Having the right gear when bikepacking can mean the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a ride that truly pushes your limits. With unpredictable routes and ever-changing conditions, a few well-chosen essentials can make a huge impact.
QUOC Rider Krysten Koehn, an artist and adventurer based in Boulder, knows this firsthand. Back from her recent trip to Aspen Ridge in Coloradowhere sweeping landscapes and shifting weather created a memorable journeywe caught up with her to share the bikepacking essentials she swears by.
ONE: The Right Bike for the Terrain
As Krysten set out from a pine-covered campsite in Salida, her first challenge was tackling steep, hike-a-bike jeep tracks with gradients over 20%. With rocky trails and fast descents ahead, her bike needed to deliver both stability and comfort. She chose her Horse Adventure Wagon - a robust frame with large tyres capable of gripping even the gnarliest terrain.
When planning your own trip, think carefully about your bike setup and how it matches the routes demands. Here are a few bike types to consider:
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Road Bikes: For multi-day trips exclusively on paved roads and winding mountain passes, a road bike could strike the perfect balance between speed and comfort.
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Gravel Bike: Suited for mixed terrain, these bikes have wider tyres than traditional road models and the same drop bars that offer multiple hand positions, for added comfort.
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Mountain Bike: Intended for rougher, technical trails, mountain bikes can offer more space for wider tyres and suspension to handle rocky ground.
TWO: Dry Bags
After ripping down dense Aspen groves and a long day in the saddle, Krysten and her friends crossed wide open pastures in search of a campsite. Discovering a clearing in the copper-toned trees, the group enjoyed dinner before the weathers mood shifted and a heavy downpour began - leaving them sheltered shoulder-to-shoulder under a tarp.
While weather isn't the ultimate decider of a trip's success, it can make a huge difference in comfort if you're not well-prepared. Thats why Krysten's next essential is a reliable dry bag. Keeping sleeping gear and spare kit dry is key to staying warm, and it also ensures any essential electronics remain protected from the elements.
THREE: The Ultimate Overnight Comfort
Following a night of heavy rain and collecting water for the next day's ride, Krysten woke up after a few hours of rest to clear blue skies. Despite the conditions, Krysten was still able to get the rest she needed, thanks to her sleep setup. Chosen for its lightweight and weather-resistant qualities, Krysten swears by her Outdoor Research Bivvy as the ideal sleeping companion for her adventures.
With a wide range of camping gear options available, it's important to strike a balance between comfort and practicality. Consider the length of your trip and the level of comfort you need, while also accounting for the weight and compact size of your tent or bivvy.
FOUR: Shoes That Handle It All
Back in the saddle, Krysten and her friends pedalled across scenic double tracks, gradually gaining elevation towards the beautiful Aspen-ridge. As the terrain steepened, the ominous clouds rolled back in, quickly followed by a flurry of hail. Tossing their bikes aside, the group scrambled for shelter under the nearby pines, grateful for shoes built to handle the unpredictability of the ride.
Chosen for their all-day comfort and unwavering durability, Krysten wears QUOC's Gran Tourer XC Lace. With the reliable hold of laces and a tailor-like fit, these shoes take her from rugged trails to scrambling for shelter with ease.
To make sure you are choosing the right shoes for your ride, it can be worth thinking about a few key factors on your trip, such as: the type of cleats you prefer, the pace and power you'll be riding at, and the level of off-road agility and walkability you'll need.
FIVE: The Key Ingredient
With no sign of the rain clearing, Thomas - Krysten's determined bikepacking companion - made the heroic move of dashing into the rain to battle the final climb. Inspired by his resilience, Krysten and their friend Seun followed suit. As the summit approached, they were rewarded by the sun breaking through in all its glory, clearing the clouds. As the group always says, "if you don't like the weather in Colorado, wait just five minutes."
While the right bikepacking gear can make or break a trip, the people by your side are just as essential. What kept Krysten and her friends pushing forward during their multi-day journey was the encouragement, laughter, and grit shared between true friends - transforming even the toughest moments into lasting memories.
Photography by Sean Greene.