The Gear
One day out, it’s time to get everything packed up. Thought that would be a great time to get some pictures of my setup and go over what I am bringing with me.
First, the bike.
I’m riding a Trek Checkpoint ALR 5. I purchased it in 2021 after getting a bit frustrated with the discount bike I had been riding. It’s been a fantastic bike. Great on gravel trails.
Second, the bags.
I have a number of bags and containers strapped to the bike. Starting from the front back:
In the very front between the drops I have a bag holding my tent and related items.
On my side of the handlebars I have a few bags from Apidura. An Expedition Top Tube Pack flanked on each side by Backcountry Food Pouches that I’m using to hold water bottles.
Inside the frame I have an Expedition Frame Pack, also from Apidura.
Finally, on the rear rack I have a MTX Trunk Bag from Topeak.
Finally, the gear.
Sleep System. Camp pillow, sleeping bag, and a sleeping pad.
Clothing. Two sets of shorts/t-shirts, two sets of leggings and long sleeve tops, underwear/socks.
Sunglasses, front and rear light.
Water bottles. Two 48 oz. Nalgene bottles. Two 32 oz. squeeze bottles.
JetBoil stove and fuel. I plan to stop in towns to get most meals, but it’ll come in handy for hot coffee in the mornings or an unplanned stop to make a dehydrated meal.
Some large wet wipes for ‘camp showers’
Tech. Garmin Edge 1030 Plus for data tracking. Garmin inReach Mini 2 for GPS tracking. HR Strap.
First Aid kit.
Tools. Leatherman Wave, hand pump, tire leavers, bike tool, extra innertube and patches.
Helmet: Kask Valegro. Shoes: Pearl Izumi X-Alp Launch, SPD cleat.
Not pictured is my tent, a Fly Creek HV UL2 from Big Agnes. I took some time to set it up today and make sure all the parts were there.
Everything packs up nicely onto the bike!
The plan is to get started at Point State Park first thing in the morning.
T-minus 1 day.
