Best Bikes For Bikepacking

‍Venturing into the world of bikepacking is like opening a door to endless adventure. Here are the best bikepacking bikes paramount for your journey.

The best bikepacking bikes are the Giant Defy Advanced 1, Salsa Fargo Apex 1, Canyon Grizl CF CL 8, and  Surly Karate Monkey. You can also opt for the Salsa Journeyer Claris 700, Cannondale Topstone Lefty 3, or the Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5.

Over the years, I’ve explored various terrains and conditions, putting numerous bike models to the test. This practical experience has allowed me to intimately understand the unique demands and nuances of bikepacking adventures. So, let’s pedal through this and find the ride that will turn your bikepacking dreams into reality.

‍Best Bikepacking Bikes: How to Choose Your Perfect Ride

Bikepacking combines the thrill of backpacking with the joy of cycling, and choosing the right bike is critical to making those dreams a smooth reality.

Finding your bikepacking bike means looking at a few key specifics: comfort for those long rides, a rugged frame for the unpredictable, and versatility to tackle diverse terrain.

You'll need quality suspension to absorb the bumps, appropriate tire size for grip and smooth rolling, and a lightweight frame to keep your legs fresh.

Your dream bike should sport ample mounting points for all your gear, a wide gear range to conquer hills, and perhaps hydraulic brakes for reliable stopping power.

Now, to help you visualize how different bike models stack up, here's a handy comparison table:

1. Giant Defy Advanced 1

As you scour the market for the best bikepacking bikes, the Giant Defy Advanced 1 stands out as a choice that ticks a lot of boxes—it's a road bike, designed for comfort, and impressively light. Whether you're planning an adventure or simply a long ride over the weekend, this bike promises to keep you rolling with ease.

Specifications

• Frame: Advanced-grade composite
• Weight: Approximately 10kg (22lbs)
• Sizes: Available in multiple sizes

Performance

It delivers a smooth and supple ride, attributed to its Advanced-grade composite frame and D-Fuse composite seatpost. You'll feel less fatigue during your bikepacking trips—yes, it's that comfortable.

What Sets it Apart

This bike combines the swift characteristics of a road bike with the endurance capacity of a touring bike. When you're cruising down the road or navigating through rough patches, you'll appreciate how the Defy Advanced 1 remains reliably stable—a true testament to its versatility.

Recent Updates

Changes in recent models have focused on improving comfort without sacrificing speed. This means refined geometry for a more upright position, stretching out those long bikepacking journeys into pleasant rides rather than enduring slogs.

Benefits

• Comfortable geometry for long rides
• Light enough to maintain speed and agility
• Designed to absorb vibrations without losing stiffness

Drawbacks

• Premium build comes with a higher price tag
• May have limited size availability for some riders

Who Should Buy It

If you're someone who values comfort and performance on extended rides, the Giant Defy Advanced 1 could be your next great investment. It's suited for cyclists at all levels who want a robust and agile road bike for long-distance ventures.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Defy Advanced 1 from the official Giant website and select online bike shops. Ensure you choose a reputable dealer to benefit from proper assembly and service.

2. Salsa Fargo Apex 1

You're in for a treat with the Salsa Fargo Apex 1. It's the kind of bike that beckons for adventure, equipped to handle the grit of gravel and the thrill of the off-road.

It's built tough, ready for the unpredictable nature of multi-day trips on mixed terrain.

Specifications

• Frame: Sturdy steel or optional titanium
• Wheels: 29" for smooth rolling capability
• Gearing: SRAM Apex 1 drivetrain for a wide range of gears

Performance

The Fargo Apex 1 thrives on mixed surfaces, from loose gravel to technical singletrack. Its sturdy steel frame absorbs vibrations, offering you a comfy ride day in and day out.

What Sets it Apart

This isn't your average gravel bike. The Salsa Fargo stands out with its ability to tackle off-road conditions confidently. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of bikepacking bikes.

Recent Updates

The latest models rock retro paint jobs and modern geometry improvements, enhancing stability and aesthetics. They now come with 2.2" Sparwood tires that strike a balance between comfort and traction.

Benefits

• Can handle a mix of surfaces with ease
• Tons of room for bikepacking gear
• Ready to grow and adapt with your riding style

Drawbacks

• The sturdy build adds extra pounds
• It's not the fastest, but what it lacks in speed, it makes up for in stability

Who Should Buy It

If you're after a dependable bike that can carry you and your gear across continents, the Salsa Fargo Apex 1 is for you. It's designed for the long haul and the rugged roads.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Fargo Apex 1 from the official Salsa website. Always aim for authorized Salsa dealers to ensure you're getting the real deal and great service to boot.

3. Canyon Grizl CF SL 8

When you're ready to hit the trails and embrace the great outdoors, the Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 is your steadfast companion. It's designed for those who yearn for adventure beyond the paved roads, combining the ruggedness of a mountain bike with the speed of a road bike.

Specifications

• Frame: Carbon fiber frameset
• Tire Clearance: Up to 700 x 50mm
• Mounting Points: Abundant for versatility
• Gearing: 1x drivetrain setup

Performance

This bike excels on mixed-terrain, providing a stable and comfortable ride. Its carbon frameset assures robustness and agility, which is a blessing when you're hours deep into your adventure.

What Sets it Apart

This bike's plentiful mounting points set it apart. You can carry all your essentials for long rides without compromising the bike's performance, turning it into a packing powerhouse.

Recent Updates

The latest builds of Canyon Grizl come with co-branded Apidura bags, optimizing it for bikepacking.

Benefits

• Suited for everything from daily commutes to rough trails
• Geometry designed for long days of riding
• Direct-buy model offers a competitive price point

Drawbacks

• There may be concerns with durability in this area
• Additional cost for the matching bags

Who Should Buy It

If you're an avid bikepacker seeking a reliable, versatile, and comfortable gravel bike, the Grizl CF SL 8 could be your dream come true. It's particularly suited for those who value long-haul comfort and bikepacking-specific features.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Canyon Grizl CF SL 8 directly from Canyon's official website. This direct-to-consumer approach not only helps keep costs down but also simplifies the buying process for you.

4. Surly Karate Monkey

When you're looking to venture into bikepacking, you need a steed that's up for anything. The Surly Karate Monkey is a name that resonates in the world of bikepacking for its adaptability and ruggedness.

It's a well-rounded hardtail that's proven its mettle on singletrack and bikepacking trails alike.

Specifications

• Frame Material: Chromoly steel
• Fork: 4130 Chromoly, tapered and butted with fender eyelets
• Wheel Size: 27.5+ or 29 inches
• Gear System: 1x drivetrain for simplicity and efficiency
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power

Performance

This bike exhibits a tenacious appetite for rough terrain. The steel frame provides a compliant ride that absorbs vibrations yet remains stiff enough for efficient power transfer.

Whether you're hitting up local trails or loaded down with gear for a weekend escape, this bike's maneuverability and control are standout features.

What Sets it Apart

This isn't just another mountain bike; it's a canvas ready for your next adventure. With its ability to transition seamlessly from a bikepacking rig to a fun ride in the woods, the Karate Monkey is distinguished by its versatility and ruggedness in the face of diverse terrains.

Recent Updates

The latest models have seen upgrades in geometry to improve comfort over long distances, while still maintaining its playful agility. It's a set-up that offers peace of mind, knowing your bike is up-to-date with current bikepacking standards.

Benefits

• Easily switches from singletrack shredder to heavy-duty bike packer
• High-quality steel frame can take a beating and keep on rolling
• Geometry designed for long days in the saddle without compromising on fun

Drawbacks

• The steel frame, while durable, adds to the overall weight
• Quality and versatility come at a price, making it a significant investment

Who Should Buy It

If you're the kind of person who loves the idea of a bike that can do it all, from day trips to multi-day backcountry explorations, then the Karate Monkey is for you. It's especially suited for riders who appreciate the nuanced handling and comfort that a steel frame provides.

Where to Buy It

You'll find the Surly Karate Monkey at the official Surly website. Ensure you're purchasing from an authorized dealer to guarantee you're getting the genuine article and proper support.

5. Salsa Journeyer Claris 700

When you're eyeing those endless gravel roads and itching to pack up for a weekend escape, the Salsa Journeyer Claris 700 calls to you. It's designed for a long, winding ride, be it on crushed stone or the occasional singletrack you brave as you explore bikepacking routes.

Specifications

• Frame: 6061-T6 Aluminum
• Fork: Generous mounts for gear and bottles.
• Wheels: Accommodates both 650b or 700c sizes.
• Tire Clearance: Up to 50mm, providing versatility across terrains.
• Drivetrain: Shimano Claris groupset, reliable for its price-point.

Performance

You'll find the Journeyer Claris to be a steadfast partner on mixed terrains. Its geometry strikes a notable balance between comfort for those long hauls and responsiveness for when the trail gets technical.

What Sets it Apart

The Salsa Journeyer Claris stands out due to its myriad of frame mounts. Packing for an overnight trip? This bike handles on-bike storage like a dream, making your load manageable and your ride smoother.

Recent Updates

Newer iterations have seen improvements in tire clearance and frame features, continuing its evolution as a bike that can handle diverse bikepacking escapades.

Benefits

• Versatile builds
• Affordability

Drawbacks

• Some might find it a touch more expensive in comparison to its peers
• The stock saddle may not be everyone's cup of tea

Who Should Buy It

If you crave adventures that blend asphalt with untamed trails, and you need a reliable, yet affordable bike, the Salsa Journeyer Claris 700 is tailored for you.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Journeyer Claris 700 from the official Salsa website.

6. Cannondale Topstone Lefty 3

You're about to dive into the nitty-gritty of the Cannondale Topstone Lefty 3, a bike that's meant to handle rugged trails and long distances with aplomb.

Packed with features that promise a combo of comfort and performance, this bike is high on the list for bikepackers who mean business.

Specifications

• Gearing: 40T chainring with 11-46T cassette
• Wheel Size: 700c
• Max Tire Clearance: 700c x 50mm
• Frame Material: Carbon
• Weight: 23.4 lb
• Brake Type: Hydraulic Disc

Performance

The Topstone Lefty 3's full suspension fork absorbs the bumps, keeping you comfortable and in control. Hydraulic disc brakes ensure responsive stopping power, vital on unpredictable off-road paths.

What Sets it Apart

Cannondale's Lefty 3 has something special – it dares to be different with its distinctive Lefty suspension fork. It's not just about looks; this fork is about precision handling and a plush ride when you're grinding through gravel.

Recent Updates

Keeping up with the latest tweaks, the Lefty 3's been updated to provide even better tire clearance, welcoming those who seek to traverse ever rougher and more challenging terrains.

Benefits

• Ample mounting points for all your gear
• Massive tire clearance for versatility across terrains
• Stable geometry for a confidence-inspiring ride

Drawbacks

• Tire clearance, while generous, may leave the most techy trail seekers wanting just a bit more

Who Should Buy It

If you've got a hunger for adventure that only the most robust gravel paths can satisfy, the Topstone Lefty 3 could be your ride or die. It's designed for the rider who doesn't shy away from the bumps and bruises of the backcountry.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Topstone Lefty 3 from the official Cannondale website.

7. Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5

When you're itching to hit the trails and embark on a bikepacking adventure, the Salsa Timberjack XT 27.5 pops up as a worthy steed. Tailored for rugged singletrack and all-day expeditions, this hardtail mountain bike combines durability with comfort.

Specifications

• Frame: Aluminum
• Fork Travel: 130mm
• Wheel Size: 27.5" / 29"
• Tire Clearance: Up to 29" x 2.6" or 27.5+ x 2.8"
• Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle, 12-speed
• Brakes: Hydraulic Disc

Performance

With its 130mm suspension fork, the Timberjack XT 27.5 offers a sweet balance between absorption and control.

It's responsive when it counts and forgiving in choppy conditions. You'll appreciate the bike's ability to roll over obstacles while keeping your ride smooth and steady.

What Sets it Apart

The Salsa Timberjack's adaptable design means you can switch between 27.5" and 29" wheels without a hitch. Want the nimbleness of smaller wheels or the rollover prowess of larger ones? You've got the freedom to choose!

Recent Updates

Salsa has been busy refining the Timberjack. The 2024 model gleams with new build kits and fresh paint jobs, ensuring that performance and style keep pace with current trends.

Benefits

• Easily swaps between wheel sizes
• A frame compatible with bikepacking and trail riding needs
• Built to withstand the rigors of mixed terrain

Drawbacks

• Some may find aluminum frame bikes weightier than their carbon counterparts
• Quality and versatility come at a price

Who Should Buy It

If you're someone who loves the thrill of singletrack and the serenity of backcountry bikepacking, the Timberjack XT 27.5 is your ride. It's cut for the versatile biker who doesn't want to trade performance for comfort.

Where to Buy It

You can purchase the Timberjack XT 27.5 from online retailers like REi. They'll often offer a range of options and sizing to get you just the right fit.

How to Customize Bikepacking Bikes

Customizing your bike for bikepacking adventures is a journey in itself, offering the opportunity to create a setup tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Whether you're embarking on multi-day off-road excursions or exploring remote trails, customizing your bike can enhance comfort, performance, and gear-carrying capacity.

Let’s delve into the essential aspects of customizing a bikepacking bike.

• Frame and Bike Selection: Choose a bike with a frame that suits the terrain you'll be tackling. Look for a frame that offers multiple mounting points for racks, bottle cages, and bags. Ensure the bike fits you properly to avoid discomfort during long rides.
• Bikepacking Bags: Bikepacking bags are essential for carrying your gear. Invest in a set that includes a frame bag, seat bag, handlebar bag, and top tube bag. Make sure these bags are compatible with your bike's frame and handlebars.
• Cargo Cages and Racks: Consider adding cargo cages or racks to increase your bike's carrying capacity. Cargo cages can hold water bottles or extra gear, while rear and front racks are useful for attaching panniers or larger bags.
• Tires and Wheels: Choose tires that are suitable for the terrain you plan to ride on. Wider tires are ideal for rough trails, while narrower ones are suitable for gravel roads. Consider going tubeless to reduce the risk of flats, and ensure your wheels are sturdy enough to handle the added load.
• Gearing: Opt for a gear ratio that matches your riding style and terrain. A wide-range cassette and a 1x (single chainring) or 2x (double chainring) drivetrain setup can provide versatility.
• Handlebars and Grips: Select handlebars that offer multiple hand positions for comfort during long rides. Ergonomic grips can reduce hand fatigue. Depending on your preferences, you can choose from drop bars, flat bars, or butterfly/trekking bars.
• Saddle and Seatpost: A comfortable saddle is crucial for long hours in the saddle. Consider your comfort when selecting a saddle. Additionally, a dropper seatpost can improve control on technical descents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the FAQs on the best bikepacking bikes.

What advantages do full-suspension mountain bikes offer for bikepacking?

Full-suspension mountain bikes are your go-to if you cherish your comfort on rugged terrain. These terrains swallow bikes whole, but a full-suspension setup absorbs those ruthless bumps and delivers greater control.

When selecting a bike for bikepacking, how important is frame material and why?

Steel feels like riding on a cloud, at the cost of some extra weight. Aluminum strikes a balance between durability and weight, making it a budget-friendly bike. Your choice should reflect your route's demands and your pack's heft.

How does wheel size impact the bikepacking experience, and what sizes are recommended?

Larger wheels, like 29 inches, offer that float-over-bumps luxury and are killer for long, steady rides. Smaller wheels say 27.5 inches, can offer quicker handling and a snappier feel, perfect for twists and turns on narrow trails.