple models over the years, and developed even more prototypes that never made it to market. However, this design is better than everything that's come before it. We created an injection-molded nylon harness that's more durable, stiffer, and lighter weight than sewn options. Most importantly, it's way better at keeping the bag away from your tire! Minimum tire clearance is just 3 inches at half capacity, and 4 inches at the full 8 liter volume.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">We are <a href="https://roguepanda.com/products/ripsey-seat-bag" target="_blank">crowdfunding</a> the project because the startup costs are high for a small company like ours. Just creating the mold for the harness will cost more than all of the sewing machines we've bought in the past 8 years! We could take out loans to get the project started, but we'd end up paying the bank a lot of interest. Instead we're giving that money to our customers by doing a preorder sale to collect our startup costs. That way our customers get a good deal and we get the startup capital we need. It's a win-win for everybody (except the bank).</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Check out the Ripsey crowdsourcing project on the <a href="https://roguepanda.com/products/ripsey-seat-bag" target="_blank">Rogue Panda site</a>.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What is PandaVision and how does it work?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow"><a href="https://roguepanda.com/pages/pandavision" target="_blank">Pandavision</a> is our process for turning photos of bikes into custom-fit frame bags. We were the first to use photos instead of cardboard templates, starting back in 2014 with our very first frame bag. Originally I used math to scale out a triangle, then we switched to projecting images onto a table a few years later. Our next process update happened in 2020, when I was quarantined at home and started playing around in <a href="https://inkscape.org/" target="_blank">Inkscape</a>, an open-source vector graphics program. Now all of our template-making is done digitally, which has the added benefit of making it easier to do custom one-off printed bags.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How important is in-house production to you?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">It's very important. Making our bags here makes it easier to ensure that our workers are making a living wage and have a healthy work environment. One example of where this shows is in our product design. We've developed and redeveloped tons of gear over the years, and seeing the bags being made in our shop has changed the way I view the process. Sometimes we'll have a design that produces a good final product, but it gets reworked because it requires too much crimping finger manipulation to sew, which is a carpal tunnel risk long-term. This is something we would have easily overlooked if we outsourced production.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How does being from Arizona affect how you make your products?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Arizona is home to some really epic and tough bikepacking routes—<a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/bikepacking-the-arizona-trail-azt/" target="_blank">The Arizona Trail</a> being the most well-known, but not the only. These trails influence our products quite a bit. Our default assumption when we think of “bikepacking” is someone riding a full suspension bike on rocky, steep singletrack. Our bags work great for all kinds of bikepacking, but designing for singletrack first ensures that our bags will  be durable enough to take anywhere.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What is the one 'must ride' in Arizona?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">There are so many! I already talked about the Arizona Trail, but the <a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/black-canyon-trail/" target="_blank">Black Canyon Trail</a> is another classic that is pretty awesome. It's a great winter ride that can be looped with dirt roads up Black Canyon, with the <a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/fools-loop-arizona/" target="_blank">Fool's Loop</a> route, or by running a shuttle. It goes through some quintessential southwest landscapes, with saguaro and cholla cactus galore.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's the future of Rogue Panda?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">In the immediate future, we've got so many product updates it's a bit dizzying. The biggest one is the <a href="https://roguepanda.com/products/ripsey-seat-bag" target="_blank">Ripsey seat bag</a>, but we've also redesigned our <a href="https://roguepanda.com/products/bismarck-bottle-bucket" target="_blank">Bismarck Bottle Bucket</a> and we're launching a snack-oriented handlebar bucket called the Happy Jack Snack Sack (all of our bags are named after sections of the Arizona Trail, and this seemed like the best opportunity to use the Happy Jack name).</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Once those are all out, I'll probably take a long break from new product development. So for 2023, I hope to focus on creating useful video content, and making the process of ordering bikepacking bags even easier and more streamlined.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Thanks, Nick.</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I always get a kick out of hearing how companies like Rogue Panda get started and continue to operate. As they say, anyone can have an idea but execution is everything. When I reflect on my experience ordering and using my Rogue Panda bag, it seems that Nick and his team really sweat the details on how it all comes together. Almost as if a bike bag is much more than just a bag. And with this being the case, we can't wait to see how the <a href="https://roguepanda.com/products/ripsey-seat-bag" target="_blank">Ripsey</a> comes together. </p>

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Grab a coffee and have a read of our chat with Rogue Panda founder Nick Smolinske about how it all started, where it's going and about a special new bag they have been working on.

Rogue Panda: Dedicated. Rugged. Relentlessly Custom.


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/" target="_blank">Neuhaus Metalworks</a> is the moniker of Nick Neuhaus, a builder from Marin County, California. Since 2018, Nick has been building some beautiful hardtails with the latest additive manufacturing techniques. We had the chance to chat with Nick about 3D printing, production vs. custom bikes, and the future of bike building in general.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Neuhaus Metalworks is right up our alley: run by Nick Neuhaus and a few friends and located in Marin County (the birthplace of mountain biking)—Neuhaus Metalworks has had our interest from the moment we laid eyes on their <a href="https://www.instagram.com/neuhaus_metalworks/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> account. We have to say, we love Nick's bikes. From a distance, they boast clean lines with an obvious eye on modern geometry. On closer inspection, you start to see details not commonly found on the bikes of most one-man shops. It took me a few minutes to understand what I was looking at when I first saw a yoke on the seat tube connecting the seat stays to the top tube on the <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/hummingbird" target="_blank">Hummingbird</a>, one of Nick's production models.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Pouring over the photos, I started to realize that Nick is doing a lot more than ordering some steel, slapping it in the jig, and welding it all together. He is utilizing some cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques that aren't really associated with indie builders. This brought up a lot of questions around how this all gets done and what sort of impact it may have on the industry as a whole.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">As always, we really appreciate Nick and the time he took to answer some of our questions. Let's Go.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did you become a builder?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Ever since I raced BMX as a kid, I was in tune with how I like my bikes to ride and respond to me as a rider. I had a friend at the local BMX track whose dad always made his frames for him. I think I was around 14 when the true value of that began to sink in. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">As I grew older, I moved away from BMX and mountain bike racing and began racing motorcycles. With the same desire to maximize my bike's performance based on my needs and style, I endlessly tinkered with the bike's suspension. At the same time, my brother and I would build race cars and rock crawlers out of our parents auto shop. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Around 2015, I found my way back to mountain bikes with an entirely new understanding of the relationship between vehicle and rider, along with an array of fabrication skills. As my fitness and cycling skills returned, it became apparent that I still had unique desires as a rider. In 2018 I built my first frame, and from there began to endlessly iterate searching for that mythical perfect formula. By 2019 I made that big first step towards professional framebuilding—liability insurance and registration as an LLC.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">It wasn't long after that that a local rider named <a href="https://www.instagram.com/underpaid.intern/" target="_blank">Daniel Yang</a> contacted me about building a custom frame. He was looking for exactly the type of bike I like to make: an aggressive modern mountain bike but with a mellow, enjoyable side. Daniel, as it would turn out, has always had aspirations to make his own bikes and has a wealth of knowledge in additive manufacturing. We began working together refining frame designs and integrating new and cutting edge 3D printed parts to build more refined bikes quickly and with more accuracy. We tested parts, developed supply chains, refined geometries, and tested parts. We went all in on understanding and testing additive manufacturing and its use in bicycle construction.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">That brings us to where I am now: three quarters of the way through the year with 53 frames built to date, two separate models each with 11 unique sizes available, and just over a three-month lead time.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Tell us about your motor sports experience. How does it translate into bike building?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">My time spent racing dirt bikes and street bikes really helped sharpen my understanding of the relationship between rider and machine. I was very fortunate to have a number of established suspension tuners share their knowledge with me, and while the dynamics between motorcycle and bike differ, the foundational knowledge is the same.  </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do you describe your bikes?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">The most comfortable and compliant hardtail you'll ever ride—yet completely up to the task of handling whatever you want to throw at it. One of my customers said it best: “It is amazing how solid it feels in response to rider input, while it remains relatively indifferent to trail input.”</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">At a glance the Hummingbird and Solstice look very similar. How do they differ?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">The ride feels very similar between the two, but the <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/solstice29" target="_blank">Solstice</a> is a little longer up front, both in length and fork travel, a little slacker, and has a slightly shorter rear end. The Solstice is plenty happy getting to the top of the hill at a leisurely pace, while the hummingbird makes you feel like you want to push harder. Once at the top both bikes are capable descenders, but as the trails steepen and get rougher the Solstice will feel more at home.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">On the flip side, if you find yourself picking your way over and around rocks or carving nicely groomed berms with small little hits and chutes in between, the <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/hummingbird" target="_blank">Hummingbird</a> will have the edge—thanks to its shorter wheelbase and increased agility. I always tell people, “if you don't know that you want the Solstice then you probably want the Hummingbird.” The Solstice likes the trails to be a bit steeper and rougher, the Hummingbird is going to cover the more mellow trails a bit more quickly while keeping things entertaining. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What does the end-to-end process for a custom build look like?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">While I do offer <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/custom-mountain-bikes" target="_blank">full custom builds</a>, the majority of my frames are one of the two production models with something we call <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/full-spectrum-sizing" target="_blank">Full Spectrum Sizing</a>. The goal with Full Spectrum Sizing is to offer a near custom fit without any of the stress of feeling like you need some level of knowledge of what you want or need. As a customer I want to do business with companies that are easy to do business with, and that is what I strive to provide. If you can look at the models and geo charts and know what you want, an order can be placed through my web store. If you have questions and need help deciding what size and model is ideal for you, I welcome all emails and am more than happy getting into your exact requirements to ensure you are getting the best bike for you. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I take the same approach with complete bikes. I have put together <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/complete-builds" target="_blank">two build kits</a> at different price points, both consisting of parts I personally use and trust that add to my bikes, but I am more than happy to help you spec that full custom dream build if that is what you are after. Of course there are options for all frames: each frame can be built with either a T47 or a PF30 bottom bracket shell, ISCG tabs are available as an option should a bashguard be desired, and any combination of additional bottle, bolt on bag, and rack bosses are available. Of course the color choice is totally up to the customer and they can choose from thousands of powder coat <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/colors" target="_blank">color options</a>. New for 2023 the Hummingbird can be ordered with sliding dropouts as well.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Who do you consider to be a crush-worthy builder (or brand) these days, and why?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Ooh, that's tough. I feel like I have to list a few. <a href="https://binghambuiltbikes.com/the-builder/" target="_blank">Brad Bingham</a> because his welds are absolutely stunning. I'd also have to say <a href="https://www.bastioncycles.com/" target="_blank">Bastion Cycles</a>. They have really pushed the envelope when it comes to additive manufacturing and get huge props for bringing their 3D printing in house so quickly. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What additive parts do you use on your frames? How does it work?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">We print our chainstay yokes and seat tube yokes (Y yoke), the bottle bracket, dropper port and the associated port seal. The yokes are printed to improve frame performance while maintaining appropriate tire and chainring clearances. Each Y yoke is size specific and designed based on the tubing and (ultimately) rider size to maintain a consistent feel across all frame sizes. Each frame size uses a specific set of tubes to ensure that a 5'1" rider on an XXS has the same experience as a 6'5" rider on an XXL.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The bottle bracket is a part designed to allow for more dropper insertion into the seat tube. It also tips the bottle forward, giving more room for a second bottle on smaller frames. Every frame can hold a regular bottle on the down tube and at least a small bottle on the seat tube. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">The dropper ports were designed out of an identified need for a cable entry port that actually seals water out and stays in place. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">We work directly with our printer rather than going through a middleman. We are afforded this opportunity thanks to Daniels wealth of knowledge in additive manufacturing, and ultimately it gives us more control of the parts and processes.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What unique challenges do you have in front of you?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">As a one-man operation I need to be as effective as possible with my time. While bouncing between fabrication, finishing, assembly, and shipping, I want to provide high quality handmade bikes as affordably as possible and figure out how to scale my business without drastically increasing overhead costs. I'm sure this will continue to be a challenge moving forward.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What can we expect from Neuhaus in the future?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">More amazing bikes. Of course the <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/solstice29" target="_blank">Solstice</a> and <a href="https://www.neuhausmetalworks.com/hummingbird" target="_blank">Hummingbird</a> are here to stay, but I am really hoping to expand my product range over the coming year to include gravel and road bikes. The versatility and flexibility in design afforded by 3D printing provides a way to reduce cost while improving design and functionality. This means we can pivot quickly when new standards or designs dictate and create a workflow that lends itself well to constant evolution. The road to perfection is long and uncertain, but our design processes and use of modern technology will help us navigate it while making some of the best bikes around.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Oh, and titanium—I have a feeling that in the not-so-distant future all of your favorite Neuhaus Metalworks frames will also be available in titanium… but that's just a feeling. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Conclusion</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">When looking at small batch hardtails, the mind conjures up a scene of a shop, a builder, a welding torch and jig—a place and process where technology plays a very small part. Sure, geometries might change over time, but, in essence, hardtails imply a traditional sense of craftsmanship and a mindset that has ultimately remained untouched by technology. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">But that's not Nick's story. His scene is that shop, but his approach is about adoption and open mindedness to new forms of fabrication. Even fresher is Nick's idea that using these technologies is much more than a marketing ploy: it's a way to improve products for people. Together, 3D printing and Nick's unique approach to sizing make his bikes way more flexible in their production. Not a common trait of small batch building. We applaud this; and hey, straight up, that Y yoke looks damn good.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Nick is definitely on the right path and his bikes are hot. We expect that we will be seeing much more of Neuhaus in the future, and we can't wait to see what that future is. </p>

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Neuhaus Metalworks is the moniker of Nick Neuhaus, a builder who creates some beautiful hardtails with the latest additive manufacturing techniques.

Neuhaus Metalworks: Additive Performance Bikes

Neuhaus Metalworks: Additive Performance


<p className="readable-intro mid">Inspired by a short film, Barry set out on an overnight bikepacking trip with his son, Huxley. Bikepacking with children is a fantastic activity and requires a different approach to planning and setup. Come along for the ride and see how they planned, packed and cried.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">A few weeks ago, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rjsauer" target="_blank">RJ Sauer</a>, a filmmaker and ultra racer from British Columbia, released a short film called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58mN_PGbhRA" target="_blank">Along For The Ride: A Tale Of Bikeparenting</a>. The film features RJ and his three-year-old son, Ollie, who together tackle the 320km <a href="https://www.desertgravel.com/rexy/" target="_blank">Rexy Gravel Race</a> in Fruita, Colorado. If you are a bikepacking parent, do not miss this film. It is worth every one of its thirty-five minutes.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The film stopped me dead in my tracks. When my kids were younger I would pull them in a trailer, adventuring around town, so I have a sense of how much work this must have been for RJ—he is a machine and one helluva dad to boot. About one year ago, we sold our beloved <a href="https://www.thule.com/en-ca/bike-trailers/bike-trailers-for-multiple-activities/thule-chariot-cross-2-_-10202023" target="_blank">Thule Chariot</a> trailer, as the kids simply became too big and heavy to pull. This limited the cycling we could do together, I assumed, until they were old enough to join me on the trails. However, RJ's film had me reassess that idea completely, and I got to work planning a ride with our eldest, seven-year-old Huxley.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">This would be Huxley's second big ride. Earlier in the summer, he surprised me when he hammered a 30km gravel ride and seemingly wanted more. Maybe he was ready to strap on some bikepacking bags and hit a quick, local overnighter.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Routes, Packing & Gear</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">There's something very individualistic about bikepacking and, well, cycling in general. You tend to think about yourself most of the time: What do I need? What will I eat? It's very rarely 'we', even when in a group. This was the first time I had to think about the needs of another person while bikepacking—and that person happens to be my son—so no pressure!</p>

<p className="readable narrow">We started by getting Hux's bike outfitted with some bags. This was a lot of fun and surprisingly easy, as I have a bin full of old bags I no longer use. Hux currently rides a <a href="https://www.trekbikes.com/ca/en_CA/bikes/kids-bikes/kids-hybrid-bikes/precaliber/precaliber-24-8-speed/p/28126/" target="_blank">Trek Precaliber 24</a>—a bright red, alloy, 8-speed that he loves. First we fit the bike with my old handlebar bag, a <a href="https://www.ortlieb.com/en_us/handlebar-pack+F9922" target="_blank">15L Ortlieb</a>. I figured most of his storage capacity would have to be on his handlebars as the bike's seat sits about an inch off the back tire and does not allow for a saddle bag. The bag fit great and he was happy with its size. Next up, a frame bag. We both had a good laugh when we found that my <a href="https://ortlieb.ca/products/frame-pack-toptube?variant=39592016609441&currency=CAD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic" target="_blank">Ortlieb top tube bag</a> fit the Trek's inner triangle almost perfectly. Boom. Bags: check.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Next up—and a little tougher—was our sleep kit. The original plan was to have Hux in my one-man <a href="https://www.mec.ca/en/product/6000-984/spark-2.0-1-person-tent?colour=Neutral+Grey%2FDeep+Navy" target="_blank">MEC Spark tent</a>, while I slept next to his tent in an <a href="https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/accessories/alpine-ascentshell-bivy-287711" target="_blank">Outdoor Research bivy</a>. When we discussed it, I could tell he was going along with the idea even though he wasn't too excited about sleeping alone. Luckily, a friend lent us a two man <a href="https://www.msrgear.com/ca/tents/backpacking-tents/hubba-hubba-2-person-backpacking-tent/11506.html" target="_blank">MSR Hubba Hubba</a>, as well as an extra sleep pad.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">One thing I noodled on for a long time was the route. Hux had done the 30km gravel ride but that was on fairly straightforward terrain. There is a straight shot gravel ride to the campground we were heading to, and I could have planned that route easily. But I wanted him to feel like we were getting out there, slogging through the backcountry—so I planned <a href="https://www.komoot.com/tour/938061883" target="_blank">a 35km route</a> that took us through some local doubletrack that I ride frequently.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The night before we set out, I was a bit nervous. I usually get a case of last minute nerves the night before big rides, but this was different. A lot of questions were still looming in my mind. Was the route too tough? Did I pack the right food? Enough of it? We need snacks! My brain bounced around all night and I ended up not sleeping very well.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Day 1: Esquimalt to Goldstream Campground (via Thetis Trails)</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I woke up a bit groggy and coffee'd my way through some last minute packing before Hux woke up. When he did, he called me into his room and the first words out of his mouth were “bike riiiide”, followed by a mischievous grin. We had a nice breakfast of warm oatmeal before saying bye to Mom and Frankie (little sister).</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">We biked downtown and stopped at <a href="https://caffefantastico.com/pages/bar-deli" target="_blank">Fantastico</a>, a great little coffee shop at the head of our local trail system, to plan and discuss the day's ride. We had a coffee and snack, took some photos in the beautiful morning light, and hit the road once again up the <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/galloping-goose-regional-trail" target="_blank">Galloping Goose Trail</a>.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">At 7km, we got off the pavement and hit the gravel and started up a local trail that follows the Colquitz River. About halfway up the trail we stopped to filter some water. It was getting hot and I wanted to make sure that our bidons were full before pushing on. I sometimes forget that at 7 years old everything is a discovery and the simplest of things can blow your mind. I showed Hux how to use my <a href="https://www.katadyngroup.com/us/en/8019639-katadyn-befree-0.6-us~p10915" target="_blank">Katadyn water filter</a>, and watched him collect murky water from the stream and squeeze out fresh, clean water. Briefly, we were scientists. Even when our bottles were way past filled, Hux kept on filtering the stream water, his inquiring mind activated by the simple act that I have performed so many times.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">By this point, we were approaching our first stretch of single track when the thought entered my mind, “this is Hux's first time bikepacking and his first time mountain biking!” Both of these things were about to happen at the same time, and I started wondering if I was pushing a bit too hard. When we hit the singletrack I slowed down to make sure he was ok: he was more than fine as he hammered the rooty and rocky sections like they were nothing. Woot. After a quick break and peanut snack we turned off the gravel path and headed into the hills.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">At the top of our first very large climb, we were greeted by a friendly eldery gentleman and a couple of sheep baaaa-ing at us. Both were a welcome distraction from the tough climb we had just endured. After a few more kilometers of some mixed surface, the first signs of fatigue started showing up. We still had about 15km of doubletrack in front of us, and I started to wonder if I had mis-planned this adventure. It felt like it was a great time to stop for lunch on <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/7755431265" target="_blank">my favorite powerline</a> track. We enjoyed the open views and some homemade onigiri that Mom had prepared for us. Just the thing to get our energy levels up.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Once we started again, we hit some chonky doubletrack and I hoped we could push through. At one point I went ahead too quickly and down a fork in the road assuming Hux was right behind me. But he wasn't. By the time I noticed, I was around a corner and couldn't see him. I instantly panicked. I called his name and didn't get a response and my adrenaline spiked. I turned the bike around and hammered back up the road to find him at the fork crying. “I didn't know which way you went”, he said. My heart smashed into 1000 little pieces. What on earth was I thinking? He's just seven years old. We sat down, hugged, and had a good cry in the middle of the forest, just us two. Holding him made me feel how small he was in the huge forest. So small, but such a big part of me.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">We called Mom to come shuttle us to the campground, which was still a ways away. It was a holiday Friday and we were very lucky to get a spot. Grateful that we had called in our emergency support and were able to finish out the trip properly, we said bye to Mom for the second time that day. Hux found some kids to play with, and I set up camp. In the afternoon, we had a play in the playground, came back to make dinner, and started a fire. We used the <a href="/gear/camping-gear/jetboil-flash">Jetboil</a> to rehydrate our backpacking meals, which was an instant hit with Hux. We stared into the fire not saying very much, as the day's activities made us calm and reflective. At 9:15, we plopped into our tent and fell asleep. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Day 2: Goldstream Campground to Esquimalt</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Wow. I slept in. I woke up at 7am, about 2 hours later than usual. Hux was still fast asleep when I managed to sneak out, fire up the jetboil and enjoy a cup of coffee. I reflected that this might be my favorite time, place and activity on earth. Waking up in a tent and making a coffee before anyone else is up. Such a simple pleasure, but somehow super rare for a man with two jobs, two kids, a wife, a house and way too many hobbies.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Hux slept until 8am and had a solid sleep even though it was his first time on a lightweight blowup sleeping pad and in a lightweight bag. A tired kid really will sleep anywhere and on anything. We had our instant maple-flavoured oatmeal breakfast with sliced apple, which felt like a simple treat. I forgot to pack a second spoon, so we had to take turns eating. We sat at the table with our meals, staring at the sun coming over the horizon lighting up the trees.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">We packed up, said our goodbyes to our new friends next door, and took the easier gravel path home. The new day almost wiped away any memory of the challenges from the day before. We were refreshed and nothing seemed to stop us. Hux tackled the route home with rigor and I could see he was thinking about wrapping this adventure up.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Conclusion</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I am lucky Hux is now at an age where he can start joining me on activities. However, I do need to keep myself in check when planning these activities for a while yet. Bikepacking with kids takes massive empathy and the ability to see the world through their eyes. Even though I had tried to be thoughtful and plan an easier route, it was pretty clear early on that the double track and elevation was too much. In hindsight, we should have taken the simpler gravel path and simply got used to having bags on our bikes first. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">I usually have a hard time riding with other people. Different types of riding, variety of skill and fitness always make it hard for me to really connect with other riders. I'm a lone (loam?) wolf. For me bikes have always been a way to test and compete with myself—which is obviously the wrong mindset for bikepacking with kids, and something I will need to work on as Hux and I do this again and again.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Hux and I had a blast on this trip and I know they will only get better. A huge thank you to RJ Sauer for making the film he did, when he did. If he hadn't, I would still be in waiting mode. Waiting for what exactly? I'm not even sure. As they say, the best time is now. You may just need to slow down a bit ;)</p>

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Inspired by a short film, Barry and Huxley set out on their first overnight bikepacking trip.

Bikepacking With Kids

Our First Overnighter: Bikepacking With Kids


<p className="readable-intro mid">Andrew and Katie Strempke are ultra-bikepack racers who apply their experience to making some kick-butt bike bags. Their company <a href="https://dispersed.bike" target="_blank">Dispersed Bikepacking</a> is the first (that we know of) to be creating bikepacking bags 100% from the road and with solar power. An inspiring tale. Read on.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I have a massive crush on Dispersed Bikepacking. The company of two consists of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/strempke/" target="_blank">Andrew</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/katie.strempke/" target="_blank">Katie</a> Strempke.A couple who live an inspirational life of van living, ultra-bikepack racing, and awesome bike bag making. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">My crush is not only due to the fact that I love their bags, but also because both Katie and Andrew are accomplished bikepacking racers who race for <a href="https://chumbausa.com/" target="_blank">Chumba Bikes</a> (who we also crush on). In this year's <a href="https://bikepacking.com/tracker/2022-tour-divide-tracker/" target="_blank">Tour Divide</a>, both Katie and Andrew ran single speeds for the entire 2745 miles (4420 km) from Canada to New Mexico. Andrew took first place in the singlespeed category and 9th overall, while Katie was the first woman to do the event on a single speed and the second woman to cross the line. Bananas.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Aside from their racing exploits, I am always blown away by people who decide to uproot their lives and live in a van in the pursuit of adventure. It's a move that I definitely romanticize, and I always wonder how people make it work for extended periods of time. In my daydreams, when I think about joining the van life circuit, my first question always revolves around the realities of it—like how to make a living. What do van-dwellers actually do to feed themselves? This is why the story of Andrew and Katie inspires me: they have found a way to make it all work. They earn a living making bike bags, while seeing the world, entering race after race, and sleeping under the stars.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">But how do you start any sort of manufacturing company from a van? The answer is in the first line on the Dispersed Bikepacking website: “Made on planet earth with the power of the sun”. One hundred percent of Dispersed bike bags are created with solar energy. You know, that infinite source of energy that manages to feed us and keep us all warm on this little ball hurtling through space. For me, this incredible fact only brought up more questions around powering industrial machines and, of course, how do they fit it all into a van? I had to learn more and was excited when Andrew and Katie agreed to chat. Let's go.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did Dispersed start?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">For my birthday one year Katie gave me her sister's old sewing machine and the necessary material to make two frame bags. I followed a tutorial online and made some simple bags that we ended up using when we toured the <a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/great-divide-mountain-bike-route-gdmbr/" target="_blank">Great Divide Route</a> in 2018. Fast forward a few years and I had made frame bags for all of our bikes and a few friends' bikes, along with prototype top tube bags, handlebar harnesses, seat bags, and downtube bags. In late 2021, we had been living in our van for over a year and I needed to figure out some remote work. I already had a sewing machine in the van to make bags for fun, so I decided to start a business and try to sell some bags to pay for food and bike parts. I recruited my sister to design a logo, ordered some patches and stickers, and officially launched Dispersed in March 2022.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What does 'Dispersed' mean for you exactly?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Most of the time we are dispersed—camping in our van which is parked on public land, rather than in a campground. All the bags are made in the van, which means they're made while being “dispersed.” I like to think that our bags are used on bikepacking trips involving dispersed camping.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How long have you been living the van life for?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">A little over two years at this point. We sold our house on July 1, 2020, and we drove west to Colorado the same day to start living out of our van. The van life has been great for us; we've enjoyed following the weather and riding new trails. Our living space is small, but we try to spend as much time as we can outside the van. When we made the move, our goal was to ride bikes in beautiful places, not just to live in a van. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">We get along with each other well and we're both pretty easy going, which helps when you're in close proximity all day long. Working in the van isn't easy—bag material is slowly encroaching on our sleeping space and sometimes we've been forced to leave perfect campsites in search of better cell service. For us, the benefits of being mobile outweigh the challenges of living and working in a van.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Where did the idea for solar power as a means of production come from?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Solar power is all we have in the van! We have a couple “house” batteries that are solely powered by 200W of solar panels on our roof. Solar panels are a no-brainer when converting a van: they charge your batteries whether you're driving or not. Plus they're pretty inexpensive. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How efficient is solar in powering an industrial sewing machine?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">The solar panels keep us pretty well powered up, although we do tend to spend most of our time in sunny places. The sewing machine uses 150W, and is plugged into a small inverter. It's only used in short bursts when I'm pressing the foot pedal. It's not a full industrial machine, but it does have a walking foot and is more powerful than your typical household sewing machine.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How does racing and bag making fit together in your opinion?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">We've been racing bikes since 2012, although we only started competing in bikepacking races in 2019. Races since then include: Colorado Trail Race, Tour Divide, Arizona Trail 300, Smoke n' Fire, Pinyons and Pines, and Utah Mixed Epic. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">From a bag making perspective, racing provides invaluable testing grounds. I don't normally ride through rain and mud all day for a week, but during a race the bags are subjected to those harsh conditions. Seeing what does and doesn't survive a long race determines how future bags are designed. I've had coil zippers jam with mud and seen many jammed waterproof zippers, so all Dispersed bags use large molded-tooth zippers. The large teeth withstand sand and mud much better. I've also had zipper seams start to separate when bags are overstuffed, so I've since upgraded to a heavier duty thread and every seam on the bag now gets at least 2 passes.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's your favorite place to park the van and just ride?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">We both agree that Moab, UT is our favorite. So much great riding in the surrounding area along with stunning views; there are so many trail networks to ride and jeep roads to explore. The <a href="https://bikepacking.com/routes/bikepacking-the-white-rim/" target="_blank">White Rim Trail</a> is one of our favorites, a classic 100 mile ride with non-stop views.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What can we expect from Dispersed in the future?</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">I always have a design in my head for a new bag or piece of gear. It's just a matter of carving out time to work on new prototypes when there is a queue of customer bags to be made. Handlebar and seat bags will be available some day. The van is mobile, so I've dreamed of setting up shop at a race or event and making bags on the spot. Hopefully lots more custom bags for big bikepacking adventures!</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Wrapping Up</h3>
<p className="readable narrow">Living the van life can't always be easy. For me, the dream of doing it one day is definitely a symptom of the “grass is greener” type thinking. However, seeing Katie and Andrew living their best lives—riding, racing and bag making—makes me itch to get out more.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I absolutely love companies that are approaching manufacturing in new and environmentally friendly ways. Many companies out there look at offsetting their carbon footprints through credits, which is definitely still a great option. However, on the surface, credits can potentially appear to be paying your way out of harmful behaviors and practices. The idea of using 100% renewable energy to manufacture physical goods puts the emphasis on power consumption before the product is made. This excites me beyond belief.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">A core value of bikepacking is the idea of “leave no trace”, but this idea is usually applied to the individual rider. What if more companies in our industry applied that ethos to manufacturing and operations? As with all small endeavors, the Strempkes will face some challenging decisions as their bags grow in popularity and operations begin to scale. Until then, I feel that Dispersed Bikepacking is a model for other companies out there on how to operate sustainably.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">PS - Andrew and Katie, if you are ever on Vancouver Island, you have a place to park your van. ✊</p>

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Andrew and Katie Strempke are ultra-bikepack racers who apply their experience to making some kick-butt bike bags. Oh, and they are made with 100% solar power.

Dispersed Bikepacking: Sun Powered Bike Bags


<p className="readable-intro mid">Boulder-based <a href="https://www.corvidcycles.com/" target="_blank">Corvid Cycles</a> is the moniker of custom titanium builder Chad Corbin. Five years ago, Chad shifted the focus of his career from engineering and programming to making lovely, lovely bikes designed for the dirt. We spoke to Chad about his bikes, the process, his career and the future of Corvid. Read on.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">When I was a kid looking at glossy mountain bike magazines in the 90s, I could see all the angles and recognize the geometry of brands as clear as day. I would wonder about the people who made the bikes; and I wanted to be one. Even today, I still flirt with the idea of rebooting my life as a frame builder: leaving the world behind to go deep on learning how to build jigs, tig welding and filet brazing steel.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Craftsmanship has always been something for which I have great respect. When a creator has the time and space to go deep into their craft and build a process to make something beautiful, well that's simply admirable. There's nothing I love more than coming across new craft people doing their thing. That's why I started the <a href="/bikes/lists/bike-builders">indie bike builder list</a>. The list is an annual compendium of brands, builders and small batch makers that have caught my eye over the years. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">One of my favorites from this year's list was Corvid Cycles from Colorado. Corvid is a custom titanium shop headed up by builder Chad Corbin. There was something about Chad's bikes that instantly stood out for me among others. What is clear from Chad's bikes is a genuine appreciation and embrace of 'the beauty of simplicity'. That raw titanium and raw carbon look will get. Me. Everytime.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Chad and I were supposed to meet this summer, but unfortunately my trip to Boulder was canceled. However, I still wanted to talk to Chad—many framebuilders out there have fantastic stories and Chad is no different. His story is one of career pivots, learning, and experimentation. He also has some great thoughts around inclusivity and the future of cycling. Alas, I don't want to give it all away... so here it is.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did Corvid come to be?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I started building lugged steel frames in the early 2000's. I learned from a combination of now defunct internet forums and books like the <a href="https://theframebuilders.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/The-Paterek-Manual.pdf" target="_blank">Paterek manual</a>. Like many builders, I started framebuilding as a hobby, making bikes for friends—I never thought it would turn into a career. Fifteen years later, my partner and I decided to take a year-long sabbatical from work (which, for us both, ended up as permanent leave). During that time, I had the opportunity to take a titanium frame-building class at the <a href="https://bikeschool.com" target="_blank">United Bicycle Institute</a> in Ashland, Oregon.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">The following summer, I purchased a welder and a bunch of tubing—and I started practicing. When we returned to Colorado in the fall, I found a job at <a href="https://januscyclegroup.com/" target="_blank">Janus Cycle Group</a>, the parent company of <a href="https://deanbikes.com/" target="_blank">Dean Titanium</a> and <a href="https://www.merlinbikes.com/" target="_blank">Merlin</a> brands. After a year as the lead builder and production manager, I decided to start Corvid Cycles.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do you describe your bikes?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Fun, versatile, clean, refined, and—most importantly—one-of-a-kind. I build each bike to fit the rider's use and riding style. Although I have different models, each bike is custom and unique. Custom may mean specific geometry to accommodate a special need, additional mounts for a specific accessory, or tweaking the design to accommodate a non-standard mix of components. In four years of business I haven't built two identical frames, and I hope I never will.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's your favorite bike to build?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">This is a hard question because there are aspects to each model that I love to build, and others I find absolutely tedious. I'm not a huge fan of the flat mount process, but it speeds-up the back end of the build by eliminating the brake mount and brake bridge. If it weren't for that, and all of the internal routing that usually accompanies gravel bikes, I'd probably say the <a href="https://www.corvidcycles.com/portfolio_page/grt/" target="_blank">GRT</a>.</p>

<p className="readable narrow"><a href="https://www.corvidcycles.com/portfolio_page/sojourner/" target="_blank">The Sojourner</a> is also quite a fun frame to build, but the <a href="https://pinion.eu/en/" target="_blank">Pinon</a> shell adds some complexity to the back end and requires a lot more weld time. Most Sojourners also end-up with 20 or more bosses for bottles, bags and other accessories, so that can get a bit tiresome. I actually love welding in the bosses, but drilling, deburring and brushing them is an exercise in patience.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I guess the <a href="https://www.corvidcycles.com/portfolio_page/corax/" target="_blank">CORAX</a> would be my favorite because it is fairly straight-foward as far as building goes, and since I'm a mountain biker at heart, I know it will be a super fun and versatile bike for the owner.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Why titanium? What are your feelings on other materials?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Each frame material has its place according to its strengths and weaknesses. Carbon and aluminum are great for lightweight road racing bikes but can be stiff and lifeless. Those qualities can be used in full suspension mountain bikes to prevent flex so that the suspension can do its job. Steel is a lively, springy material, and makes great road, gravel and hardtail mountain bikes, but must be painted and maintained to prevent corrosion. I don't have experience with bamboo or wood, so can't comment there.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Ti is a really interesting material that is somewhat lively and springy like steel, but has a “softness” (aka compliance) that contributes to its famous ride quality. It's a little heavier than a comparable carbon or aluminum bike, but much more resistant to impact and less likely to fail catastrophically. Compared to steel, it is lighter and doesn't require paint since it doesn't corrode. I've been riding Ti since the 90's (!) and am a bit biased, but I think it is a great material for road, gravel and hardtail mountain bikes, where comfort and durability are more important than weight.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What does the end-to-end process look like for a Corvid bike?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Every bike starts with an interview to understand the rider, what they plan to do with their bike, how they ride, what type of terrain they will be riding on, etc. Each interview takes an hour or more and is the most critical part of the process. Everything I build is custom, so making sure I understand the rider well at the beginning is super important. The interview also tells me which components the rider wants, what their budget is, and ultimately allows me to create a quote. If the customer decides to place a deposit, then we work towards developing a frame design based on the rider's dimensions. More often than not, I will have the rider visit a bike fitter so that we can be sure that what I design fits perfectly. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow">The production process starts with cutting and mitering the tubes. I will then build seat tube and chainstay sub-assemblies, and weld in cable ports if the design requires. The tubes and sub-assemblies are then placed into a fixture and the frame is fully fused (welded) without additional filler wire, ensuring a sound, full-penetration weld. Titanium is highly reactive with oxygen at high temperatures, so the frame is filled with argon and the weld area flooded with argon to keep the weld area from being contaminated. After the fusion weld, the frame is removed from the fixture, placed in a bike stand, and welded a second time with filler wire to strengthen the joint. I then install bridges and bosses, ream, face, chase and hand brush before final assembly.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How does being from Boulder affect you as a builder (or vice versa)?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Boulder has a large biking community that appreciates and supports local builders. Although most of my builds leave the state these days, the opportunity to build for and receive feedback from local buyers, and in return, receive free word-of-mouth advertising is huge for a small business. I'm also grateful for a large community of local builders who are always willing to help if needed. And of course it certainly doesn't hurt that we have access to some of the best road, gravel and trail systems around to help me design and test my bikes.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Your partner is a bag maker, can you tell us more?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Like me, my partner Shan is a recovering engineer who turned her hobby into her profession. She's been slowly building the foundation for making custom bags over the last few years, first by working at a local outdoor gear repair service, and then by making custom bags for me and friends. This experience has allowed her to see how all sorts of outdoor textiles are constructed and how to best repair them. In the last year she has been making custom bags for many of my bikepacking builds, and her company, Reroot Outdoors, will have its official “debut” during the Philly Bike Expo in late October. It's been great to be able to provide custom bikes and bags under one roof, and I'm really excited to see her grow her business. She'll be the first to admit that her social media and web presence needs some work, but you can find her at <a href="http://www.rerootoutdoors.com" target="_blank">rerootoutdoors.com</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rerootoutdoors/" target="_blank">@rerootoutdoors</a> on Instagram.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What does "Titanium Bicycles for Every Body" really mean?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">I founded Corvid Cycles with an audacious statement: "Titanium Bicycles for Every Body". The statement is a deliberate play on words meaning not just bodies of varying size and shape, but also of varying ability, reflecting my long-term goal of providing access to bicycles for those with physical disabilities. But in the context of the events following the summer of 2020, I realized the meaning must expand to encompass all of those communities underrepresented in cycling.</p>

<center> <div className="quote wide"> <h3>“Our industry is predominately white, male, and middle to upper income. It is inaccessible to women, people of color, the LGBT+ community, and those with special needs.”</h3> </div> </center>

<p className="readable narrow">It is no secret that the bicycle industry, and indeed the greater outdoor industry as a whole, lacks equal representation. Our industry is predominately white, male, and middle to upper income. It is inaccessible to women, people of color, the LGBT+ community, and those with special needs. To that end, I have pledged to donate a portion of my annual profits to supporting individuals and organizations devoted to increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in cycling, and in the broader community. This is an ongoing effort.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What can we expect from Corvid in the future?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Balance. The last two years have been crazy busy with increased demand, compounded by shipping delays and component shortages—which have drastically increased the time I put into each build. That said, I really can't complain because business has been excellent and I have a healthy wait list of builds in the queue. But—I'm feeling a bit crispy after two difficult years. I'm planning to make more time for myself, to keep myself physically and mentally healthy, so that I can continue to produce for a long time. In practice, that means taking a few builds off the calendar so that my partner and I can take more trips with our bikes throughout the year. In terms of building, I'll be officially announcing a new model that I've been building “off menu” for the last two years that fits between my GRT gravel model and my MAP drop-bar MTB.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Wrapping Up</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Chatting with Chad brought up some fantastic themes that really hit home for many of us. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">The idea that work and career don't have to be a constant, single direction. That we are allowed to rethink what it is we do on this earth, and to follow our passions. In fact, we sometimes have to take a leap in order to land in a place that will be most rewarding to us. Having gone through some massive work-related changes myself, I admire stories like Chad's and wonder if I have shifted enough.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The idea of inclusivity in cycling is something that I think and write about a lot. It's great to see that even at the indie builder level someone is considering what this means and how to approach it.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">And finally the idea of craftsmanship: what Chad is doing is beyond aspirational. It takes guts to stay small and honest in what you build. I imagine with Corvid's growing success, Chad will have some decisions to make about the direction his company and bikes take. Wherever that leads, we will be following along.</p>

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Five years ago, Chad Corbin pivoted his career and started making lovely, lovely bikes designed for the dirt. We spoke to Chad about his bikes, the process, his career and the future of cycling.

Corvid Cycles: Crafted Titanium Bikes

A Peek Inside Corvid Cycles: Crafted Titanium Bikes


<p className="readable-intro mid">Todd Nisbet (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/concretetrails/" target="_blank">@concretetrails</a>) is a cyclist from New York City who challenges every bikepacking cliché—where to ride, how to dress—all of it. We were happy to chat with Todd about community, personal growth, how he got into bikepacking, and how he merged his love of street apparel and cycling. Sit back, read slowly, and enjoy this one.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Recently I was mentioning to my wife how bikepacking culture is seemingly predictable across every site and medium. Cut to a video of two to four friends in their faux flannel cycling shirts, probably underbiked and over-bagged, a few drone shots of mountains, slow motion shots of aeropress coffee making… you know the video, because you have seen it a hundred times. What used to inspire me four or five years ago now makes me wince. I said there has to be something new, something fresh, something that challenges what bikepacking is, and—maybe more importantly—<em>who it's for</em></p>

<p className="readable narrow">Two days after that conversation, I stumbled across an Instagram account that offered up that freshness I was yearning for. Todd Nisbet (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/concretetrails/" target="_blank">@concretetrails</a>) is a bikepacker from New York City who challenges every cliché in bikepacking culture. From what he wears to where he rides—it all ladders up into something different, new and fresh—urban bikepacking. Having lived in Brooklyn for a short while, I have to admit the idea of bikepacking the city never even crossed my mind. Bikepacking is supposed to be out in the wild…right?!</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I was excited when Todd agreed to chat, and was blown away by his style, personality and thoughtfulness. The best example of his character came through in a personal message he wrote to me. This was not intended to be published, but it's a great window into how Todd sees the world and is a great preface for his interview below. </p>

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    <p className="readable narrow">Barry. I love when someone comes across my page or a photo of me with my bike and says, “This person is different”. I've always felt different. So it's emulated in the way I dress, talk, and of course, ride a bike. Not sure if it was my upbringing or life choices to this point. Probably just about everything I've encountered and everyone I've ever met. We are all a reflection of each other and the world around us.</p>

    <p className="readable narrow">I believe my cycling style is similar to surfing more than any other sport. I spot a ride I want, I wait for the right moment, and I just go for it. It's also important to remember that the ride will end, like a wave crashing and returning to the calm sea. I just flow through the challenges my bike and I take on together.</p>
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<p className="readable narrow">Onto the interview...</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How did you get into cycling and bikepacking?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">After living in New York City for over a decade, I got back into cycling in my mid-30s. At first, I was doing it to commute from my apartment to the office everyday; on a bike, life felt new again. Maybe because the last time I owned a bike I was a teenager. My bike made me feel young, vulnerable, adventurous, and open to new things.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">After a year of commuting, I wanted a larger bike that could hold more gear. I ended up buying a new bike and adding a rear rack, then some huge Thule panniers and finally some Blackburn frame and front bags. I was ready for adventure and the first campsite I visited fully loaded with gear was in Brooklyn, NY early 2016. Many New Yorkers still don't know about that campsite, as it has been closed for a few years now, but it's still my favorite campsite to this day. <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233309" target="_blank">Camp Gateway</a> at Floyd Bennett Field, approximately 25-30 miles from my apartment doorstep. Riding a fully loaded bike through the city streets is such a thrilling experience for me. As much now as it was the first time.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What do you do when not on the bike?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Professionally, I work in the fashion business. I began my career in my early 20's, hungry for any opportunity that involved clothing, footwear, hats, socks, you name it. Even watches grabbed my attention, especially pocket watches. Over the years I've done enough to have a few portfolios that include photography, wardrobe styling, merchandising, marketing and sales. I'm a unique professional, just as I'm a unique person. We all are, but it's rare I come across someone as well versed in street fashion. That's the segment I've worked with the most.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What is it like cycling 100 miles in denim and boots? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Good question. I only biked <a href="https://youtu.be/Zbv4doxOstM?t=1580" target="_blank">100 miles in denim and boots</a> once during a race. I placed second to last, but it was one of my favorite rides of 2022 so far. I met so many people from the bikepacking community who, until that point, I had only conversed with on Instagram. Sounds strange, but Instagram is where I first connected with the bikepacking and adventure cycling community. After my first two trips, I started my new Instagram account <a href="https://www.instagram.com/concretetrails/" target="_blank">Concrete Trails</a> and the hashtag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/nycbikepacking/" target="_blank">#nycbikepacking</a>.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Being on my bike with bags full of gear, food and water is so different from my work in fashion, so I decided to keep it separate from my personal handle. Looking back it wasn't because of the way I looked doing it. It was because the activity possessed something so special to me. I felt so free to express myself again. First with two friends, biking and camping, then alone for solo trips as my riding progressed.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I believe this has to do with the reflection I brought up earlier. I had tapped into a community of adventurers all around the globe. Some riders would expose and express their personal struggles in a beautiful way. I related to it—or at least I wanted to… A part of me yearned to be able to share my life experiences so honestly and it took me time to feel safe.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">It's been years and the two worlds are still merging together for me—fashion and adventure cycling. I still post more creatively and openly within my community of cyclists than any other group of people I know. I trust in them, like they trust in me. That's how we progress as a cycling community, but also as human beings. We can learn a lot through a bicycle, about ourselves and others.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What's your favorite route in New York?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">From my apartment in Harlem to meet my two adventure cycling friends in Flushing Queens. That was back in 2016-2017. I would take the West side path downtown because we would make moves early, then right across town around 59th Street. I don't ever remember my chosen route across town being that bike friendly. I would just dive into traffic, sometimes angry, but with excitement, then exploding to smiles and laughs. Once we grouped in Flushing, somehow the plan would come together spontaneously. It wasn't a long ride from there, another 14 miles to the campsite, with a lot of more laughs about what we were doing. It was so different early on that it felt mischievous. Plus there were less bike lanes throughout NYC back then. I would see waterways and nature that I had never seen previously throughout Queens and Brooklyn especially. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Are there any special considerations when planning a bikepacking trip in New York? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">My suggestion would be to rely on the local shops for planned rides early on. There are some great bike shops to check out, so I'll drop a few names. <a href="http://www.718c.com/" target="_blank">718 Cyclery</a> is <em>the</em> Bikepacking institution. They've put on for the NYC community for over a decade and continue to do so with free classes at a local cafe, and they also host a multitude of short to longer distance tours. <a href="https://www.sunandair.nyc/" target="_blank">Sun &amp; Air</a> is an amazing shop in Williamsburg with great knowledge of the culture too. The newest and most extravagant of bicycle shops is <a href="https://eighthhour.studio/" target="_blank">Eighth Hour Studio</a> in Green Point. They match where I envisioned the sport being years back to the present day. I recently attended a hosted ride with them from Washington Heights to Upstate New York. It was challenging, which made it a great experience on a hot summer day. I was drinking slurpees and had a little difficulty climbing some steep hills during the heatwave. I want to say Thank you to the shop, ride leaders/guides, and the riders who I met. I also want to say Thank you to the community of all the bike shops and riders that have supported me over the years.</p>


<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Tell us about your setup. What do you ride and how do you set up your rig? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Currently I have two bikes: a <a href="https://crustbikes.com/products/bombora" target="_blank">Crust Bombora</a>, all steel frame and fork—this one's my first choice because it's new to me. The dusty lavender color caught my eye, but it's also one of the top-rated gravel bikes to check out. I'd recommend <a href="https://crustbikes.com/" target="_blank">Crust Bikes</a> not just for frames, but also for many components and of course some cycling fashion. One of the owners designs a fashion collection named <a href="https://www.instagram.com/therealcasaverde" target="_blank">Casa Verde</a> that is definitely worth your canadian currency. My second bike is a <a href="https://www.ridinggravel.com/gravel-news/raleigh-willard-two-quick-review" target="_blank">Raleigh Willard 2</a>, all aluminum frame and fork. It's all dark green so I styled it in full camouflage and even had olive green tires on it originally.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I keep a lot of options with me for bags and accessories, tools and camping gear. The more you adventure by bicycle, the more comfortable you become. I've realized that most times, less is more; but I still always carry first aid and wardrobe options along on my rides.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">How do people react to you?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Overall, I'd say I stand out in some group cycling settings. NYC has a huge bike messenger and commuter culture, so you'll see plenty of people in casual and functional attire. Even biking in Timberland boots is a normal thing to see occasionally. However, Timberland boots hadn't been seen at a gravel race before I showed up at the <a href="https://www.midsouthgravel.com/" target="_blank">Mid-South Gravel event</a> this past April. I was also showcasing a new denim pant style from <a href="https://www.stanray.com/" target="_blank">Stan Ray USA</a>, a heritage workwear brand that I thought complimented the work boots and the colors of my bike. The bike was a birthday gift to myself and I put in a lot of work to get it. So the workwear statement was appropriate for that reason also. There's usually meaning behind what I wear.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">There's a mini “Ultra Endurance Race” in Texas called the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/easttexasshowdown/" target="_blank">East Texas Showdown</a> that I've attended two seasons in a row. The community in Texas was super welcoming to me which surprised me at first. For the most part, the cycling community has always welcomed me throughout the country.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">You seem to be on the road, what's happening? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">As of mid last year, I've been back and forth to Texas. I work in fashion with a heritage workwear brand called <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stanrayusa" target="_blank">Stan Ray USA</a>. The brand's original sewing factory is here in Texas and still family owned and operated, which is a relief from corporate fashion. I ride in just about everything they currently make and have manufactured over the years. When you have a sewing factory that's 50 years old, there are plenty of vintage garments to experiment with. I've tested all types of current and vintage styles to cycle in. Stan Ray USA is the best in American made workwear and I'm happy to be a part of their team.</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">What is Todd and Concrete Trails' future?</h3>

<p className="readable narrow">More cycling trips, building and becoming a bigger part of the community. Expanding to new wardrobe options, more intense riding experiences, and meeting new cyclists in various cities.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I have a project with an artist partner in Arizona, called <a href="https://www.instagram.com/concrete_revolt" target="_blank">Concrete Revolt</a>. We started by designing woven patches and bandanas to adorn your bicycle and/or clothing. The project is part fundraiser for <a href="https://www.bikepackingroots.org/" target="_blank">Bikepacking Roots</a>, for whom we raised $1,200. Bikepacking Roots is the only non-profit strictly focused on Bikepacking. They create diversity in the sport with a grant program, route building initiatives, you name it. I love them, so give them a follow too.</p>

<p className="readable narrow"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/concrete_revolt" target="_blank">Concrete Revolt</a> will continue to release projects with our own goal of community, fashion, and an intention to reconnect with nature and evolve as human beings. The website will be up soon with a second project, “Wave of the Tiger”.</p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow">Wrapping Up </h3>

<p className="readable narrow">Chatting with Todd was more than a pleasure and has raised some big ideas for me:</p>

<p className="readable narrow"><strong>The idea</strong> that bikepacking is much larger than its clichés of mountains and aeropresses, and that it can also happen in urban landscapes as populous as New York City.</p>

<p className="readable narrow"><strong>The idea</strong> that there is, in fact, a huge community of people around the world with different interests and backgrounds all connecting over something as simple as putting stuff in a bike bag and finding some adventure.</p>

<p className="readable narrow"><strong>The idea</strong> that seemingly disparate cultures—like street fashion and off-road cycling—can converge into something that feels completely new and exciting.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">There are a ton of people out there who think of cycling in one dimension. Admittedly, maybe my own views of cycling and bikepacking are too narrow. Todd's ideas, style and ethos have inspired me to think differently for my next challenge—and whatever that might be, I can't wait. 🤟</p>

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<p className="gallery-credit narrow">📷: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/adventureblanket/" target="_blank">Kristen Chen</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mt.johnston8/" target="_blank">Maxwell Johnston</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fromcitytowoods/" target="_blank">Aleksandr Usherenko</a> &amp; <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mobbatl/" target="_blank">Tahra Chatard </a></p>

Todd Nisbet is a cyclist from New York City who challenges every bikepacking cliché out there.

Bikepacking New York City

Bikepacking New York City with Todd Nisbet

Faced with some last-minute changes in plans, Barry and Andy decided to try the top half of the Tree to Sea Loop in reverse. Oh, and they did it in the middle of a heatwave.

Vancouver Island's Tree to Sea Loop Report

Big Hot Grinds on Vancouver Island's Tree to Sea Loop


<p className="readable-intro mid"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/followmargopolo/" target="_blank">Tara Weir</a> is a seasonal forestry worker and bikepacker from British Columbia, Canada. Tara has clocked 42,000 KMs through 21 countries on her <a href="https://www.thorncycles.co.uk/bikes" target="_blank">Thorn </a> Nomad Mk2. In this story, Tara recounts her transition from an 'unadventurous teen' to one of the most awe-inspiring bikepackers we have had the pleasure to meet. Enjoy the ride.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">The sight of Yamdrok Lake, its piercing blue waters surrounded by snowy peaks, took my breath away—or what little of it I had left at close to 5000m above sea level. Alongside three others I had been pedaling up the Kambala Pass in Tibet for about 5 hours. As we ascended, all around us the slopes were a golden brown, a stark desert plain launching itself skyward. When I eventually reached that spectacular lake, ringed by snowcap peaks, I began to cry. I cried out of exhaustion, and out of elation. At that moment, through laboured breaths, I fell torturously in love: in love with our beautiful planet, and also in love with the human-powered machine that got me there. This moment marked the beginning of a wonderful and often tumultuous relationship with that thing we call bikepacking.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">As a child, and into my teen years, I wasn't very adventurous. Growing up in Toronto (Canada), I was painfully shy and lacked confidence in many aspects of my life. I was bullied throughout grade school and carried this insecurity into my teen years. When I was 15, I enrolled in an outdoor leadership program through my high school called Outward Bound. We backpacked in the Northern Ontario wilderness for a week, the program culminating in a two-day solo campout. Some city kids may have felt lost and desperate in this scenario, but I surprised myself in that I sort of thrived in it. This was the first time I felt real, true confidence in my own abilities—physical and mental—to survive in an uncertain environment. The thrill of adventure had found me, and I had found a new high.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">Years later, when I was a keen road cyclist who was barely capable of changing a flat tire, my dad gifted me<i>The Masked Rider—Cycling in West Africa</i>, written by Neil Peart (the late legendary drummer from Canadian rock band Rush). In the book, Peart shares his story of touring through Cameroon on his bicycle. He described bicycle touring as traveling at “people speed”, and what really stuck with me were his encounters with the locals in places where no tour bus would stop. On a bicycle he could travel slowly enough to take in the sounds and smells of the world around him.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I was immediately inspired and started searching online for people who had cycled around the world. As I discovered websites like <a href="https://www.crazyguyonabike.com" target="_blank">crazyguyonabike.com</a> and Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree Travellers Forum, I was completely blown away by the stories I had found. Here were people cycling across continents for months—even <i>years</i>—completely self-supported, sometimes carrying up to 80lbs on their bicycles. I felt a pang in my stomach: this was something I <i>needed</i> to do.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I first saw a photo of Tibet's Yamdrok lake in the 2nd edition of the <i>Adventure Cycle Touring Handbook</i> by Stephen Lord. The book was full of wildly intrepid adventurers, riding dirt around remote parts of Kenya, Bolivia, across Mongolia, Russia, Chile and the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan (a place I hadn't even heard of!). Some expeditions required carrying up to seven days of food and three days of water.  In the picture was a lone heavily loaded bicycle and rider, with the most spectacular landscape I had ever seen in the background. If a picture is worth a thousand words, it was the same four letter word screaming at me from the glossy page: “Come! COME!”</p>

<p className="readable narrow">In 2011, I finally put the wheels in motion and completed my first supported ride in Tibet. After Tibet, I went on to cycle solo through Southeast Asia for three months, carrying only two rear panniers. With the constant availability of cheap, delicious food and bargain accommodation, I deemed camping unnecessary. My trip in Southeast Asia was an incredible introduction to solo touring; and afterwards, I started to crave a bigger challenge. I was ready to leave the pavement and delve into a rougher, more expeditionary style of bicycle travel. </p>

<p className="readable narrow">During this sort of transformation period, I continued road cycling when I could find the time. Fast forward about four years and I began to crave more; the desire to travel the world was upon me, and I couldn't deny it. Bicycle touring is the perfect marriage of my three passions: outdoor adventure, travel and cycling. I also came to understand that I enjoyed touring for the same reasons I thrived in Outward Bound as a teen: it gave me a confidence boost, and the opportunity to prove to the world that I am strong and can thrive where most can't. In the years after my Tibet trip, another life-altering experience that would ultimately impact my bikepacking future took place. During the summer months, in between semesters studying journalism at Toronto's Ryerson University, I began working as a treeplanter in the clearcuts of Northern British Columbia. The physically (and mentally) demanding nature of piecework in the harshest conditions, as well as the camaraderie that arose in this environment, had a profound impact on my life. It gave me more confidence than ever and exposed me to an entirely new way of life. Some tree planters would only work for the 3-4 month season and travel the rest of the year. Suddenly, the 9-5 work week with two weeks' vacation no longer appealed. I decided then that I would prioritize adventure and experience over climbing any chosen career ladder. I wanted to travel the world on my bike, and seasonal forestry work would allow me to do just that.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">In 2014, with my bible (<i>Adventure Cycle Touring Handbook</i>) in hand, and about $17,000 CAD, I started planning my next expedition. I would start in Mongolia, riding roads and dirt tracks all the way to China, Pakistan, the Indian Himalaya, Central Asia, and maybe even onto Africa. I had planned for about 1.5 years.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">Until I cycled across Mongolia, I had never camped alone. The trails were rough and the steppe spectacular. I had a new bike—a British made Thorn Nomad Mk2, with 2.15” Marathon Mondial tires, and about 60 lbs of total weight on my front and rear panniers. I was invited to sleep in gers (yurts), and to share meals and tea with locals. I carried a special letter with me, an idea I took from  British around-the-world bike adventurer Alastair Humphreys; it explained who I was and what my journey was all about. I had the letter translated into three languages: Mongolian, Mandarin, and Russian. The kindness from locals never stopped as I made my way across unfamiliar landscapes. After finishing in Central Asia, I cycled across Australia, South Korea, Myanmar, Taiwan and parts of New Zealand. I didn't make it to Africa that trip, but I do hope that adventure is in my future. To this day, I have cycled approximately 42,000km in 21 countries.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">I returned home to Canada in 2017, after 23 months of cycling (with one month at home in between due to sickness), and a little bit of working abroad. At that point, life on a bike had become routine for me, with the initial excitement wearing off. At one point I did think that I could bikepack forever. Today, I have found more of a balance.</p>

<p className="readable narrow">I'd never heard of the term “bikepacking” before my return in 2017; we were always “bike touring”, no matter the surface or form of luggage chosen. Soon, I found myself sucked into the bikepacking boom,  opting for a lighter setup to make riding on rough tracks more enjoyable. I ditched my rear Ortlieb panniers and put my smaller front panniers in their place. I also added a frame bag, top tube bags, and front roll. In 2019, I tested my new hybrid setup on a three month ride on the Canadian section of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, connecting to the then brand new Western Wildlands Route (Wild West Route at the time). I was sold on the setup, and that trip ended up being one of the best I have ever taken.</p>

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<p className="readable narrow">At 36 years old, I still work seasonally—about 4-6 months per year in forestry in Dawson Creek, BC. These days, I tend to take shorter trips of about 2-3 months. I still use the same bike, my Rohloff hub driven Thorn Nomad, which I purchased in 2013. I now pursue dirt roads and tracks as much as possible, in true bikepacking form. One could argue, though, that bikepacking isn't really about the gear or route chosen. For me, there is just nothing like reaching a spectacular mountain pass on a dirt road under your own power, whether using wheels that are tubeless, tubed, 1.5”, 2”, 3” on a tandem, recumbent or unicycle (I have seen it <i>all</i>).</p>

<p className="readable narrow">When I travel, I want to <i>feel</i> the world around me; I don't want to watch it through the window of a moving vehicle. Sometimes, when I picture myself climbing that mountain pass in Tibet to that stunning Himalayan Lake, I feel strength. And in my strength, I find bikepacking.</p>

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Tara Weir has bikepacked 42,000 KMs through 21 countries. In this story, Tara recounts her transition from an unadventurous teen to an awe-inspiring bikepacker.

Global Bikepacking: A Life Altered

We chatted with Cory Ostertag on his recent win at the Buckshot and his journey to becoming a racer.

Cory Ostertag: A Journey Into Self-Sustained Bikepack Racing


<p className="readable-intro mid"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintagebikercom/" target="_blank">Vintage Biker</a> is a custom builder from the Netherlands that specializes in 90s mountain bike builds. The project is led by Ben who sources the parts from all over the world to create his stunning machines. Stumbling on his Instagram account transported us to another place and time. We were thrilled that Ben agreed to tell us his story, and answer our burning questions. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> I got my first mountain bike in 1994 at the age of 16. It was a chromoly <a href="https://www.mtbr.com/attachments/bike1-jpg.176320/" target="_blank">Trek 930 STX</a> with Shimano Grip Shift that had recently hit the market. I loved that bike deeply and spent every free hour I had on the trails of my Northern Ontario hometown. The riding up north was fantastic, except for one missing thing—a solid mountain biking crew. I felt like the only MTB rider in my town and much of my riding was done solo. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> When I wasn't riding, I was pouring over the photos of <a href="https://mbaction.com/" target="_blank">Mountain Bike Action</a> magazine. The 90s saw an explosion of innovation in cycling. The MTB bikes of then look a lot like the gravel bikes of now: rigid, aggressive geometry that caught the eye. To say it plainly, the bikes were sexy. I had posters of them plastered on my walls. Those rigid, short reach bikes changed my life. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> This is why I almost spat out my milk when I came across Ben, aka <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintagebikercom/" target="_blank">@VintageBikerCom</a>, on Instagram. Ben is rebuilding beautiful 90s mountain bikes, and coming across his feed transported me to my childhood. His bikes are stunning builds that could have graced the cover of any 90s mountain bike magazine. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Just like those magazines, I caught myself spending hours pouring over the details on the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintagebikercom/" target="_blank">@VintageBikerCom</a> feed. I had so many questions—like, how is it possible to source these old frames and parts?! I had to find out... </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> What is “Vintage Biker” exactly? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> That is a good question… as a matter of fact I still haven't found out myself and I kinda like it that way. VB is an ongoing process, a platform on which I can express and show my creativity. Basically VB gives me a chance to blend various interests like (vintage) mountain biking, nature, music, graphic design, etc. I allow myself to create, free from constraints. In a deeper sense, VB is therapeutic for me. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> How and when did you get started? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> In 2014, after a somewhat troubled period in my life, I took up mountain biking again. I dusted off my 2001 Merlin XLM, and just got moving. Whilst looking for spares, I found out that I was more attracted to 90s bike parts than the usual modern components. I started MTB-ing in the 90s, and (like Barry) was mesmerized by the glossy magazines. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> So I started collecting vintage mountain bike parts. First a GT Zaskar frame came, then a Xizang after that… and from that moment, I was lost ;)</p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> How do you source your parts? Where does it all come from? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> I get this question a lot... basically my “sources” are accessible to everyone. I usually stick with Ebay (really) and a handful of other online marketplaces, both national and international. I spend a lot of time sourcing parts and have learnt how to find the diamonds in the rough. I am also lucky enough to get people offering me old parts through my Instagram feed. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> What is your favorite vintage mountain bike? </h3>
<p className="readable narrow"> That's a tough one. Generally the bike I am working on at that moment is my favorite. However, if I had to choose one, it has to be the GT Xizang, with its sexy smooth titanium triple triangle design. A proper Xizang represents all I ever lusted over in the 90's when it comes to bikes. Building up a Xizang is always a feast! </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Do you have a process for your builds? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> I usually start with a frameset—a combination of frame, forks, wheels, tires, and cockpit that I like. From there I add, one by one, parts and components that I think match the build. Making sure the build stays true to the period is important, but it's not everything. A mid 90s frame with late 90s forks or wheels: Sure, why not? This is what we did back in the day. We bought ourselves a proper base and when money was available, we upgraded, right? </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> My goal is never to build a bike as quick as possible, hence the hashtag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/loveunfinishedbikes%F0%9F%98%AC/" target="_blank">#loveunfinishedbikes</a> that I use often. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> How do you choose a build kit? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> A build kit has to match the frame. Period. Aesthetics are prioritized over functionality—at least with the builds I show to the public. As I mentioned earlier, there has to be some period correctness (within half a decade roughly). </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Colors are important, as they need to match in some way. But this is a very personal thing. Grellow vs. Yellow, for example, is an absolute no-go for me. So no Judy SL's combined with RaceLines. </p>

<center> <div className="quote mid"> <h3>“It's important that a bike is balanced, from setup, to colors, to shape... similar to car design”</h3> </div> </center>

<p className="readable narrow"> Matching brands is important as well. During a build, I try to use full Kore or full Syncros. Full XT or full XTR. This gives the bike a kind of coherence. And of course decals, which I make mostly myself. Creating the decals myself allows me to put my creativity and taste into a build. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Do you see any trends making a comeback from the 90s? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Yes, manufacturers are often reverting to fads from the 90s. For example, skinwall tires. Also nowadays, companies like RockShox use a lot of heritage in their designs. The characteristic blue color of the first generation 1998 SIDs are still an option on modern 29er SIDs. Other examples of re-issues are Panaracer Dart/Smoke tires and, of course, the Selle Italia Flite saddle. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> When did you open your shop? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> The “shop”—as you (and many of my followers) know it—with the RockShox wall and Syncros rack, opened April 2020. It wasn't really a shop but more like a storage and showcase of my growing collection. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> I moved at the end of last year to a new location, which I am currently rebuilding into a Workshop and Gallery. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Who are your customers? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> My customers are from all over the world. I regularly ship to the USA, Australia, NZ, Asia and also within Europe. My customers value quality and also share my passion for vintage mountain biking. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Where is your new shop located? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> This new VB HQ is located in Apeldoorn (about 100 kms east of Amsterdam) at a former factory site where a Dutch cosmetics company called Zwitsal was established. Nowadays, this factory site is like a breeding ground for Dutch creatives. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Do you do custom builds for people? If so, what does that process look like? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Custom building is one of the best parts of the job! Spending time discussing colors and components over a cup of coffee or a beer is always a good thing. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> I did a LiteSpeed Ocoee Project once for a customer who actually didn't know what to do with the bike. He was planning on selling it, but once he came into my store and saw the matching parts he knew he was going for a rebuild! We built that bike with a modern twist: a 1x9 XTR M950-Garbaruk drivetrain. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> I do not build a bike on command. “I want this and that and you build it for me” will not work in my shop. Like any passion, custom builds require a thoughtful and nuanced discussion. These are bikes we are creating, but I try to think of them as rideable pieces of art too. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Thanks, Ben. </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> A part of me pines for the past. Maybe because I am getting older. Maybe because I know that my days of flying off drops and jumps are well behind me. Maybe I simply miss being a teenager and staring at those old MTB magazines. Whatever it is, I am happy people like Ben are working on projects like <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintagebikercom/" target="_blank">@VintageBikerCom</a> and maintaining a piece of what originally made the MTB world cool. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Get in touch with Ben through the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/vintagebikercom/" target="_blank">@VintageBikerCom</a> Instagram account or his  <a href="https://www.vintage-biker.com" target="_blank">website</a>. </p>

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Vintage Biker is a custom builder from the Netherlands that specializes in 90s mountain bike builds.

Vintage 90s Mountain Bike Builds

Vintage Biker: Nostalgic 90s Mountain Bike Builds

Haniwaya3 is a creator from Japan who builds mini track bikes—at a 1:12 scale—in his home.

Mini Bikes From Japan: Detailed Craftsmanship


<p className="readable-intro mid"> For the past two years, a <a href="https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit/visit5/visit8" target="_blank">pathway project</a> has been underway in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Western Vancouver Island. It is a 25km path that will connect Tofino to the Ucluelet area. It has taken considerable resources, planning, and coordination by many levels of Government and communities in the area. Though the pathway officially opens in Spring 2022, we had the chance to ride a small part of it—before the weather hit. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> One of the reasons our family moved to Vancouver Island was so that I could ride year-round. Winters here tend to be much milder than the rest of the country, and I jokingly refer to the island as the "Hawaii of Canada". And this year, for my 44th (December) birthday, I came up with an elaborate plan to go surfing and biking on the same day, in celebration. In support of my grand designs, my wife booked a great hotel in beautiful Tofino, Canada's number one surf spot on the west coast of Vancouver Island, filled the car with bags and toys and kids, and off we went for my birthday celebration. But as we know, even the best-laid plans… </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Getting There </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Getting to Tofino entails driving one of the most spectacular highways in Canada—the stunning Highway 4. This highway runs east-west, from Parksville on the east coast of the island to the Pacific Rim Highway on the west side of the island. It's a winding, beautiful piece of tarmac that flows with wild rivers, <a href="https://offtracktravel.ca/cathedral-grove-vancouver-island/" target="_blank">ancient forests</a> and skirts the southern border of the majestic <a href="https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/strath/" target="_blank">Strathcona Park</a>. The entire drive makes you feel like you are a part of the mountains—that you could almost touch the peaks. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> Admittedly, my wife and I were a bit naive about the drive. We had made the journey many times in the summer, but for some reason forgot that there could be snow in those mountains in the middle of December. Thankfully, our winter tires kept our little Hyundai on the road, and we made it over the pass just fine. </p>

<center> <div className="feature narrow"> <p className="readable narrow"> At the time of writing, Highway 4 is under construction for safety improvements not far from the Pacific Rim turn-off. Because of this, the highway has daytime closures from 5-7am and from 11am-3pm. Check <a href="https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/transportation-infrastructure/projects/highway4kennedyhill" target="_blank">here</a> for the schedule and details. </p> </div> </center>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Surf Stay </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Our favorite family spot to stay in Tofino is the <a href="https://www.pacificsands.com" target="_blank">Pacific Sands Beach Resort</a>. The resort is situated just south of Tofino in Cox Bay. All rooms at the resort look out onto the beach, and you can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves. It's not the cheapest place to stay (nowhere in Tofino is), but it allows you to wake up, grab your board, and hit the waves. The beach break makes for a wonderful day in the whitewater, or—if you are skilled enough—to go out further for the green waves. It is also directly on the multi-use pathway I planned to check out for my ride. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> On the morning of December 11th, 2021, I woke up with a head cold, a storm had landed the night before on the coast and blew out the surf. Going into the waves would have been suicidal. I lied in bed for about 45 minutes staring at the ceiling and feeling sorry for myself, but I managed to muster the positivity to decide that I could still (at least) get the bike ride in. I had heard a lot about the path that was being constructed that runs the length of the Pacific Rim National Park, from Tofino to Ucluelet. Maybe I couldn't surf, but there was no way I was going to miss the ride. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> The Pacific Rim National Park Multi-use Pathway </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> The official name for the pathway is <strong>ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced ups-cheek ta-shee)</strong> and has been a collaboration of many levels of Government and local First Nations communities. The pathway lies in the ḥaḥuułi—the traditional territories and homelands of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and YuułuɁiłɁatḥ. The First Nations people have lived on the west coast of Vancouver Island for 10,000 years. Before the arrival of European explorers and smallpox, it is estimated that 100,000 people lived on this coast. During the 1800s, most First Nations communities lost more than 80 percent of their population. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> ʔapsčiik t̓ašii is a nuanced phrase that can be most easily translated to "going the right direction on the path". The meaning gave me pause, it being my 44th birthday and all. Over the past few years, I have been making substantial shifts in my life—reprioritization of my attitudes towards health, happiness, family, and work. Cycling of course is a huge metaphor for how we direct our lives and stay on the path. I have rebuilt myself and happiness around my bike and plan on doing so for the remainder of my time on this rock. In that way, I hope I am staying true to the meaning of ʔapsčiik t̓ašii. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> The ʔapsčiik t̓ašii connects Tofino to the Ucluelet area. It passes through First Nation land, the Pacific Rim National Reserve, and connects all the communities along the Pacific Rim Highway. Construction began in 2019 with a healthy budget of $51 Million CAD. The pathway is set to be opened officially in spring 2022 but does allow for conditional use before that. A few spots are still under construction, so be careful, patient and respect any workers you may come across. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> The pathway is a 25km stretch of pavement 3.2m wide with 1m unpaved shoulders. Similar to the highway that brings you into the area, it is a winding and immersive experience, and it is designed for people of all ages and mobility. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Experiencing the pathway, my first reaction was to be a bit taken aback. To me, it seemed a clear decision had been made to favor accessibility over the ecological impact and riding experience. The pathway feels more like another highway: it dominates the land rather than being part of it. You get the sense you are on rails as you bike past all the natural beauty, as if on a train. It really feels it that has been designed to get you from A to B, rather than the experience of the journey. I really wanted it to be a nice gravel run, or a hard-packed dirt path—something that blended into the environment more. I was disappointed—and disappointed in that disappointment. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> Reflecting on the ride, I realize the pathway is just not intended for me, and the kind of riding I love to do. This is a significant project, and I always support new developments that encourage people to get out on a bike and explore. However, I wondered who the intended (or expected) audience would be for a cycling road of this scale. I understand that the pathway should be accommodating to all, but still feel it could have been accomplished with a lighter, more natural touch. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Since coming home and doing more research on the project, I have relaxed my opinion. <a href="https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/visit/visit5/visit8" target="_blank">This video</a> outlines just how much consideration went into the cultural and environmental assessment of the pathway. The official reasoning on paving the pathway is: </p>

<center><div className="feature narrow"><p className="readable narrow"> "ʔapsčiik t̓ašii is being built with long-term sustainability in mind. Paving the pathway will provide for an increase in its lifespan, while significantly reducing costs for ongoing maintenance and repairs. A paved pathway will also create opportunities to address the needs and interests of a broader range of park reserve users, including cyclists, people with strollers, and visitors who have limited mobility." </p> </div> </center>

<p className="readable narrow"> It's easy to be critical. It's tough to build something of this scale with as many sensitivities and stakeholders as this project has. That they have managed to build something for cyclists and pedestrians in such a beautiful landscape is something to be grateful for. </p>

<div className="readable narrow"> <iframe src="https://ridewithgps.com/embeds?type=trip&id=80700407&metricUnits=true&sampleGraph=true" style={{width: '1px', minWidth: '100%', height: '540px', border: 'none'}} scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Tips On Beach Biking </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> The major highlight on the pathway is of course <a href="https://www.gotofino.com/all-beaches-trails/long-beach-tofino-bc/" target="_blank">Long Beach</a>. A 5km stretch of wonder that is home to all sorts of marine life, including grey, humpback, and orca whales. It is also the epicenter of the Canadian surf scene. If you are traveling south on the pathway, you will be able to get onto the beach at the Incinerator Rock entrance, ride the full way down the hard-packed beach and hop back onto the pathway at a south exit. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> Up until Long Beach, my birthday ride had been going fairly well. However, halfway down the beach, the storm hit again, and I was stuck in a monsoon with nowhere to go. It was raining upwards. The weather conditions on the coast can be pretty unforgiving, and at one point, a huge wave washed high up onto the shore and caught me and my bike in knee-deep water. Many cyclists will cringe hearing this. Everything on an ocean beach has been purpose-designed to wreck your bike. Saltwater and sand are both kryptonite to bike drives. If you do ride on the beach, try to ride as far away from the water as possible. Salt is hygroscopic, meaning it sucks moisture from the air. The iron in your chain and components then absorbs that water and that accelerates rusting. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> A few days after getting home, I went into the basement and saw that my chain had fully rusted. My stomach did a twirl and I was almost sick. I thought I had ruined my bike. I ended up replacing the cassette and chain which were not easy to find in today's Covid world. When you are finished with your ride, make sure you hose down your bike fully to remove saltwater and sand. <strong>Then re-lube the drive (a detail I sorely missed).</strong> </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Looking Back </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Not all rides can be winners. And apparently, not all birthday plans come to fruition. But do not let that stop you from experiencing ʔapsčiik t̓ašii. A massive amount of effort and resources have gone into this pathway. It is a fantastic addition to the area that creates access for everyone, regardless of ability, mobility, and transport. We absolutely need more options for <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/being-active/active-transportation.html" target="_blank">active transport</a> everywhere in Canada. And ʔapsčiik t̓ašii is evidence of "going the right direction on the path" from our Governments and communities. </p>

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For the past two years, a pathway project has been underway in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Western Vancouver Island. It is a 25km path that will connect Tofino to the Ucluelet area.

Cycling Tofino Ucluelet Bike Path

Cycling Tofino: The Ucluelet Bike Path


<p className="readable-intro mid"> <a href="https://www.panoramacycles.com/en/" target="_blank">Panorama Cycles</a> is a Montreal-based adventure bike manufacturer that specializes in fat, gravel, and mountain bikes. We spoke with Simon Bergeron, the owner and operator of Panorama Cycles, about being the first carbon-neutral bike manufacturer certified by <a href="https://www.climateneutral.org/" target="_blank">Climate Neutral</a>, remaining independent in a corporate world, and cycling in Quebec. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> It's rare to see a bike brand position itself as more than 'cool', 'fast', 'rugged', etc. As conglomerates gobble up indy companies, values and mission statements get pushed to the side in favor of mass manufacturing and making zillions of bucks. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Often, many of us pride ourselves on leaving a small footprint as cyclists. Because well, the bike is often touted and positioned as the champion of green, alternative transportation. But how much do we really know about our favorite brands and the impact of bicycle manufacturing in the world? Similar to the auto industry, the cycling industry is pretty tight-lipped on its environmental impact, manufacturing techniques, and delivering bikes to customers. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> The thought of a bike being 100% carbon-neutral is an intriguing one and something we had never really heard of until we met Simon of Panorama Cycles. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> How did Panorama Cycles start? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> We launched Panorama Cycles in 2016 with a single carbon fatbike. We wanted to create a company that wasn't defined by competition, racing, or performance. Our goal was to help build a new culture around cycling, focused on lifestyle and adventure. We are pretty excited that our vision is becoming a reality. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> How do you describe the bikes you build? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Since 2016, we have grown the lineup into a full range of carbon and steel adventure bikes. We offer a range of fat, mountain, gravel, and touring bikes—all designed to be as versatile as possible, for any adventure possible. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> We have worked hard to understand the needs of bikepackers and long-distance touring cyclists. All of our geometries offer a good level of comfort for long periods on the bike and provide stability when loaded with bags and accessories. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> We try to keep things simple by offering one groupset per bike and aim to balance performance, durability, and price. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Panorama Cycles' DNA is about the journey rather than the podiums. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> What materials do you think make the best adventure bicycles? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Both carbon and steel make great adventure bikes, each with its own unique feel and characteristics. One is not superior to the other, they are just different. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Steel is a classic material for making adventure bikes. Generally, we make a steel frame that has a certain degree of flexibility and compliance, which makes the bike very comfortable. We only use steel tubes from the UK-based company <a href="https://www.reynoldstechnology.biz/" target="_blank">Reynolds</a>—they are superbly crafted, and the steel is thinned where possible. The result is a surprisingly light frame. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> My professional background is actually in composite materials engineering. The design of the laminates as well as the control of the manufacturing process became very important during the development of our 2 composite bikes. With carbon fiber, we can create a frame that is lighter and more rigid than the steel one. This may suit a rider that puts more value on performance and efficiency. However, we do not design our carbon fiber bikes to strive for the highest stiffness-to-weight ratio. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> You mention not being a fan of the "N+1" idea? Why not? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Good question! At Panorama Cycles we are closely connected to nature and the outdoors— maybe more so than cycling. People in rock climbing have a pair of shoes, a harness, rope, and that's it. Climbers are really defined by their accomplishments, similar to trekking, kayaking, fly fishing… In cycling, "gear addiction syndrome" is common, and the upgrades to a bike can be literally endless (👋 to some of my dear friends). We feel that no rider should limit themselves due to the bike they own. You simply need to change your mindset—not so much your bike. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Gear talk encourages overconsumption. We strive to create products that are durable, multi-functional, and beautiful, that you will want to keep for decades to come. </p>

<center> <div className="feature narrow"> <p className="readable narrow"> We fully agree with Simon on this point. I have often alluded to not participating in the N+1 joke for similar reasons. However, we do acknowledge the irony in our position as a website that may appear to promote "gear addiction syndrome" -Barry </p> </div> </center>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Panorama Cycles is the first Carbon Neutral cycling company. How many cycling companies consider their footprint? How much of an impact does the cycling industry have on our environment? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Not a lot of companies talk about this in the cycling industry. Recently, <a href="https://chrisking.com/" target="_blank">Chris King</a> became <a href="https://bcorporation.net/directory/king-cycle-group-inc" target="_blank">BCorp certified</a>, which was a huge inspiration for us. Chris King manufactures everything locally, which really makes BCorp certification attainable. Companies that outsource manufacturing from overseas have a much harder time. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> In 2020, we made the decision to <a href="https://www.climateneutral.org/brand/panorama-cycles" target="_blank">offset our emissions</a> as it was the right thing to do. Today we understand climate change better than ever, and manufacturing companies should be doing as much as they can to mitigate their own waste and bi-products. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> During the certification process with <a href="https://www.climateneutral.org/" target="_blank">Climate Neutral</a>, we assessed our different sources of emissions. Starting from extraction and processing of raw materials all the way to the manufacture of the bicycle frame. Surprisingly, shipping occupied a relatively small part of our total emissions. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> The Climate Neutral calculation looks at every step in the bicycle frame production. Take for example our steel frames: the tubes are made in England, where the main sources of energy are natural gas and oil. Then the tubes are welded in Taiwan, where energy is produced mainly from natural gas and coal. Based on the energy sources (and operations) used in each of those countries, we can determine our ecological footprint. </p>

<center> <div className="quote wide"> <h3>"A good indicator of the environmental footprint of a bicycle is its country of origin and main source of energy"</h3> </div> </center>

<p className="readable narrow"> We were amazed at how impactful choosing the right location and operation could be. Cr-Mo tubes are made and welded in countries like China and Vietnam that produce energy with coal. Vietnam is unfortunately among the most popular places nowadays for mid to high-end bicycle frame production. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> What measures do Panorama Cycles take exactly? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Again, we were supported in the certification process by Climate Neutral in order to assess our annual CO2 equivalent emissions. Once everything had been confirmed by Climate Neutral, we purchased certified carbon credits. A carbon credit is actually a unit of measurement to measure a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. One credit is equivalent to 1T CO2. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> For 2020, we offset all of our greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing carbon credits, a little less than the equivalent of 400 metric tonnes of CO2. The projects that we support with our carbon credits focus on reforestation and soil conservation. Critical issues of our era that also connect with the purpose of our company. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Panorama Cycles is an independent company. What challenges and benefits does this present for you as a brand? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> We are proud of the brand that we have managed to build over the past few years. Being independent in this industry means being free to prioritize what matters to us. Yes, we still have to pay the bills and ideally want to make some profit. But that's not what drives us to work and grow this business. We are dedicated to the adventure biking scene and feel our authenticity is demonstrated by our actions. In the end, being a small independent bike company is a fun venture. We want to keep things simple and have plenty of time to go out to test and ride our own products. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> The graphic designs on your bikes are fantastic. What can you tell us about the graphics? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> I have been skiing my whole life, and I used to build skis about a decade ago. Personally, I have never been a fan of heavily branded products which you see very often in the sports industry. Many small ski brands use their skis as a blank canvas for an artist. Those brands are adding a lot of value to their products by making the product beautiful. We know this is not for everyone—colour and graphic opinions are very personal and often polarizing. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> We collaborate a lot with <a href="https://www.pellvetica.com" target="_blank">Pellvetica</a>, from Kitchener, Canada. Pellvetica's illustrations are in sync with our core values. They are very talented and approachable. They are also bikepackers, so we have a lot in common! </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> It feels like cycling is part of Quebec's DNA. Why is cycling so important to Quebec? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Like in most of the world, cycling in Quebec has experienced phenomenal growth due to the conditions imposed by the pandemic. There has also been tremendous growth in mountain biking and fatbiking trail networks in recent years. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Quebec is an exceptional playground for adventure biking. We have a huge amount of public land, national and provincial parks, nature reserves, logging roads, and ATV roads. We are doing our part to promote bikepacking by publishing itineraries on our website. We know that for the less initiated, developing a route can be difficult. These <a href="https://www.panoramacycles.com/en/bikepacking-cicuits/" target="_blank">pre-validated routes</a> are helping the growth of bikepacking in our backyard. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Can you tell us more about the adventure biking scene there? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> The bikepacking community in Quebec is huge. Many enthusiasts spend massive amounts of time organizing outings and developing itineraries to share. We love this aspect of bikepacking so much. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> An important contributor to the bikepacking scene is <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mariepierresavard/" target="_blank">Marie-Pierre Savard</a>. Marie-Pierre has traveled around the world by bike, and organizes gravel/adventure rides for women. She also offers lectures on her past experiences and does introductory bikepacking outings. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Étienne Théroux has published a solid off-road route that crosses Quebec from west to east called the <a href="https://www.bikepacking.quebec/english/" target="_blank">Quebec Bikepacking Traverse</a>. A large section of the route is very remote. This was a colossal route planning project, which many of us now benefit from. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> Jérémie Bourdages-Duclot and a few friends set up a website called <a href="https://veloaventurecantons.ca" target="_blank">Vélo d'aventure des Cantons</a> which promotes bikepacking circuits in the Quebec eastern townships. It is a region known for epic gravel paths, and its microbreweries. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Samuel Lalande-Markon and Jonathan B. Roy are also very well-known in the community for their incredible bike adventures, stories, and books they have published about these. Check out their work <a href="https://en.jonathanbroy.com/tour-du-monde" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.samuelmarkon.com/route-blanche/" target="_blank">here</a>! </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Are there any special considerations for planning an adventure ride in Quebec? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> The best place to ask for advice on bikepacking in Quebec is the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/bikepacking.qc" target="_blank">bikepacking.qc Facebook group</a>. For any of you not accustomed to Canadian winter, consider Mid-June to Mid-September for your trip. Fall foliage season can be a beautiful time of year, however, be aware that it is also hunting season. Plan accordingly! </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> How do we get our hands on a Panorama bike? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> The best place to buy a Panorama bike is from us directly on our <a href="https://www.panoramacycles.com/" target="_blank">website</a>. However, we also sell through a network of approximately 20 retailers throughout Canada. We assemble all of our bikes here in Quebec, per order. You can reach us directly via email and we'll help you get the bike of your dreams! </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> What can we expect from Panorama in the future? </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Well, you can expect us to remain authentic to our DNA—creating bikes for backcountry cycling and continuing to be involved with the bikepacking community. This is an exciting time for Panorama Cycles. We have a good pipeline of product development and things are moving nicely. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Starting next year, we hope to offer more frame/fork combinations, which also means interesting custom builds. And you know what? We are exploring some ideas with local manufacturing at the moment. Who knows where this will take us! To be continued! </p>

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We spoke with Simon Bergeron from Panorama Cycles about being the first Carbon Neutral cycling manufacturer.

Panorama Cycles: Interview With the Founder Simon Bergeron

Panorama Cycles Interview: Climate Neutral Bikes From Quebec


<p className="readable-intro mid"> We spoke with Be of <a href="https://www.buffalobagth.com/" target="_blank">Buffalo Bag</a> and Nu from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/triple_cats_cycle/" target="_blank">Triple Cats Cycle</a>, about the emerging bikepacking scene in Thailand and got some advice on routes, best times to go, and more. Clip-in. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Thailand needs very little introduction. It is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world, offering every sight, sound, and taste imaginable. Over the years, I have been lucky enough to venture through various parts of the country for work and leisure. Every time I'm there, I can't help but wonder what it would be like to travel its wide range of terrain by bike. Whether up north trekking the jungles or down south hopping the islands, Thailand seems to have every ingredient for the bike adventure of a lifetime. However, to the uninitiated, it can also feel intimidating: the bustling, steamy cities with endless, intense traffic, the extreme seasonal weather patterns, and diverse geography are all topics that need exploring when considering it as a cycling destination. So, when I met Be and Nu and had the chance to talk to them about what bikepacking in Thailand really means, I was over the moon. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Be runs Buffalo Bag, an excellent Bangkok-based bag manufacturing company. Buffalo Bag specializes in handlebar bags with a whopping 30L version that could fit my entire setup. Nu runs Triple Cats bike shop in Chiang Mai, and is undoubtedly the person you want to talk to if you plan to hit some dirt in the area. Together, they are the cornerstone of the Thai bikepacking scene. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> How is the adventure biking scene in Thailand? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> As we all know, the bike boom is real. Adventure cycling and bikepacking in Thailand have been growing in popularity since Covid-19. Many people in Thailand are changing from traditional bike touring to bikepacking, which is lighter, faster, more efficient, and—yes—more fun. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> People have also started to pay more attention to the use of bicycles for travel. Until recently, we used to see mainly large packs of road cyclists but now there is more variety: roadies, gravellers, newbies, old, young, whatever. We love it! </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> There are two great Facebook pages <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/310039096129550" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2814480632158858" target="_blank">here</a>  for anyone looking to find people and organize rides. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> What is the best part of the country to plan a tour and when? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> Northern Thailand is the best choice for bikepacking. We have a lot of back roads into the jungles to find any adventure. The rainy season extends between August and October when the weather is cool and the scenery is green. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> If you don't like wet conditions, come in the winter, between November and February when the temperature is perfect. You can expect anything between a hot, humid 25-33°C during the day, and 10-25°C at night. I bring fast-dry clothing when riding and dress like I'm going to the beach. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> What sort of terrain can people expect? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> You can find every terrain imaginable in Thailand. Everything from dirt roads, gravel, singletrack, steep paths, uphill, downhill—you name it, Thailand has them all. The biggest challenge for most people new to cycling in Northern Thailand is the steep hills! In the jungle, there are many 25-35° unpaved climbs. You can expect to be out of the saddle and pushing your bike—a lot. Don't worry, it'll keep you in shape for the rest of the ride. </p>

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<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Any bike requirements you would suggest? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> Well, as we all know bikes are a personal preference and we don't want to poke the bear ;) However, we would suggest a minimum tire size of 2.3” and up. 29er is ideal as it always helps to roll through and over anything—mud, roots, rocks. And in the rainy season, which we call Ru do Fon, the mud can get pretty serious. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Any special considerations people should know about? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> Mobile phone service can be pretty spotty in the jungle. For us, this is a good thing: bikepacking should be one of those times that you actually put away Instagram and enjoy yourself. However, you probably want to consider using a Spot or Garmin InReach GPS device and service—something that can broadcast your location to loved ones. Always be safe. The local people are always helpful and are always willing to help if anything goes wrong. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Also, in Northern Thailand, we have mosquitos. You. Want. To. Bring. Bug. Spray. And anything else that you may need to prevent the bugs from getting you while you sleep. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Can cyclists camp easily while bikepacking? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> You can wild camp in most parts of Northern Thailand. If anyone asks what you are doing, simply be polite and say “Sawa-D” and you'll be fine.  Bear in mind wild camping in some areas of Thai Jungles is illegal, but you can do wild camping around the local villages quite easily. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> There are also National Parks, like <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Huai+Nam+Dang+National+Park/@19.303936,98.5966806,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x30da7964f692a723:0x1d0100b2deabb0e0!8m2!3d19.303936!4d98.5988693?shorturl=1" target="_blank">Huai Nam Dang National Park</a>, that are perfect for viewing fog in the morning. The National Parks also have camping spots, but you will need to speak to the camp rangers about that. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> A great place to stop on the route (see below) is a local hippie village called <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pai,+Pai+District,+Mae+Hong+Son+58130,+Thailand/@19.36132,98.41351,14z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x30da81b0e91eaceb:0x40079e40c8939ddf!8m2!3d19.3582191!4d98.4404863" target="_blank">Pai</a>. It is full of cool little hostels and bars with live music by local and foreign bands. I call it “Hippie Land”. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> What about eating? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> You won't have any problem eating on the road in Thailand. There may not be huge supermarkets but there will be local restaurants with some of the best Thai food in the world. You can eat everything from our National dish called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phat_kaphrao" target="_blank">Phad Kra Phera</a>, to a dark soy noodle dish called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pad_see_ew" target="_blank">Pad See Ew</a>. There is no bad food in Thailand. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Also along the way you can eat almost any fresh fruit you can imagine. Pineapples, watermelon, mango, longan, cape gooseberry... I can go on and on and on... </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> What is your ideal itinerary for a new bikepacker to Thailand? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow">Our favorite trip is a 120km loop, just north of Chiang Mai, that goes towards the Burmese border and turns back south. From city to the jungle, all the way up to rocky mountains, down to the foggy jungle, and back to the city. Oh yeah, it's a Utopia baby! 120km might sound like a short trip but we do suggest you plan at least a few days for the ride. You may want to be in shape as it is a 4000m elevation gain! Also, just be cool and go slow. </p>

<div className="readable narrow"><iframe src="https://ridewithgps.com/embeds?type=route&id=38065945&metricUnits=true&sampleGraph=true" style={{width: '1px', minWidth: '100%', height: '540px', border: 'none'}} scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Tell us more about Buffalo Bag... how did you start? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> I'm addicted to being outside. I love trekking, biking, scuba diving, whatever. The first bag I made was for fun—something that would let me ditch my panniers. The first bag was called the Big Buffalo, a saddlebag inspired by <a href="https://www.carradice.co.uk/" target="_blank">Carradice</a> in the UK. I loved what was happening in the world of bag-making and I wanted to see if I could make something similar. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> I didn't plan for Buffalo Bags to be a business, but with the pandemic and the bike boom, it just happened. People started messaging me and my friends from all over the world and asking how they could get one of my bags. It was unbelievable. </p>

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<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Where and how are your bags made? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> All of our bags are hand-crafted in Bangkok. Everything is done in-house, from designing, to cutting, and sewing. I was lucky to build up a team of expert bag makers in the city. They didn't know much about bike bags at the time, but we all do now ;) </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> What makes Buffalo Bags special? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> So often, we only really notice things when they don't work. I work hard at making Buffalo Bags unnoticeable in this regard. We use three types of material that can stand up to the elements of any serious bikepacking trip. And you won't need to tighten and retighten your straps every 50kms. If I did my job correctly, you will hardly notice the bag during your ride. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> How can I get a Buffalo Bag? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> You can get the bags from <a href="https://www.buffalobagth.com/" target="_blank">our online store</a> or just come say hi—I'm on a very trendy app called <a href="https://www.instagram.com/buffalo.bags/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </p>

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We spoke with Be of Buffalo Bag and Nu from Triple Cats Cycle, about the emerging bikepacking scene in Thailand and got some advice on routes, best times to go, and more.

Bikepacking Northern Thailand

Bikepacking Northern Thailand: What to Expect and Where to Ride


<p className="readable-intro mid"> <a href="https://www.tuttigravelinn.com/" target="_blank">Tutti Gravel Inn</a> is a home away from home for gravel cyclists in the Southern Cariboo Region of British Columbia, Canada. The Inn is run by Kelly Servinski, a cycling industry veteran & his wife Erin. Together with their cat, Buzz, they have created something special - a warm home with access to the most pristine gravel BC has to offer. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Welcome to the Cariboo </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> In Central British Columbia lies the stunning <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Cariboo+Regional+District/@51.5521118,-121.8363965,8z/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x547ee7819ffcb0a3:0xc4015a291ba7f708!2sCariboo,+BC!3b1!8m2!3d52.4031805!4d-123.4553619!3m5!1s0x5380a377b8855c2b:0x2c7326cc81352c4a!8m2!3d52.1309132!4d-122.1422155!15sChljYXJpYm9vIHJlZ2lvbmFsIGRpc3RyaWN0kgEaZGlzdHJpY3RfZ292ZXJubWVudF9vZmZpY2U" target="_blank">Cariboo Region</a> that stretches from the Fraser Canyon to the Cariboo mountains. Named after the caribou that once thrived there, the region boasts a diverse range of geography and rich history. For thousands of years, the region has been home to a number of interior First Nations, and is comprised of the unceded land and traditional territories of the Secwepemc and Stl'atl'imx in the south-central part of the region, the Tsilhqot'in in the east, and the Dakelh in the north. In the 1860s the Cariboo Gold Rush brought prospectors from all over North America, and other entrepreneurs who arrived to serve the growing towns and settlements. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Gravel cycling represents freedom. The ability to get outside, explore, and not be confined by well, literally anything. The Cariboo Region epitomizes that freedom with its wide-open vistas, ranches, rugged mountains, arid grasslands, and wild rivers all connected by endless dirt roads. If you are looking for immaculate gravel surrounded by natural beauty, look no further than the Cariboo Region of central British Columbia. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> A Trip is Born </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> When <a href="https://twitter.com/jaypozo" target="_blank">Jay</a> told me about a work/play trip he was planning to the Region and staying at Tutti Gravel Inn, I immediately invited myself. Thankfully, Jay was gracious in altering his plans for me to tag along. </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> We left Victoria at the crack of dawn to make sure we made an early ferry to the mainland. Once on the mainland, we stopped for an emergency pair of new shoes in Vancouver before hitting the Trans-Canada highway to the Cariboo. The majority of the trip from Vancouver runs along the Fraser and Thompson Rivers with epic views in every direction. At one point, we noticed a screen alongside the road that was placed to block views of Lytton, a small city that was hard hit by wildfires this summer. The burn and devastation are still very visible and quite sobering. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> The forests turned to grasslands, and the trees were replaced by cattle and horses. As we drove into the village of Clinton (pop. 651) not knowing the exact location of our hotel, we stopped at a local store that apparently specialized in vintage wagon wheels. It felt like we had driven back in time. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> New Old Friends </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> We eventually found Tutti Gravel Inn (a hundred meters away) where we met owners Kelly and Erin. Welcoming doesn't begin to explain our first encounter with Kelly and Erin. They began chatting with us as if we had known each other all our lives and were long-lost friends. They told us how the Inn came to be, the history of the house, and their amazing story. We were enthralled. Both Kelly and Erin have that aura you sometimes get from people when they are truly content in life to have found their place and mission. In Italian “tutti” means everyone or all together and from the second we arrived, Kelly and Erin had made us feel like we were part of a community. A gravel community, the community of Clinton, their home.... all of it. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> The Inn </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> Tutti Gravel Inn is located in an 80-year-old house on the main drag of Clinton across from the local pub. The house feels like it has been preserved perfectly from a time long past but recently injected with new life and articles of cycling lore. The house is decorated with vintage bike gear which all makes sense once you see the bike above the fireplace mantle in the guest apartment. An 80s Ken Legge build that Kelly rode for 2 L'Eroica races in Italy (one he won). </p>

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<p className="readable narrow"> The guest apartment can accommodate large groups and sleep up to 7 people comfortably - more depending on your needs, I assume. The apartment is large and spacious with everything you need for the perfect cycling trip and stay. A room to hang the bikes out of the way, a BBQ, repair stand, tools, wash rack, and even a horseshoe and fire pit. The best part is the Inn's Clubhouse that Kelly and Erin have taken great pride in. Amazing decor, a wood-fired pizza oven, and an espresso machine make it a place you never want to leave. Just sit and soak in the energy. </p>

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<center><div className="quote narrow"> <h3>"It doesn't matter who you are or what bike you ride — just ride."</h3> <div className="quote-source">Kelly Servinski, Owner/Operator</div> </div> </center>

<p className="readable narrow"> On our third night, Jay and I had the chance to talk a bit more with Kelly as he showed us his bikes. Kelly's passion is off the charts and for me, that was infectious. We chatted about gravel, cyclists, and the industry as a whole - something he knows a bit about as he was the Canadian Scott rep for over a decade. Kelly echoed a few ideas that have kicked around my head since I was a teenager - a slight disdain for industry trends, the rebirth of the hardtail, and more. It was a 90-minute chat that I didn't want to end. He then proceeded to lend us his custom titanium Landyachtz gravel monster for the next day's ride. </p>

<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> The New Gravel Epicenter </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> If there is a heaven for gravel cyclists, it would be in Central British Columbia. It has everything a gravel cyclist needs - BIG climbs, rolling hills, full-on descents with super fun and fast switchbacks, and best of all - almost no people. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow">Highbar Road Loop </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> This loop is a must. A 20-minute drive from the Inn gets you to a place to park and very close to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Cougar+Point/@51.0817964,-121.9302824,17z/data=!4m12!1m6!3m5!1s0x547fd95cb1497fd5:0xe76336a2e3328ff8!2sCougar+Point!8m2!3d51.0835325!4d-121.9255538!3m4!1s0x547fd95cb1497fd5:0xe76336a2e3328ff8!8m2!3d51.0835325!4d-121.9255538!5m1!1e4" target="_blank">Cougar Point Lookout</a>. - one of the best lookouts in British Columbia. We visited in mid-October and (obviously) found snow at 1500 meters elevation which warmed up fast as we bombed down the 10k descent into the sunshine that lit the world gold. The climb back up to the main road is a 20km / 800m gain leg crusher. Be ready. </p>

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<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Tin Can Trail (Kellys Flowtrack) </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> Close to the Inn is a small flow track called the Tin Can Trail. It has been neglected over the years but Kelly is working on bringing it back to life and building in some berms. According to Kelly, the record from the Inn, through the track and back is 6 mins. Good fun. </p>

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<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> Tutti Loves Poutine </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> After your legs recover from those climbs on Highbar Loop you may be looking for some flat ground to fly on. This loop is a 50km shoot of scenic lakes, mountains, and forest roads. About halfway through the loop, is a restaurant that serves authentic Quebec poutine! Just remember you have to get back on your bike afterward. Park and take a couple of pictures at the Chasm entrance. </p>

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<h3 className="readable-sub narrow"> Gravel Is The New Gold </h3>

<p className="readable narrow"> As we said bye and left Clinton, I realized that ‘gravel is the new gold' was so much more than a catchy tagline. Its homage to the people who came to the Cariboo Region in search of riches. Like those early prospectors, we might be searching for something rare as well - beauty, solitude, and adventure that can only be found on our bikes. Gold is a perfect metaphor for our time at Tutti. You can see it everywhere - how the sun lights the hills and in Kelly and Erin's energy, and passion. What they have created is something special and if you have an opportunity to experience it - don't think twice. Do it. </p>

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We ventured to Tutti Gravel Inn. A home away from home for gravel cyclists in the Southern Cariboo Region of British Columbia, Canada. The Inn is run by Kelly Servinski, a cycling industry veteran & his wife Erin.

Tutti Gravel Inn: A Gravel Riders Paradise

Tutti Gravel Inn & Cycling The Cariboo: A Gravel Riders Paradise


<p className="readable-intro mid"> <a href="https://www.thespandexpanda.com/" target="_blank">The Spandex Panda Collection</a> specializes in imported Italian Merino wool apparel for cyclists with a sense of adventure. We spoke with Curtis Litun the owner and operator of  The Spandex Panda Collection who travelled the world to study what makes clothing timeless, class, and stylish. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Once upon a time, life was simple. People would only buy what they had the money for. There was no credit, extended loans, and borrowing money was never referred to as convenient. The products people used and wore were created by craftspeople. People who spent countless hours being mentored in industry and the intricacies of their craft. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Things have changed and so has cycling apparel. Materials, procedures, machines, and marketing have been huge influences on the bike industry and what we wear. For instance, wool used to be a preferred choice of materials for its accessibility, versatility & availability. Not anymore. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> <a href="https://www.thespandexpanda.com/" target="_blank">The Spandex Panda Collection</a> was created to learn from the past and design the future. The team works solely with producers from Italy to create a boutique-sized collection. At the core of the collection is Merino wool, a material that has adorned the fashion industry for years. </p>

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    <Image width={1200} height={800} src="/stories/spandex-panda/spandex_panda_curtis.jpeg" alt="Curtis Litun owner of The Spandex Panda Collection" className="responsive-image"/>
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<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: Firstly, can you tell us about the name? What is a Spandex Panda? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong>  Hah. The brand started as a fun mascot. Something we used for our bike shop promotions and that blossomed into a small, quality-focused clothing line for adventure-seeking cyclists. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: How did you get into creating cycling clothes? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong>  It was out of necessity. At the time, I was working at a bike shop and wine importer. Juggling wardrobe changes and commuting around the city on a bike created a bit of a headache. I found a solution in class knitted sweaters and very simple jerseys. They could be paired with chinos or jeans very easily and I could show up looking presentable for both the bike shop and representing wineries at tastings. </p>

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<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: Does dealing in quality make business sense? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong>  For me, business sense reflects lifestyle goals. Travel to cities like Milano, Tokyo, London, Paris and you'll get a taste of how quality reflects a person's lifestyle. People become a part of their business. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> I am interested in a quality similar to the world of class fashion. Timeless design and color survive trends and fads and that will always be good business. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: What does timeless mean to you exactly? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong>  Personally, it means not ever being outdated which is a common challenge of the fashion world. Patterns, colors, cuts, materials often fall into an ‘oh that was so 2009' with a tone of ‘why would you still be wearing that?'  Think navy or grey suit, black or red dress….. There are some pieces that are designed with a future and that's the direction I aim for. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: How long does a Spandex Panda jersey last? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong>  Great question. They can last 30 seconds if you crash in the first corner but otherwise I still have my original jersey from our first round of products we created over 4 years ago. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Clothing will last longer if you pay attention to the washing instructions. There's a natural oil on merino called lanolin. It's an antibacterial oil that helps minimize the class ‘stink' found in synthetic materials. If you wash after every wear, the oil will wear off more quickly. If you hand wash as needed, hang dry, and minimize using detergent, you'll get better value from the clothing. </p>

<Image width={1200} height={800} src="/stories/spandex-panda/spandex_panda_curtis_ride.jpeg" alt="Curtis of The Spandex Panda Collection on his bike" className="responsive-image"/>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: Why merino wool? How is it a good performance apparel material? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong> Merino wool is a natural material. It's sustainable because it comes from sheep, is less destructive to the environment, and is an original proven fabric in the world of both fashion and athletics. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> Depending on your definition of performance material, merino seems to check a lot of the modern-day boxes. For example, providing a thermal quality while simultaneously being porous enough to remove moisture from the skin. It naturally resists small amounts of external moisture yet dries fairly quickly once wet. Merino is a naturally technical material without a list of creative marketing adjectives and proprietary trademarks showered across products these days. </p>

<div className="quote mid"> <h3>"Merino is a naturally technical material without a list of creative marketing adjectives"</h3> <div className="quote-source"> Curtis Litun, Owner & Operator</div> </div>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: Can non-roadies wear the Spandex Panda Collection? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong> Sure, anyone can wear it. If you are into style, it doesn't matter which type of bike you ride. Our products are made in Italy there is a natural ‘euro fit'. No piece of clothing off the rack will ever fit everyone. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: How did the Après Collection start? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong> <a href="https://www.thespandexpanda.com/" target="_blank">The Spandex Panda Collection</a> is a blend of adventure and après. The sweaters, polos, and base layers can be functional on the bike and coupled with a pair of shorts or pants for any social occasion. Sitting on a patio, in a cafe, at a dinner table is when the stories are shared. </p>

<Image width={1200} height={800} src="/stories/spandex-panda/spandex_panda_apres.jpeg" alt="The Spandex Panda Collection Apres Collection" className="responsive-image"/>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: What is SPVC & how did it start? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong> SPVC stands for the <a href="https://www.strava.com/clubs/spandex-panda-velo-club-294214" target="_blank">Spandex Panda Velo Club</a>. Many people think that SPVC is the clothing line. The brand was set up to have a ‘club' atmosphere - travel the world, share stories, plan adventures and enjoy the amazing offerings of the world. It's not a racing club but a social community with the commonality of cycling adventures. The Collection has spawned from it. The <a href="https://www.strava.com/clubs/spandex-panda-velo-club-294214" target="_blank">Strava Club</a> and the private Facebook group are the ways that members can share stories, comment, and plan adventures. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: Can we find Spandex Panda apparel at our local shop? How do we buy it? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong> The Spandex Panda Collection was not set up originally for wholesale. In the future, there will be a small portion of the collection that will be available for retailers but never the entire collection. The Collection can be purchased through <a href="https://www.thespandexpanda.com/" target="_blank">our website</a> or at any small events that we're attending. </p>

<h5 className="readable-sub narrow"> BGDB: What can we expect from Spandex Panda in the future? </h5>

<p className="readable narrow"> <strong>Curtis:</strong> The collection continues to evolve. We learn from the past to design the future, including with our own products. The goal is continual improvement. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> We had our first season with UCI Continental Team Skyline as a provider for their Après clothing. It was a great opportunity and we're looking forward to more. </p>

<p className="readable narrow"> On the flipside is the idea of adventure cycling. Bike packing and traveling by bicycle is more popular every day and we're looking to increase our selection for these riders. Funny, but it seems to have come full circle, back to how cycling was about a century ago. Pack light, look good, and ride your bike. </p>

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We spoke with Curtis Litun the owner and operator of The Spandex Panda Collection who travelled the world to study what makes clothing timeless, class, and stylish.

Spandex Panda Collection Interview

Spandex Panda Collection Interview: Style Designed for Adventure

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A Change In Plans: Bikepacking In Big Sky Country, Montana

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Big Hot Grinds on Vancouver Island's Tree to Sea Loop

Cycling Tofino: The Ucluelet Bike Path

Bikepacking Northern Thailand: What to Expect and Where to Ride

Tutti Gravel Inn & Cycling The Cariboo: A Gravel Riders Paradise

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A Change In Plans: Bikepacking In Big Sky Country, Montana

Our First Overnighter: Bikepacking With Kids

Big Hot Grinds on Vancouver Island's Tree to Sea Loop

Cycling Tofino: The Ucluelet Bike Path

Bikepacking Northern Thailand: What to Expect and Where to Ride

Tutti Gravel Inn & Cycling The Cariboo: A Gravel Riders Paradise

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