What Gear we Packed for Bikepacking in AFRICA after 12 years of cycling!

Summary

In this video, the presenter shares their extensive cycling experience around Kenya, detailing the gear they've carefully selected over 10 years for their adventure. They discuss their Velro Finder bikes equipped with Pinion gearboxes and Gates CDX belts, the importance of durable and functional gear, and the challenges faced with certain equipment. The video also includes a comprehensive gear list, from camping essentials to electronic devices, and highlights the practicality of certain items for bike packing and touring. The presenter's insights, including recommendations and gear they would not reinclude in future trips, provide valuable information for those interested in similar adventures.

Takeaways

• 🚴‍♂️ The cyclists have been touring Kenya for two months with Velro Fender bikes equipped with Pinion gearboxes and Gates CDX belts.
• 📦 They carry a variety of specialized gear, including a DJI pocket camera, a Sony a73 camera, and a MSR Hubba NX tent.
• 🧳 The handlebar bag from ORP is praised for its ease of attachment and detachment, and it contains essential items like a camera and a microphone.
• 🛠️ Maintenance and repair tools are crucial, including a specialized Allen key set and a T-Rex survival tape for quick fixes.
• 🔋 Electronic devices are powered by a Goal Zero guide 10 plus charging station and an array of cables and chargers.
• 🎒 The choice of bags and packing systems, such as ORP waterproof bags and CTO Summit bags, is based on durability, functionality, and visibility.
• 🍽️ Cooking equipment includes a stove from MSR, titanium pots and cups from Silver Ant Outdoor, and a lightweight yet effective water filter.
• 🛌 Sleeping gear consists of a combination of sleeping mats, bags, and liners, with a preference for products from brands like Therm-a-Rest and Icebreaker.
• 💡 The importance of having a diverse set of tools and spare parts is emphasized, including spare tubes, tire levers, and a bike-specific multi-tool.
• 🚫 Some gear did not meet expectations, such as the iGarod D2 USB converter and a sun hat that was not suitable for cycling.
• 🌐 The video provides a wealth of information for those interested in bicycle touring, bike packing, or hiking, with insights gained from over 10 years of experience.

Q & A

What type of bikes do the cyclists use for their adventure in Kenya?

The cyclists use Velro Fender bikes equipped with a Pinion gearbox and Gates CDX belt.

What are some differences between the cyclists' bikes?

The differences include the suspension seat post and stem; one cyclist has a suspension seat post and stem from Kinnect, while the other has them from Vcum and a suspension stem from BZ. They also have different mechanical disc brakes from Paul Components and Grotech.

What is the main purpose of the handlebar bag they carry?

The handlebar bag is used to carry a DJI pocket camera and a Sony a73 camera. It is chosen for its easy attachability and detachability.

How does the cyclist describe the MSR Hubba Hubba NX tent?

The cyclist describes the MSR Hubba Hubba NX tent as a freestanding tent that is one of the most vertical tents in the market, offering good value compared to its cost.

What is the importance of the Fix Plus strap mentioned in the script?

The Fix Plus strap is used to secure the tent to the bike's handlebar rack, preventing the tent from bouncing downwards when off-road cycling.

Why does the cyclist recommend against using a multi-tool for bicycle maintenance?

The cyclist recommends against using a multi-tool because they often do not fit properly or cannot apply enough force, leading to rounded screw ends and more problems rather than solving them.

What is the main issue the cyclist faced with the Water-to-Go water filter?

The main issue with the Water-to-Go water filter is the drying time, which takes a long time, especially for two people using it.

What are the cyclist's thoughts on the DJI Action 4 camera?

The cyclist finds the DJI Action 4 camera to have good functions and is easy to use, but is not impressed with the footage quality, particularly the whitish color in auto setting.

Why does the cyclist prefer titanium water bottles?

The cyclist prefers titanium water bottles because they can be used to boil water, which cleans the bottle and kills bacteria, and they are durable and can be used as a pot in certain situations.

What are some items the cyclist carries for documenting their journey?

The cyclist carries items such as cameras, memory cards, a MacBook Pro laptop, a solar panel, and various chargers and cables for documenting their journey.

What are the two items that the cyclist would not take on their next adventure?

The cyclist would not take the iGar D2 USB converter and their sun hat on their next adventure due to the converter not working properly and the hat being heavy and not staying on during cycling.