How Many Speeds Do You Need for Bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a type of cycling that combines the freedom of off-road riding with the practicality of bike touring. It involves riding on a variety of terrains, from rough dirt trails to paved roads, and carrying all the necessary gear to camp and survive in the wilderness. But how many speeds do you need for bikepacking? This is a question that many cyclists ask themselves before embarking on a bikepacking adventure. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of terrain you’ll be riding on, the weight of your gear, and your personal preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that influence the number of speeds you need for bikepacking and provide some guidance on how to choose the right gear for your next adventure. So, let’s get started!

Understanding Bikepacking

What is Bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a type of cycling that combines the thrill of mountain biking with the freedom of camping and backpacking. It involves riding a specially-equipped bicycle off-road through remote and rugged terrain, carrying all the necessary gear and supplies for an extended trip. The sport has gained popularity in recent years due to its versatility and the opportunity it provides to explore wild and scenic areas on two wheels.

One of the key factors in successful bikepacking is having the right gear, including the right number of speeds on your bicycle. While the ideal number of speeds may vary depending on the specific terrain and conditions you’ll encounter on your trip, there are some general guidelines to consider when selecting the gearing for your bike.

Types of Bikepacking

Bikepacking is a unique and exciting way to explore the great outdoors, and it requires a specific set of skills and equipment. One of the most important aspects of bikepacking is the gear, and the question of how many speeds you need for bikepacking is a common one. In this article, we will explore the different types of bikepacking and the gear requirements for each.

Touring Bikepacking

Touring bikepacking is a type of bikepacking that involves riding long distances over a period of several days. This type of bikepacking requires a bike that is equipped with a wide range of gears, typically 27 speeds or more. The extra gears are necessary for climbing steep hills and mountains, as well as for riding on flat terrain. Touring bikepacking often involves carrying a heavy load of gear and supplies, so a bike with a strong frame and robust components is essential.

Mountain Bike Bikepacking

Mountain bike bikepacking is a type of bikepacking that involves riding off-road trails and paths. This type of bikepacking requires a bike with a wide range of gears, typically 24 speeds or more. The extra gears are necessary for climbing steep hills and mountains, as well as for riding on loose terrain such as sand, gravel, and rocks. A bike with suspension forks and shocks is also essential for absorbing the impact of rough terrain.

Gravel Bike Bikepacking

Gravel bike bikepacking is a type of bikepacking that involves riding on a mix of paved and unpaved roads and paths. This type of bikepacking requires a bike with a wide range of gears, typically 24 speeds or more. The extra gears are necessary for climbing steep hills and mountains, as well as for riding on loose terrain such as gravel, dirt, and mud. A bike with a lightweight frame and components is essential for the long distances and challenging terrain involved in gravel bike bikepacking.

Road Bike Bikepacking

Road bike bikepacking is a type of bikepacking that involves riding on paved roads and paths. This type of bikepacking requires a bike with a wide range of gears, typically 27 speeds or more. The extra gears are necessary for climbing steep hills and mountains, as well as for riding on flat terrain. A bike with a lightweight frame and components is essential for the long distances and challenging terrain involved in road bike bikepacking.

In conclusion, the number of speeds you need for bikepacking depends on the type of bikepacking you plan to do. Touring bikepacking requires the most gears, while gravel bike bikepacking requires fewer gears. It is important to choose a bike that is appropriate for the type of terrain and challenges you will encounter on your bikepacking adventure.

Equipment Required for Bikepacking

Bikepacking is an adventurous and challenging activity that requires careful planning and preparation. One of the most crucial aspects of bikepacking is selecting the right equipment. The equipment required for bikepacking may vary depending on the type of ride, the terrain, and the duration of the trip. Here are some of the essential pieces of equipment that you need for bikepacking:

Bike

The first and most important piece of equipment required for bikepacking is the bike itself. You need a bike that is suitable for the terrain you will be riding on. For instance, if you plan to ride on rough terrain, you need a bike with suspension forks and wide tires. On the other hand, if you plan to ride on smooth roads, you can opt for a road bike or a gravel bike.

Gear

Next, you need to consider the gear you will need for the trip. This includes clothing, footwear, helmet, sunglasses, gloves, and other accessories. You should also carry a repair kit, including tools, spare parts, and tubes, in case you encounter any mechanical issues during the ride.

Hydration System

Staying hydrated is crucial during bikepacking, especially when riding in hot and humid conditions. You need a reliable hydration system that can keep you hydrated throughout the ride. This includes a water bottle holder, a hydration bladder, and a drinking tube.

Navigation

Navigation is also critical when bikepacking, especially if you are riding in unfamiliar terrain. You need a reliable navigation system, such as a GPS device or a smartphone with offline maps, to help you navigate your way through the ride.

Bikepacking Bags

Finally, you need to carry your gear and essentials for the trip. Bikepacking bags are designed to attach to your bike and provide a convenient way to carry your gear. There are different types of bikepacking bags available, including frame bags, handlebar bags, and seat bags.

In summary, the equipment required for bikepacking includes a suitable bike, gear, hydration system, navigation system, and bikepacking bags. By ensuring that you have all the necessary equipment, you can prepare for an exciting and adventurous bikepacking trip.

Bike Gear Ratio and Its Importance

Definition of Gear Ratio

Gear ratio refers to the relationship between the number of teeth on the bike’s front chainring and the number of teeth on the rear cog. It is a fundamental concept in cycling and plays a crucial role in determining the speed range and effort required to pedal a bike. The gear ratio determines how fast or slow a bike can go, and how much effort is required to maintain a particular speed.

The gear ratio is expressed as a ratio, with the number of teeth on the front chainring being the numerator and the number of teeth on the rear cog being the denominator. For example, a gear ratio of 3:2 means that the front chainring has 3 teeth and the rear cog has 2 teeth.

In general, a higher gear ratio results in a faster speed but requires more effort to pedal, while a lower gear ratio results in a slower speed but requires less effort to pedal. Therefore, the gear ratio is an important factor to consider when selecting the right gears for bikepacking.

Factors Affecting Gear Ratio

The gear ratio of a bike refers to the relationship between the number of teeth on the crankset and the number of teeth on the rear sprocket. The gear ratio affects the speed at which the bike travels and the amount of effort required to pedal. Factors that can affect the gear ratio of a bike include:

• Cassette Size: The number of teeth on the rear sprocket can vary depending on the size of the cassette. A larger cassette will have more teeth on the rear sprocket, resulting in a lower gear ratio, while a smaller cassette will have fewer teeth on the rear sprocket, resulting in a higher gear ratio.
• Crankset Size: The number of teeth on the crankset can also affect the gear ratio. A larger crankset will have more teeth, resulting in a lower gear ratio, while a smaller crankset will have fewer teeth, resulting in a higher gear ratio.
• Terrain: The terrain on which the bike is being ridden can also affect the gear ratio. For example, a bike with a higher gear ratio may be better suited for flat or uphill terrain, while a bike with a lower gear ratio may be better suited for downhill or technical terrain.
• Rider’s Pedal Stroke: The rider’s personal pedal stroke also plays a role in determining the gear ratio that is best for them. Some riders prefer a higher gear ratio for a more efficient pedal stroke, while others prefer a lower gear ratio for more torque.
• Weight and Height of the Rider: The weight and height of the rider can also play a role in determining the gear ratio that is best for them. A heavier rider may require a lower gear ratio to make pedaling easier, while a lighter rider may prefer a higher gear ratio for a more efficient pedal stroke. Similarly, a taller rider may prefer a higher gear ratio, while a shorter rider may prefer a lower gear ratio.

It is important to consider all these factors when determining the number of speeds needed for bikepacking.

Importance of Gear Ratio in Bikepacking

• The gear ratio of a bike refers to the ratio between the number of teeth on the crankset and the number of teeth on the rear sprocket.
• This ratio determines the speed at which the bike will travel, as well as the amount of torque that can be generated.
• In bikepacking, the gear ratio plays a crucial role in determining the ease of climbing and descending hills, as well as the overall speed and efficiency of the bike.
• A lower gear ratio, with a larger number of teeth on the rear sprocket, will result in a slower speed but increased torque, making it easier to climb steep hills.
• A higher gear ratio, with a smaller number of teeth on the rear sprocket, will result in a faster speed but less torque, making it easier to descend hills and maintain a higher average speed.
• In general, a bikepacker may require multiple gear ratios to effectively navigate different terrain and conditions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Number of Speeds

Terrain and Type of Ride

When determining the number of speeds you need for bikepacking, the terrain and type of ride are crucial factors to consider. Different types of rides will require different gear ranges, and the terrain will dictate the range of gears you need.

• Types of Rides:
  • Endurance Rides: Endurance rides are long-distance rides that typically cover 100 miles or more. For these rides, you will need a wide range of gears to handle the diverse terrain you will encounter. A typical range for endurance rides is 24 to 36 gears.
  • Trail Rides: Trail rides are shorter rides that take place on trails or fire roads. These rides usually cover between 25 to 50 miles. For trail rides, a range of 18 to 24 gears is usually sufficient.
  • Cyclocross Races: Cyclocross races are short, intense races that take place on a mix of pavement, dirt, and obstacles. For these races, you will need a wide range of gears to handle the varying terrain. A range of 18 to 24 gears is typically used for cyclocross races.
• Terrain:
  • Hills and Mountains: If you plan to bikepack in areas with hills and mountains, you will need a range of gears to handle the steep inclines and declines. A range of 24 to 36 gears is recommended for areas with significant elevation changes.
  • Flat Terrain: If you plan to bikepack in areas with flat terrain, you will need fewer gears. A range of 18 to 24 gears is typically sufficient for flat terrain.

In summary, the terrain and type of ride you plan to undertake will play a significant role in determining the number of speeds you need for bikepacking. Be sure to consider these factors when selecting the gear range for your bikepacking adventures.

Personal Preference and Fitness Level

When deciding on the number of speeds for bikepacking, it’s important to consider your personal preference and fitness level. The following are some factors to consider:

• Personal Preference: The number of speeds you need for bikepacking will depend on your personal preference. Some people prefer more speeds for greater control and precision, while others prefer fewer speeds for simplicity and ease of use. It’s important to choose a bike that matches your personal preference and riding style.
• Fitness Level: Your fitness level will also play a role in determining the number of speeds you need for bikepacking. If you’re a beginner or have limited cycling experience, you may want to start with a bike that has fewer speeds. This will allow you to focus on developing your cycling skills without having to worry about complicated gear shifts. As you become more experienced and fit, you can gradually move up to a bike with more speeds.

In summary, when choosing the number of speeds for bikepacking, it’s important to consider your personal preference and fitness level. The right number of speeds will vary from person to person, so it’s important to choose a bike that matches your individual needs and riding style.

Bike Type and Purpose

When determining the number of speeds you need for bikepacking, the type of bike and its intended purpose are crucial factors to consider. The choice of bike can significantly impact the type of terrain you’ll be riding on and the speed range required. Here are some bike types and their respective purposes:

• Hardtail Mountain Bikes: These bikes are designed for off-road riding on moderate terrain, such as fire roads, single track, and light trails. They typically have front suspension forks, making them more comfortable and stable on rough terrain. For hardtail mountain bikes, 8-10 speeds are generally sufficient for most riding conditions.
• Full Suspension Mountain Bikes: Full suspension mountain bikes are suitable for more challenging terrain, including rough trails, rocky descents, and technical singletrack. They feature both front and rear suspension, providing better control and handling on difficult terrain. Riders of full suspension mountain bikes may require a wider range of gears, usually 10-12 speeds, to tackle diverse trail conditions.
• Gravel Bikes: Gravel bikes are designed for riding on a mix of pavement and dirt roads, offering versatility and adaptability to various terrains. These bikes often have a drop bar design and typically have 1x drivetrains with a wide range of gears, usually between 1×10 or 1×12 speeds, to accommodate the diverse terrain and varying speeds.
• Adventure Bikes: Adventure bikes are built for long-distance, multi-terrain rides, often including gravel, dirt, and pavement. They feature endurance geometry, disc brakes, and a range of gears to tackle different terrains. Adventure bikes usually have 1x drivetrains with a broad range of gears, usually between 1×10 or 1×12 speeds, depending on the specific model and intended use.
• Recumbent Bikes: Recumbent bikes are designed with a low-profile seating position, providing a more comfortable and aerodynamic riding experience. They are typically used for long-distance rides on paved roads and sometimes off-road. Recumbent bikes usually have 3-9 speeds, depending on the specific model and the type of terrain they’ll be ridden on.

When determining the number of speeds needed for your bikepacking adventures, consider the type of bike you have and its intended purpose. Choose a range of gears that will provide adequate coverage for the terrain and riding conditions you expect to encounter during your trip.

Budget and Maintenance Considerations

When it comes to determining how many speeds you need for bikepacking, budget and maintenance considerations play a crucial role.

• Budget: The cost of the bike is an important factor to consider when deciding how many speeds you need. If you have a limited budget, you may need to opt for a bike with fewer speeds. However, it’s important to note that while a bike with fewer speeds may be more affordable, it may not be as versatile as a bike with more speeds.
• Maintenance: Another important consideration is maintenance. Bikes with more speeds require more maintenance as there are more moving parts. If you’re not comfortable with regular maintenance, a bike with fewer speeds may be a better option for you.

Overall, the number of speeds you need for bikepacking depends on your personal preferences, riding style, and budget. It’s important to weigh all these factors before making a decision.

Common Number of Speeds for Bikepacking

Traditional Touring Bikes

Traditional touring bikes are designed for long-distance cycling and typically have a higher number of gears to provide greater flexibility and range of speeds. These bikes are typically equipped with a triple crankset, which allows for a wide range of gears, making it easier to pedal up steep hills or through rugged terrain. A triple crankset typically consists of three chainrings, with each chainring having a different number of teeth. This provides a total of nine speeds, with three different combinations of chainring and cog sizes. For example, a triple crankset with a 34-tooth large chainring, a 24-tooth middle chainring, and a 34-tooth small chainring, provides a total of 34 x 24 x 34 = 32,168 different gear combinations.

However, some riders may find that a triple crankset is too many gears, and may prefer a double crankset, which has two chainrings, each with a different number of teeth. A double crankset typically provides a total of seven speeds, with three different combinations of chainring and cog sizes. For example, a double crankset with a 34-tooth large chainring and a 34-tooth small chainring, provides a total of 34 x 34 = 1152 different gear combinations.

While a triple crankset provides a wider range of gears, a double crankset may be sufficient for many riders, depending on their personal preferences and the specific terrain they will be riding. Some riders may prefer a simpler, more streamlined system, while others may value the versatility of a triple crankset. Ultimately, the choice of crankset will depend on the individual rider’s needs and preferences.

Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes are a popular choice for bikepacking due to their versatility and ability to handle a variety of terrain. The number of speeds required for bikepacking on a gravel bike can vary depending on several factors, including the type of terrain, the length of the ride, and the rider’s personal preferences.

In general, a range of 1×8, 1×9, or 2×10 gearing systems are commonly used on gravel bikes. The choice of gearing system depends on the rider’s personal preference and the type of terrain they will be riding on. A 1×8 gearing system typically has a wide range of gears, making it a good choice for hilly or mountainous terrain. A 1×9 gearing system is a good all-around option, providing a good balance between climbing and descending. A 2×10 gearing system offers a wider range of gears, making it a good choice for steep climbs and technical terrain.

Ultimately, the number of speeds required for bikepacking on a gravel bike will depend on the individual rider’s needs and preferences. It is important to consider the type of terrain you will be riding on, the length of the ride, and your personal preferences when choosing the right gearing system for your gravel bike.

Mountain Bikes

When it comes to mountain bikes, the number of speeds you need for bikepacking depends on the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. For instance, if you plan to ride on mostly smooth and flat surfaces, you may not need as many speeds as you would if you were to encounter steep inclines or declines.

Generally, a mountain bike with 27 gears is considered to be a good all-around option for bikepacking. This is because it provides a wide range of gears that can be used in different situations, such as climbing, descending, and cruising on flat terrain.

However, if you’re planning to tackle more challenging terrain, you may want to consider a mountain bike with more gears. For example, some mountain bikes have 30 or even 36 gears, which can provide even more options for climbing and descending.

Ultimately, the number of speeds you need on your mountain bike will depend on your personal preferences and the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. It’s important to choose a bike that meets your needs and allows you to enjoy your bikepacking adventures.

Cyclocross Bikes

Cyclocross bikes are a popular choice for bikepacking due to their versatility and ability to handle a variety of terrain. These bikes typically have a wide range of gears, usually between 1×9 or 1×10 speed systems, which allows for a broad range of gear options for climbing, descending, and high-speed cruising.

One of the main advantages of cyclocross bikes for bikepacking is their ability to handle both paved and unpaved roads, as well as dirt and gravel paths. This makes them a great option for those who want to explore a variety of landscapes and terrain types during their bikepacking adventures.

Additionally, cyclocross bikes often have features that make them well-suited for off-road riding, such as wider tires, higher clearance, and disc brakes. These features can help riders navigate rough terrain and maintain control in challenging conditions.

However, it’s worth noting that cyclocross bikes are typically not as specialized as other types of bikes designed specifically for bikepacking, such as mountain bikes or gravel bikes. As a result, they may not be as efficient or comfortable on very technical terrain or very long distances.

Overall, the number of speeds needed for bikepacking on a cyclocross bike will depend on the specific terrain and conditions that the rider plans to encounter. However, a wide range of gears, such as those found on a 1×9 or 1×10 speed system, can provide the versatility needed to handle a variety of terrain types and riding conditions.

Recap of Key Points

• Bikepacking involves carrying equipment and supplies on a bicycle for extended periods, often in remote areas.
• The optimal number of speeds for bikepacking depends on various factors such as terrain, personal preferences, and cycling style.
• Traditional touring bikes typically have three front chainrings and a cluster of cogs at the rear, resulting in a wide range of gears.
• Some bikepacking enthusiasts prefer a single-speed or fixed-gear bicycle, which can simplify maintenance and repair.
• Gravel bikes, designed for off-road riding on gravel and dirt roads, often have a single front chainring and a wide range of gears at the rear, providing a good balance between climbing and descending capabilities.
• Ultra-distance mountain bikes used for long-distance racing may have up to 12 speeds or more, allowing for precise adjustments in challenging terrain.
• E-bikes with electric assist can simplify the gearing system by providing additional power to the drivetrain, but still offer multiple gear options for different terrain and pedal assist levels.
• Ultimately, the ideal number of speeds for bikepacking depends on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the journey, and may vary from one rider to another.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

When it comes to determining the ideal number of speeds for bikepacking, there are a few factors to consider. The terrain, the type of bike, and the personal preferences of the rider all play a role in this decision. However, based on the information provided in this article, a 9-speed system appears to be the most common and versatile option for bikepacking.

• 9-speed systems offer a good balance between range and simplicity, with enough gears to handle a variety of terrain and conditions, but not so many that it becomes overwhelming or difficult to maintain.
• For those who prefer a simpler setup, an 8-speed system can still provide enough range for most bikepacking routes, although it may require more effort to navigate steep climbs or descents.
• A 10-speed system may offer some advantages in terms of precision and gear range, but it can also be more complex and difficult to maintain, which may not be ideal for some riders.

Ultimately, the decision of how many speeds to use for bikepacking will depend on the individual rider’s needs and preferences. It’s important to consider the specific terrain and conditions that will be encountered on the route, as well as the type of bike being used and the rider’s own physical capabilities. Experimenting with different systems and making adjustments as needed can help to find the optimal setup for any given ride.

FAQs

1. How many speeds do you need for bikepacking?

Bikepacking can be done with any number of gears, but generally, the more gears you have, the better your bike will perform on different types of terrain. A common setup for bikepacking is a triple crankset with a wide range of gears, allowing you to easily climb steep hills and pedal along flat terrain. However, some riders prefer a single-speed or a geared bike with fewer gears, which can be lighter and simpler to maintain. Ultimately, the number of gears you need for bikepacking depends on your personal preferences and the specific demands of your route.

2. Can you bikepack with a single-speed bike?

Yes, you can definitely bikepack with a single-speed bike. In fact, many riders prefer the simplicity and durability of a single-speed setup for bikepacking. With a single-speed, you’ll need to use more effort to pedal up hills, but you’ll be able to maintain a consistent speed on flat terrain. This can be a great advantage in certain conditions, and many riders find that the direct connection to the pedals and the ground gives them a more intimate connection to the ride. However, it’s important to choose a route that is suitable for a single-speed bike, with plenty of flat or downhill sections to make up for the lack of gears.

3. What are the advantages of a geared bike for bikepacking?

A geared bike can offer many advantages for bikepacking, particularly when riding in hilly or mountainous terrain. With a geared bike, you can easily adjust your gears to match the terrain, making it easier to climb steep hills and maintain a consistent speed on flat terrain. This can help you to conserve energy and make your ride more efficient. Additionally, a geared bike can often be more comfortable on long rides, as you can adjust the seat angle and handlebar position to find a comfortable cruising speed. Overall, a geared bike can be a great choice for bikepacking routes with varied terrain, but it’s important to choose a bike that is appropriate for your riding style and the demands of the route.

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