Bikepacking is a type of cycling that combines the adventure of off-road cycling with the practicality of bike touring. It’s a popular activity for those who love exploring the great outdoors and pushing their physical limits. But how far do bikepackers typically travel? What is the average distance for bikepacking? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the various factors that influence the distance of bikepacking trips, from the duration of the trip to the difficulty of the terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned bikepacker or just starting out, this guide will give you a better understanding of what to expect on your next adventure. So, let’s get started and explore the exciting world of bikepacking!
Understanding Bikepacking and Its Distance Requirements
The Basics of Bikepacking
Bikepacking is a unique form of cycling that combines the thrill of off-road riding with the freedom and self-sufficiency of camping. It involves riding a mountain bike or similar off-road capable bicycle equipped with luggage racks and bags, allowing riders to carry the essentials for multi-day trips into the wilderness. The essence of bikepacking lies in its versatility, allowing riders to explore a wide range of terrain and distance, from short overnight trips to epic multi-week adventures.
Why Bikepacking?
Bikepacking offers a distinct experience from traditional forms of cycling, such as road cycling or mountain biking. It provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, experience a sense of adventure, and challenge one’s physical and mental limits. Bikepacking allows riders to travel through remote areas, often away from established trails and roads, providing a unique connection to the environment. It also promotes a sustainable and low-impact form of travel, reducing the environmental impact of traditional modes of transportation.
The Appeal of Distance in Bikepacking
One of the primary appeals of bikepacking is the ability to cover significant distances over multiple days. The challenge and satisfaction of pedaling through rugged terrain, carrying all the necessary gear, and setting up camp in remote locations are all part of the allure. As riders gain experience and confidence, they may venture further and take on more ambitious routes, covering hundreds or even thousands of miles in a single trip.
The Distance Factor in Bikepacking
The distance of a bikepacking trip depends on various factors, including the rider’s fitness level, the terrain, the weather, and the availability of resupply points. Riders can choose from a wide range of routes, from easy, well-established trails to more challenging and remote wilderness routes. The choice of route often dictates the overall distance of the trip, with longer and more challenging routes requiring a higher level of fitness and preparation.
The Thrill of Long-Distance Bikepacking
Long-distance bikepacking routes, such as the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route or the Tour Divide, have become increasingly popular among experienced riders. These routes often span thousands of miles, traversing diverse landscapes and testing riders’ physical and mental endurance. Completing a long-distance route provides a sense of accomplishment and serves as a testament to the rider’s dedication and perseverance.
Conclusion
Bikepacking offers a unique and versatile way to explore the great outdoors, providing a combination of off-road riding and camping adventures. The distance of a bikepacking trip depends on various factors, and riders can choose from a wide range of routes, from easy day rides to epic multi-week adventures. The thrill of long-distance bikepacking has attracted many riders, offering a challenge and a sense of accomplishment for those who dare to push their limits.
Factors Affecting Bikepacking Distance
Equipment and Gear
- The weight and durability of the bicycle
- The type and quality of tires
- The amount and quality of gear (e.g. handlebars, seat, pedals)
- The amount and type of storage solutions (e.g. frame bags, backpack)
Skill Level and Experience
- Novice bikepackers may cover less distance due to physical limitations and lack of experience
- Experienced bikepackers may cover more distance due to increased fitness and technical skills
Terrain and Route Selection
- Steep and technical terrain may limit distance covered
- Smooth and gradual terrain may allow for greater distance covered
- Choosing a well-established route with known distance markers may help in planning and tracking distance
Personal Fitness and Endurance
- Physical fitness and endurance play a significant role in determining the distance that can be covered
- Bikepacking can be physically demanding, requiring cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and endurance
- Building up physical fitness through regular training and conditioning can help increase the distance covered.
Planning Your Bikepacking Adventure: Setting Distance Goals
Determining Your Fitness Level and Goals
When it comes to setting distance goals for your bikepacking adventure, it’s important to first determine your fitness level and goals. This will help you to create a plan that is realistic and achievable, while also challenging you to push your limits and reach new heights.
Here are some key things to consider when determining your fitness level and goals:
Fitness Assessment
Before you start planning your bikepacking adventure, it’s important to assess your current fitness level. This will help you to understand how much you can reasonably expect to achieve, and will allow you to set realistic goals for yourself.
One way to assess your fitness level is to measure your VO2 max, which is the maximum amount of oxygen that your body can consume during exercise. This can be done through a variety of tests, including a simple exercise test on a stationary bike or treadmill.
Another way to assess your fitness level is to use a fitness tracker or smartwatch, which can track your heart rate, distance, and other metrics during exercise. This can give you a good idea of your overall fitness level, and can help you to identify areas where you need to improve.
Setting Distance Goals
Once you have assessed your fitness level, it’s time to start setting distance goals for your bikepacking adventure. It’s important to set goals that are challenging but achievable, and that take into account your current fitness level and any limitations or constraints that you may have.
Here are some tips for setting distance goals:
- Start small: If you’re new to bikepacking or haven’t been on your bike in a while, it’s important to start small and gradually build up your endurance and stamina. Consider starting with a short ride of 25-50 miles, and gradually increasing the distance as you become more comfortable and confident on your bike.
- Set incremental goals: Rather than setting a single, overly ambitious goal, it’s often more effective to set a series of incremental goals that build on each other. For example, you might start with a goal of riding 100 miles in a week, and then gradually increase that goal to 200 miles, 300 miles, and so on.
- Factor in rest days: It’s important to include rest days in your training schedule, as this will allow your body to recover and adapt to the demands of your bikepacking adventure. Consider scheduling one or two rest days per week, and use these days to allow your body to recover and prepare for your next ride.
- Seek advice from others: Finally, don’t be afraid to seek advice and guidance from others who have experience with bikepacking and long-distance cycling. This can help you to set realistic goals and create a training plan that is tailored to your needs and abilities.
Choosing Your Route and Terrain
Choosing the right route and terrain is crucial for a successful bikepacking adventure. The route you choose will determine the distance, difficulty, and scenery of your trip. The terrain you choose will determine the type of bike and equipment you need, as well as the physical demands of the ride.
Route Planning
Before embarking on your bikepacking adventure, it’s important to plan your route carefully. This involves researching different routes, studying maps, and considering factors such as distance, elevation, and weather. It’s also important to consider the availability of food, water, and shelter along the route.
When planning your route, it’s a good idea to consider your experience level and fitness level. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with shorter, easier routes and gradually work your way up to longer, more challenging routes. If you’re an experienced rider, you may want to tackle longer, more challenging routes.
Terrain Considerations
The terrain you choose will also play a big role in your bikepacking adventure. Different types of terrain require different types of bikes and equipment. For example, if you’re planning to ride on rough, rocky terrain, you’ll need a bike with wide tires and a lot of suspension. If you’re planning to ride on flat, paved roads, you’ll need a bike with narrow tires and fewer suspension components.
In addition to choosing the right bike, you’ll also need to consider the physical demands of the terrain. Rough terrain can be physically demanding, requiring strong leg muscles and good balance. Flat terrain may be easier on your legs, but it can be mentally challenging if you’re riding for long periods of time.
Overall, choosing the right route and terrain is essential for a successful bikepacking adventure. By carefully researching and planning your route, and considering the type of terrain you’ll be riding on, you can ensure that your bikepacking adventure is safe, enjoyable, and rewarding.
Preparing for Your Bikepacking Trip
Gear Selection and Preparation
Before embarking on your bikepacking adventure, it is crucial to ensure that you have the right gear. This includes selecting the appropriate bike, choosing the right clothing and protection, and ensuring that you have all the necessary tools and spare parts.
Nutrition and Hydration Planning
Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for a successful bikepacking trip. It is important to plan your meals and snacks in advance, taking into account the distance and duration of your trip. Bringing enough water and other fluids is also critical, as dehydration can quickly derail your adventure.
Physical and Mental Preparation
Physical and mental preparation are key to a successful bikepacking trip. This includes building endurance and strength through training, as well as preparing mentally for the challenges and uncertainties that may arise during your adventure. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any potential health risks and to take appropriate precautions, such as bringing necessary medications and protecting yourself from the sun.
The Average Distance of Bikepacking: Factors and Considerations
Individual Variations
When it comes to bikepacking, individual variations play a significant role in determining the distance that one can cover. Factors such as age, weight, and overall health can impact a person’s endurance and ability to cover long distances. Additionally, genetics and physical fitness can also affect an individual’s bikepacking distance.
The equipment and gear that a bikepacker uses can also have an impact on the distance they can cover. Bikes with better suspension systems, higher quality tires, and better brakes can help increase the distance and efficiency of the ride. Additionally, the weight of the gear that a bikepacker carries can also impact their ability to cover long distances. Carrying too much weight can slow down a rider and reduce their endurance.
Skill level and experience are also crucial factors that can impact the distance of a bikepacking trip. Experienced bikepackers tend to have better skills and techniques that allow them to cover more distance in a day. They also have a better understanding of how to pace themselves and how to deal with challenging terrain, which can help them cover more distance over time.
The terrain and route selection can also have a significant impact on the distance of a bikepacking trip. Routes that are more challenging, such as those with steep climbs or technical trails, may require a rider to cover less distance per day in order to maintain their energy levels and avoid burnout. Additionally, routes that are better maintained and have better access to resupply points can help increase the distance that a rider can cover.
Personal fitness and endurance are perhaps the most critical factors when it comes to determining the distance of a bikepacking trip. Riders who are in better shape and have higher levels of endurance tend to be able to cover more distance in a day. They also tend to recover more quickly from challenging rides, which can help them cover more distance over time.
Overall, these factors can impact the distance of a bikepacking trip in a variety of ways. Understanding these factors and how they can impact your own bikepacking experience can help you set realistic goals and plan accordingly.
Real-World Examples and Averages
- Long-Distance Bikepacking Records
- The record for the longest distance covered in a single bikepacking trip stands at 26,000 miles (41,840 kilometers) achieved by a professional cyclist, Sean Conway, in 2014. This incredible feat took him over 150 days to complete, starting from London and ending in New York City.
- Another notable record is the 18,000-mile (28,970-kilometer) journey undertaken by Colin O’Brady in 2016. Known as “The Impossible First,” Colin became the first person to cross the entirety of Antarctica on a bicycle, battling fierce winds, extreme temperatures, and treacherous terrain.
- Typical Bikepacking Distances for Different Types of Rides
- Ultramarathon Bikepacking: In this type of race, participants cover exceptionally long distances in a non-stop, self-supported manner. Some of the most renowned ultramarathon bikepacking races include the Tour Divide, which spans over 2,700 miles (4,345 kilometers) from Canada to Mexico, and the Indian Pacific Wheel Race, covering 2,500 miles (4,025 kilometers) across the Australian desert. Riders in these events often cover distances ranging from 200 to 300 miles (320 to 480 kilometers) per day.
- Exploratory Bikepacking: This type of bikepacking involves embarking on multi-day or multi-week journeys into the unknown or lesser-traveled areas. Exploratory bikepackers often have no specific route or destination in mind and may venture into the wilderness, mountains, or remote regions. The distance covered during these trips can vary greatly, but many riders aim for 50 to 100 miles (80 to 160 kilometers) per day.
- Adventure-Based Bikepacking: This style of bikepacking is more about the journey than the destination, with an emphasis on exploring diverse landscapes and experiencing new challenges. Adventure-based bikepackers might choose to ride along scenic trails, explore urban areas, or link up multiple bike paths. Daily distances for this type of ride can range from 30 to 100 miles (48 to 160 kilometers), depending on the route and the individual’s fitness level.
In conclusion, while the average distance of bikepacking trips can vary widely depending on the type of ride and personal goals, the long-distance records set by professional cyclists provide a benchmark for those seeking to push their limits. It is important to note that the most enjoyable and memorable bikepacking experiences often come from exploring at a more sustainable pace, taking in the breathtaking scenery, and enjoying the journey itself.
FAQs
1. What is bikepacking?
Bikepacking is a type of cycling that involves carrying all the necessary gear and equipment on a bicycle to explore off-road and remote areas. It combines the physical activity of cycling with the excitement of camping and exploring new places.
2. What is the average distance for bikepacking?
The average distance for bikepacking can vary greatly depending on the route, terrain, and personal goals of the individual. Some bikepacking routes can be as short as a few miles, while others can span several hundred miles. The average distance for a typical bikepacking trip is around 200-300 miles, but this can vary greatly.
3. What type of bike is best for bikepacking?
The type of bike best for bikepacking depends on the individual’s personal preference and the specific route they plan to take. Some common types of bikes used for bikepacking include mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and touring bikes. It’s important to choose a bike that is comfortable and has the necessary features for carrying gear and navigating different types of terrain.
4. What type of gear is needed for bikepacking?
The gear needed for bikepacking can vary depending on the length and type of trip, as well as personal preferences. Essential gear includes a bicycle, a sturdy backpack or bikepacking bag, a tent, sleeping bag, and pad, a stove and cooking pot, food and water, first aid kit, navigation tools, and bike tools.
5. What are some popular bikepacking routes?
There are many popular bikepacking routes around the world, each offering unique landscapes and challenges. Some popular routes include the Colorado Trail in the United States, the Tour Divide in Canada and the United States, the Silk Route in Asia, and the Indian Ocean Route in Africa.
6. How do I plan a bikepacking trip?
Planning a bikepacking trip involves several key steps, including choosing a route, determining the necessary gear and supplies, and mapping out a daily schedule. It’s important to research the route and its terrain, as well as the weather and potential hazards. It’s also important to consider personal fitness and experience level when planning a trip.