Bikepacking and bike touring are two popular cycling activities that involve exploring the great outdoors on two wheels. However, despite their similarities, they are distinct from each other in terms of their approach, style, and gear. In this article, we will delve into the differences between bikepacking and bike touring, and help you understand which one is best suited for your next cycling adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newbie, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the world of cycling travel. So, let’s get started!
Bikepacking and bike touring are both forms of cycling that involve riding a bicycle over an extended period of time, often with the purpose of exploring different areas. However, there are some key differences between the two. Bikepacking typically involves more off-road riding and the use of specialized equipment, such as frame bags and bikepacking bags, to carry gear and supplies. Bike touring, on the other hand, typically involves more road riding and the use of panniers or other types of luggage to carry gear and supplies. Bike touring is often seen as a more traditional form of cycling tourism, while bikepacking is seen as a more adventurous and rugged form of cycling.
What is bikepacking?
Origins and history
Bikepacking, a relatively new form of cycling, has its roots in mountain biking and is characterized by the use of specialized bags and gear that allow riders to carry equipment necessary for multi-day trips off-road. While the concept of bikepacking has been around for several decades, it wasn’t until the early 2000s that the term “bikepacking” emerged to describe this unique form of cycling.
One of the earliest recorded instances of bikepacking can be traced back to the 1970s, when a group of mountain bikers in Marin County, California, embarked on a multi-day ride through the nearby mountains. These early bikepacking adventures were often informal and improvised, with riders using whatever gear they had available to carry their essentials.
Over time, as the popularity of mountain biking grew, so did the concept of bikepacking. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, a number of long-distance mountain bike races, such as the Tour Divide and the Colorado Trail Race, were established, further popularizing the idea of multi-day, self-supported rides on dirt roads and trails.
During this period, bikepacking gear and technology also began to evolve, with companies like Revelate Designs and Velociraptor Bags introducing purpose-built frame bags, seat packs, and handlebar bags specifically designed for off-road adventures. This new gear allowed riders to carry more equipment and supplies, enabling them to tackle longer and more challenging routes.
Today, bikepacking has become a popular and diverse activity, attracting cyclists of all ages and skill levels. From singletrack explorations to epic multi-day journeys across remote landscapes, bikepacking offers a unique and rewarding way to experience the world on two wheels.
Key features and differences from bike touring
Bikepacking is a type of cycling adventure that is gaining popularity in recent years. It is similar to bike touring, but there are some key differences that set it apart. Here are some of the main features and differences between bikepacking and bike touring:
- Equipment: One of the main differences between bikepacking and bike touring is the type of equipment used. Bikepacking typically involves using a dropper post, which allows the rider to adjust their saddle height while on the bike. This is particularly useful when riding off-road or on rough terrain. Bikepackers also tend to use lightweight, minimalist gear, such as compact backpacks and frameless tents, which allows them to move quickly and efficiently through the terrain.
- Routes: Another key difference between bikepacking and bike touring is the type of routes used. Bikepacking routes tend to be more rugged and off-road, with a focus on exploring remote and challenging terrain. Bikepackers often use singletrack trails, gravel roads, and other types of off-road terrain to link together their rides. In contrast, bike touring routes tend to be more traditional, following established roads and paths, and are often more focused on the destination rather than the journey itself.
- Duration: Bikepacking trips tend to be shorter and more intense than bike touring trips. Bikepackers often cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time, and are more focused on exploring new terrain and having a unique adventure. Bike touring trips, on the other hand, can be longer and more relaxed, with a greater emphasis on enjoying the journey and taking in the scenery.
- Navigation: Bikepacking also differs from bike touring in terms of navigation. Bikepackers often use GPS devices and smartphones to navigate their routes, while bike tourers may rely more on traditional maps and guidebooks. Bikepacking routes may also be less well-marked than bike touring routes, with a greater emphasis on finding one’s own way through the terrain.
Overall, while bikepacking and bike touring share some similarities, they are distinct activities with their own unique features and characteristics. Bikepacking is more focused on exploring remote and challenging terrain, using lightweight and minimalist gear, and covering shorter distances in a more intense and focused manner. Bike touring, on the other hand, is more focused on enjoying the journey, taking in the scenery, and following established routes and paths.
What is bike touring?
Bike touring, also known as self-supported touring, has its roots in the early 20th century when cycling enthusiasts began to explore the countryside and travel long distances on their bicycles. One of the earliest recorded bike tours was the 1884 Paris-Brest-Paris race, which covered over 1,200 kilometers.
In the United States, the popularity of bike touring grew in the 1930s and 1940s, thanks in part to the work of the League of American Wheelmen, an organization that promoted bicycling as a means of transportation and recreation. The organization’s annual tours attracted thousands of riders, many of whom were interested in exploring new routes and visiting new places on their bicycles.
During the 1960s and 1970s, the rise of the counterculture movement and the growing interest in outdoor recreation led to an increase in bike touring. Long-distance bike tours, such as the Trans-America Trail and the Tour de France, became popular, and more people began to explore the world on their bicycles.
Today, bike touring remains a popular form of adventure travel, with many people choosing to explore the world on two wheels. From crossing continents to exploring local trails, bike touring offers a unique way to experience the world and challenge oneself physically and mentally.
Key features and differences from bikepacking
Bike touring is a form of cycling that involves riding a bicycle over an extended period of time, often covering long distances and exploring different areas. The focus of bike touring is on transportation and sightseeing, rather than fitness or competition. Bike touring typically involves carrying a greater amount of gear, including camping equipment, food, and personal items, allowing for overnight stays in various locations.
Some key features of bike touring include:
- Longer distances and longer durations than bikepacking
- Carrying a heavier load of gear and supplies
- More emphasis on transportation and sightseeing
- Greater emphasis on self-sufficiency and independence
- Typically following established routes and roads
Compared to bikepacking, bike touring tends to be more traditional and less focused on off-road or adventurous terrain. Bike touring also tends to involve a more structured approach, with a specific route planned out in advance and a greater emphasis on resupplying and preparing for long distances.
Comparison of bikepacking and bike touring
Gear and equipment
When it comes to gear and equipment, bikepacking and bike touring have some similarities, but also some key differences.
Bikepacking gear is generally more minimalistic and focused on lightweight, compact equipment that can be easily carried on a bike. This includes items such as a specialized frame bag, handlebar bag, seat pack, and possibly a small tent or bivy sack. Bikepackers also tend to use lighter-weight sleeping bags, pads, and camping gear, as well as portable stoves and cooking equipment. The goal is to be self-sufficient for multi-day trips without having to carry a lot of extra weight.
Bike touring gear, on the other hand, is typically more extensive and heavier. Bike tourists often have dedicated touring bikes with more mounts and racks to carry their gear, including panniers, handlebar bags, and even a small trailer. They may also have a larger tent, sleeping bag, and pad, as well as more cooking and camping equipment. The focus is on comfort and convenience for longer trips, even if it means carrying more weight.
Overall, the main difference in gear and equipment between bikepacking and bike touring is the emphasis on weight and compactness for bikepacking versus comfort and convenience for bike touring.
Route planning and navigation
Bikepacking and bike touring both involve exploring the great outdoors on two wheels, but the way they approach route planning and navigation can differ significantly. Here are some key differences to consider:
Bikepacking
- Bikepacking often involves more off-road terrain and remote locations, which can make route planning and navigation more challenging.
- Riders may need to rely on digital maps and GPS devices to navigate, as well as use skills like reading topographic maps and using a compass.
- Bikepacking routes are often less well-marked than bike touring routes, so riders need to be more self-reliant and able to navigate using cues like landmarks, terrain features, and wildlife behavior.
- Riders may need to be able to navigate in poor weather conditions, as well as at night, which can add an extra level of difficulty to route planning and navigation.
Bike touring
- Bike touring often involves more well-established routes and paths, which can make route planning and navigation easier.
- Riders may have access to more detailed maps and guides, as well as resources like touring clubs and online forums that can provide information and advice on route planning.
- Bike touring routes are often well-marked, with clear signs and directions, which can make navigation easier for riders.
- Riders may have access to more amenities and services along the way, which can make navigation less challenging as well.
In summary, bikepacking tends to involve more challenging and remote terrain, which can make route planning and navigation more difficult. Bike touring, on the other hand, often involves more established routes and resources, which can make navigation easier. Both styles of riding require a strong sense of self-reliance and navigational skills, but the specific challenges and resources available can vary depending on the type of riding you choose to do.
Daily routines and challenges
When it comes to the daily routines and challenges of bikepacking and bike touring, there are several key differences to consider.
- Itinerary: One of the biggest differences between the two is the level of planning and structure involved. Bike touring tends to involve more extensive planning and a set itinerary, while bikepacking often involves more flexibility and a more spontaneous approach to route-finding.
- Equipment: Another key difference is the type and amount of equipment used. Bike touring typically involves more gear, such as panniers or a trailer to carry supplies, while bikepacking often involves using lighter, more compact equipment such as frame bags or a handlebar roll.
- Distance and duration: Bike touring is often longer and more grueling, with riders covering greater distances over a period of several days or weeks. Bikepacking, on the other hand, is typically shorter and more focused on exploring specific areas or routes.
- Purpose: The purpose of the trip can also differ between the two. Bike touring is often focused on covering a specific distance or reaching a destination, while bikepacking is more about the journey and exploring new places.
- Accommodation: Bike touring often involves staying in hotels, campsites or other forms of accommodation, while bikepacking is often more about wild camping or finding other forms of low-cost accommodation.
- Food: Bike touring often involves more extensive meal planning and preparation, while bikepacking is often more about finding quick and easy food options on the go.
Overall, the daily routines and challenges of bikepacking and bike touring are different, with bike touring tending to be more structured and planned, while bikepacking is more spontaneous and focused on the journey itself.
Skill level and physical demands
Bikepacking and bike touring both require a certain level of physical fitness and skill, but they differ in the specific demands placed on the rider.
Bikepacking is typically more physically demanding than bike touring, as it often involves more technical terrain and longer distances. The physical demands of bikepacking include:
- Endurance: Bikepacking routes often cover long distances, and riders need to be able to sustain high levels of physical output over extended periods.
- Technical skills: Bikepacking routes may include rough terrain, steep climbs, and challenging descents, requiring strong technical skills and the ability to navigate difficult terrain.
- Navigation: Bikepacking routes often lack established roads and trails, requiring riders to navigate using maps, GPS, and other tools. This requires a high level of navigation skills and the ability to read and interpret maps.
Bike touring is generally less physically demanding than bikepacking, as it tends to focus on more established routes and easier terrain. However, bike touring still requires a certain level of physical fitness and skill, including:
- Endurance: Bike touring routes can still cover long distances, and riders need to be able to sustain a certain level of physical output over extended periods.
- Technical skills: While bike touring routes tend to be less technically challenging than bikepacking routes, riders still need to be able to handle their bikes safely and effectively, particularly in urban or suburban environments.
- Navigation: Bike touring routes often follow established roads and trails, but riders still need to be able to navigate effectively, particularly in unfamiliar areas. This requires a basic level of navigation skills and the ability to read and interpret maps.
Overall, the physical demands of bikepacking and bike touring can vary widely depending on the specific route and terrain, but both activities require a certain level of physical fitness and skill.
Additional resources
Books and websites for further reading
There are numerous books and websites available for those interested in learning more about bikepacking and bike touring. These resources can provide valuable information on equipment, techniques, and destinations for those looking to embark on a cycling adventure. Some recommended reads and websites include:
- Books:
- “The Adventure Cyclist: Cycling Europe’s Great Rivers” by Nick Codrington and Adrian Mills
- “Bikepacking: The Art of Exploring the Unknown” by Jeff Moag
- “The Cycling Tourist: A Guide to the World’s Best Destinations” by Ryan Van Duzer
- Websites:
- Bikepacking.com (www.bikepacking.com)
- Bike Tour Hub (www.biketourofhispania.com)
- Singletracks (www.singletracks.com)
These resources offer a wealth of information on bikepacking and bike touring, including gear recommendations, route suggestions, and advice from experienced cyclists. They are an excellent starting point for anyone looking to learn more about these activities and plan their own cycling adventures.
Online communities and forums for bikepacking and bike touring enthusiasts
There are numerous online communities and forums where individuals who are interested in bikepacking and bike touring can connect with others who share their passion. These online spaces provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from others who have more experience.
One of the most popular online communities for bikepacking and bike touring enthusiasts is the Bikepacking.com forum. This forum is a hub for discussions about all aspects of bikepacking and bike touring, from gear recommendations to route planning. Members of the community can ask questions, share their experiences, and connect with others who are planning trips in the same area.
Another popular online resource for bikepacking and bike touring enthusiasts is the Bike Tour Hub forum. This forum is dedicated to discussions about bike touring and includes sections for gear discussions, route planning, and trip reports. Members of the community can also connect with other bike touring enthusiasts and share tips and advice.
Additionally, there are several Facebook groups dedicated to bikepacking and bike touring enthusiasts. These groups provide a space for members to share their experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who are planning trips. Some of the most popular Facebook groups for bikepacking and bike touring enthusiasts include the Bikepacking and Bike Touring Group and the Ultra Cycling Community.
Overall, these online communities and forums provide a valuable resource for individuals who are interested in bikepacking and bike touring. They provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to connect with others, share their experiences, and learn from others who have more experience.
FAQs
1. What is bikepacking?
Bikepacking is a type of cycling adventure that involves carrying gear and equipment on a bike, typically for extended periods of time and in remote areas. Bikepacking routes often include off-road trails, dirt roads, and singletrack, and are designed to take riders to unique and rugged locations. Bikepacking emphasizes self-sufficiency, lightweight gear, and a sense of exploration.
2. What is bike touring?
Bike touring, also known as road touring or cycle touring, is a type of cycling adventure that involves riding a bike on paved roads and paths, often with a focus on specific destinations. Bike touring routes may include both on- and off-road sections, and can range from short day rides to multi-day adventures. Bike touring often involves carrying a larger amount of gear and equipment, and may include staying in hotels, camping, or using other forms of accommodation.
3. What are the main differences between bikepacking and bike touring?
The main differences between bikepacking and bike touring are the types of routes and experiences they offer. Bikepacking is often more focused on off-road adventures and remote locations, while bike touring is more focused on riding on paved roads and paths to specific destinations. Bikepacking emphasizes self-sufficiency and lightweight gear, while bike touring often involves carrying a larger amount of gear and using more established forms of accommodation.
4. Can I do both bikepacking and bike touring?
Yes, many cyclists enjoy a mix of both bikepacking and bike touring. Some routes may incorporate elements of both types of cycling adventures, with off-road sections followed by on-road sections, or vice versa. It’s also possible to incorporate bikepacking into a longer bike touring trip, or to use a bike touring route as a starting point for a bikepacking adventure.
5. What type of bike is best for bikepacking or bike touring?
The type of bike that is best for bikepacking or bike touring will depend on the specific route and the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. For bikepacking, a drop-bar road bike or a mountain bike with suspension and wide tires can be a good choice. For bike touring, a touring bike or a hybrid bike with a comfortable ride and a wide range of gears can be a good choice. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of the route you’re planning to ride.