My First Bikepacking Experience
With my Liv Devote gravel bike packed and ready, I embarked on my first bikepacking adventure. It was a modest start—a 25km ride to a pod for the night—but I was filled with both excitement and nerves. I’d kept my setup simple: a saddle pack containing a small cooking pot, some food, and a sleeping bag. Since I was staying in a pod, I didn’t need a tent or too much gear, which helped keep things light. The route was a mix of cycleways and towpaths, gradually climbing uphill. It was a peaceful ride at first—just me, the sound of my tires on the gravel, and the gentle hum of nature. The weather was perfect, adding to the tranquility. But as the incline steepened, the effort began to show. At times, I had to get off and push, which wasn’t ideal when cars were passing nearby. I could feel the weight of their stares, but I reminded myself it was part of the learning curve. Despite the challenges, I made it to my destination safely. After unpacking, I savored the simple plea...