Bikepacking the Cairngorms Loop 2024

[@silentrabbit247]

Great trip. Noticed your stove was struggling in the wind. Tip: make your own custom wind shield out of 3x large Alu pie trays. Cut out the bases then fold double to get 3x tall oblong pieces, then tape together with Alu duck tape. Works a treat, very light weight, cheap, and saves precious fuel.

[@cycleonadventures]

It really was, great tip. Going to look at making a home made one. Thinking of adding in some skewers to it so I can pi it into the ground to add stability...

[@silentrabbit247]

@@cycleonadventures good idea, though I just use some small stones, plus it's tall enough to touch onto the pot or kettle. enjoy tour next trip. ATB

[@callumbucknall]

Cracking video.

[@cycleonadventures]

Thanks for the comment, and great question. I did consider at some points if I'd made the right choice! Reflecting back I was lucky as I didn't suffer any mechanicals and to be honest if it got too rough for the bike I just got off and walked (hike-a-bike). I was lucky with the weather too, if it was muddy my tyres could have just become slicks but as with any bike I would have upgraded the tyres to cope. Overall really happy with my choice of Gravel Bike, Whyte Glencoe- see my review on it. Remember if it gets too much just walk, and when you get on smoother surface a Gravel bike will always be faster than a MTB. Just make sure your bike handling skills are on point. Happy riding and thanks for watching.

[@Grandadgreyhair]

Looks great can you share gpx file

[@cycleonadventures]

ridewithgps.com/trips/177806434

[@YOLOSWAG420EZ]

Have you found yourself ever wishing you'd taken a mountain bike? I'm looking for a new bike but torn between either a gravel or hardtail for bikepacking stuff

[@silentrabbit247]

If its going to be rough ground, then a Mtn bike with front suspension ( with lock out option ) is ideal, or hardtail ( but arms and hands get sore plus ruts are hard to get out of ). I usually cut the handlebars to get a custom width that suits me and put on bar ends too. Travel as light as you can, and load everything onto the bike, ie no rucksack, possibly a small bumbag - you'll find it much more comfortable & less tiring. Enjoy your trips.