What is Bikepacking?
Simply put, bikepacking is the synthesis of mountain/gravel biking and minimalist camping; it evokes the freedom of multi-day backcountry excursions, with the range and thrill of going off-road. It's about forging places less traveled, both near and far, via single-track trails, gravel, and abandoned dirt roads, carrying only essential gear. Ride, eat, sleep, repeat, enjoy! (Thanks to bikepacking.com)
I think you could also define bikepacking as the evolution of cycle touring. You need a bike, preferably a mountain bike or gravel bike, because the trails are a mix of gravel and off-road. You need a bikepacking bag (like the one in the photo). You need a route to follow, an idea, a dream!
It's not how many kilometers you travel per day, but the idea of starting a dream trip... which can last for 1 day or a lifetime!
PLEASE VISIT WWW.BIKEPACKING.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION
How to do it....
I think there is no real "magic potion", because there are different kinds of bikepacking approaches.
1) Ultralight Race: The trail is on gravel or light off-road terrain. You can use a gravel bike with 42mm wide tires or a front-wheel mountain bike. You need rolling speed, and your goal is speed and lightweight bags. You'll likely sleep in a bivibag, won't change your clothes, and all you need is a Gore-Tex jacket and food!
2) Multi-day mountain trail, the trail is on true off-road mountain terrain. You can choose a front-wheel or full-suspension mountain bike; on some occasions, you can even use a bike with 3-inch wide tires. You'll likely bring several types of clothing, tents, and some camping gear.
3) Expedition: probably the main essence of bikepacking, the dream route...for this reason the equipment is very difficult to define.
What is the Italy Divide Origins route like?
The Italy Divide Origins starts from Rome, like the first edition, but over the years the route has evolved and been made increasingly rideable and all the "portage" sections have been eliminated.
The terrain is mainly gravel or secondary roads.
You'll ride through Rome, pedal the Strade Bianche in Tuscany, Siena, Florence, Bologna, Mantua, Verona, and finally Lessinia. Take your time to enjoy the most beautiful country in the world, eat the best food, and drink the finest wine.
1) The ideal bike? I think a mix between gravel and front mountain bike, with fast tires (UP TO 45 mm). Camping kitchen kit?...nooooo wherever you are you can find a good place to eat ;)) It's up to you whether you want a bivibag or a tent, but you can find nice accommodation in a B&B.
2) How long to finish it?
It depends on 3 to 6 days, it's a real adventure without support... enjoy it
For more information, please email us; we'll be happy to answer your questions: italydivide@italydivide.it
How to Plan Italy Divide Origins
ID 2027 is, among other things, an opportunity to meet and share. To ensure everything runs smoothly, please READ the text carefully TO THE END.
DINNER AND ACCOMMODATION:
Updates on the new starting location in the center of Rome coming soon
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