Despite Trump’s surprise 90-day pause on a great deal of his April 2-announced tariffs, it seems inevitable that we’re going to be shelling out more at the checkouts for our favorite outdoor items.

The threat of trade war alone has created huge uncertainty for businesses around the world, destabilizing prices, and the 10% universal duty remains in place, which they are already having to absorb.

Much of the manufacturing of clothes and equipment from our favourite brands takes place in Asia in countries such as China, which is facing a 125% tariff, and in Cambodia and Vietnam, both originally threatened with 49% tariffs.

The US Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) has said that these tariffs will hurt American businesses, workers and consumers. The number of Americans taking part in outdoor activity is at an all-time high, it revealed, with 175.8 million participating last year.

“These tariffs will raise costs for American manufacturers, retailers and families,” says Kent Ebersole, president of OIA.

“That’s going to slow growth, put pressure on small and mid-sized outdoor companies and could force some to close their doors. These tariffs also make it more difficult for global outdoor brands to operate in the US and maintain their American workforce.”

For brands such as Black Diamond and Columbia Sportswear, whose share prices have dropped as a result of these tariff increases, the situation is challenging. The higher tariffs raise their cost base, which makes it harder to maintain profit margins.

Logistics expert Will Kogan explains: “As publicly traded companies, any price hikes or shrinking profit margins directly affect their stock market performance. This has led to investor concerns, reflected in the decline in share prices. The challenge for these companies now is finding a balance between raising prices and maintaining their customer base.

"For US consumers, the effects of these price hikes are becoming increasingly apparent. For high-end brands like Yeti, this could impact demand, as consumers might start to opt for more affordable alternatives, especially in a time of economic uncertainty."

When will the price of gear rise?

Savvy brands have been trying to stay one step ahead of the looming tariffs, importing as much product as they could before April. Imports have been high since summer 2024, the US National Retail Federation has revealed.

“Retailers have been bringing merchandise into the country for months in attempts to mitigate against rising tariffs, but that opportunity has come to an end with the imposition of the ‘reciprocal’ tariffs,” US National Retail Federation spokesperson Jonathan Gold said.

Damon Street from Twist Distribution, EU distributor of Exell Outdoors, which owns brands such as Sierra Designs and Kelty, agrees that businesses have been preparing for these tariffs long before April 2.

"They have probably already been through two waves of pricing," he says.

However, he describes Trump’s latest 90-day pause as a “lifeline”. It will give companies a chance to manufacture and deliver on orders already placed and time to plan for the future.

How will brands absorb these costs?

Street explains that at this time of year, as brands get ready to present next year's spring/summer product at trade shows, they usually have pricing cemented. However, with the economic uncertainty, they are still working it out.

He predicts that they are likely to protect key products while pushing costs onto "accessories".

“Brands are having to look at what are the key products they need, the things that define their brands, and maintain performance there.

For Exell it's their sleeping bags, backpacks and tents. For Kelty, our best-seller is the Tru.Comfort Doublewide two-person sleeping bag. We will make sure this is hitting the right price point going forwards. Perhaps we will have to remove focus from other accessories, the things that are 'nice' to have," he explains.

Businesses are also considering manufacturing long-term. At Excell they have built a factory in Alabama where they can manufacture sleeping bags. However, it's not going to be a quick solution.

"We can switch on manufacturing there," Street says. "But where the products are currently being made, the quality is A1. To replicate the volumes and the quality is going to be a big ask."

Will gear cost less in Europe than the US?

One interesting development is that we may see global pricing disparity, Street predicts.

“At Exell, we have always maintained a global pricing policy. A £100 product in the UK might sell at €115 in the EU and $125 in the US. The brand price is roughly aligned, similar to Nike or Adidas products. The brand price is roughly the same whether you buy it in London, Munich or New York. This may be affected as realistically each territory will have to look at what they need for their own markets and find the right price point."

The end of store discounts?

Further down the supply chain, Street believes retailers will have to reconsider pricing too, which the consumer will probably notice over the coming months.

"As new deliveries arrive with higher-priced product, retailers can blend the price, and get a blended margin that won’t be too bad. However, as they run out of older stock that was bought in at the right price, the margin will be hard to hold without significant price increases.

He believes initially retailers will have to stop discounting products to keep their profit margins and sell at the RRP.

Ultimately, he says the consumer will have to make a choice to spend more or buy from cheaper brands.

Extend the life of your gear

With prices set to hike, it’s more beneficial than ever to takes steps to make your gear last longer.

• Invest in quality – paying more for well-made and durable gear is more financially sound that investing in budget-friendly options, which can be false economy. If you don’t have funds to lay out for brand new gear, consider buying used gear. There’s advice in our article How to shop for second hand outdoor gear.
• Look after your clothes – keep them clean and wash with Nikwax, or unscented detergent, after every few uses. Always store gear clean and dry. Repair tears, and if you can't yourself, employ someone who can.
• Reproof outer layers – when water starts to breach jackets and trousers, use a DWR product to make them waterproof again. There’s helpful advice in How to waterproof a jacket.
• Repair gear – there are amazing gear-repair companies out there who will bring your tired clothes and equipment back to life, especially if the item has a lifetime warranty. Whether it’s replacing a broken backpack zip or washing a filthy sleeping bag, there may be someone out there who can do it at a fair price.

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Do you love the idea of a thru-hike but lack the paid vacation days to pull one off? Or  prefer the idea of roaming the backcountry on two wheels rather than in hiking boots? A bikepacking trip might be your ideal ticket if you’re looking for adventure travel ideas this year.

Like backpacking, bikepacking is an excellent way to take a multi-day adventure into the wild, but once you add wheels, it all seems a bit more complicated. Where to even begin? We recently caught up with John Dewey, director of Epic Road Rides, to get his pro tips for planning a successful bikepacking adventure.

“Bikepacking is all about adventure,” says Dewey, who speaks to us six days into a 10-day trip along Scotland’s Hebridean Way, a 200-mile trail that spans 10 different islands. Already on this tour, he’s seen dolphins and seals.

“I think the very essence of bike packing is really to get further from civilization, to have real adventures.”

While not every trail is open to bikes, when you find one that is, you can get further in a shorter space of time, see more incredible views and all with a relatively low footprint, assuming you’re following the principles of Leave No Trace and getting to the trailhead without too much reliance on carbon emissions.

To help you plan, Dewey offers up the following tips to make the most of your time.

1. Pick a spot to camp

It might seem like the first step in planning a bikepacking adventure should be to begin with a trail you want to explore, whether that’s the Lost Sierra Loop or the Great Divide trail – but that’s probably something you’ll want to work your way up to. For your first bikepacking adventure, Dewey recommends just picking a place where you’d like to spend the night.

“The best place to start is to think about a great campsite that you would want to spend the night at, because I think it's the campsite on an overnight trip that really makes makes it memorable.”

Picking the destination first then guides the remainder of your journey, from where you’ll be starting to what time you need to leave to arrive by dark.

2. Don’t overpack

What kit you take on a bikepacking adventure is obviously really important to how much you enjoy yourself, but on the other hand, it's really easy to take too much stuff, something Dewey admits to falling foul to.

“A mistake I've made is taking too many different sets of clothes, so plan that in advance and have good layers, much like you would for hiking to be warm in the conditions. That's important.”

As for what to bring, Dewey recommends using a packing list, which you can learn more about in our article on bikepacking essentials and it’s worth taking a look at the 25 worst things to take on a bikepacking trip while you’re at it.

As for the basics, Dewey says, you’ll need a mountain bike or gravel bike with wide tires and the ability to to carry some luggage, while bikepacking bags that go on your handlebars are a great way to keep gear like your phone close to hand.

Carry a small set of LED lights in case you get caught out on the trail in the dark and if you really get into it, consider a bikepacking-specific tent like the Big Agnes Spur that has extra room for gear and is designed to affix to your handlebars when you’re on the move. 

3. Test your gear

Before packing all your new gear, Dewey recommends testing it out first and trying to offset any potential trouble spots so you don’t need to find out about them on the journey.

“You will have things go wrong, and that's part of the adventure. But yeah, try identify things before you go. Is your kit rubbing? Have you got a puncture? Making sure that your bike is in a really good state of repair before you go is is really important.”

His top tip to avoid tears on the trail is to use 5. when attaching your bags to your frame to avoid scratching it. 

“It's amazing how a small rub can do do more damage to your frame or paintwork than you would think.”

4. Research your route thoroughly

Once you know where you’re going, do as much research as you can on things like current trail conditions, distances and elevation gain, and make sure you know exactly where cyclists are allowed to ride in the place where you’re going. 

For this, Dewey uses the app Ride with GPS which, when in cycling mode will make sure you’re on the right path the same way AllTrails does for hikers. 

“It’s a really brilliant online planning tool and I find it works really well for bikepacking, because the cycle routes include things like bridal ways in the UK.”

Use our guide to different bikepacking apps, find one that suits your needs and practice using it before you take off. 

5. Be realistic about pace and distance

If you’re planning a bikepacking trip, you’re probably already an experienced cyclist, but it turns out that only gets your so far.

“What people often underestimate is the time it might take you compared to normal mountain biking or cycling on the road. You're obviously gonna have more kit, you're gonna want to take more time, enjoy the view,” says Dewey.

That may mean setting off earlier to avoid arriving in the dark and planning on shorter days than you think you can manage on a regular ride.

“You may have issues you haven't encountered before, particularly when you're getting going with your kit. You'll have to stop for for food and water, so just allow plenty of time.”

6. Bring proper food

Though you’ll want to travel light, if you’ve been cycling all day, the last thing that you’re going to want is an energy bar for dinner. Though Dewey says he loves Veloforte bars for during the day, he always carries a camping stove to ensure a good meal at night.

“Having a stove and some hot food in the evening is really nice when you're tired. I think that really makes a difference.”

That said, carrying too much cooking equipment takes up space and rattles around on the trail, so consider bringing an integrated cooking system like a Jetboil, freeze-fried meals you can just add hot water to and don’t forget a lightweight camping mug for that all important morning coffee.

7. Get your sleep system dialled

Just like with backpacking, a good sleep system is key to a successful bikepacking trip so that you can wake up energized and ready to ride.

“I like a comfy night’s sleep so I'm very attached to my Therm-a-Rest ultralight inflatable mattress. That comes on pretty much every trip,” says Dewey.

Models like my Therm-A-Rest ProLite Apex pack down small but keep you two inches above the hard ground and combined with a good sleeping bag and inflatable camping pillow can help ensure a good night’s sleep.

Finally, if you’re traveling further afield and not sure about the climate where you’re going, consider bringing a sleeping bag liner. 

“I think a silk liner is quite a good thing to have. It gives you a bit of flexibility. They fold down very small, very light, but if it gets a bit more chilly than you're expecting, then that can be a lifesaver.”

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Stand aside e-bikes. There’s more than one way to bring some power-assisted, fat-wheeled action to the trails. And you don’t even need two wheels.

Nope, the e-unicycle hasn’t arrived. We’re talking electric boards, which are basically one-wheel skateboards. 

And while they’re nothing new, leading electric board brand Future Motion has just released a new model in its Onewheel line that specially designed for the kind of rugged terrain beloved of MTB and e-MTB riders.

Welcome to the Onewheel GT S-Series Rally Edition.

The brand is calling the Rally Edition its most advanced yet, and it certainly has some power behind it. Developed in collaboration with the Onewheel Factory Pro Team, the Rally Edition is designed to tackle mountain bike and single-track trails.

It boasts an innovation that the brand is calling Recurve Rails. These are asymmetrical, curved rails aim to improve control and leverage, with additional clearance for rugged terrain and steep gradients, the brand say. 

Other specs include a factory-upgraded six-inch motor hub for vibration dampening and tougher tires than previous models in the range. Future Motion calls the Rally Edition the “ultimate off-road setup”.

The Onewheel GT S-Series Rally Edition is available to buy now from the brand’s website for $3,500. A head’s up: when you click on that link it takes you through to the general page for the range, and you need to click on button for the Rally Edition –if you look carefully at the image, it does change very slightly.

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Coros, best known for its range of GPS watches, has launched a new bike computer that offers super-long battery life for multi-day adventures. The Coros Dura provides 120 hours of continuous battery life on a single charge, with solar charging to provide an extra two hours of power for each hour spent on the bike. For comparison, the entry-level Garmin Edge Explore bike computer lasts 12 hours on a single charge, while the high-end Edge 1040 lasts 45 hours.

The device is operated using a 2.7in memory-in-pixel touchscreen display, which features an adaptive backlight that automatically adjusts in brightness depending on the ambient lighting conditions. If your fingers are wet, cold, or gloved, you can also scroll through menus and select options using a chunky scroll wheel and button on the side.

The Dura offers dual-frequency GPS, which should more accurately pinpoint your location than a device that only operates on one frequency, particularly in tricky locations like densely built cities where tall buildings can lead to GPS drift. 

You can create routes to follow using the Coros app, which received a huge overhaul last year that added the ability to create courses with turn-by-turn navigation. Alternatively, you can transfer a route made using a third-party tool like Strava or Komoot. If you wander off course, or have to follow a diversion, the Dura will re-route you using live data from Google Maps that takes into account road conditions and seasonal closures.

The Dura can connect to your GPS watch, and accessories like cadence sensors and power meters, and includes a set of useful training tools for use outdoors or with indoor an indoor bike trainer. It works together with the Coros app on your phone and the Coros Training Hub on desktop, letting you create and follow training plans, monitor training load, and even get feedback from your coach.

The Coros Dura is available to order now direct from Coros for $249/£149, with shipping expected to start on July 15, and its specs are impressive for the price.

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Adventure e-bikes – tough but comfortable rides made for off-road fun and bikepacking expeditions – are becoming more and more popular. However, many of them carry price tags north of $5,000, making them a very expensive way to explore the trails at the weekend.

That's where the new MOD Black from Texan bike builder MOD Bikes comes in. Despite having full suspension, hydraulic brakes, powerful motor, and torque sensor for smooth acceleration, it has a relatively modest price tag of $2,999, or £2,402 for riders in the UK. While certainly not pocket change, that's a lot more reasonable than most similar adventure-ready ebikes.

The standard spec MOD Black has a maximum range of 50 miles (depending on how and where you ride), which can be increased to 100 miles with the addition of a factory-installed second battery pack.

Front and rear lights are provided as standard, and can be operated via a color touchscreen control unit mounted on the handlebars. This also allows you to tweak the bike's power settings, and even lock it with a PIN.

There are five power modes to choose from:

• Fit (limited power assistance to give you a workout)
• Eco (to balance assistance with power-saving for long rides)
• Cargo (for carrying heavy loads and bikepacking)
• Sport (for fun cruising at higher speeds)
• Turbo (for maximum acceleration)

There's also a throttle so you can ride without pedaling, but remember that laws on ebikes vary between countries, cities and states, and models that can be powered using a throttle may be classed as motorcycles or mopeds rather than bicycles. Make sure any ebike you're considering complies with local rules before opening your wallet.

It's all rounded off with ergonomic handlebars, a wide saddle for comfort, and a generous scattering of braze-ons for attaching water bottles and bikepacking bags (our roundup of the best bikepacking bags includes lots of good options).

The MOD Black is available to pre-order now direct from MOD Bikes.

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Bikepacking can be wonderfully liberating. Travelling by bicycle, under your own pedalling steam and carrying only the kit you will need for the trip allows you to explore far and wide. But if you take the wrong things with you on a bikepacking adventure, the journey might not be so enjoyable. Here we list xxx of the worst things to take on a bikepacking trip.

1. The wrong bike

A mountain bike is fun when used on tracks but not great for lots of smooth tarmac cycling. Likewise, a road bike with skinny tyres is going to be the worst thing to ride on rough tracks. 

A gravel bike could be the perfect compromise but it’s a good idea to asses the routes before you set off and choose your bike accordingly. Maybe the perfect choice will be an e-bike.

2. Rattling bags

Whether it is panniers or bikepacking bags, there is nothing worse than bags that move about and rattle irritatingly while cycling. Test your bags on your bike and while cycling on rough surfaces before you set off to check they stay secure and in place.

3. Oversized bikepacking bags

Another bad idea is bikepacking bags that are too big in the first place, or over-packed. If this happens you might end up with the bags rubbing against the skin of your legs or being far too bulky on the handlebars. 

Again, the best thing you can do is check your bag set up before you go bikepacking. The worst thing you can do is set off and find your bike and bags really irritate you.

4. Too much kit

Whether you pack your kit in more traditional panniers or bikepacks, you really don’t want to be laden down. The more you pack, the heavier the packs and bike will become and the harder it will be to pedal your bike.

This is especially the case if you will be bikepacking on rough tracks or where it’s hilly. 

5. Too little kit

Safety and warmth should be major considerations and reducing your clothing and kit to so little that you end up cold, wet or uncomfortable is not going to be the recipe for success.

For example, it would be foolish to go bikepacking without adequate warm layers or a waterproof jacket.

One pair of cycling shorts might suffice but hygiene is also important to consider. It’s not just an issue of odour, but wearing the same cycling shorts day after day and without washing them can lead to a range of problems for cyclists. 

6. The wrong shorts

You should make sure you know what to wear for bikepacking from head to foot but there are also some common errors that some cyclists make.

The chances are you will be cycling many miles each day and over multiple days, so it’s vital you have a comfortable seat. Wearing shorts without padding, shorts with seams, or shorts that are too large so they move about will most likely end up causing rubs and sores.

Choose neatly fitting shorts with adequate padding or loose shorts than have a padded insert. 

7. A new saddle 

Setting of for a bikeapacking trip with a new saddle or seat is it likely to be a disaster. You need to make sure the seat is comfortable and riding the bike for at least a few outings before going on your bikepacking trip will ensure it is worn in a little. 

8. Ladies – a saddle without a hole

For women, in particular, it’s important the bike and seat is comfortable. Many females find that a saddle with a hole cut away offers the best comfort. We won’t go into the details but, suffice to say, it’s a tried-and-tested tip. 

9. Your warmest sweater

The best way to pack for a bikepacking trip is to take several thinner layers of clothing, such as tees, baselayers and jerseys. This means you can take off and put on layers as conditions dictate. 

Taking one thick layer like a sweater or jacket doesn't give enough versatility. You will either end up too hot or too cold.

10. The wrong waterproof jacket 

Lightweight and breathable are key to choosing the right waterproof jacket for bikepacking. Some jackets, such as those designed for hiking, are heavier and bulky and will make you sweat if you wear them on a bike, even in the rain. Bike-specific clothing is the best choice.

11. Winter gear when it’s summer

...or summer gear when it's winter. Choose the right clothing to suit the conditions otherwise you will end up too hot and sweaty or too cold and miserable.

12. Synthetic fabrics

The best way to reduce odor and to stay cool when its hot – and warm when it’s cold – is to choose natural wool garments, such a base layers made of merino wool. While a lot of cycling kit is designed with synthetic fabrics for fit and comfort,  it will end up whiffy after even just a day or two of cycling in hot and sweaty weather.

13. A backpack

While a small hydration pack could be a good idea for bikepacking, adding a heavier pack to your back will most likely lead to sweat and skin abrasions. Use panniers or dedicated bikepacking bags instead, and keep the weight off your body.

14. A useless pump

How often do you check that your bike pump is working? Perhaps you own a pump that you know is a bit useless but you carry it anyway? Make sure you have a small but effective pump with you on a bikepacking trip, because you will absolutely need it to work if you get a puncture.

15. Only one spare inner tube

Bikepacking, especially if you are journeying into remote places, could be a nightmare if you get a puncture and can’t fix it. One common error is to pack only one spare inner tube or one spare tube patch. 

What so often happens is that when you have suffered a puncture, another one comes along after that and then you have used your one tube or patch.

16. Multiple pairs of shoes

Really, all you need is a pair of shoes for cycling and lightweight footwear for when you are not on the bike. If you will be bikepacking in warm conditions, you might only need a pair of flip-flops or sliders as your extra pair. Very lightweight running footwear will do the job as well. 

Another poor choice if you plan to wear cycling shoes most of the time is the style of clip-in shoes without a recessed cleat. Try to choose cycling shoes that have the cleat recessed into the sole. This mans you will be able to more easily walk in your cycling shoes when you stop at villages and towns.

17. Heavy cooking kit (and the kitchen sink)

It depends where you are planning to ride on your bikepacking trip, but some of the worst equipment to pack is bulky and heavy cooking kit. The wrong equipment will weigh you down and create unnecessary bulk in bikepacking bags or panniers.

It could be that choose instead to stop for food at shops, cafes and pubs rather than taking any cooking equipment. Or, you could decide to cater only for your breakfasts by carrying the smallest camping stove you can, and a camping coffee maker like an Aeropress.

The less you take, the easier it will be to pedal your bike.

18. Cans of food

If you plan to camp and cook your own food, don't take heavy items like cans. You will regret the weight of them the minute you pedal your first hill. Instead, choose lightweight camping specific food. We have plenty of ideas for lightweight bikepacking food, or you can try freeze-dried meals.

19. Glass or ceramics

Choose plastic or metal for plates, cups and bottles. The worst items are made of glass or ceramic and they are heavy and prone to breaking in the great outdoors.

20. A big tent

If it’s just you on a bikepacking trip, pack a bivy sack on a one-person tent only. Remember that lightweight is key to packing for a bikepacking trip. If there will be two of you, then split the two-person tent in half and each carry part if it.

Even if there are three or four of you, taking a larger tent is likely to be the wrong choice. The bulk of a tent is the material and a larger tent will be very hard to pack in panniers or a bikepacking bag.

21. The wrong sleeping bag

A sleeping bag that weighs too little might feel like the best item to pack in your bikepacking bags but you won’t be happy when you're shivering with cold in the middle of the night. Likewise, a sleeping bag that is winter-warm but makes you want to throw it off you in the middle of a summer’s night is also a bad idea. 

Choose you sleeping bag to suit the conditions and go for the lightest you can but still with enough warmth.

22. A throw-away bike lock

If you are going to be leaving your bike out of sight, you want a bike lock that will deter theft and not a flimsy lock that will be easy to break. 

23. An old or dented bike helmet

If the worst happens and you fall off your bicycle, you will want a bike helmet that keeps your skull safe. The materials in bike helmets become worn with age and use, so make sure you have an up-to-date bike helmet. If you're in the UK, look for one that includes a kitemark so you know it complies with British or European standards of manufacture. 

24. A heavy book

A book to read is a lovely thing but it’s not ideal for carrying when bikepacking. Instead, try an audio book on your phone and listen with ear pods. Weight matters!

25. A Bluetooth speaker

Even if you usually enjoy listing to music, there is no need for a music speaker. Take a pair of bone conduction headphones instead. Headphones are lighter to carry, and no one else wants to share your music. Opting for bone conduction means you'll still be able to hear sounds around you like other cyclists, pedestrians, and traffic, which will help keep you safe.

Read other useful tips for bikepacking success and bikepacking essentials.

Meet the reviewer

Fjällräven/Specialized frame bag: first impressions

The Specialized/Fjällräven frame bag is one of the principle products from the brilliant bikepacking storage range that emerged from a creative collaboration between Sweden’s backpack and outdoor apparel specialists Fjällräven and Californian bike brand Specialized. It’s available in three sizes, so you can match it to the frame of your gravel or touring bike, though depending on the design of your frame, and whether your bike is a hardtail or a full-sus rig, people with mountain bikes might struggle a little bit more.

All three sizes offer a generous amount of storage space, positioned centrally on the frame in a place that won’t dangerously affect your center of gravity. This makes the Fjällräven/Specialized frame bag the ideal place to store the heaviest gear you’re planning on taking on your bikepacking escapade. 

Fjällräven/Specialized frame bag: style and design

While some of the kit in the Fjällräven/Specialized collection (such as the large bike-basket-like handlebar bag, and the little snack pack) will divide opinion, I’m confident that this frame bag will be met with near-universal approval from the bikepacking community – we certainly reckon it’s one of the best bikepacking bags on the market. So long as you get the correct size bag for your bike, there is nothing to dislike about it (except, perhaps the price, but these are premium brands and you’re paying a bit for the logos, whether or not you like or admit it). 

Although it can’t be adjusted, the fact that the Specialized/Fjällräven frame bag comes in three sizes should enable you to choose the right one for your bike and attach it very firmly to the front triangle of your frame. You mount it beneath the top tube, with multiple hoops and Velcro straps offering numerous ways to secure the bag to the bike in three separate directions: to the front (beneath the bars), to the rear (beneath the saddle) and directly above, along the top tube itself. 

At least partly made from recycled fabrics, this bag’s outer material is robust, and the zip is excellent quality. While it can swallow a lot of gear the profile of the pack is slim, so it won’t rub against your legs while you pedal. 

Fjällräven/Specialized frame bag: on the trails

I’ve been out and about on the tracks and trails, testing the Specialized/Fjällräven frame bag (along with the rest of the Fjällräven/Specialized bikepacking bag range), during a full season of pedal-powered adventures on Dartmoor, the Peak District and in the Yorkshire Dales. Once all the attachment points are secured on the frame, this bag is a rock solid and barely moves at all, even when you’re negotiating technical trails. 

Access is easy while you’re riding, thanks to the double-action zipper with pull-tabs (ideal when you have gloves on), so you can use it to stash items that you might need to reach while cycling, such as a waterproof jacket, sunglasses or warmer gloves. However, as mentioned above, the central positioning of this pack and the generous volume it boasts (the largest version has an impressive 5L capacity) make it really ideal for carrying heavier kit. Personally, during testing, I found it was the perfect place to store weighty stuff such as tent pegs and poles, multitools, my trusty camping stove (plus fuel canisters and food supplies) and my sleeping mat. 

The downside of this frame pack’s positioning is that it gets lots of muck and oil thrown at it from the drivechain while you’re riding, but fortunately the material it’s constructed from is both hardwearing and weatherproof, so you can simply wipe it down with a wet cloth immediately after your ride (if you let filth accumulate and dry, however, it will be much harder to clean – you have been warned).

As a lefty, my only real beef with this bag is that it favors right-handed people, because the zip is only on the right side.

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Right now, you can pick up the Garmin Tacx Boost Trainer for just £138.42 at Amazon. That's a huge saving of 40% off the list price and by far the cheapest this excellent indoor bike trainer has ever been, wiping the floor with last year's Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday deals.

Spring has finally arrived, but if you're in the UK you'll know that doesn't mean the weather will always fit with your training plan. That's where the Tacx Boost comes in, letting you take your ride indoors when conditions are grim outside.

If you're not in the UK, scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Garmin Tacx deals where you are.

My partner and I have one of these trainers at home, and we love it. It has a super small footprint, letting us easily use it in the kitchen, and it's easy to store. It's quick to set up too, and feels nice and stable despite its diminutive size. You don't need to plug it in, either (resistance is provide by a magnetic brake that you can adjust manually) and it's surprisingly quiet.

My colleagues on Cycling Weekly gave it four stars out of five, with their main criticism being the price, but with this deal that's no longer an issue.

If you're not in the UK, here are today's best Garmin Tacx deals where you are.

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Meet the reviewer

Fjällräven/Specialized Top Tube Bag: first impressions

Available in a range of attractive, earthy colors, the compact Fjällräven/Specialized Top Tube Bag is part of the range of bikepacking bags produced by Swedish pack and outdoor apparel specialists Fjällräven in collaboration with Californian bike brand Specialized, which includes an amazingly spacious handlebar bag.

This bag is capacity-challenged compared to some of the more capacious members of its family, but what the Fjällräven/Specialized top tube bag lacks in size it makes up for in versatility and ease of access.

And when used in combination with the larger packs in the range – such as the frame bag which extends along the full length of the top tube, but is positioned underneath, enabling you use both bags simultaneously – it can be a really useful piece of kit.

To find out just how functional it is, and how it compares to the best bikepacking bags on the market, I’ve been testing this top tube pack out on the trails during a plethora of pedal-powered trail outings and multi-day rides.

Fjällräven/Specialized Top Tube Bag: style and design

With an excellent-quality two-way zip, and an aerodynamic design, this little pack can be positioned at either end of a gravel or mountain-bike’s top tube, either snug up against the stem of your handlebars or placed under the seat post. Two Velcro strips loop around the top tube and a rear Velcro strip goes around the bar stem or seat post (depending on your preference) to hold the pack in place. Once these three points of contact are secured, the bag is very firmly held in place.

This is a semi-rigid bag, with an outer made from hardwearing, weather-resistant Vinylon F material (waterproof in all but the most torrential rain), backed by a stiff casing and a 100% recycled polyamide lining.

I’ve been testing an early model of this pack, but the latest iteration has a weatherproof portal that allows you to run a cable out of the bag to and from a digital device – very handy if you have a phone, GPS navigating unit or bike computer mounted on your bars, for example.

Both of the zips boast color-coordinated cord pull loops, which make them easy to use even if you’re wearing gloves. The interior of the pack features mesh pockets on either side of the main compartment, which are excellent for organization, providing the perfect place for storing small items you might want to quickly lay your hands on, including your phone, credit cards and cash.

Fjällräven/Specialized Top Tube Bag: on the trails

I’ve been using the Fjällräven/Specialized range of bikepacking bags during a range of pedal-powered escapades over the last 12 months, including a great gravel-bike gallivant through the Yorkshire Dales to England’s highest pub, (where you can semi wild camp on the moor nearby), and during multi-day trips though the Peak District and across Dartmoor. 

I love the fact that you can mount this tidy top tube bag at the front or the rear of the frame. With a sleek, narrow profile, it doesn’t rub on your legs while you’re pedalling if you do locate it beneath the saddle, but personally I prefer to positions it at the front, by my bars, where I reach in and easily grab snacks or check my phone.

The build quality is superb – the tough outer material is hardwearing and very easy to wipe down if (OK, when) it gets mucky. The zips are fantastic – very robust, they’re effectively weatherproof and the fact there are two zips offers you easy access with either hand, and allows you to keep most of the bag shut while you reach in and get what you need.

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Fjällräven/Specialized handlebar bag: first impressions

The huge Fjällräven/Specialized handlebar bag, mounted on its own bespoke rack (required, but sold separately) is one of the hero products of the bikepacking storage range that resulted from the recent and ongoing collaboration between Swedish pack and outdoor apparel makers Fjällräven and Californian bike gurus Specialized. Both brands are renowned for producing top quality gear, so my expectations were high.

The design decisions definitely came from the folks at Fjällräven, with the prevailing style being much more European than North American. This handlebar bag in particular has quite a retro look and feel, not dissimilar to Fjällräven’s signature Kånken Classic Backpack, one of the world’s most famous and instantly recognizable daypacks. 

Not everyone will love this look, to be honest – it does give off a certain bike basket vibe that some people might struggle with, especially in the brighter colors. Personally, however, I love its capacious storage space, the protective semi-rigid construction, the extra mesh pockets and the fact that it’s so easy to access the main compartment. 

On the downside, you do need to invest in – and spend time setting up – the housing rack before you can get packing and set off riding the trails. This rack is essential in order to use the pack on the bike, so it’s a shame that bag and mount aren’t sold together as a combined package. The bag does come with a shoulder strap so you can carry it when you’ve parked your steed and you’re walking around, which is a nice option to have, but the primary purpose of this pack is definitely for cycle touring, bikepacking, commuting and other pedal-powered missions.

The combined rig isn’t cheap, but it’s well designed, robust and well put together, for years of adventures in the saddle, whether you’re riding a mountain bike, a gravel bike or a commuter bike. But how does it compare to some of the other best bikepacking packs on the market? I’ve been trail-testing the Fjällräven/Specialized handlebar bag for the last year to find out.

Fjällräven/Specialized handlebar bag: design and functionality

As mentioned, the Fjällräven/Specialized handlebar bag can be carried as a shoulder bag while you’re walking, and a removable strap is supplied for this purpose. But although this might be useful for those times when you’re parked up and you want to take the entire bag with you for a stroll (or to a café or bar), as opposed to leaving it on the bike, this product is primarily designed as a gear-carrying container for bikepacking. 

Before you can use it for this purpose you first need to buy and install the metal rack, which is (annoyingly) sold separately. Setting the aluminum rack up on your bike is pretty quick and easy to do, however, with a couple of clasps attaching to the handlebars, one on either side of the bar stem. A cord then loops over the center of the bars to keep the pack from drooping when you add weight, or when riding across rougher ground (this latter element is a bit fiddly, and doesn’t feel particularly effective or robust).

Mounting the pack on the rack is also easy to do – you simply feed two straps beneath the metal rungs, buckle them shut, pull the straps tight and make sure any excess material is kept securely out of the way with Velcro tabs.

When it comes to the bag itself, comparisons with Fjällräven’s other storage solutions don’t stop with style and appearances: like most of the brand’s bags and backpacks, this handlebar bag is made with hardwearing, weather-resistant Vinylon F material, backed by a semi-rigid casing and a lining made with 100% recycled nylon.

With a rounded top, the overall shape of the bag is a bit like a treasure chest, and since it boasts almost 10L of interior storage space, you can fill it with all sorts of valuable kit for bikepacking escapades. In addition to this, there are mesh pockets on both sides of the bag, and also on the top.

The opening side of the pack faces towards the rider, to make it easy to access while cycling. When you’re carrying the bag over your shoulder, the top of the main compartment shuts with a popper mounted on a piece of leather on a looped elastic cord; but when the bag’s mounted on the bike, the only way to keep the pack shut is by looping the elasticated cord around a purpose-built hook on the metal rack. While this doesn’t provide a waterproof (or very firm) seal, it does make opening the bag with one hand quick and easy while riding.

Fjällräven/Specialized handlebar bag: on the trails

I’ve been testing the Fjällräven and Specialized bikebacking bags out over the course of a full year, using them for numerous bikepacking adventures, both on my mountain bike and my gravel bike. These outings have included various escapades across Dartmoor in spring and fall, to a spectacular solo bikepacking mission to cycle to England’s highest pub in the Yorkshire Dales – following the Swale Trail along the eponymous river from the brilliant Dales Bike Centre before pedalling over Black Moor (along a rare rideable section of the Pennine Way) and Stonesdale Moor to the 528m-high Tan Hill Inn, where you can camp on the moor, near the pub. 

I was also lucky enough to join a two-day trip around the Peak District with a bike-guiding company called Pannier while using this pack, accompanied by representatives from Fjällräven and Specialized, starting from Sheffield city center, riding over Hallam Moor and the High Peak, past the iconic climbing crag of Stanage Edge, to camp in Edale, beneath Kinder Scout.  

I love this handlebar bag for its generous load capacity and ease of access while on the move. It provided the perfect place for me to carry my large DSLR camera while riding, enabling me to grab the camera in seconds when I wanted to stop and shoot something, and there was ample space to wrap the camera in a down jacket that came in useful later in camp. If you’re cycling in uncertain weather, it’s the perfect place to have a waterproof jacket or some warm gloves. 

The lid can be opened with one hand while you’re on the move, so you can fill the pack with pieces of kit that you might want to access whilst riding, including GPS devices, but you can also use the large space to carry bulkier items like camping stoves, fuel and food.

The exterior side mesh pockets are ideal for stashing snacks, or perhaps a Buff-style scarf or sunglasses, while the mesh pouch on the top is an excellent place to keep a sheet map and compass, if you still use such things to navigate or at least confirm your position (as I do).

While impressive for its carry capacity, however, I did discover a few niggles with this pack. The material it’s constructed from is weatherproof, but the way it shuts when mounted on the rack (with an elastic cord looping around a hook) doesn’t create a waterproof or particularly secure-looking seal.

The lid actually bounces around (and even peeps slightly open) when you’re riding over rough terrain, making an annoying noise and prompting you to question the safety of the contents. You can purchase a fully waterproof cover separately, but along with the bag itself, and the rack, that all adds up to a pretty hefty invesetment.

The cord intended to stop the pack tilting forward is fiddly and flimsy, and if you don’t use it the bag will definitely droop as soon as you put anything heavy in it (carrying too much weight on the bars is best avoided anyway, because it can affect the way your bike handles on tricky trails).

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Here’s a really unique experience for adventurous mountain bikers interested in animal welfare and deep pockets: a six-day safari in the Serengeti with three days of riding across some extraordinary landscapes rarely opened up for cycling – and it’s all in aid of anti-poaching. 

But if you fancy, make your mind up quickly because places are limited to only 24 riders over the age of 18 for solo riders (16- and 17-year-olds can participate alongside a parent or guardian). Experience in mountain biking is recommended.

The ride is being organized by Singita, an company that has been providing environmentally conscious lodges for African safari adventures for over 30 years.

The six-day bike safari – with three days of riding flat, dirt, gravel, sand roads and some single-track off-road trails across 93 miles of the 350,000-acre Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania – will take place over three days in the western corridor of Serengeti National Park from October 10-15, 2024.

The event is called The Wagora MTB Ride in honor of Kitaboka Wagora, an anti-poaching scout who was killed by a poacher in 2008, and who continues to inspire others to work to protect Africa’s wildlife. Not only will it be a unique way to view the wildlife that safari lovers flock to this region to see, it will also contribute funds to aid the company’s NGO partner The Grumeti Fund and its anti-poaching scouts.

“For the first time, experienced riders from around the world are invited to take part in the Wagora Serengeti MTB Ride,” says Singita’s site. “This exclusive event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride for a cause through the extraordinary Serengeti, while supporting conservation efforts for the Grumeti Fund’s anti-poaching scouts who protect this ecosystem’s precious wildlife.”

It’s not cheap, though. The five-night experience will set you back $25,230, or $15,600 per person if you share accommodation, of which $10,000 or $7,000 respectively is a donation to The Grumeti Fund. Book your places on the official site.

But hey, you get free laundry thrown in. Handy if you get any splashback when you ride through some rhino dung.

• The best bikepacking bags 2024: clever kit-carrying solutions for your pedal-powered adventures

What you want from the ultimate e-MTB is a bike that’ll climb near-vertical cliff faces and go on forever and ever. The new Optibike RIOT can’t quite achieve that but it does boast a powerful motor designed to chew up steep slopes and a battery with a range of up to 180 miles. Definitely on to consider for bikepacking.

According to the company, the RIOT is the most powerful e-bike of its kind, capable of climbing gradients of up to 46%, with the longest range. “Optibike introduces the world’s most powerful Class 1 eMTB,” says the marketing blurb. “The RIOT outperforms everything. It is the longest range eMTB with a massive 1630 watt-hr battery, 3x the size of most other bikes.”

The Optibike RIOT e-MTB, which is available to pre-order now from the brand’s online store, comes in US and EU versions.

The US version features the brand’s bespoke PowerStorm Mid-drive Motor with 190Nm of torque and 750W of power, and a 20mph (32km/h) speed limit.

The EU version similarly features a PowerStorm Mid-drive Motor with 190Nm of torque, but with 250W of power, and a 15.5 MPH (25km/h) speed limit for the EU market.

They retail at $14,400 / €13,200.

Most of its nearest rivals when it comes to battery life are urban e-bikes with ranges of 130-140 miles (Optibike itself offers the Optibike R22 Everest e-MTB with a range of 300 miles, but its marketing team clearly think that belongs in another class).

Both models feature a dual-sided pedelec torque sensor for natural feeling assistance and a 1,620Wh lithium-ion battery to provide those 180-mile rides.

At the front is a RockShox ZEB Ultimate suspension fork, and at the rear is a Fox 230x65 Float X air shock, both with 170mm travel. Customers can personalize their bike with options like a 14-speed Rohloff geared hub or cassette and derailleur. Other features include large disc brakes, a handlebar-mounted LCD display and an optional 2,700-lumen headlight.

The carbon fiber frame and swingarm help to keep the bike lightweight (around 68lbs / 31kg).

Shipping dates have yet to be announced.

• The best bikepacking bags 2024: clever kit-carrying solutions for your pedal-powered adventures

Why take a phone with you on a bikepacking trip when your bike can do it all? Yes, even film your ride and livestream it.

That's just one feature packed into what tech company Orbic is calling 'the world’s first 5G-enabled e-bike'. Unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2024, it's a fat-tire bike designed to be at home on mountain trails and urban streets, that has a few tricks in its frame, including AI collision detection, its own inbuilt screen on the handlebars, and cameras front and back.

It is, basically, the nearest thing to a smartphone on two wheels yet. We’re sure one day all bikes will be built to be fully connected to the internet of things, but the Orbic 5G is first to the market, so let’s see what it’s promising.

The Orbic 5G is capable of reaching up to 45km/h and incorporates an advanced AI avoidance detection system which alerts riders to potential hazards, such as oncoming vehicles.

It’s also equipped with a front-facing 64MP camera tailor-made for capturing and livestreaming rides and a 2MP rear camera for enhanced rider safety, collision avoidance and object detection.

Furthermore, its 7-inch, handlebar-mounted “bright all weather touchscreen“ has its own 8MP camera that will let you share rides, and even video-chat with other Orbic 5G riders.

The bike's touchscreen display also displays the rider's battery status, speed, distance, maps, tracking, and various other functionalities so users can safely remain focused on the path ahead. The Orbic 5G e-bike also acts as a hotspot to extend connectivity anywhere; at a picnic, on the trail, and even at home at a backyard barbeque.

“Introducing Orbic’s 5G e-bike at MWC Barcelona is part of our innovation pipeline that implements advanced technology to expand connectivity and enhance user experiences," says Mike Narula, president and CEO of Orbic.

“By integrating 5G connectivity and AI technology, we aim to redefine the riding experience, making it safer, more connected and environmentally responsible whether on city streets, in suburban neighborhoods or the challenging terrain of mountain trails. The 5G e-bike represents a significant leap forward in electronic mobility, and we are excited about bringing this new technology to cities across the globe.”

It will be fascinating to see if other e-bike manufacturers take up the interconnectivity challenge and we look forward to seeing what riders and reviewers really think of the Orbic e-bike – is it more than just a gimmick, and how does it really handle on trails? After all, Orbic is a tech specialist, not a bike specialist. The proof is in the pedalling.

For more information about the Orbic 5G e-bike visit www.orbic.us.

• The best hiking backpacks 2024: from the lightest daypacks to sturdy alpine haulers

Bikepacking and batteries are a natural fit, letting you explore further and carry more than would otherwise be possible, and there's a growing category of 'adventure' e-bikes designed for exactly that, with fat tires for tackling trails and extra-long battery life. The latest addition to the set is the Orox, from Taiwanese bike builder Tern, which combines e-MTB design with the carrying capacity of a city cargo bike.

As Electrek explains, the Orox is powered by a Bosch Performance Line CX motor and can be fitted with dual 800Wh batteries for a maximum range of 200 miles. Naturally the real world range will depend on the terrain, your riding style, gradient, and how heavily you load it up with your camping gear, but that's an impressive figure nonetheless.

When it comes to carrying capacity, Tern says that the Orox can handle loads of up to 400lb off-road, or 460lb on-road (including you), so you can afford to take all your creature comforts on your bikepacking adventure.

The Bosch drive system means you get access to the eBike Flow app, which offers features like route-planning, over-the-air firmware updates, remote locking, and an anti-theft alarm. If your bike is moved significantly while you're away, you'll get a notification complete with GPS tracking, and the app will generate a report containing all the appropriate information about the bike so you can share it with the police,

You can switch the forks out to fit different tire sizes, all the way up to a beefy 5in. There's a rigid fork, which might seem like an unusual choice, but Tern has chosen to trade front suspension for extra storage space on the frame, which is covered with 14 braze-ons for your bags and bottles.

Of course, this doesn't come cheap, and the Orox is definitely at the premium end of the adventure bike market. Prices start at $6,499 / £5,900.

• Can you ride e-bikes in National Parks? 

A cyclist in the Indian city of Bengaluru who became known worldwide as the Century Rider for his daily 100km bike rides, died suddenly of a heart attack last Friday, aged 45.

Starting his cycling challenge in August 2020, Anil Kadsur had spent the last 42 months riding 100km a day – over 1,250 rides in total.

According to a report by the Times of India, he was hospitalized on the same day he posted his achievement to social media, a move apparently prompted by the fact he had “feelings of uneasiness” and was in discomfort. He suffered a major cardiac arrest.

Known for his humble and supportive demeanor, Anil Kadsur shared his expertise and tips with newcomers, serving as an inspiration to many in the cycling community. He was affectionately known as a ‘Dronacharya’, a major character of the Hindu epic poem Mahabharata, who was a revered preceptor, or teacher guru.

Citizens Movement, East Bengaluru paid tribute to the Century Rider, posting on X (formerly Twitter): “His sudden departure, attributed to a massive cardiac arrest, reminds us of the unpredictability of such events. Anil’s legacy lies in his strength, flexibility, and the inspiration he bestowed upon a generation… Let’s remember Anil’s dedication while reflecting on the importance of heart health.”

National President of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party’s youth division Tejasvi Surya added, “Saddened to know about the passing away of cyclist Anil Kadsur. Anil, fondly called the Century Rider for riding 100km daily for the last 1,500 days, was well-known figure in Bengaluru South & a fitness icon for many youngsters like me. Many of us would have even seen him ride around the city. Offer my condolences to his family. Om Shanti.”

However, some tributes raised concerns that the cyclist’s daily endurance feats may not have been as healthy as they seemed.

Dr Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist in Apollo Hospitals of Hyderabad, warned, “He was cycling for about seven hours daily to cover a distance of 100km. As per research, the effect of exercise on mortality is U-shaped: initially there is benefit, but beyond a certain exercise dose, there is detrimental effect on health and there is increased mortality risk.”

Dr Deepak Krishnamurthy, senior interventional cardiologist at Kauvery Hospital, Bengaluru, also shared his views on X, saying, “He was up at 2:30 am daily – LACK OF SLEEP/REST.”

We can't know for sure whether Kadsur’s passion hastened his passing, as no details have been forthcoming from the hospital where he died, but whatever the case, the world has lost an inspiring man whose dedication affected many who knew him.

• Bikepacking vs cycle touring – what’s the difference?

There's nothing like an espresso to get you charged up for a day of riding, but if you use disposable pods. what happens to them when you're done? Swiss bike builder Miloo has developed a way to put old Nespresso capsules to good use, giving the waste aluminum a new life in the frames and rims of a rugged all-terrain e-bike.

The machine in question, the Miloo Xplorer Beast, sits in the growing genre of e-SUVs, which are electric bikes made for tackling all terrains. More robust than a regular hybrid, they typically have fatter tires for grip on loose surfaces, and often have suspension to soak up bumps and shocks.

The Xplorer Beast, made in collaboration with explorer Mike Horn, has a proprietary 1,000W internal hub motor, 1,800Wh battery (with the option to add a second for extra range), dynamic power management system, and torque and cadence sensors so the motor kicks in the moment you begin turning the pedals and provides smooth acceleration. It has a top speed of 45km/h, but can be capped at 25km/h to comply with EU regulations.

The standard Beast has a full carbon frame, and the recycled aluminum pods will only be used in a special edition model.

"We can’t say exactly how many are needed per frame and rim at the moment," Miloo founder Anna Bory told Swiss newspaper Blick. "But we bought a ton of recycled aluminum for an initial series of 100 to 150 bicycles."

• Can you ride an e-bike in US National Parks? Everything you need to know

US company Pacific Cycle has recalled two of its ebikes, the Ascent Cabrillo and Minaret, after an electrical fault was discovered that could pose a fire hazard while the bike's lithium-ion battery is charging. The wiring harness that manages the charging of the battery was not assembled correctly, which could cause it to overheat.

E-bike batteries are made up of cells, which consist of two electrodes with an electrolyte fluid in between. As the battery is charged or drained, electrons move from one electrode to the other.

The electrolyte solution is highly flammable, which isn't usually a problem, but if a cell is damaged or overheats, it can catch fire or explode, setting off a chain reaction as neighboring cells also overheat. Having witnessed it myself when a neighbor was using a third-party charger, I can confirm it looks and sounds very much like fireworks. For more details, check our our guide why e-bike fires happen, and how you can avoid them.

How to tell if your bike is affected

Around 1,700 bikes are affected, all of which were sold at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s from January to November 2023.

As our sister site Cycling Weekly explains, the Ascent Cabrillo model numbers affected are R7583BPS and R7585BPS and the Ascend Minaret model number is R7586BPS. You'll find your bike's model number printed on the service label, which is attached to the down tube.

You can check your bike by typing its serial number (which you'll find engraved on the bottom bracket) into the form on Pacific Cycle's recall page. If you receive the message 'recalled', you should "immediately stop using, and unplug, the recalled electric bikes and return the bikes to Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s to receive a full refund or replacement Ascend Cabrillo or Minaret electric bike."

If you see the message 'not recalled', you can continue using your e-bike as usual without worrying.

To avoid fires, only ever use the charger supplied by the manufacturer to charge your e-bike. If you suspect your battery has become damaged, or it's showing signs of wear, you should stop using it, and remove and dispose of it safely. Batteries thrown in the regular trash could be crushed, triggering a fire, so arrange for it to be collected or take it to a waste center equipped to deal with it properly.

Make sure that you have a fire alarm in the area where you charge your e-bike, and don't leave it charging in a hallway or blocking your escape route. If a fire does break out, call the emergency services immediately; don't try to tackle it yourself.

• Can you ride an e-bike in US National Parks? Everything you need to know

This isn't the first time that a top mountain biker has spiked up their steed’s tires and hurtled down what’s widely regarded as one of the most challenging ski race courses in the world, but it’s certainly the most entertaining attempt.

The course in question is the Streif, located in Kitzbühel, Austria, and home of the Hahnenkamm, a legendary downhill ski race. It’s challenging enough on two skis, let alone two wheels (there really ought to be a skiing term for it).

Six years ago, Austrian mountain biker Max Stöckl rode down the Streif and very impressive he was too.

But fellow Austrian Fabio Wibmer adds a lot of fun (right from the opening image of his bike strung to the side of a ski lift gondola) – as well as a lot more air (he literally backflips onto the course) – to his attempt, resulting in a video edit that also has some amusing nods to the history of the race. 

Wibmer is a master of this kind of social media-quaking stunt videos but he’s on top form here. There are so many moments when you want to churlishly utter, “Show off!” but you don’t because you’re too busy being awestruck. Plus, he injects so much wit into the stunt, you have to love him for it.

Even the part where he rides up the fence advertising is an homage to one of the race’s great moments, emulating Bode Miller famously briefly skiing along the fence in 2008 on his way to second place.

Well, what else are fearless mountain bikers in the middle of a chilly central European winter supposed to do to pass the time?

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E-bikes are a breeze to ride with the battery engaged, effectively smoothing out hills and letting you cruise along at speed without breaking a sweat. However, unless you're on a downhill, riding under your own steam is seriously hard work. Their high capacity batteries are seriously weighty, and a mid-range e-bike can easily be twice the weight of a typical unpowered bicycle. If you occasionally want to ride under your own steam, you really need two bikes – and that's where Spanish bike builder Crow Bikes comes in.

Many (though not all) e-bikes have a battery that can be removed for charging, but Crow's bikes allow you to detach the motor as well, drastically cutting the weight and effectively turning them into ordinary unpowered bicycles for occasions when you want to work your own muscles.

The Fazua Ride 50 Trail 350-W motor and 252-Wh battery system weighs 7.05lb all together, and delivers a range of up to 54 miles in optimum riding conditions. When you want to ride unaided, just unplug the drive pack and replace it with the frame cover included with the bike.

As New Atlas reports, Crow's latest models are a pair of gravel e-bikes made for tackling roads and trails, with power or without, making them handy for both weekday commutes and weekend adventures. Both have SRAM wireless shifting, 12-speed SRAM GX Eagle AXS derailleur, and Fulcrum Rapid Red 500 wheels fitted with 700x45c Schwalbe G-One Bite Evo TRL tires.

The Crow Gravital UL 2 AXS has a carbon frame, while its sibling, the Gravital SL 1 AXS, is crafted from aluminum. Both can be fitted with a rigid carbon or suspension fork, with a choice of stem length and handlebar width.

However, opting for a two-in-one bike won't necessarily work out cheaper. The UL 2 AXS start at €5,599 (about $6,000), while the SL 1 AXS has a base price of €4,799 (about $5,200).

• Can you ride an e-bike in US National Parks? Everything you need to know

Ever been out riding on your bike, and the terrain has suddenly changed drastically, and you’ve thought, 'What I really need is an AI system that could automatically and intuitively adjust my suspension and seat post'?

Probably not, but Shimano may be hoping they‘re developing a solution to a problem you never knew you had, and that in a few years time all cyclists will be wondering how people ever coped before AI suspension. After all, if AI can help you to run and hike, why shouldn’t it help you ride?

It may be a way off yet, but a recently published US patent application from Shimano (seen by pinkbike.com) reveals details of learning software for mountain bike suspension systems that’s designed to take control of compression, rebound, damping and seat post height on the fly, depending on where and how riders are riding. 

According to the patent, Shimano's proposed system will make use of an array of sensors to detect speed, torque, acceleration, cadence, incline and pneumatic pressure to inform the neural network, so it can make adjustments.

The patent also seems to suggest that the software can ‘learn’ courses for automatic adjustment.

It’s not clear quite who this software would be aimed at, initially. As any benefits appear to be incremental, you’d assume only riders involved in racing would find much use for it – but would they trust it? 

On the other hand, software designed for specialist use often finds more widespread use in the long run, as sometimes unexpected benefits materialize. 

But as pinkbike.com points out, Shimano doesn’t actually make suspension systems, so it’s a bit curious why it's registered this patent, and it seems unlikely that we’ll be seeing it on the market (or even being adopted by race teams) soon, if ever. 

For the moment, then, it seems that AI bike suspension is the stuff of sci-fi not because it can’t be done, but because there’s not really a sense that it needs to be done.

• The best fleece jackets 2024: warm mid layers for your wild adventures

The Fiido Kidz e-bike for children is a solution to a very 21st century problem that could save you from panic attacks.

Because teaching your little ’un how to ride a bike is scary enough – especially when the training  wheels come off – but the whole nail-biting experience goes to a whole new level in the age of the e-bike. A power-assisted five-year-old with their hand on the throttle? It’s the stuff of nightmares.

Fiido is here to help, with the world’s first e-bike for kids that features parental controls, accessible through a dedicated smartphone app. Using it, parents can restrict their child’s access to the bike’s throttle, to stop them whizzing off into the sunset (or onto a busy road).

Parents can also remotely set the bike’s top speed, from 5km/h (3.1mph) up to 12km/h (7.4mph). The Kidz is also equipped with 'power cut-off' drum brakes.

The bike may also help learn to ride without the use of training wheels, thank to its 'Pulse Mode', a unique form of pedal assist, which can again be controlled by a parent through the app. This feature activates for a few seconds at a time, offering an extra push to get your child more used to how to keep balance on a bike.

The bicycle’s battery life is estimated at four hours per charge, reducing to one to two hours when carrying the maximum load of 80kg / 12st (you really need to take them to see a doctor if you have a child that heavy! Or maybe they like wearing a LOT of protective gear).

The Kidz e-bike weighs just 7.2 kg / 15.9lb despite its sturdy aluminum construction and comes in a stylish two-tone finish.

Its list price is $599 / £545, but you can currently take advantage of a promotional launch offer which reduces the price tag to $399 / £363.

And remember, the sooner you train ’em up, the sooner you can get them bikepacking with you, sharing the load…

• E-bikepacking tips: your guide to battery-assisted adventures

One of the biggest pains about e-biking is recharging and replacing the batteries. But could Enyring, a new battery-swapping initiative from Japanese motor company Yamaha, be the first step towards making that a thing of the past? 

Enyring, which is initially being rolled out in Europe, will be based in Berlin. It will launch in Germany first, and hopefully expand to the Netherlands soon after.

It will work on a subscription basis, and aims to eliminate the need to charge batteries and replace them when they’re worn out. Instead, subscribers to the service will have access to battery stations dotted around various cities, where they will able to swap batteries, a process that should take a few minutes, rather than having to wait around for a full recharge.

Enyring will target compact urban vehicles in the 'low-speed range', which Yamaha says will mean mainly e-bikes.

Enyring will then recharge depleted batteries en masse, which is more environmentally friendly than all riders recharging their batteries individually, on an economy of scale basis, while batteries at the end of their usable life cycle (down to 70-80% of their original capacity) will be “reused as storage batteries, disassembled into cells, recycled and reused as new batteries”.

Battery-swapping systems already exist for light electric vehicles, such as Gachaco in Japan (a joint venture by Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha) and Gogoro in India for electric scooters. But Enyring appears to be first similar service for e-bikes, and you’d hope it is the start of a new world-wide trend, because the ease of swapping batteries would do a lot to eliminate range anxiety (see also: How to make your e-bike go further on a single charge), especially if the service moves beyond just cities.

However, a lot of questions remain about Enyring. It’s not clear which – if any – e-bike brands will be able to use Yamaha’s batteries or whether the company is planning to create a new standard that e-bike companies will have to adopt.

So the idea of e-biking across the US checking in at battery-swapping stations in the middle of the Mojave Desert or the heart of the boondocks might be a pipe dream right now, but this could be the start of the next evolution in e-biking.

• E-bikepacking tips: your guide to battery-assisted adventures

The number of people taking up off road sports is on the up, according to research by Strava.

The sports data specialist, which has just released its global trends report for 2023, says it saw a spike in records of gravel riding last year, with a 55% increase compared to 2022. Other off-road pursuits were also on the rise, with records of trail running up by 16%, mountain biking by 13% and hiking by 10%, the report found. 

Each year the company samples a cross section of Strava athletes globally, and analyzes the data to look for sporting trends. Overall, running remained the most popular activity uploaded to Strava, with cycling and walking taking second third place respectively.

However, dirt sports weren’t far behind, with trail running, gravel/mountain bike riding and hiking in fourth, fifth and sixth place respectively.

Holidaying Strava athletes weren't exactly sitting idle either, with people typically recording rides outside their home state or country 24% longer than those they they logged at home. Alpine skiing and snowboarding were the sports most likely to be uploaded away from home in winter months, while hiking and stand up paddle boarding took the top spots in spring and summer.

The top devices for uploading tracking data to Strava were the Garmin Edge 530 cycle computer and the Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS watch. 

Gen Z logged the fastest median runs and rides, but they also recorded the shortest runs and the second shortest rides. As people got older they were more likely to log runs rather than rides - blame it on the creaky knees!

Strava athletes said they stay consistent by setting goals, signing up for an event or planning a workout with friends.

Some 90% of Strava athletes believe building a routine helps them work out regularly, while three-quarters believe their pets help them get out of the door to exercise.

Two thirds of athletes said work demands were a major barrier to creating a sustainable routine, while women were more likely than men to cite a lack of safe places to exercise as holding them back from their goals.

Climate change was also a preventative for many, with 75% of those surveyed saying extreme heat had affected their plans in 2023, while 27% blamed poor air quality for scuppering their goals.

Strava’s Year In Sport analyzes activity uploads on Strava between October 1, 2022 and September 30, 2023. Activities set to ‘Only Me’ or those that are opted out of sharing with Strava Metro are excluded from aggregated insights. The report also includes survey data from 6,990 respondents, drawn from both Strava’s global community of more than 120 million athletes and a random sampling of active people both on and off the Strava platform.

Berlin-based bike builder Dolas has rolled out one of the strangest off-roaders we've seen to date, with three wheels, three motors, two seats, and a maximum load capacity of 550lb.

The Dolas Defender 250 is technically a trike, but its three fat tires are arranged in a linear formation, which the company claims will help to absorb bumps while riding on rugged tracks and trails. Each wheel is fitted with its own 250W brushless hub motor, and the three are powered by a huge li-ion battery with a capacity of 2,544Wh for a maximum range of 112 miles.

Naturally real-world performance will depend on the type of terrain you're tackling, your riding style, and how much gear you load onto the frame. It's all controlled via a centrally mounted color cockpit display unit. The bike also has a smart suspension system that monitors road conditions and riding style in real time, and adapts to improve stability and comfort on the fly.

As eBikeTips explains, the Defender 250 is fitted with a second seat as standard, and has a maximum load capacity of 550lb including riders and cargo, making it perfect for two-person bikepacking expeditions. If you'd rather travel solo, you can remove the back seat and replace it with a collection of specially designed baskets.

None of this comes cheap, and the bike is available to order now direct from Dolas for €4,650 (about $5,000) plus shipping. At the time of writing Dolas will only deliver to addresses in Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK

• Bikepacking essentials: what you need for your first expedition

Folding e-bikes aren't just for city commuting – fat-tire versions are perfect for weekend riders who want a bike they can throw into their car for off-road adventures. The new Folld-1 from Fuell (the e-bike company founded by famed motorcycle designer Erik Buell) is one such machine, and has a very impressive maximum range of 70 miles to keep you rolling all day.

In addition to 4in tires for comfort and traction on loose surfaces, the Folld-1 has full suspension to soak up shocks

Strength is always a concern with folding e-bikes, and even more so when you're going to be heading off-road. The central hinge is going to take a lot of force, and you need to be confident that it's up to the challenge. The Folld-1 has a one-piece magnesium alloy frame that's designed to minimize weight, without sacrificing durability.

It's powered by a 720Wh Samsung battery and 750-watt Bafang motor. Real-world performance will depend on the terrain, load, how you ride, and even the weather (cold conditions make lithium batteries less efficient), but even in full-power mode the Folld-1 can deliver a maximum range of 30 miles.

The Folld-1 is available to order now from Fuell for an early bird price of $1,995 (down from a regular price of $2,495), and stock is now limited.

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks? Everything you need to know

We've seen our share of tiny e-bike caravans this year, but what if you don't want to be confined to the roads? What if you want to sail out on a more aquatic adventure, but don't have space to carry a kayak?

That rather specific situation is where the new amphibious e-bike trailer camper from BeTriton comes in. This bright blue three-wheeler attaches to the back of any standard e-bike, and has its own power supply so the extra weight won't cut your expeditions short.

It has a range of 25km (15.5 miles) with two batteries and a top speed of 8kmph (5mph), though as always, real world performance will depend on factors like terrain, weather, and how much you've piled inside. It has a maximum load capacity of 260kg including batteries, which BeTriton suggests you could use to haul passengers, bikepacking gear, and even your pet.

The cabin of the trailer/boat can be fitted out in various configurations, with features including floor mats, seats, USB charging ports, interior lights, and an optional sleeping pad for comfy nights. You can even opt for different paintwork if blue isn't your color.

The e-bike camper boat

This isn't BeTriton's first foray into amphibious EVs. Its original Z-Triton is a weird and wonderful cross between a boat, a camper, and a trike. The rider sits at the front riding something that looks like a unicycle, with pedals driving the wheel via a vertical drive chain, assisted by a mid-drive motor. This delightfully strange apparatus is connected to a two-wheeled trailer/boat. If you're having a hard time imagining that, these photos should make things a little clearer.

The unicycle component isn't removeable; when it's time to take to the water, it just hangs in the air at the back of the boat. The entire thing comes ready assembled, so you'll need plenty of space in your garage to keep it safe.

The trailer version is a little more practical, letting you use your own e-bike and coming in a handy flat-pack kit that can be assembled with simple tools, much like Ikea furniture.

It's certainly not cheap, starting at €14,500 (about $16,000), but BeTriton also offers a rental service and will soon be opening its calendar for booking in 2024.

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks? Everything you need to know

We've seen a lot of all-terrain cargo e-bikes this year, but the new Rattan Quercus is definitely one of the beefiest. This fat-tire bike is a long-range e-bike capable of holding two batteries for a maximum range of 150 miles on a single charge, and with a load capacity of 450lb including the rider. That's a whole lot of bikepacking gear for weekend adventures.

Rattan is a California-based company, and describes the Quercus as the "Swiss Army Knife of e-bikes". It comes with one Samsung battery as standard, but can be bundled with a second and both can be mounted on the frame at once for maximum range.

As always with an e-bike, the real-world performance will depend how you ride the Quercus. loading it up with a couple hundred pounds of camping gear will naturally mean reduced mileage, as will tackling hills or making use of the throttle rather than pedalling (the bike has a top speed of 30mph in throttle mode).

The bike is equipped with high-intensity headlights, and an LCD handlebar control unit that allows you to charge your phone while using it to navigate. Hydraulic disc brakes provide the stopping power you need when carrying heavy loads, and Kenda 20*4 fat tires provide traction and control on loose surfaces like gravel and sand.

The Quercus also has a torque sensor, which detects the moment you start to turn the pedals, avoiding the sudden lurch that can happen with some e-bikes when the motor kicks in late.

Perhaps most surprising of all is the price. The Quercus is on sale now for the early bird price of $1,749 with a single battery and frame pack (a discount of $349), or $2,399 with two batteries. That's certainly not cheap, but is still very respectable considering the specs.

• Can you ride an e-bike in US National Parks? Everything you need to know

Ed Pratt is no stranger to long distance unicycling. In 2015 he set off on an epic three year, 135 days one-wheeled voyage around the world, cycling approximately 21,000 miles (33,800km).

So cycling 418 miles (673km) across Latvia is a pedal in the park, right? What’s so amazing about that?

What you need to factor in is that for this latest challenge, Pratt does the journey off-road, carrying all his camping equipment with him (tent, stove, food, etc), so that he can wild camp every night of the experience (though he does forget one vital piece of equipment – but we won’t spoil that).

Welcome, then, to unicycle backpacking – a pastime with its own unique challenges. Discover, for example, a whole new use for an inner tube as the solution to one painful problem.

Pratt is using a smaller wheel and a chunkier tire than he did for his round-the-world road trip to tackle to off-road surfaces.

The path he’s taken is the Baltic Forest Trail, with some steep climbs and plummets for Pratt to negotiate. The path And remember, a unicycle is, by its very nature, fixed wheel, so there’s not even a chance to freewheel down some of the gentler inclines.

This video is, sadly, just the first part of the journey. Pratt’s posted this video to YouTube with the other episodes available for the very modest $2 a month fee on his Patreon page. And they’re all a lot of fun to watch (Pratt’s not just about the physical feat; he’s great at interacting with the locals he meets along the way too).

• The best one-person tents 2023: solo shelters for backcountry epics

Garmin has launched a new bike trainer that promises to make indoor winter rides a lot more interesting. The Garmin Tacx Neo 3M is a direct-drive trainer with integrated motion plates to make riding indoors more comfortable and realistic.

The plates complement the natural side-to-side movement as the trainer as you ride, adding front-to-black movement that lets you ride in a more natural position. You can toggle the plates on and off.

The Tacx Neo 3M also has a virtual flywheel that recreates the feeling of riding on different surfaces like cobblestones and gravel. You can also train on simulated inclines up to a 25% gradient, and experience simulated descents.

You can complete workouts synced from your Garmin Connect calendar (created within Connect or from a third-party app like TrainingPeaks), take part in virtual GroupRides, and join immersive virtual training rides with WorldTour pros. The Tacx Neo 3M also integrates with all the most popular training and virtual ride platforms, including TrainerRoad and Zwift.

There's an ERG mode that automatically selects the resistance to keep you at the right power target, and the trainer provides performance metrics including power, speed and cadence, accurate to within 1%. 

The Tacx Neo 3M is available to buy now direct from Garmin for $1,999.99/£1,749.99.

The holy grail of e-bikes is an e-bike that that doesn’t look like an e-bike. They’ve come a long, long way in the last decade, evolving from things that looked like a hybrid of a dirt bike and a Singer Sewing machine into far more aesthetically pleasing forms. Batteries the size of Belgium and clunky, chunky motors are a thing of the past, and you no longer need to work out at the gym just to lift them up the curb.

And some e-bikes now do look pretty much indistinguishable from some less sleek human-powered bikes. But they still don’t look like classy, high-end racing bikes, do they?

But they’re getting ever nearer, and the newly launched Cervélo Rouvida is about as close as they come yet.

Cervélo has entered the power-assist market with a road bike and a gravel bike that reflect the sleek aesthetics of the quality road bikes it’s famous for.

Both of these Rouvida models accelerate to 28mph (limited to 20mph in the UK and Europe), thanks to a Fazua Ride60 motor and 432Wh battery, with all the electric components placed inside the respective frames.

“While the design brief didn’t actually say, ‘Don’t make it look like an e-bike,’ it was definitely at the forefront of our thoughts throughout the process,” say Cervélo. “Our bikes are refined, design-forward performance machines. The addition of a motor and battery couldn’t change that. From the reorientation of the battery to the relocation of the speed sensor, we made every effort to ensure that Rouvida meant Cervélo just as much as S5 or Áspero do.”

The gravel setup, which will be or more interest to our bikepacking Advnturers, features a 0.7° slacker head tube angle, while the road version retains steeper, more conventional angles. The gravel setup has a 7mm taller stack and a 5mm shorter reach, while tire clearance is 43.5mm for the gravel model and 34mm for the road model.

The Rouvida comes in two models for road – the Red for $13,000 (US) / £11,000 (UK), and the Rival for $7,500 (US) / £7,200 – and two models for gravel – the Force for $9,800 (US) / £9,500 (UK) and the GRX for $6,200 (US) / (oddly there’s no price listed on the UK site). Both gravel bikes come in gray with yellow accents.

For more details visit the Cervélo website.

• Why are reservoirs so dangerous for swimming?

Spanish mountain biking manufacturer Mondaker has decided that kids deserve the bikes as good as their parents / guardians / scoutmasters / other responsible grown-ups with bikes who’re willing to accompany them on the trails.

With this in mind, it's launched a massive range of new kids mountain bikes and e-MTBs that bring some quality specs to junior biking, “so that no one in the family should go without the experience of riding a proper Mondraker.”

So while they may not have the Easy Rider cool of a Chopper, they’re a lot loess likely to fall apart while shredding.

There are 11 new bikes in all: six traditional mountain bikes and five e-MTBs, so that youngsters can keep up with the grown up on long bikepacking  jaunts. And here’s the cute promo vid they’ve shot to launch the range (which, in these enlightened times, seems oddly male dominated, but we’re pretty certain girls are allowed to ride these bikes too).

“At Mondraker we take our kids bikes very seriously,” says the company. “So seriously that we wanted to create an all-new KIDS range that was so much fun, so capable, so high-tech that it would be hard to tell apart from our adult bikes when out on the trails with your family. That’s what we were going for, and that’s what we’ve done. Hardtails, full suspension, ebike and non-ebike… even balance bikes so that no one in the family should go without the experience of riding a proper Mondraker.”

The lineup includes two full-suspension platforms and hardtails in four wheelsizes, from starter bikes with 16in wheels all the way up to 26in full-suspension trail bikes you’d be hard-pressed to pick-out from their modern adult mountain bikes.

In addition to that, Mondraker offers two Play-series hardtail or full-suspension lightweight e-bikes. Take a look…

Check out the Mondaker KIDS website for specs and prices, which range from $750/€600 to $4,000/€3,500.

• The best base layers 2023: the foundation of your hiking garb

Eternum Technology, an ambitious Italian start-up company based in South Tyrol, has revealed its first e-MTB, the MAG Bike ET.1, boasting a lightweight, magnesium single-piece frame.

At 22kg (~48.5lbs), the ET.1 frame is around 30% lighter than an equivalent aluminum frame. This monolithic frame design should also absorb vibrations and make for a smoother ride, reckons Eternum.

“With MAG Bike we have launched a new brand that presents itself stylishly to the bicycle industry,” says the company on its website, before going on to describe the MAG Bike ET.1 as “a high-performance bike that challenges market standards.” 

Eternum claims the lightweight 12-speed, full-suspension e-bike also boasts a long-range 725Wh battery, a 90Nm Brose motor and a dual suspension system from Cane Creek, all bolted together with high-quality titanium screws.

“After thorough consideration and testing, magnesium (AZ91) was chosen as the material for the frame,” says Eternum. “Not only is this material 30% lighter than aluminum, it also absorbs hits and vibrations many times better. The result is superior stability and elasticity and, as a result, excellent driving properties.”

“We have developed our own proven casting process that allows the frame to be manufactured in a single piece without any welds. A no less important role was played in the development of the concept of sustainability. Magnesium is more environmentally friendly in the production than the materials commonly used today and is not harmful to humans or the environment. It is also 100% recyclable.”

A word of warning, though. Magnesium is softer and less stable than aluminum and also prone to corrosion. In 2022, Hong Kong-based manufacturer Fiido issued a recall on its X e-bike, which was made with a foldable magnesium alloy frame, when riders reported fatigue marks around the folding area, and some of the bikes even broke in half.

Now, the MAG Bike is a different beast, so maybe the single, moulded frame will have addressed this durability issue. The proof will be in the riding, but the ET.1 certainly looks like a very stylish addition to the e-bike market. And Italian design… well, it always has a certain cachet, doesn’t it?

When it goes on sale, the bicycle will be available with a blue or black frame. You can sign up for the company’s newsletter on its website to be notified of the model’s release.

• How to make your e-bike go further on a single charge

German e-bike pioneer Rotwild has launched its first gravel bike with e-assist, the Rotwild R.R275 X, and a funky, futuristic-looking beast it looks too. They’re a brand renowned for innovation and stylish, striking designs and the two R.R275 X variants, the Pro and the Ultra, certainly don’t disappoint in that respect.

But having concentrated on e-MTBs for the past few years, the company claims to be taking a step into the futures by returning to its own pre-electric, racing bike origins with this latest launch. The R in the name, you see, stands for 'race'.

“With its racing bike spirit and geometry, [the R.R275 X] is primarily at home on asphalt,” says ROTWILD managing director Peter Schlitt. “But it doesn’t shy away from turning onto the forest path, into the gravel or onto the trail. So we see it as a flexible all-road bike.”

Both models come in four frame sizes and cost €8,999 and €11,999 respectively. (Rotwild currently doesn’t have any official dealers outside of Europe, so prepare to use some Google-fu if you’re in the rest of the world.)

Both bikes have built-in lights and a top tube that merges with the line of the handlebar stem.

The lightweight but punchy TQ HPR50 motor used by the Rotwild R.R275 is claimed to have 50Nm torque and a battery with 250 watt hours. But the really innovative thing about the R.R275 X’s e-assist is the boost function

Smart motor control ensures a good balance between the rider's cadence, the necessary motor support and economy. Customers will also find the boost button in the R.R275 X, which offers up to 300 watts of extra power for shorts bursts of up to 30 seconds. It is fitted into the left side of the handlebar and can be operated very intuitively. 

The Ultra variant only boasts eyecatching Xentis five-spoke carbon wheels.

“Lightweight construction and gentle support ensure a natural driving experience,” emphasizes Rotwild. “Even beyond the assistance limit of 25 km/h, the system is very easy to pedal freely. The fade-out of the motor is not noticeable.” 

For anyone who would like to extend their range again, there is the option of using a range extender with an additional 160 Wh. The size of a half-liter drinking bottle, it can be easily and quickly placed on the down tube using the Fidlock adapter.

• What is bikepacking? Find out more about the fast-growing cycling trend

Witness man and machine in perfect union as a pro-rider pushes an e-bike to its limits and making what was once impossible possible – riding up the kind of rocky slope that most mere mortals would have second thoughts about coming down.

The rider in question in Innsbruck-based Tom Oehler, who practically sprints up the technical path on his eMTB leaving his friend in the video below with nothing else to say other than, “Awesome!”

Of course, skeptics might wonder what all the fuss is about – it’s clearly the bike doing all the work – you know, the “riding e-bikes is cheating!” mentality, which is most definitely not the case at all. It’s a testament to Oehler’s skill that he can make the ascent look easy – and, sure, it would be impossible without some pedal assist – but this is a great example of how e-bikes can actually open up new challenges rather than just make the old ones less challenging.

After all, Oehler makes going up a slope look as much fun as coming down one, and that was never, ever been the case pre-e-bike era.

But there are some unique, new challenges when it comes to riding up technical slopes on an e-bike. The extra power is a huge help, sure, but on the other hand, you often need to hop up and over obstacles on the climb – and e-bikes by their very nature are considerably heavier than purely human powered bikes. That makes hopping about on paths a hell of lot trickier and harder going.

• How to make your e-bike go further on a single charge

One of the rules of mountain biking should be: 'never attempt a descent on a path that has a safety rope to stop hikers from falling off.'

But rules are made to be broken. Especially when it comes to mountain bikers finding new challenges. That’ll probably be why there isn’t actually a rule book for mountain biking. It’d be the most pointless piece of literature since The Surfer’s Guide to Death Valley.

Certainly, when snowboarder, MTB guide and all-round adventurer Marco Bassot spotted this trail in the Italian Dolomites – complete with safety rope (which reminds us: Is it time to give your hiking first aid kit a safety check?) – it was like a red rag to a bull. And in the video below, he’s certainly proud of his efforts when he gets to the bottom. At least, we assume all that hollering and whooping means he’s happy.

From his Instagram message, it’s clear Bassot has attempted the descent a number of times previously without success, which may explain why he loses it so exuberantly at the bottom this time. “I told to myself: ‘Never surrender’, and I tried again and finally I succeeded!!! Yuhuuuu… It was such a liberating scream after all that effort.”

Having said that, on this attempt Bassot makes the steep, exposed descent look easy. One of the trickiest things about tackling a mountainside on two wheels ia avoiding all the larger boulders which are impossible to hop over – the actual path of manageable rocks is deceptively narrow.

At least he didn’t run into any indignant hikers trying to clamber their way up while he was coming down

• My bikepacking essentials: the gear I rely on when adventuring on two wheels

Earlier this week, we saw a battery-free e-bike that uses a supercapacitor and regenerative braking, and never needs charging. Now, at the other end of the scale, we have the latest offering from Hong Kong-based bike builder Fiido, which can hold up to three batteries for a maximum range of almost 250 miles.

The Fiido Titan is described as a "robust cargo electric bike", and the company suggests it would be well suited to fishing and hunting. It would also be perfect for bikepacking, able to carry all your camping gear on long off-grid adventures while taking the sweat out of exploring.

The Titan comes with a single battery as standard, but can be fitted with another two, which are fitted on a rear rack. It has a maximum payload capacity of 440lb/200kg (including the two additional batteries if you choose to add them).

Carry everything

As New Atlas explains, it has a 750W rear hub motor, plus a torque sensor to detect when you're turning the pedals and initiate the motor straight away, eliminating the lurching sensation you experience with some e-bikes and making it easier to get away quickly at junctions.

All that weight calls for some serious stopping power, so Fiido has equipped the Titan with four- piston hydraulic brakes. It also has 4in fat tires and hydraulic front forks to soak up bumps off-road.

Everything is controlled via a center-mounted cockpit computer with full color display, and you can lock and unlock the bike remotely using the Fiido mobile app.

The base spec Titan is available to order now for $1,699, while the long-range package is $2,397.

• My bikepacking essentials: the gear I rely on

The challenge: could someone on a mountain bike complete the 171km (106m) Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) faster than the record time set by the current course record holder, trail runner Kilian Jornet?

Pro New Zealand mountain biker Matthew Fairbrother was the rider prepared to ride all day and through the night to find out. We won’t spoil the outcome for you – it’s more fun watching the nail-biting, 11-minute video yourself. But let’s just say, Fairbrother has more to contend with than arduous climbs and descents – his bowels need to hold out as well. 

Established in 2003, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is considered one of the world's premier trail ultra marathons. This demanding annual event follows the route of the Tour du Mont Blanc, a classic long distance hiking trail which circles the Mont Blanc Massif and passes through France, Switzerland and Italy. The UTMB begins and ends in Chamonix and is regarded as one of the most difficult races in the world, with a total elevation of 10,040m (32940ft).

Since its inception, nobody has run its full length faster than Kilian Jornet did for the 2022 event. With a time of 19hrs 49mins 30sec, Kilian not only set a new record, but also established himself as the second male to win UTMB four times (matching Francois D’Haene).

It’s not a course that’s ideal for mountain bikers, and Fairbrother does a fair amount of carrying his trusty steed while sheep and donkeys look on. However, he does use a dedicated MTB track rather than the trekking trail at one point in deference to hikers at a peak period (which may explain the slight disparity in distances between his attempt and the establishes ultra-trail course). But it remains one hell of a challenge.

• Why ultra running is actually hiking

A French entrepreneur has developed an e-bike that doesn't use a lithium-ion battery, and never needs charging. Instead of a standard battery pack, the Pi-Pop bike uses a supercapacitor to store energy, and is charged while you ride.

E-bikes open up the world of cycling and bikepacking to people who'd otherwise count themselves out, but while they're much less environmentally damaging than a car, they still require cobalt and lithium. Modern batteries use less of these rare metals, but demand is soaring and shortages are looming. There's also an ethical problem: most of the world's cobalt is mined in the DRC, often by workers who are underpaid and poorly treated. 

As Euronews Next explains, entrepreneur Adrien Lelièvre set out to find an alternative, and has designed and patented the Pi-Pop city bike as a more sustainable alternative. It uses no lithium or cobalt, and unlike plug-in e-bikes, it's charged by regenerative braking, where the kinetic energy from braking is converted into electrical power. It also charges while you ride downhill, when the wheels are moving but the motor isn't engaged.

Battery-free

The Pi-Pop is a class-one e-bike, meaning it can provide assistance at speeds up to 15.5mph, and the motor will only engage while you're pedalling. The supercapacitor has a lifespan of 10-15 years. For comparison, the typical lithium e-bike battery will need replacing after 3-5 years.

It has a unisex step-through frame for city riding, with front suspension to smooth out bumps and potholes. It's equipped with a lightweight Aikema Electric Drive Systems motor, Shimano Tourney RD-TY300D seven-speed derailleur, and Tektro MD-M280 disc brakes.

Best of all, the Pi-Pop isn't just a concept – it's actually available to order for €2,450 including tax (about $2,600).

• Can you ride an e-bike in US National Parks?

2023 has been a bumper year for adventure e-bikes – versatile all-terrain machines that can handle a bit of everything, from asphalt to trails. With fatter tires than a typical hybrid and often sporting a step-through frame, they can be your daily commuter Monday to Friday, and handle off-road fun on the weekends.

The latest addition to the pack comes from budget e-bike builder Lectric, best known for the enormously popular XP 3.0, what starts at under $1,000. The new Lectric XPeak is a little pricier, but not much, and packs some impressive components onto its rugged frame.

As Electrek explains, orders for the XPeak will open on November 1 for an early bird price of $1,299 (regular price $1,399), and the bike is due to start shipping in January 2024.

It has 4in fat tires and a RST Renegade front suspension fork to soak up bumps on the trails, plus front and rear hydraulic brakes. It's powered by 750W rear hub motor and 48V, 14Ah battery, which is integrated into the downtube but can be removed for charging. It can be ridden in pedal-assist mode, or using an ergonomically designed thumb-throttle where local laws allow.

A front headlamp and rear brake light are included as standard, and the preorder model also comes with front and rear racks, fenders, and a bike lock.

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks? Everything you need to know

Yamaha, maker of the world's first e-bike, is experimenting with just how far it can push the concept off-road. To that end, the company has unveiled two new concept bikes, including one with two-wheel drive and power steering for really carving up trails.

The Y-00Z MTB and Y-01W AWD concepts are designed to give visitors to this year's Japan Mobility Show a peek into the future of battery-enhanced mountain biking. 

The Y-01W AWD, as the name suggests, is equipped with all-wheel drive for speed, power and control. Yamaha has experimented with two-wheel drive before, with its 2-Trac system using a hydraulic pump to power the front wheel of a motorcycle, but the new e-bike takes a different tack. It employs a pair of motors for the task: a mid-drive for the rear wheel, and a hub motor for the front, each with its own power pack. The two motors and batteries are coordinated to work in sync and give extra mileage.

Yamaha says the front-suspension concept bike would have a maximum pedal-assisted top speed of 28mph, which would qualify it as a speed pedelec in the EU.

The Y-00Z MTB looks a little more like an ordinary full-suspension e-MTB, but look closely and you'll see that Yamaha has moved the mid-drive motor away from the pedal cranks. Frankly, it looks a bit weird, but the strangest part is the inclusion of a power steering unit in the headset, which Yamaha claims will deliver excellent handling and stability off-road.

We're not yet sure exactly how this will work, but it certainly sounds like a lot of fun, and we look forward to seeing some of these new technologies incorporated into production e-bikes in the future.

• Can you ride e-bikes in National Parks? Everything you need to know

E-bikes are a great way to make off-road riding more accessible, taking the strain out of climbs so you can enjoy the downhills. Folding designs are even more practical. Sure, you won't be able to heave your e-MTB onto a bus (they often weigh over 30kg), but it'll compress down small enough to stash in your trunk so you can drive to your next adventure.

We've seen some interesting designs this year, like the all-terrain Cube Fold Hybrid, and now budget bike builder Heybike has revealed a fat tire model with a top pedal-assisted speed of 28mph that packs down in just 15 seconds.

The Heybike Mars 2.0 is equipped with a 1,200W brushless geared hub motor, which the company says will deliver a maximum speed of 28mph with pedal assistance. It has a quoted maximum range of 45 miles, though real world performance will depend on your riding style and the terrain. If you're having fun off-road then you can expect that to be diminished significantly, but it should still give you plenty of time to enjoy the trails.

As design site New Atlas explains, the Mars 2.0 also has a thumb throttle for riding entirely on the battery. Laws around this type of bike vary, so make sure you check the rules on e-bike classes where you live to find out whether it qualifies as a bicycle or a motorcycle, and where it's legal to ride.

Chunky, but fun

A handlebar-mounted HUD shows vital stats such as speed and battery power remaining, and there's also a mobile app for Android and iPhone that lets you tweak settings and immobilize the bike when you're away. You can even charge your phone from the power pack thanks to a handy USB connector.

At this price point, you can expect a few compromises. The Mars 2.0 isn't the sleekest e-bike around, with its 600Wh battery sitting rather conspicuously on the back, but that does make it easy to remove for charging, and the bike still looks like a lot of fun to ride. 

It's available to buy now for $1,199 in Heybike's Halloween sale – a saving of $300 off the list price. While certainly not cheap, that's very reasonable for a folding e-MTB, which needs to be carefully designed with a hinge that can handle the stress of off-roading,

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks? Everything you need to know

Usually, when you’re mountain biking across extreme terrain and you make a leap of faith, it’s the landing where you come a cropper.

But not always, as the video below proves.

Because when you take off, it’s not only inattentive birds (or pro snowboarders) you need worry about. Deserts winds can suddenly appear from nowhere, and even the most experienced MTB riders can struggle to keep control, as Rob Nichols did here. In the middle of his jump he is literally blown off course, lands badly just off the path and ends up chewing on dust.

Warning: the video contains a bit of naughty – but completely understandable under the circumstances – language towards the end.

Brain malfunction. from r/MTB

Rob, though, puts some of the blame on himself. While in the vid he’s left cursing the gust for his crash, he explains on Reddit that there was also an element of human error:

“For a warm up jump I normally jump front wheel high for safety. Hitting the back brake then helps drop the front of the bike and meet the transition with both wheels simultaneously. I hit the front brake which then scrubs all gyroscopic force stabilizing the bike. In the wind I then became a sail.” 

Which sounds like some pretty advanced bike handling knowledge to us. But now you know – keep the front wheel spinning, even when you’re airborne. 

But Rob seems cool with crashes. “I like how you held your breath so it couldn't be knocked out of you on impact. You've done this before!” says one commented on Robe’s post, to which he replies, “I would be lying if I said it was my first.”

• The best first aid kits 2023: be prepared for accidents and emergencies

Californian company Addmotor has launched a new cargo ebike with a maximum range of up to 210 miles, and a surprisingly modest price tag. The Addmotor Graoopro (no, I'm not sure how it's pronounced either) is available now starting at an early bird price of $1,999, which is very reasonable for a solidly built bike of this sort, let alone one with ultra long range.

That is achieved with the use of an optional extra battery pack, plus an efficient motor that can hit a top speed of 20mph with pedal assistance. It's not the longest range in the world, but it's not to be sniffed at. (The FUELL Flluid-2 from Erik Buell has a quoted range of up to 225 miles on a single battery, and the EUNORAU Flash is a less elegant machine that achievers a similar range with three power packs.)

But is it actually necessary? Well yes, but not because anyone is actually likely to be riding a cargo bike that far non-stop. Addmotor's 210-mile figure is for an unladen bike ridden in optimum conditions, but the Graoopro has a payload capacity of 450lb, and the closer you get to that limit, the shorter that range becomes.The idea of manually pedalling a bike that might weigh well over 20kg by itself isn't very appealing, and that's before you factor in all the camping gear, groceries, small children, or whatever else it's loaded with. With an ultra long range model like the Graoopro, that's much less likely to be a danger.

No lurching

As Electrek reports, this is a class two ebike, meaning it can be used like a motorbike and controlled using a throttle without any pedal input, but doing so cuts the range dramatically. In pedal-assist mode, the motor kicks in the moment you turn the pedals 20 degrees, avoiding the unsettling lurching sensation of some ebikes with a more significant lag.

The Graoopro isn't advertised as an all-terrain ebike, and we wouldn't be inclined to take it on off-road adventures, but it does have front suspension to soak up impact from potholes. It's fitted with fenders and lights as standard, and extras like child seats and luggage bags are available separately.

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks? Everything you need to know

Bikepacking is a great way to explore the great outdoors and using an e-bike makes things even more accessible, taking the sweat out of cycling up hills and allowing you to finish the day feeling fresh. But what if you don't fancy spending your nights under canvas? What if you like the idea of roaming the country on your bike, but miss your creature comforts at the end of the day?

That's where the weird world of e-bike caravans comes in. These tiny trailers are small and light enough to be towed by a standard pedelec, but provide you with a full set of home amenities. Whether you've finished your ride longing for a heated bedroom, a proper shower, a home-cooked meal or just the dignity of an actual toilet, these tiny trailers have you covered.

Hupi Carriage

The dinky Hupi Carriage is the creation of Finnish designer Urpo 'Upi' Merranmaa, who was given an e-bike as a gift and loved the sound of exploring his beautiful home country, but wasn't so keen on the thought of camping in a forest. To solve this problem, Merranmaa created a perfect little caravan for his new steed, which weighs just 65-70kg without accessories.

The Hupi Wagon provides a comfy sleeping space for one, and is equipped with a solar panel that powers a mini fridge in the dinette, interior and exterior lights, and even a TV. For an extra fee you can add extra panels and batteries, cabinets, a portable gas stove, and even curtains and rails. It's all terribly civilized.

Of course, hitching this tiny home to your bike will reduce its range significantly, but you can also use the solar panel to juice up its battery while you take a break.

Each Hupi Carriage is handmade, with a price tag to mach. The base spec model is €5,990 (about $6,600) without the extra luxuries, but just think of all the money you're saving on cabins and hostels.

TinyVroum CapsulBike

Yes, you're seeing that correctly – this tiny caravan rolls along balanced on a pair of bicycle wheels. Made in France, the TinyVroum CapsulBike is a super lightweight little e-bike trailer made to keep you warm even in the depths of winter. The body of the caravan features a memory-foam sleeping pad and a heated sleeping bag to keep you snug all night during multi-day adventures. If you're travelling with kids, there's an optional rooftop tent for them, too.

Like the Hupi Carriage, the CapsulBike furnishes you with interior and exterior lighting, a mini fridge, and a little camping kitchen. This e-bike caravan also provides a rainwater recovery and filtration system, a solar camping shower, and even a fold-out toilet. It uses bags rather than a flush, but that's a significant step up from digging a cathole. Just make sure you take everything away at the end and dispose of it properly.

Again, these mini caravans are hand-built to order. They start at €3,900 (about $4,100) plus delivery from France (contact TinyVroum for a quote).

Woodenwidget Foldavan

Woodenwidget is a French company that designs compact caravans using traditional boat-building principles, and the petite Foldavan is its tiniest trailer. If you want to start your bikepacking journey somewhere other than your front door, this is the caravan for you, folding down flat to fit on your car roof.

The real draw here, though, is that you don't need to pay for shipping from France – or anywhere else. Rather than selling fully made trailers, Woodenwidget will provide you with the plans to build your own Foldavan using basic tools, even if you've never tried your hand at carpentry or sewing before. It's MYOG on a grand scale.

The luxuriousness of the end product is entirely up to you. You could simply use it as an alternative to a tent, or add a full camping kitchen and solar panels to replicate the functionality of fancier wagons. 

The plans cost just €60 (about $65). For more info, contact boatbuilder Benjy at Woodenwidget and he'll be happy to help. He'll even plant five trees on your behalf when you buy the plans. What a guy.

GentleTent B-Turtle

Why carry your home on your back, when you can carry it on your bike? That's the philosophy behind the B-Turtle from German firm GentleTent, which is described as a bike trailer with a micro-caravan.

In 'turtle mode' the micro-caravan (basically a pop-up tent attachment) is packed down inside the trailer, which also has enough space for essentials like cooking equipment, your cooler, sleeping bag, plus as many luxuries as you like. When it's time to stop riding, the tent expands into 'camping mode' to provide sleeping space for two on a reclining platform (no worries about rocks in your back) with three closeable windows fitted with mosquito netting, and a generously sized awning.

The whole package weighs just 30kg, and the folks and GentleTent says you could even get it onto some trains if you do your research first. It costs €3,499 (about $3,700) and shipping is free within Europe.

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks? Everything you need to know

German bike-builder Cube has launched a new folding e-bike that's compact enough to stash in your tent, giving you a new way to explore the great outdoors on camping trips. No worrying about finding a secure place to lock up a bike, or struggling to attach a roof rack to your car.

The Cube Fold Hybrid has a central hinge, and a seat post and handlebar stem that are easily lowered to suit your height (from 5'2" to 6'2"). Its fat tires are made to handle rough terrain, and it comes with fenders to keep the mud off, a rear rack for carrying everything on your hiking essentials checklist, and a sturdy kickstand.

In addition to the standard spec bike, there's also a Sport model. As eBikeTips explains, both are powered by the same Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor and 500Wh PowerPack battery. The difference is the gearing, with the standard spec model using a belt drive and Shimano Nexus five-speed hub, and the Sport edition featuring a 10-speed Shimano Tiagra groupset.

In between adventures, the Fold Hybrid also makes a solid commuter bike. At 22.4kg it's certainly not the lightest e-bike around, but it's small enough to take on public transport, and slide under your desk when you get to the office. It also has a robust carry handle to make your life easier (I've tried using a similarly weighted folding e-bike without one, and wouldn't recommend it).

The Cube Fold Hybrid has a list price of €3,449 (about $3,600 / £3,000, and the Cube Fold Sport Hybrid is €3,049 (about $3,200 / £2,600).

• Can you ride an e-bike in US National Parks? Everything you need to know

Right now, you can get up to 70% off reflective running and cycling gear from Proviz, including jackets, hats, base layers and bags. Almost everything is on offer, so you can make sure you're fully equipped for dark mornings and evenings as the days get shorter, whether you're commuting or training.

If you've not seen a Proviz product in person, I can tell you they're impressive. They are made using millions of tiny beads that reflect a huge amount of light, making you positively glow. You'll be easily visible to drivers, and much safer as a result. You'll also ruin any team flash photos, but never mind.

I've picked out a few of my favorite deals below, but I also recommend browsing the whole sale yourself. 

Here at Advnture, we'll be rounding up all the best Black Friday deals on gear from Patagonia, The North Face, Yeti, Hoka and Garmin, so stick with us to make sure you get the best prices from your favorite outdoor brands.

• The best running jackets: comfortable, lightweight layers tested and rated

If you like the sound of bikepacking – the freedom to explore further than you could hike, and set up camp wherever you see fit – but don't like the thought of chilly nights in a one-person tent, French startup TinyVroum has the answer. Its CapsulBike trailer is a tiny caravan that's towed behind your e-bike and supplies all the home comforts you might miss during your adventures.

The CapsulBike provides home luxuries like a sleeping area with memory foam sleeping pad and heated sleeping bag (plus an optional rooftop tent for the kids), a miniature camping kitchen with mini fridge, a fold-out toilet, and solar camping shower.

You also get interior and exterior LED lighting, side doors and windows, a rainwater recovery and filtration system, and air vents fitted with mosquito nets. For an extra fee, you can even throw in a video projector and detachable screen for an al fresco movie night.

The TinyVroum CapsulBike isn't the only caravan designed to be pulled by an e-bike (the Hupi Carriage by Finnish company Hyotyadanehovekeskus is one particularly stylish example), but it's one of few that's actually available to buy right now.

You can hitch up your own CapsulBike for € 3,900 (about $4,100) plus delivery, which is pretty impressive considering just how much you're getting. They are built to order, so you'll need to contact TinyVroum for a quote.

• How to make your e-bike go further on a single charge

Bikepacking is one of the newest – and fastest growing – trends in the world of cycling. Just strap your belongings and camping gear around your bike frame using a set of bikepacking bags, and set off for adventures of a couple of days, weeks, months or years. It's an awesome way to explore, and if you've not tried it before, this list of tips and hacks will help you avoid the most common beginners' mistakes and ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Pack – and pack again

Lay out all the kit you think you’ll need for your trip. Then pack it neatly in your bikepacking bags. The chances are you will have fully loaded packs and perhaps even extra bits and pieces you can’t fit in. 

So, our top tip is to take out all your kit, lay it in front of you again and then cut it by a third. There are always items you think you might need but don’t really need so its’s a good idea to properly consider all your kit very closely and choose the essentials over the luxuries.

You might like to read this guide to weight-saving hacks for bikepackers.

Pack with thought

Check out our guide to bikepacking bags. Handlebar bags should be reserved for bulky but lightweight items, such as a down jacket and sleeping bag. Meanwhile, heavier items can be packed in the rear saddlebag. Longer, slimmer items, such as tent poles and a tire pump, will fit into a frame bag below the top tube. 

Items that you want easy access to are better placed at the top of the rear saddlebag or in a cockpit bag. The smaller items, such as a phone and snacks, will be best placed in the cockpit bag.

Try your loaded bike

A bike loaded with kit will ride differently from an unladen bike. Learn the tips for riding with your bike packs and practise before you head off for an adventure. 

Warmth and safety

Even if you think the weather will be warm and dry, you just never know what will happen, especially in the UK. It’s a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket and insulated layer, such as a puffer jacket. 

Add an emergency shelter, such as a bivy sack, and a small first aid kit in case you you have an emergency situation and need to stay put for a while.

If you will be cycling in the early mornings or evenings when it is dark make sure you pack bike lights as well.

It's also vital you pack puncture repair items and a few essential tools. Another important tip is that you know how to do some basic bicycle maintenance and repairs while on your trip. 

Give your navigation device a trial

Good navigation  will be crucial for an enjoyable trip. There are plenty of useful GPS devices that can be utilised, such as a bike GPS gadget or you can make use of a GPS watch. However, this is an area of bikepacking that requires some testing before you set off on a longer trip. 

Before you go, try uploading routes to your gadget and then following them. You’ll see if there are any issues or glitches, which hopefully you can solve with on-line tutorials.

Take a charging device

Bikepacking trips that will not take you between accommodation, such as hostels and guest houses, will require some kind of battery charger. A mobile battery charger can be used for your mobile phone, GPS bike gadget and sports watch. There are different chargers to choose from, including solar power chargers and power banks. There are some essential pieces of tech for bike packers.

Practise the mileage 

You could build up your leg power and fitness after you set off on a bikepacking trip but it’s much more pleasant to have put in some training before you go. Make sure you build up your distance and include the same sort of terrain that you will encounter on your bikepacking adventure.

Plan your food

If you will be camping and/or cycling off-the-beaten track on a bikepacking adventure, make sure you have planned what you will eat. Bikepacking burns plenty of calories so you will want to ensure you have sufficient fuelling with you. nything you take with you should be tried and tested.

Choose friends wisely

If you plan to go bikepacking with someone else, make sure you are compatible. Friendships and partnerships can be tested when travelling, especially in challenging conditions, and you should make sure you know you will enjoy spending a lot of time with your travel companion. 

It could be a good idea to try a shorter trip before you head off for a longer adventure. Ask these questions: do you cycle at the same speed; do you want to travel the same amount of miles each day; will you both be keen to explore towns and tourist attractions; do you like to get up at the same time; do you both enjoy camping/hostels/hotels?

Sometimes, even the smallest things can cause a fall out on an active holiday ,so it’s wise to think carefully about who you go bikepacking with.

It's also perfectly possible to go solo bikepacking!

Do your research

There are many great places to go bikepacking and it’s worth doing some research first so you know what to expect and have the best trip. Read a bikepacking book or two, or search on-line. Ask bikepacking friends for recommendations. Also think about what bike to ride and the type of bikepacking bags you’ll need. 

Home... then away

If you hope to travel overseas on a bikepacking holiday, it's worth doing a few test trips closer to home first. You'll be able to iron out any problems you encounter when in familiar surroundings.

Also, learn how to take your bike apart and put it back together if you plan to take your bicycle on a plane. 

Choose tried and tested kit

The best items for your bikepacking adventure are the ones you have used before. New kit that is not familiar to you might be the best product you have ever come across but, equally, it could be the worst and you don't want to find this out mid-trip.

If you plan ahead and do your research, there is every chance your bikepacking adventures will go smoothly.

• Can you ride e-bikes in National Parks?

If you enjoy mountain biking, you’ll already know the joy it brings. But now experts have confirmed the mental health benefits of going for a spin on the trails.

Research by Edinburgh Napier University demonstrates the rewards of using mountain biking, whether its cycling country trails, downhill routes or bikepacking, as a way to connect with nature and bring a boost to mental well-being.

The qualitative study by the Scottish academics is based on a Trail Therapy programme that has been run for a year by a team from Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBinS).

Billed as a “social prescription”, the project has aimed to share the joys and obtainable challenges of mountain biking with individuals who have an existing mental health diagnosis. 

The programme is designed to help riders grow in confidence, improve social interactions, establish skills of self-regulation and accelerate their road to wellbeing.

Results of mountain bike therapy research

The participants of the mountain biking research were assessed through interviews. The outcome of the qualitative evaluation revealed a greater insight to the unique combination of physical, psychological social and natural challenges that are inherent within an MTB therapy approach. 

These interrelated challenges have been found to shape the riders’ experiences on the programme and sit at the centre of what makes it effective.

Dr Christine Fox, the DMBinS Mountain Bike Health Programme Manager, explains further. She says: “We can visibly see the difference in participants on our Trail Therapy programme. This research from Edinburgh Napier University confirms that the programme has an impact on improving the health and wellbeing of those involved.

“Mountain biking connects us with nature in a unique way that combines physical challenge, positive risk taking, skill development, and unique opportunities for therapeutic experiences.”

Dr Lesley Ingram-Sills, a member of the team from the university, said: “The evaluation describes themes that emerged through an analysis process and uses the voices of the riders and their own words to express their experiences.

“Overall, those involved with the trail therapy programme were enthusiastic to share their experiences and reflected on their involvement in an extremely positive way. 

“The stories and narratives that emerged from the analysis largely emphasised a holistic impact of the programme on riders’ overall wellbeing and skill development, underpinned by three main interrelated characteristics; challenge (physical, psychosocial, and exposure to the natural environment), MTB experiences, and support.”

The Trail Therapy programme is currently run in areas where we it has been possible to  source local or regional funding, although the plan is to extend the reach of the initiative.   

Trail Therapy is funded by Trek, Nature Scot, Scottish Government and donations from the Scottish MTB Health Fund. 

• A beginner's guide to bikepacking

If you like the idea of bikepacking, but want to spend your nights in something a bit more luxurious than a one-person tent, Finnish company Hyotyadanehovekeskus has just the solution. The Hupi Carriage is a small but perfectly formed caravan that hitches onto your e-bike, providing you with a fully furnished home away from home.

As Electrek explains, the Hupi Carriage is the creation of inventor Urpo 'Upi' Merranmaa, who had been gifted an e-bike and wanted to take it on an adventure, but wasn't a fan of nights under canvas. It's not the only camper that can be hitched to an e-bike, but it's one of very few that have actually made it into production.

The Hupi Carriage weighs 65-70kg without accessories. Pulling that much extra weight will run down your bike's battery faster than if you were to carry a lightweight tent, but the caravan is equipped with a solar charger that lets you recharge your e-bike while you're taking a break.

The solar panel also provides power for extras like a mini fridge, interior and exterior lights, and even a TV, which can be fitted for an extra fee. Other addons include extra solar panels and batteries, cabinets, a skylight, a portable gas grill and stove, and even curtains and rails.

You can even use it to charge a laptop if you just can't leave those emails until you're back at the office.

As you'd expect for something handmade and highly specialized, the Hupi Carriage doesn't come cheap. The base spec caravan costs €5,990 (about $6,600), and that's without the luxury mod-cons.

• Can you ride an e-bike in National Parks?