Bikepacking is all the rage these days, and it's not hard to see why. Combining the freedom of cycling with the thrill of camping, it offers an unmatched way to explore the great outdoors. As we head into 2024, bike manufacturers are rolling out some fantastic new models designed specifically for bikepacking adventures. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a month-long expedition, the right bike can make all the difference.
What Makes a Great Bikepacking Bike?
Before we jump into our top picks, let's talk about what you should look for in a bikepacking bike. There are a few key features that can make or break your bikepacking experience:
The material of your bike's frame affects everything from weight to durability:
Aluminium: Lightweight and affordable, great for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
Steel: Durable and comfortable, but heavier. Perfect for those long, rough trails.
Carbon Fibre: Light and stiff, offering excellent performance but usually comes with a higher price tag.
Titanium: Combines the best of both worlds – light and durable, but definitely on the pricier side.
Tire Clearance
Wide tyres are a must for tackling rough terrain comfortably. Look for bikes that offer ample tire clearance to accommodate wider tyres.
Mounting Points
Bikepacking means carrying gear, so you'll want plenty of mounting points for racks, bottles, and bags. More mounting points mean more options for carrying all your essentials.
Geometry
The geometry of the bike affects its handling and comfort. Relaxed geometries are generally more comfortable for long distances, while more aggressive geometries offer better handling for technical trails.
Top Bikepacking Bikes
Now that we've covered what to look for, let's check out the top five bikepacking bikes for 2024. We've chosen these bikes based on their features, performance, and overall value. (Pictured above is the Salsa Cuttthroat C GX Eagle).
1. Salsa Cutthroat C GX Eagle
Salsa has a great reputation in the bikepacking world, and the Cutthroat C GX Eagle is a top-notch option.
Key Features:
Frame: Carbon fibre, designed for comfort and endurance.
Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle 1x12, offering a wide range of gears.
Tire Clearance: Accommodates up to 2.4-inch tyres.
Mounting Points: Plenty of mounts for bottles, bags, and racks.
Geometry: Relaxed, perfect for long-distance comfort.
Why It's Great: The Cutthroat is built for long-haul bikepacking. Its carbon fibre frame is lightweight yet durable, and the relaxed geometry ensures comfort over extended rides. With multiple mounting points, it’s ready for any adventure.
2. Surly Ogre
Surly's Ogre is a favourite among bikepackers for its versatility and durability.
Key Features:
Frame: 4130 Chromoly steel, durable and comfortable.
Drivetrain: Shimano Deore 1x11, reliable and versatile.
Tire Clearance: Fits up to 2.5-inch tyres.
Mounting Points: Extensive mounts for racks, fenders, and bottles.
Geometry: Designed for stability and comfort on long rides.
Why It's Great: The steel frame of the Ogre offers a smooth ride over rough terrain. Its versatility and numerous mounting points make it a practical choice for various bikepacking setups.
3. Cannondale Topstone Carbon Lefty 3
Cannondale’s Topstone Carbon Lefty 3 is a high-performance option for serious bikepackers.
Key Features:
Frame: Carbon fibre with Kingpin suspension for added comfort.
Drivetrain: Shimano GRX 800/600 2x11, offering a wide gear range.
Tire Clearance: Fits up to 700x45c tyres.
Mounting Points: Multiple mounts for bottles and gear.
Geometry: Balanced for both comfort and performance.
Why It's Great: The Topstone’s unique suspension system enhances comfort on rough trails, and the carbon fibre frame keeps it lightweight. With a wide gear range and versatile geometry, it's suitable for various terrains.
4. Trek 1120
The Trek 1120 is designed specifically for bikepacking, with features tailored to adventure cyclists.
Key Features:
Frame: Aluminium, balancing strength and weight.
Drivetrain: SRAM NX Eagle 1x12, providing a wide range of gears.
Tire Clearance: Fits up to 29x3.0-inch tyres.
Mounting Points: Includes proprietary front and rear racks for gear.
Geometry: Optimised for bikepacking stability and comfort.
Why It's Great: The Trek 1120’s integrated racks and wide tire clearance make it a top choice for bikepacking. Its aluminium frame is robust yet lightweight, and the geometry is tailored for stability and comfort on extended trips.
5. Kona Sutra LTD
The Kona Sutra LTD is a well-rounded bikepacking machine, offering durability and comfort.
Key Features:
Frame: Chromoly steel, comfortable and resilient.
Drivetrain: SRAM Rival 1x11, reliable and versatile.
Tire Clearance: Fits up to 29x2.25-inch tyres.
Mounting Points: Multiple mounts for racks and bottles.
Geometry: Designed for adventure and long-distance comfort.
Why It's Great: The Sutra LTD’s steel frame offers a smooth ride over rough terrain, and its versatile design makes it suitable for various bikepacking setups. The reliable drivetrain and ample tire clearance ensure you’re ready for any adventure.
Bikepacking is an incredible way to explore the world, combining the freedom of cycling with the adventure of camping. With the right bike and gear, you can tackle any trail and enjoy the journey. The bikes we've highlighted are among the best for 2024, offering a range of features to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you're a seasoned bikepacker or just starting, these bikes will help you make the most of your adventures. Happy bikepacking!
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