After single-speed riding, wool jersey wearing, Cyclocross racing (avoiding fixies and tight jeans), I was tempted by 99% Chimp to try the world of
bikepacking or cycle-touring on a mountain bike.
We have planned a trip on the
Trans- Cambrian Way at the end of June, but I have never ridden a loaded bike, worked out what to use or how to survive a long unsupported trip. I have tried Mountain Marathons in the past, so had the concept of fast and light, but attaching it all to a bike was a different matter.
A handlebar sling was purchased from
Wildcat and 99% Chimp loaned me a frame bag and saddlebag.
The sling held a sleeping bag and bivi, the rear pack, spare clothes and a water proof, a frame bag food. A Salomon backpack was loaded with water, stove, pots and cup for a try out.
Late Friday afternoon we set off planning to ride around Llyn Brennig, loaded up we set to cover 70kms, camping overnight and get breakfast at Conwy Falls Cafe, before getting home for lunch on Saturday.
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| A (99%) Chimp |
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| Yours truly |
Loaded up, the sun went down, mist appeared and we headed off.
Bikes handle very differently when loaded, when we hit the big hill, granny ring was engaged and we huffed and puffed our way up like two big bad wolves looking for a house made of straw. Passing a telephone mast at the top of the highest hill, the modern world intruded as I received a message from Switchback magazine via facebook. The view from the
top was of mist and drizzle, disappointed we descended back into the warmth. We circumnavigated the lakes for nearly two hours. The weight did not appear to effect the speed of travel that much. Crossing a rickety bridge, we then looked for overnight spot.
Overnight camp was arrived at around 9pm, flat spots found, food cooked. Mr Chimp got out the i-phone and we listened to the Now Show whilst eating dinner (meat balls and our own body weight in noodles). Chat and hot chocolate and at 11pm it was time to retire, Mr C headed to his tent, I got into my bivi (never used before) for a new sleep experience.
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| A Blair Witch moment |
At 2:30 am I was awoke by what I think was an animal stepping on my head (I may have dreamed this). After a fitful nights sleep we were up for breakfast (porridge and coffee), packed and off (no trace of our presence on leaving).
Heading out of the trees I was surprised how warm the morning was. Nice paths, a steady pace and good conversation about the principles of Zen Buddhism, the nature of existence and a middle-aged rant about the modern world, meant the miles slipped away. A few photo opportunities and we headed back to where the car was parked.
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| An "American Style" Bikepacking Photo |
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A "British Style" Bikepacking Photo
We got back to the car, having really enjoyed the evening, we headed to Conwy Falls Cafe, for big breakfast and coffee to dissect the evening.
Lessons learned:
- Don't use a 3/4 sleeping mat- I was comfy but got cold feet
- Debating tent vs bivi- nothing can stand on your head
- Reduce back pack weight- sore shoulders
- How much water to carry and how (pack or bottles)
- Down vs Synthetic (jackets and bags)- warmth and weight over durability, weather resistance.
Looking forward to the next trip The Trans-Cambrian Way (2-3 days).
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