There’s something incredibly special about riding long distances. It might be the endorphins your body releases or all the great sights you get to see. Whatever it may be, long-distance bikepacking ticks a lot of the boxes for people. As a bikepacking and ultra-cycling expert who has not only raced at a high level but … Read more
As a professional endurance cyclist with a vast amount of bikepacking experience, I’m often asked: “Which is the better for bikepacking storage – panniers vs bikepacking bags?”
In this article, I’ll be sharing my views and experience on whether you’re better off opting for panniers or dedicated bikepacking bags for your next bike touring trip.
Through my own bikepacking and ultra-cycling experience, which has seen me race the BikingMan series, the Transcontinental Race, and even (briefly) hold the world record for most countries cycled through in a week, I’ve learned my fair share of bikepacking route planning tips and tricks.
Now, I want to pass that hard-won knowledge on to other bikepackers just starting out!
Cyclists are exploring like never before, and the options for bikepacking races are plentiful. However, perfecting your bikepacking setup is something that requires a combination of knowledge, experience, and trial and error.
As a bikepacking expert with a ton of epic trips, elite races, and even a (former) world record under my belt, I’m here to help you fast-forward your bikepacking setup journey!
We get asked some great questions by our amazing subscribers, and one that comes up all the time is: “Should I use butterfly bars for bikepacking?”
In my experience both as a casual bikepacker and racing in international endurance events, there are many advantages and disadvantages when it comes to butterfly bars and bikepacking.
Biking the Colorado Trail is a bucket list adventure for any daring bikepacker willing to take it on.
This 500-mile trail takes you through some of the most breathtaking tracks in the Rocky Mountains, with majestic peaks, glistening streams, and vibrant wildflowers at every turn.
Don’t get it twisted; it’s not all beautiful wildflowers, this is no easy ride!
I’ve bikepacked all over the world in incredible places such as Taiwan, Peru, and Oman. It not only taught me some great life lessons, but it came with many benefits you wouldn’t expect. In this article, I want to tell you all about the underrated benefits of bikepacking.
To help you kickstart your adventure, we’ve assembled a bikepacking gear list so you can separate the don’t-leave-without-it from the probably-won’t-end-up-using-that!
Want to get away with your bike, but struggling to narrow down the list of bikepacking destinations? Who doesn’t? But, it can be quite hard to land on the ideal location to suit your needs for your cycling holiday. Maybe you’re looking for somewhere with incredibly unique landscapes, not found anywhere else in the world, … Read more
The toughest bikepacking route in England, the Pennine Cycleway traverses the largest mountain range in the UK. The Pennine Cycleway is a long-distance, multi-day bikepacking route from Derby to Berwick-upon-Tweed. It passes through some of the UK’s most stunning national parks, as it traverses the Pennines for over 350 miles. If you’re looking for a … Read more
Searching for a smoother and low-maintenance cycling experience? Internal gear hubs might be your answer. Internal gear hubs were incredibly popular in years gone by, but for a long time fell to the wayside of mainstream cycling. Now, they’re making a comeback. From understanding how internal gear hubs work to exploring their benefits and potential … Read more
Choosing the right handlebars for your bike can feel like navigating a winding road. Are you torn between flat bars vs drop bars for your road or gravel bike? Look no further! This guide is your roadmap to understanding the key differences and advantages of each. Whether you’re cruising through city streets, exploring rugged bikepacking … Read more
Croatia is still something of an uncut gem when it comes to cycling. What it lacks in cycling history and tradition, it more than compensates with epic untouched routes and, equally important for the discerning cyclist, unbeatable coffee. I try to carve out some time during trips to my family in Croatia to get on … Read more
When it comes to commuting, you have many different bikes to choose from. You can use folding, hybrid, single-speed, and cargo bikes if you need to carry a lot of luggage. We are often asked, “Is a gravel bike good for commuting?” Gravel bikes can handle a wide range of terrain, have gearing that allows … Read more
The eagerly anticipated Giro d’Italia 2024 route has been revealed. Unlike the eye-watering Tour de France or Vuelta routes, this year’s course appears more balanced, which may foster more aggressive racing and attract grand tour superstars.
For many, myself included, cycling is a passion, a lifestyle, and a vital way of looking after your health. The feeling of the wind in your hair, the rhythm of the pedal strokes, and the open road ahead can be exhilarating. But like any sport, cycling has its challenges, and one of the most common … Read more
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A broken or bent derailleur hanger is a much more common bike maintenance issue than you might think.
As an experienced bike mechanic, I have had to fix many, and always recommend carrying a spare. In this article, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know when it comes to fixing and replacing derailleur hangers.
Bike camping combines the freedom of backpacking and the enjoyment of cycling into one adventurous traveling experience.
Having completed countless bike camping trips all over Europe and beyond, I’m here to share the lessons and experiences I’ve picked up along the way to help you have a great first adventure for yourself!
Many of us have the best intentions of committing to riding our bikes year-round – but when the winter cold sets in, it’s easy to lose the motivation to get out and ride.
In my hard-earned experience, the key to success in conquering the cold on your bike is the right winter cycling clothes.
There’s one question I’ve been asked more than any other by beginner cyclists in my experience as a bike mechanic: “What’s the difference between road bikes vs hybrid bikes?”
In many ways, the gap between Shimano’s Dura-Ace vs Ultegra groupsets is narrower than it’s ever been.
But with a price gap of over $1000, that leaves many riders looking at high-end groupsets wondering: What’s the real difference between Dura-Ace vs Ultegra – and is the upgrade worth it?
Pro cycling has taken me from Canada to my new home in the cyclists’ heaven of Girona in northern Spain. No 9-5 office job, spending long hours doing what we love every day, traveling to dream destinations, and endless coffee stops – what more could you ask for?
As I prepare for my second full season as a professional cyclist, I’m going to give you an inside look into a Week in the Life of a Pro: how we train, how we eat, how we blow off steam.
Few technological advances have revolutionized elite cycling like the bike computer.
Bike computers – also known as “head units” – are small devices that attach to your stem or handlebars that calculate and display a range of information about your ride, such as speed, cadence, power, distance, elevation profiles, and GPS navigational information.
In the heart of the Arabian Peninsula lies Oman, a land of mesmerizing beauty, rugged terrain – and an unexpected cyclist’s haven.
Racing BikingMan Oman in its first edition back was one of the true highlights of my cycling life. Not only was it an intense physical challenge, but it was also one of the most unique places I have ever ridden a bike.
Anyone who has ever ridden a bike uphill will know the importance of weight. But just how much does a bike weigh?
The weight of a bike varies massively depending on its style, purpose, and quality. High-end racing bikes can hit the UCI’s minimum weight limit of 6.8 kg (15 lbs) or even less, while beefy downhill mountain bikes can weigh as much as 20 kg (44 lbs).
This answer isn’t very satisfying for any budding “weight-weeny” cyclists out there, however, and there’s a whole lot more vital information to know about average bike weights when you scratch beyond the surface.
At BikeTips, we’re dedicated to ensuring that our readers receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and helpful information related to cycling. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how we maintain our high editorial standards: 1. Expertise at the Forefront Every article published on BikeTips is edited and reviewed by a qualified, certified expert in their field. Our … Read more
Strava comes in two “flavors”: Strava Free vs Paid.
After years of using Strava’s free version, I was lured in by the additional features on offer and finally decided to take the plunge and upgrade to a premium Strava subscription.
But what’s the difference? How much is Strava premium? And is the upgrade worth it?
In my career as an ultra-endurance cyclist, I’ve used Google Maps extensively to plan the quickest and most efficient route from A to B on roads and trails that are appropriate for cycling, saving me valuable time and energy along the way.
However, in order to make full use of these features for cyclists, it’s essential to understand how to export or import GPX to Google Maps.
Unpleasant at best and excruciating at worst, saddle sores can transform a passion for pedaling into a test of endurance.
So, how can we overcome this obstacle and continue to enjoy our rides?
From the windswept roads of the Tour de France to the grueling Ironman triathlon, aero bars (also known as triathlon bars) are a common sight in cycling and triathlon events worldwide.
They have sparked countless debates and discussions, but do they truly provide a significant advantage?
Cycling has never been short of unsung heroes.
On this occasion, though, it’s not a devoted domestique we’re talking about. Instead, it’s that most unglamorous of cycling life-savers: chamois cream.
Whether you’re a seasoned saddle warrior or just getting your feet wet in the world of two-wheeled adventures, we’re here to reveal the secrets of this nectar for your nether regions.
CamelBak bladders are an amazing way to stay hydrated and conveniently sit inside a small rucksack, or they can even go in your bikepacking bags.
However, if you don’t know how to clean a CamelBak bladder, you can end up drinking unclean, foul-tasting water – and could even make yourself unwell.
It’s been a full ten years, but America can finally celebrate having a Grand Tour champion once more.
This past Sunday, Sepp Kuss clinched victory at the Vuelta a España, earning the honor of being the first American to win such a prestigious cycling race since Chris Horner’s win in 2013.
With so many options available, choosing the right type of bicycle can be a daunting task.
Cycling is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a lifestyle, a sport, and a means of adventure.
If you’re new to the world of cycling or looking to expand your knowledge about all the diverse types of bicycles on offer, then you’ve come to the right place!
Bicycles have always been more than just a mode of transportation; they’re an extension of our personalities and a canvas for our creativity. Today, we’re diving head-first into the quirky and charming universe of funny bike names.
The cycling tech world is changing rapidly, with innovations every year that offer the potential to revolutionize the sport.
However, some innovations certainly don’t offer such bountiful outcomes but are extremely unique bikes or, sometimes, just plain weird bikes.
Upgrading your road bike wheels is one of the best bang-for-buck improvements you can make to boost your bike’s performance.
Road bike wheels have a huge impact on speed, comfort, and control. Whether you’re a speed demon, a long-distance enthusiast, or a casual rider, selecting the right road bike wheels can make a world of difference to your cycling experience.
With the final Grand Tour of the year just around the corner, many of us are wondering how to watch Vuelta a España 2023 action from the comfort of our own sofa.
So where on TV can you catch all of this action where you live?
Cycling is an efficient, low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise and is a great tool to utilize when it comes to burning calories.
Today we will discuss the science of cycling and its role in weight loss, the pros and cons of cycling 1 hour a day for weight loss, and the other health implications.
If you’re keen on bicycle touring, traveling by bicycle, and a minimalist lifestyle, then biking across America should be high on your bucket list.
The Race Across America (RAAM) is a grueling ultra-endurance bicycle race that takes participants on an epic expedition across the United States.
The race traverses approximately 4800 km (3000 miles) from the west coast of America to the east as fast as your legs will carry you!
We’re often asked at BikeTips: “How long do bike tires last? And how do you know when to change them?”
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this is a vital bit of knowledge to learn and understand.
It used to be so easy. A road bike went on the road and a mountain bike was for anything that wasn’t a road.
In the modern cycling world, though, it can be difficult to answer the simple question: What is a road bike?
Biking off road is a huge amount of fun. Going out into nature off the beaten track to explore is a feeling like no other. In recent years many new riders have started riding dirt but struggle because they don’t know where to start.
For off-road riding, you have a whole different set of bikes and lots of new components you might not have come across on bikes designed for the road or the track.
Thinking of cycling the length of the UK? Well, look no further. Whilst we can’t help you with the immense physical challenge that lies ahead, we can help lay out some of the logistics. The Lands End to John o’Groats cycle route is a gargantuan adventure that crosses the entire length of the UK. It … Read more
Thinking of bikepacking the North Coast 500 cycle route?
The North Coast 500 is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes Scotland has to offer.
You’ll encounter incredible wildlife, stunning scenery, and charming towns and villages, all while challenging yourself physically and mentally. If you’re up for an adventure, this is one route you won’t want to miss.
A wheelset is one of the integral parts of a bicycle, and, as the name suggests, contains the system of the wheels.
The question – “What is a wheelset?” – might seem straightforward, but it can be a little confusing because there are many different parts included within a wheelset. If you just buy a set of wheels, you wouldn’t necessarily consider all of them separately.
Attempting to ride the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is no joke.
The road is the highest paved road in the USA, and as such, it will present unique challenges to anyone looking to tackle it.
Get ready for an exciting and unpredictable journey as the Giro d’Italia 2023 kicks off in the Abruzzo region of Italy on Saturday, 6 May.
As one of the three Grand Tours, the Giro d’Italia 2023 is renowned for its grueling multi-stage endurance race, featuring the world’s top cyclists competing for the prestigious pink jersey (maglia rosa).
Switzerland’s St Gotthard Pass, one of the most legendary Alpine passes of them all, is located near the Italian border between the charming villages of Hospental and Airolo.
For cyclists, climbing St. Gotthard Pass is an extremely unique (and challenging) experience that you’re not likely to forget anytime soon.
Going to cycling shows is a great way of seeing what to expect in the future and also to see the direction cycling is going in general.
We were lucky enough to attend the London Cycle Show this weekend at the Alexandra Place.
Patches may seem like old technology in cycling, and not many cyclists carry them anymore – which is a big mistake!
Learning how to patch a bike tire is an essential skill every cyclist should learn that will save you money, reduce waste, and get you out of sticky situations on rides time after time.
Home to stunning mountains, swathes of beautiful coastline, and even temperate rainforests, the UK offers excellent potential for bikepacking adventures.
The long-distance cycle routes UK has to offer vary significantly in difficulty and scenery, meaning there’s a route out there for whatever you’re looking for from your adventure.
Great Dun Fell is the second-highest mountain in the Pennines, 849 meters above sea level – but it is also home to the highest road in Britain. Located in Cumbria in the northwest of England, it is also a highly-regarded climb, since it is renowned for its superb road surface and beautiful views. Regardless of … Read more
If you’re looking to buy a complete bike or just a frame, then it’s likely that if you’re on a budget, you’ll need to think about the comparison between steel vs aluminum bikes, and which would be better for you.
Cycling is an extremely rewarding sport.
Whether you’re summer cycling or biking in the winter, getting on two wheels allows you to get from A to B, keep fit, and feel immersed in your surroundings and connected to the landscape around you all at the same time!
For some, however, it’s very much a summer sport.
But in reality, there are very few places where you cannot go biking in winter – and winter cycling can be extremely beautiful and very rewarding.
Cycling the Furka Pass in Switzerland is an unforgettable experience that is not for the faint-hearted. Not an easy climb by any stretch, the long pass stretches up to lofty heights where the air is thin, with seemingly endless hairpins winding their way up the mountain.
But in an area renowned for its natural beauty, the view at every one of these hairpins could be a computer desktop background: sparkling rivers winding through valleys carpeted with vibrant green and huge snow-capped mountains and unique glaciers towering above them.
The Passo dello Stelvio (“Stelvio Pass”) is one of the toughest and most famous sections of road in Europe. The Stelvio Pass is a ruthless climb located in the Italian Dolomites, renowned for its relentless gradients, endless switchbacks, and stunning scenery. The Dolomites are one of the most spectacular regions of the Alps, split between … Read more
Chariots Of Fire, Cool Runnings, Raging Bull, I could go on… We have amazing movies about all kinds of sports. But what about movies about cycling? Well, the good news is that there are a lot! What are the best cycling movies? Read on to find out! We’re going to be talking about dramas, documentaries, … Read more
L’Eroica bike races are a unique series of events taking place all around the globe, with a twist: Everyone is in full vintage get-up! This means vintage bikes, vintage clothing, and even accessories. The key aim of the events, according to Eroica, is to “rediscover the past of cycling to inspire the future of this … Read more
Planning on cycling Bealach-Na-Ba? It’s an epic feat that should not be underestimated. It is often dubbed the most challenging climb in the UK. Believe the hype. Bealach-Na-Ba is unique. Unlike other climbs in the UK, which often go through valleys and around mountains, the Applecross Pass tackles the imposing mountain head-on. Although the Bealach-Na-Ba … Read more
One of the most beautiful cycling routes in the world, the Carretera Austral is a road stretching over 1200 km through Chilean Patagonia.
It is known for its beautiful scenery and is littered with dramatic mountain formations, glaciers, volcanoes, and fjords. The Carretera Austral is a partly paved, partly unpaved road spanning 1240 km, passing through some of Patagonia’s highlights.
Do you find that your gearing is just too high for steep climbs or fully loaded bikepacking gear? If you struggle to get up steep climbs or spend long days in the saddle on a bikepacking trip, you probably need a granny gear. Despite the name, a granny gear isn’t just for grandmothers. But what … Read more
Sa Calobra is the toughest climb on the Spanish island of Mallorca. Renowned for its hairpin bends and sweeping views of rugged, rocky mountains that frame a window to the azure waters of the island. Frequented by amateurs and pros alike, this is a climb that should sit firmly on the bucket list of any … Read more
One of the most unorthodox cycling events in Europe, the Transcontinental Race – often abbreviated to TCR – is exactly what it says on the tin: a race that spans the whole of Europe. Fancy cycling all day, every day, bivvying up in bushes at the side of the road every night for a few … Read more
Fuji has a long and fascinating history that includes producing some of the Bike Boom’s most popular rides. After establishing dominance in Asia, Fuji flew under the radar in the American market until the Bike Boom of the ’70s. Following a period of Japanese bike stardom, Fuji had a tumultuous 20-year period that ended in bankruptcy. As … Read more
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Particularly for off-road disciplines, you’re often offered a choice in wheel size when buying or building a bike. The wheelset of a bicycle includes the hubs, bearings, spokes, rims, and often the tubes and tires themselves. It’s not uncommon to be presented with a choice of wheel size, specifically if you’re buying a gravel or … Read more
The new world of gravel racing is vast and diverse. There’s an event out there for every gravel bike racer! Since the introduction of gravel bikes a few years ago, gravel bike races are popping up all over the place, taking in some of the most beautiful gravel roads, dirt forest paths, and single-track in … Read more
Gravel bikes have been the hot new thing in the cycling world in the last few years. If you’ve felt the call of gravel beckoning you into unpaved territory, you might begin your search for a gravel bike only to be met with wallet-gouging prices. Unfortunately, we all know that buying a quality bike is … Read more
If you’ve watched any professional bike races recently, you’ll likely have caught some bike frame painting envy seeing the stunning custom-painted bike frames ridden by many pros. Sagan’s beautiful color-shifting S-Works frames, Mario Cipollini’s eye-catching animal print bikes, or the multitude of Tour de France jersey-matching paint jobs: they’re all unique and memorable bikes that … Read more
With the wide range of high-tech home exercise equipment available these days, the leading competitors have to offer more ways to enhance their products. Many offer some level of interaction, while others make working out more of a game. With the likes of Zwift, cyclists can ride scenic alpine routes from their own homes – … Read more
The most important part of any bike, the frameset is the foundation of the bicycle. Although we all know what the frame is, you might have heard people talking about a frameset, but what else is included in this? There are a few different definitions of a frameset which can include different components. Different types … Read more
To the untrained eye, cyclocross and gravel bikes may appear almost identical. Furthermore, in recent years, cyclocross bikes have increased in popularity in the non-racing consumer market, meaning that you’re a lot more likely to see them out and about. Whilst they are very similar in many ways, there are a number of distinct differences … Read more
The ultimate island-hopping bikepacking trip, the Hebridean way is an iconic multi-day cycle through Scotland’s stunning Outer Hebrides. Spanning ten of the Outer Hebridean islands, the Hebridean Way includes two ferries, six causeways, sharp climbs, countless beaches, and some of the United Kingdom’s most incredible wildlife. If you’re looking for your next bikepacking adventure, look … Read more
Have you ever wanted to be able to traverse any terrain on your bike? Fat tire bikes are the piece of kit designed for this kind of riding freedom! They can traverse just about any terrain you can get two wheels on. Whether you’re traversing Antarctica, the harsh Alaskan winter, or giant Peruvian sand dunes, … Read more
When it comes to vintage racers, Peugeot bikes are some of the most popular (and easiest to find) around. The French manufacturer has been producing bicycles since 1882, and became one of the dominant forces in bike racing through the twentieth century. Peugeot road bikes were ridden to victory at the Tour de France ten … Read more
Imagine a time before your trusty Shimano indexed shifters. Everything’s normal until you approach a steep hill. You look down towards your handlebars and see nothing to help you change gears – except for these strange-looking twisty levers on your down tube. These are friction shifters. They’re old-school bike shifters and were the standard until Shimano … Read more
Shimano groupset components are consistently ranked among the best around by cyclists the world over. They’re trusted by everyone from Tour de France champions to everyday commuters to weekend gravel grinders – and for good reason. Shimano groupsets are known for their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and innovation, with technology from their flagship Dura-Ace components filtering down … Read more
Bicycle touring has become super popular in the last few years. By combining the thrill of cycling, the adventure of backpacking, and the freedom and sense of achievement of hiking, it can make for a pretty amazing outdoor experience. In essence, a touring bike is a durable and comfortable bicycle specifically designed for long-distance travel. … Read more
Ever since the birth of BMX racing and freestyling in the 1970s, cyclists have been pushing the discipline forward in a hundred different directions. One key development has been the merging of BMX racing, mountain biking, and four-cross racing. The result? Dirt jumping. A dirt jumper bike is a specialized, sturdy bicycle designed for performing … Read more
Riding a tandem bike can be lots of fun. It can allow two people with varying fitness levels to ride together. It is also a great way to cover ground quickly, as you combine your strength to power on. However, you need to be able to communicate well with your partner. Tandem bikes are known … Read more
You’ve probably heard of gravel riding before. After all, it’s the hottest and fastest-growing riding discipline right now. While ditching the road for new surfaces is hardly a totally new idea, what has changed is the wave of specially adapted bikes, events, and equipment dedicated to helping you do it. A gravel bike is a … Read more
Not every cyclist can afford to hire a private coach to create a custom training plan, and many of the free online cycling training plans simply don’t work well for your individual needs and goals. Therefore, learning how to build a cycling training plan – whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced rider – can … Read more
If you’ve not been keeping your ear to the ground in cycling circles, you might’ve missed off-road biking‘s new kid on the block: pump tracks. If you’re not familiar with cycling’s fast-growing discipline, you’re probably wondering: What is a pump track? A pump track is a looped circuit of banked corners and smooth rollers – … Read more
They might not be the first thing that comes to a cyclist’s mind when getting excited about their dream bike, but the humble bike handlebars play an essential role in adapting a bike to its purpose. From butterfly bars to bullhorns, all bike handlebars have their strengths and weaknesses. Aero bars might be perfect for … Read more
Bicycle touring has exploded in popularity over the last few years – and for good reason! Whether you’re a dedicated cyclist desperate for a new challenge, a seasoned globetrotter fed up with the long, cramped bus journeys along the same worn-out tourist trails as everybody else, or a casual rider just looking for a unique … Read more
In a perfect world, we could all hop on our bikes and teleport to any number of mountain biking meccas: Just snap your fingers and BAM! You’re sitting at the top of the lift at Whistler in British Columbia or nestled in the Swiss Alps somewhere around Saint-Luc. Unfortunately, those destinations are a little out … Read more
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