The Rig That Won The Colorado Trail Race - Neil Beltchenko

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Do you enjoy our videos, routes, and articles? Help sustain this resource by joining the Bikepacking Collective: bikepacking.com/join/?

[@keirfarnum6811]

You should look up the legendary Alaska “Hell Rides” done during the 90s. Roman Dial and a few various friends did these epic rides through remote parts of Alaska. Even the legendary Anchorage to Nome 2 bikers against 2 XC skiers winter race couldn’t quite compare (I remember when Roger built up the frame for that race in the sculpture department at the University of Alaska Anchorage for that; one of the first fat bikes ever made!) That little group did some absolutely amazing things.

[@AquarianSoulTimeTraveler]

Phawk that piece of shit bike. I'll see what idiots spend thousands of dollars on a bike and it doesn't even have a motor on it...

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

@@AquarianSoulTimeTraveler You have found the wrong channel my friend. ✌️

[@AquarianSoulTimeTraveler]

Going to waste a bunch of money on a bike that doesn't even have a motor you should at least go for getting rid of all of your spokes and replacing them with fiber spokes... They're basically like strings they're super lightweight and will shed at least a pound off your bike.

[@AquarianSoulTimeTraveler]

You can also get hydraulic brakes that are cable operated...

[@gaypreator8547]

I just like bikes. I’m very simple and very old, your delivery is amazing. You are so comfortable with your knowledge - I watched the whole thing, just to listen. Bikes have become so complicated. I just like bikes.

[@notpablo8369]

Gaypredator8547 💯💯💯

[@captaincoyote1792]

I’m 66….while still active and in relatively good shape, I don’t have any thoughts that I’d ever do anything like this, but I still enjoy seeing/reading and hearing about those that do. Neil, your videos are great, but your natural delivery - THAT is a genuine talent! To those who might be “on the fence” about joining the Bikepacking Collective …..it is a wonderful resource, that not only educates, but entertains. Congratulations, amigo, on this accomplishment. Bravo-Zulu….job most definitely well done!

[@richardrude3942]

I'm 60 and just got back from an attempt to do the CT from Denver to Salida (approx. 300 miles). My bike is a custom built 2017 Marin hawk hill frame with 26" wheels (I will be replacing with 27.5's as I should have before going). I "almost" made it through segment 1 before crashing and fracturing ribs. Yup, my 300 mile trip came to an abrupt end. With that said segment 1 was the hardest thing I had ever done and I learned that I need to train more than I did. With the little I know about the CT I am mind blown that Neil does the entire trail in four days. Neil Beltchenko is a beast!

[@charliebamford2807]

I'm 65 and still have a lust for adventure. But us oldies need to be realistic about what we can do. I'm hoping to ride the GBDURO route of LEJOG this year. Minimal weight but no objectives for time taken/daily mileage. Enjoy!

[@BrianRPaterson]

I'm 59 and 3/4s and ride quite a bit. Neil and Co. have definitely interested me in doing some bikepacking. Not racing, but getting out there and doing something. As I tell my wife, "it beats going to the pub!"

[@agnesmediodia1087]

I know this is an old video but congratulations just the same. I'm glad to see a review of the bike I have and planning to use on bikepacking trips.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Its a great bikepacking bike.

[@bvan1970]

Congratulations on the ride! I really enjoy your vids and all the great information you share, Neil. Thanks much.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Thanks Brian, that means a lot!

[@ViveSemelBeneVivere]

Great review. For those of us unfamiliar with the Colorado Trail, it is 485 miles / 780 kilometres long.

[@stevecoultas1900]

I though it was closer to 600 miles two of my close friends and i did it 6 years ago. not a race, camping enjoying a fire at night. we all turned 60 that year cant believe someone could ride it so fast. supper human.

[@SalsaCyclesOfficial]

Thanks for sharing so much useful information, Neil, and congrats on one heck of a ride. -Miker

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Thanks Miker!

[@Hobomountainwander]

Your remarkable human, to have the endurance to be able to sustain this amount of energy. Thanks for your sharing your gear set up and break down.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@gregknipe8772]

just catching up with this great video this morning as the snow begins to melt in earnest. thanks for the fuel of stoke here. awesome bike and gear review. congratulations, a year later!!

[@montechie]

Outstanding job! Thanks for the great walk-through. If you haven't already, a vid or article in the journal covering how you prepare physically/mentally for a multi-day race like this would be excellent too.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Although vague, most of it can be found here... kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5LJXoB5iLl4qsk

[@StrengthCircusDD]

I love the use of the UD vest! I have one from my ultra running days. I really dislike carry a pack but the vest would be better for me if I needed the capacity!

[@gregsonnenburg3209]

Great video. Congratulations on your race. While I wouldn't race, I found the information useful for my bikepacking rides.👍

[@PJ-gp2hj]

Congrats on the ride! Great info/specs as well.

[@SmuggiNOLA]

I especially loved when you talked about your first Colorado trail ride. Wonderful!

[@benpersenaire]

Started bike packing this year. Soooo underrated

[@buckroger6456]

I just learned about bike packing this year and I'm sold. Plan to do my first trip next year.

[@marcianodemidof7135]

Great video. Respect for what you're doing. Happy riding everybody.

[@countingcoup]

So informative and credible, would definitely read your cycling book hopefully in the future ~

[@bramblejazz5940]

Well done Neil, you smashed it and still put out another great vid.

[@charliebamford2807]

Super video & super achievement. A lot of us clearly love the way that you think, your attention to detail & your excellent presentation. Enjoy 2022

[@BrianRPaterson]

Great video. I find myself coming back every now and then just to get a bikrpacking booster. Cheers

[@hirokiide7750]

Wow! Congrats on the race. Also thanks for the great video. I've always enjoyed your informative tips and tricks.

[@whitewollf1]

Just found your channel...right from the start...the way you spoke...I knew you had a lot of experience/Creds.....congrats on the record.--thanks..really enjoying your channel.

[@aaron.bailey]

Awesome job Neil, it has been great following you during this year's event, and appreciate the full walkthrough! 💪🍻

[@mikehenrick8407]

Awesome job on the race and thank yo for the amazing video! Pro tip for aquamira - carry a third dropper to premix and save those 5min!

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Whats the shelf life pre-mixed??

[@constantmarks3187]

Congratulations on your awesome time!

[@marsudibu]

Thank you for sharing and congratulations.....

[@federicotheironlyportrait]

FELICITACIONES Neil!!!

[@sascha1778]

Many thanks for the intro and background. Amazing achievements. Love your content and delivery.

[@bruce.KAY-bike-drifter]

Another good presentation, thanks again, Neil. A response to your dynamo comments: I usually use my dynamo to charge a charger (similar to your Anker charger) and then using the charger to top up batteries for my lights and electronics. It's much more efficient. Regarding the sleeping pad... I think I would take mine. I'm a softy. I seem to feel every little pebble and bump in the ground.

[@SeanKWhite-lk5zf]

Super informative and so easy to watch.

[@Yogigru]

Amazing..such modesty..a true hero

[@GeekonaBike]

THanks Neil. Now I know everything except how to ride that fast

[@ashliecourtney8065]

Thank you for sharing the knowledge and congratulations! 🤙

[@harris4035]

I LOVE the last question!

[@brian193a]

Nice review! I also use Fenix /18650 lighting setup. The Nitecore F2 "charger" simplifies things by eliminating the need for a separate power bank. Worth checking out

[@buckroger6456]

Wow! Can't believe you crushed the colardo trail so fast. I'm also surprised by your rim choice cause I would think they wouldn't be good for the weight or the rough trails. I'm hoping to have a bike built up for trail riding and so I can bike camp the AZ trail. Also I'm really shocked by the amount of gear you can carry with just a frame bag and seat bag.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

The rims are as strong as any. They are We Are One Composite rims, paired with the 24 holes Industry Nine system spokes and hub and my rider weight, it's plenty strong enough.

[@bikepamoretowork1459]

Very informative.. thanks I watch till the end

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Thanks for watching

[@davehoover8853]

Really great talk! Like having a friend relate a story after an adventure. Thanks for sharing and congratulations on your successes!

[@rottieshepcalibre9156]

In 8 years time 2030/31 I will be doing the Colorado trail both ways. I may see you on the trail 👍🏾

[@leotasker5562]

If that mustache gets any more Mexican looking I think your next racing alias should be "El Chenko" :-) Congrats on the win and thanks for this video, super cool setup!

[@tobioderso]

I love your videos and just found out that you have the FKT on the CT! Wow! Your videos matter and are very well appreciated. Thanks for the effort. I am in the process of choosing a new Bikepacking bike and you definitely steered me more towards a full-sus over a hardtail as I like to do ultra distance racing over rough terrain too.

[@livinlarge1247]

Set up alot like my old Specialized here. I try to use every piece of the bar too, like thought of bar ends to grab just inside the shifters & maybe is the bike flips or set upside down it might save some things on the bar. The gal at the bike shop thought it was dangerous but it was more about having more different areas to grab & areas to suspend gear without crunching cables, which had been a challenge ongoing.

[@aawhite321]

Great video. Loving the channel.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Much appreciated!

[@ajmckay2]

Man I wish I lived closer to CO. Granted I can probably do some decent bikepacking in Michigan, where I live. This is great content, very informative! I would definitely agree with a lot of your points. Some of us may not have the ultralight gear, but I think that's part of getting into the sport.

[@borissamokhvalov6351]

Appropriate bike is good but not enough to start to travel. There is lot of people riding across the continents on one speed bikes with 24-inch wheels. So the main is desire to move. I am 67 and even to dream about such trip is scary, but may be there was not enough bikes in my childhood. If the weather is good I am riding almost every day about 25 kilometers and such videos - inspiration to go on. Thank you! Long live to Ukraine!

[@SteveYVR]

Great resource Neil, thanks so much for putting this out there. Any thoughts on running tire inserts for the CT? You didn't mention any major issues with flats, but it's something we always need to think about. Would you run a tire insert?

[@michaelrowave]

Interesting point you briefly mentioned around 23 in mark regarding wearing glasses at night, presumably to prevent insect collision. I know this is an older video but its one thing you dont (or I haven't) found yet-protective eyewear for outdoors and night. The multi-lens solution is on my list as critical gear. I had a gnat hit my eye at high speed and it was awful. I may have to eat a few bugs (they are spicy) but can't not cover eyes now.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

To prevent anything including wind irritation, when you are riding a bike, especially downhill your eyes will start to water. This is pretty important for me.

[@spencerwvcmoon]

Hahaa brilliant! So glad YOU WON! your just a regular bike nut and ye WON! YEHEYYY! VERY WELL DONE BUDDY GREAT STUFF god I bet that was torture 😀

[@davidjulseth8667]

he is really in fantastic shape...

[@polsifter]

Congrats and great vid. The blue gloves are probably nitrile ones as they don’t disintegrate like latex 🤙

[@mattdelcomyn8012]

Great job Neil! And super cool informative vid!! As usual. : )

[@Putzinator]

Hey Neil congrats on completion and holding that FKT! ;D I'm curious as I may have missed it but... Shelter!? Haha did you just cowboy camp every night? It seems to only take you a few to complete the trail but I also didn't see any mention of a pad? So no insulation and no padding on the CO ground? I just can't imagine! Also thanks for the detailed look! I'm definitely gonna be rewatching this video to dial in my gear for my AZT attempt in October! Cheers!

[@vermonthillsumc]

Really enjoyed the video - but SUPER loved at minute 10 when you defend the Etrex and the bell. Gotta admit that you are a super nice guy (as I hope that I am) so I sorta love when you get a little snarky and indignant (relatively). Just my 2 cents.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

HAHA, thanks, good to know!

[@uturnak77]

Neil, you mention something here about 28t Wolf Tooth rings and chainline - is there a known issue with compatibility on 12-speed systems? I’m about to set off on the CT next week and still troubleshooting some drivetrain grinding and popping on SRAM Eagle and that exact chain ring; I’m crossing my fingers that you have the answer because no one else does. Thanks! Awesome ride and congrats on that win - your videos are much appreciated and enormously helpful.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

totally depends on the bike setup, most of it has to deal with crank spindle length and bb spacing. Bring it into your shop before you go, they should be able to help you out.

[@BMMB450]

Thanks for sharing man. Loved the hard work in this. Can you please list the item links so we can buy what ever it is in need. 🌹👍🏼

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Thanks, all of it can be found on our website! bikepacking.com/plan/the-rig-that-won-the-2021-colorado-trail-race-video/

[@MrKimberr]

I had no idea you were such a hitter. Good stuff.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

😳 Thanks!

[@omare_biketonature]

Congratulations!

[@NoProDad]

very cool set up 🧐👍

[@livinlarge1247]

Love that bike: nice with all of the mounts & cables inside. Did I see a sleeping pad? I've been using the Women's Thermarest NeoAirXlite lately, but the smaller 3/4 one works fine too. Maybe you bike so long & so tired you fall right asleep without much of a pad.

[@JakeLuke308]

Wow, I'm so impressed by the thoughtfulness of your planning process, based on lots of experience obviously, and most of all the chutzpah to ride that hard on 1.5 hours of sleep. Get some rest and another IPA!

[@srenmllerjepsen6137]

Very nice to see such an awesome rig and rundown! How did you attach your fenix light on your helmet?

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

I used an Exposure helmet clamp, this thing. www.exposure-use.com/Brands/Exposure-Lights/Products/Bike/Brackets-and-Mounts/Helmet-Mount

[@unchewable1]

Love your vids especially since I know you ride it yourself as well

[@Justmyopinionlol]

looking at modern bikes makes so nostalgic for the second front chainring :-(

[@123moof]

One wrap for the headlamp?! Genius!

[@PeterDiCapua]

A humble beast!

[@livinlarge1247]

Got it: no pad...I might not either in a race. Idk...I just amble along over long distances, so I appreciate the pads. I even have a winter hammock from Superior Gear for out eastward where more swampy thickets along the road & more trees in general. The hammocks are nice with the insulated mummy pad in them too.

[@marcellopacifici]

Hi Neil, congratulations on your winning and thanks for this video! You mentioned hand numbness, which is something that I also suffered during my bikepacking trip from Helsinki to Lapland that I did few weeks ago. I still feel some numbness in my left hand after 2+hrs rides, which is something I didn’t have before my trip. How do you deal with it? Specific training or aftercare? I guess you had a professional bike fitting also

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

I just make sure to exercise the numb parts of my hands, but really there is nothing else you can do, it will go away after a while, so long as you make sure to give the hands a rest from the bars. Maybe some epsom salt soaks. Depending on how long you were pedaling, I would consider a different bar/grip setup, but I think a bike fit is a great starting point.

[@marcellopacifici]

​@@BIKEPACKINGcom thank you Neil for your advice. I got a stock Cannondale TS2 gravel bike. Quite comfortable to me, even if I didn't - YET - had a bike fit. I tried to change hand position as often as I could remember, but still 100-150km per day on a full loaded bike hit me hard! Rest is the key I guess. I'll maybe try to fit aerobars and softer bar tape for the next trip

[@outbackwack368]

You are my mentor :-)

[@pedalpacking]

Congrats! Great vid! Perhaps I missed this somewhere, but any idea on fully loaded bike weight?

[@triton189]

Dibbs on the nutty bar!

[@keepingtherubberdown5715]

Thanks for the recap.. One question for you.. I have both a HT and FS mtb and planning to ride the CT in couple weeks. I purchased a tailfin cargo rack and it does not fit on my FS bike. So now rethinking about riding my HT. Which would you recommend? HT or FS MTB.. If FS, I will use my Arkel Seat Bag. Thanks

[@Carlalex186]

Any thoughts on a dropper-specific saddlebag other than the Revelate Vole? Looks like they don't produce the Vole anymore and I'm in the market. Awesome video and stellar ride on the CT.

[@jimh527]

Having been both, I will tell you, the physical difference between 25 and 60 years old is stark.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

25 to 35 is vivid.

[@soul3n]

YEAH GO NED BACHANKO!!!

[@jrbechthold]

Great run down… I had a question related to calories but it was more about when and not necessarily what… do you set an alarm or reminders to eat / fuel or just when you feel the need… ? Seems I always wait too long and then crash. 😞 At any rate… great ride! Love the videos! And as a White Sox guy, let’s pause and remember that I’ll fated decision 28 years ago by young Robin Ventura to charge Nolan Ryan… 🤦‍♂️ 😜

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

I just look at the clock and make sure I have had some calories within the hour. Intake is not on the button an hour apart but usually averages out to that over the course of 4 days. Also, when I feel like I'm about to bonk, I'll suck down calories quickly, it's important to avoid getting into a deficit as it's hard to come out of it especially when you are riding all day. Go SOX, big sweep this past weekend vs. the Cubs!

[@bchearne]

There’s no question I’d use a merino wool base layer rather than synthetic. The only drawback I can think of is that wool isn’t nearly as durable, but it should last a week on the trail, especially as a base layer

[@Headlessthirst]

Yes! I love Tailwind! Love the fruit punch! I tried carbo-rocket but it leaves a nasty phlegm in my throat/sinuses that almost ALL Biking Drink powders give me. I'm still struggling to find THE ingredient that is causing it. I think it may be Fructose but I can eat energy gels that have that and don't have the same problem as the powders.

[@cypriano8763]

shimano m7, best hike bike clip shoes, light too. i have neoprene gloves for the rain

[@frakafrocka]

whats ur spoke replacement strategy on the trail with tubeless setup. thks

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

I make sure to bring extra spokes for both drive and non drive side, and also a fiber fix, and extra rim tape. If I think it's necessary, I will replace spokes in the field. But, more times than not, if I brake one, I will try and limp to a bike shop to get it fixed professionally.

[@davidmowenjr]

What mount is that for your etrex? I like the looks of it… looks more rugged than the standard plastic one you can zip tie to the bars. Congrats on the win!

[@whirving]

I think its his custom made one, he describes it in another video.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

I forgot to mention that. I'm using this custom Garmin eTrex to Wahoo mount: www.shapeways.com/product/KB6QNGLWQ/garmin-etrex-to-wahoo-mount ...with this mount from K-Edge: k-edge.com/shop/computer-mounts/wahoo-mounts/wahoo-adjustable-stem-mount/

[@douglasmckinley-sr1507]

You said your low ratio was low enough. Was the high ratio (3.0) high enough or did you wish for higher gears on downhills or long straights? What are the highest speeds competitors are hitting in this competition ? Thanks. Great video BTW.

[@rosshughes7054]

Unless I missed it, did you mention in the video which Ergon saddle you are using? Thanks and congrats on the great accomplishment!

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

No, I accidentally deleted it out of the video when editing, my fault. It's the Ergon SM Men's. Thanks for watching!

[@ArisaemaDracontium]

Those blue gloves are a good idea, they are actually made of Nitrile. Did you say you wore them next to skin as a vapor barrier or in-between glove layers or on the outside of your shell gloves?

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

Next to skin!

[@livinlarge1247]

I do the same with the food: some Cliff Bars & hit the town...breakfast diners, Mexican, pizza, subs.

[@JoshMcGehee]

Well, now I want to race the CO trail.

[@aardvark102431]

Thanks for putting this together-extremely useful info. My old Ay Up lights have finally died, and am wanting to switch to a setup like yours. What is that helmet mount for the UC35?

[@leroygt1]

Cool! Anyone ever tell you that you look like Jason Lee?

[@CrazyCranker]

That's one awesome setup. Can you recommend a more budget friendly full suspension bike for a racing noob? My budget for a bike is about $1500. Thanks!

[@stiingya]

I just want to say my bib situation is pretty interesting too... :) LOL

[@bjornfriedel9482]

Thanx for sharing your setup. What adapter do you use to put your etrex at the Garmin stem mount? 3D printed? Greatings from Dresden, Germany

[@neuregel]

Ive watched your bike packing vids.... Just curious why not also use a CamelBak or 🎒??

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

More weight means more pressure on my butt, which leads to irritation down there. It’s also just a more enjoyable experience. But I know it’s a great starting point for folks that don’t have the gear.

[@devincook3278]

Lubing your chain every 3 hours? Dang. My eagle and t-type, both, have always gone all day for me.

[@blomeh]

I have watched this video 35 times. I will probably view at least that many times more. Please please tell me what you think about someone running the trail with slime tubes. Yes slime tubes. Not tubeless. Is it possible.

[@ellerybice3787]

That's right ✋🏻 Peddle forward🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼 more.

[@spencergiles72]

What is the flashlight mount that you are using on your helmet? I couldnt quite tell! Thanks!

[@gleeloyd]

Thanks for the video Neal. Is that helmet mount for the UC35 a Fenix product? I haven’t been able to find it.

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

No, it's from Exposure. exposurelights.com/products/bike/brackets-and-mounts

[@DiabloOutdoors]

Aquamira is nice, but the best would be a Sawyer Squeeze :)

[@tim9324]

Impressive. Any thoughts on the Priority 600x?

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

I'm sure it will work, especially if that's the bike you currently own. My piece of advice is.....If you are not going singlespeed, I would highly suggest a full-suspension bike. It not only makes the downs more fun, but the rear end conforming to the ground when climbing is not only more comfortable, but it's also more efficient. Suspension is your friend especially over 540 miles of rough terrain.

[@רמיניניו]

Hi neil. I like you Chanel a lot. I'd like to know how you mount you hamlet flashlight ?

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

One of my favorite little accessories. It fits a variety of different lights. www.exposure-use.com/Brands/Exposure-Lights/products/bike/brackets-and-mounts/helmet-mount

[@DavidJames-sv9sm]

Thanks for the video. Very interesting to see what you took and why. Would you / do you ever consider taking a spare GPS for if the primary GPS broke? You have two main lights (bar and helmet) and a backup light. So curious what you would in the case of a GPS failure. Only happened to me once, fortunately I have a second GPS on the bike, though does sometimes feel overkill. Your insight would be welcome

[@BIKEPACKINGcom]

My iPhone is my back up GPS, I have the track loaded to RideWithGPS and Gaia, and have those maps also downloaded offline so I can see where I'm at. I carried the Colorado Trail databook (coloradotrail.org/product/colorado-trail-databook-8th-edition/) in the past too, another great resource, but left it at home for this trip as I'm pretty familiar with this this route and its surroundings.