The term bikepacking has recently acquired a variety of meanings and connotations, not all of which are appropriate or consistent. I’ve broken down these varied meanings into 4 explicit definitions and I explain which are more useful and how they have evolved.
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As always, I focused on products aimed at bikepacking and ultra-distance cycling during my visit to Eurobike 2019. I noticed some promising trends in the industry and in the show itself, plus lots of interesting products to peer at and fondle.
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The history of modern bikepacking races is quite short, having started with some off-road races in the USA in the early 2000s. Road-based bikepacking races started with the World Cycle Race in 2012, then the first Transcontinental Race in Europe in 2013 brought much more attention. Near the origins of cycle sport in the late 1800s, there were many people recording times for riding ultra-distances solo and self-supported.
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The risk involved in cycling is compared to other modes of transport & the risk of doing ultra-distance cycling is compared to other recreational activities.
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Support teams should not be allowed in ultra-distance cycling because they increase costs, vehicles are unnecessary & riders should make their own decisions.
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Advice on what types of bags to use for bikepacking and how they can be mounted. Also, whether to use fenders/mudguards for long-distance cycling.
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A variety of sleeping strategies and sleeping equipment are presented that people in bikepacking races use to get some efficient rest.
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The number of self-supported, ultra-distance bikepacking races is growing rapidly. The more major events that traverse a country or continent are listed.
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Ultra-distance cyclists need to maintain a positive mental approach and deal with intense emotions. Physical exhaustion & mental fatigue make this difficult, but being prepared and aware can help you to get through the difficult times.
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An overview and summary of each edition of the Transcontinental Race (TCR), which is a self-supported, ultra-distance bikepacking race across Europe.
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