Best Bike For Great Divide Trail (2024 Update)
Riding your bike through the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is an epic adventure that every cycling enthusiast dreams of. But to fully enjoy and succeed in conquering this 2,738-mile off-road route from Canada to Mexico, having the right bike is key. When choosing the best bike for this iconic route, there are a few important factors to consider.
First, examine the terrain. The Great Divide traverses extremely variable landscapes, everything from steep climbs to rugged descents. You’ll need a bike with gearing low enough to grind up passes as high as 12,000 feet yet stable enough to confidently careen down loose, rocky trails. A durable frame and quality suspension are musts for absorbing constant impacts.
Next, assess your packing needs. Since you’ll be self-supported over miles of remote wilderness, luggage capacity is crucial. Can your bike accommodate bikepacking bags and cargo cages to carry camping gear, food, water, and other provisions? How much weight can it handle while maintaining rideability? Factor in rack and bottle mounts.
Finally, prioritize reliability and ease of repair. Breakdowns are inevitable over thousands of miles on rough terrain. Choose a bike with durable, serviceable components that you can fix trailside if needed. And make sure spare parts are accessible in the small towns you’ll pass through.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can find the ideal bike to make your Great Divide journey an unforgettable achievement. The rewards of meticulous preparation will be clear every inch of the way. Are you ready for the ride of a lifetime?
8 Best Bike For Great Divide Trail
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This product is ideal for those interested in cycling the Great Divide route from Canada to Mexico.
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The product is ideal for hikers looking to explore Canada's Great Divide Trail.
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The product is ideal for cycling off-road, with a focus on durability and flexibility.
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The product is ideal for children aged 3-13, with training wheels and kickstand options available for bikes in various sizes.
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The product is ideal for mountain bikers looking to travel the length of America's Great Divide trail from Canada to Mexico.
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The product is ideal for individuals seeking a challenging and picturesque mountain bike route spanning 542 miles.
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Ideal for adventurous mountain bikers seeking a challenging and scenic route through the Rocky Mountains.
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Ideal for mountain bikers looking to explore the Great Divide route between Banff, Alberta and Roosville, Montana.
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1. Pearl Izumi Men's X-Alp Divide Cycling Shoe
The cycling community has long been in search of the perfect shoe that can deliver lightweight, yet durable riding performance. The good news is that the search is finally over, thanks to the Bonded Seamless Upper Cycling Shoe.
With its seamlessly bonded upper, this shoe offers a lightweight and durable riding performance that makes it an excellent choice for any cycling enthusiast. The reinforced toe cap provides added protection, ensuring that your feet are safe from any potential hazards on the road.
The anatomic two-strap configuration of these cycling shoes is designed to improve fit and comfort, providing an unparalleled level of comfort that will make your ride more enjoyable. The full-length nylon plate further enhances the on-bike performance of this shoe, ensuring that every pedal stroke counts.
The aggressive outsole pattern of the Bonded Seamless Upper Cycling Shoe is another feature that sets it apart from the competition. This superior traction and durability make this shoe an ideal choice for any cyclist looking to take their riding experience to the next level.
2. Pluto Kids Bike With Training Wheels & Kickstand
Introducing the perfect bike for kids to learn riding – the Kids Bike with stable training wheels! This bike has been designed with young riders in mind and comes with a range of features to make learning to ride a breeze.
Firstly, the training wheels provide stability for early riders, allowing them to build their confidence and balance. The quick release seat simplifies height adjustment, so the bike can grow with your child. Additionally, the saddle comes with a holder to learn riding when the training wheels have been removed. The foot brake is suitable for young riders who may not have enough power to manipulate the hand brake.
The Kids Bike is made of premium steel to withstand the bumps and falls that come with learning to ride. The durable steel frame is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that this bike will last for years to come. The bike comes with black tires and a single speed, making it easy to maintain due to its simple design.
Your child will love personalizing their bike with the DIY decal that comes with it. They can make their bike unique by sticking their name on the frame or chain guard. Additionally, the chain guard is designed to protect the chain and prevent injury to your child.
The Kids Bike is also incredibly easy to install. The bike comes with 85% pre-assembled body and the basic assembly tools. Only a pump is needed for the tire, and it typically takes a novice about 20 minutes to assemble. If you have any problems with assembly or the bike itself, the manufacturer is always available to help.
To ensure you get the right size for your child, we recommend following the size chart provided. The 12" bike is perfect for 3-4 year old toddlers (33"-41"), while the 14" bike is suitable for 3-5 year olds (35"-47"). For boys and girls aged 4-7 years (41" – 53"), the 16" bike is recommended, while the 18" bike is best for 5-9 year olds (43"-59"). Please note that child height may vary, so it's important to take this into consideration when choosing the right size.
Best Bike For Great Divide Trail FAQs
Are there any specific components I should look for in a bike for the Great Divide Trail?
Yes, there are specific components that you should look for in a bike for the Great Divide Trail. The Great Divide Trail is a challenging mountain bike route that spans 2,700 miles from Canada to Mexico. To complete the trail, you need a bike that can handle rough terrain, steep climbs, and long distances.
First, you should look for a bike with a sturdy frame. A steel or titanium frame is ideal because it can withstand the rugged conditions of the trail. Additionally, you should look for a bike with full suspension to absorb the shock of rough terrain.
Second, you should consider the gearing of the bike. The Great Divide Trail includes steep climbs and descents, so you need a bike with a wide range of gears. Look for a bike with at least 27 gears and a low gear ratio to make climbing easier.
Third, you should consider the tires of the bike. The Great Divide Trail includes a variety of terrain, including gravel, dirt, and pavement. Look for tires that are wide and durable to handle all types of terrain.
Finally, you should consider the weight of the bike. The Great Divide Trail is a long-distance route, so you need a bike that is lightweight and easy to maneuver. Look for a bike that weighs less than 30 pounds.
Overall, a bike with a sturdy frame, full suspension, wide range of gears, durable tires, and lightweight design is ideal for the Great Divide Trail.
Is it better to buy a bike specifically designed for bikepacking for the Great Divide Trail?
Yes, it is better to buy a bike that is specifically designed for bikepacking for the Great Divide Trail. A bikepacking bike is designed to handle the rough terrain and long distances that come with bikepacking. It typically has a more durable frame, wider tires, and a more relaxed geometry than a traditional road bike, making it better suited for off-road adventures. Additionally, a bikepacking bike typically has mounting points for bags and other gear, allowing you to carry all the necessary equipment for a multi-day trip. While it is possible to complete the Great Divide Trail on a traditional road bike, a bikepacking bike will provide a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. It will also allow you to carry more gear and supplies, which is crucial for a long-distance bikepacking trip. Therefore, investing in a bikepacking bike is a wise choice if you plan to tackle the Great Divide Trail.
Should I choose a full suspension or hardtail bike for the Great Divide Trail?
The Great Divide Trail is a challenging route that covers a variety of terrain, from steep climbs to technical descents. Choosing the right bike is crucial to ensure you have a comfortable and safe ride. When it comes to deciding between a full suspension or hardtail bike, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and riding style.
A full suspension bike is designed to absorb shock and provide a more comfortable ride, making it ideal for rough and technical terrain. It also offers better traction and control, which can be especially helpful in wet or loose conditions. However, full suspension bikes tend to be heavier and more expensive than hardtail bikes.
On the other hand, a hardtail bike is lighter and more efficient, making it a better choice for long-distance rides. It also requires less maintenance and is generally less expensive than a full suspension bike. However, it can be less comfortable on rough terrain and may not provide as much traction or control.
Ultimately, the decision between a full suspension or hardtail bike for the Great Divide Trail should be based on your riding style and preferences. Consider factors such as your experience level, the type of terrain you'll be riding on, and your budget before making a decision.
What are the key features to look for in a bike for the Great Divide Trail?
When it comes to choosing a bike for the Great Divide Trail, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, you'll want a bike with wide tires, ideally 2.2 inches or wider, to handle the rough and rocky terrain. A sturdy frame with good suspension is also important to absorb impact and provide a comfortable ride.
The Great Divide Trail covers a lot of distance, so having a bike with a comfortable saddle and a good fit is essential. Look for a bike with adjustable handlebars and seat height to ensure a customizable fit.
Durability is another key feature to look for in a Great Divide Trail bike. The trail is rugged and remote, so you'll want a bike with strong components that can withstand the wear and tear of long-distance cycling.
Lastly, consider the gear range of the bike. The Great Divide Trail includes steep climbs and descents, so having a bike with a wide range of gears will make tackling the terrain much easier.
In summary, a bike with wide tires, a sturdy frame with good suspension, a comfortable fit, durability, and a wide gear range are all essential features to look for when choosing a bike for the Great Divide Trail.
What is the best gearing setup for a bike on the Great Divide Trail?
When it comes to the best gearing setup for a bike on the Great Divide Trail, it really depends on individual preferences and riding style. However, there are some general guidelines that can help guide your decision.
Firstly, it's important to consider the terrain on the Great Divide Trail, which can be quite challenging. You'll encounter steep climbs, rocky descents, and everything in between. As such, many riders opt for a wide range of gears, with a low gear for climbing and a high gear for descending.
A common gearing setup for the Great Divide Trail is a 1x drivetrain with a wide-range cassette, such as a 10-50 or 11-50. This allows for a good balance of climbing power and speed on the descents. Some riders may also opt for a double front chainring setup, with a smaller chainring for climbing and a larger chainring for faster sections.
Ultimately, the best gearing setup for the Great Divide Trail will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It's important to test out different setups and make adjustments as needed to find the right balance of power and speed for your riding style.
What is the ideal weight for a bike to be used on the Great Divide Trail?
When it comes to selecting a bike for the Great Divide Trail, weight is a crucial factor to consider. The ideal weight for a bike to be used on the Great Divide Trail is subjective and depends on various factors, including personal preference, riding style, and terrain. However, most riders aim for a weight range of 25-35 pounds for their bikes.
The Great Divide Trail is a challenging trail that covers a distance of over 2,700 miles, and it requires a bike that can handle the terrain and the weight of all the gear that you will be carrying. A lightweight bike makes it easier to climb hills and navigate through rough terrain, but it may not be as durable as a heavier bike. On the other hand, a heavier bike may offer more stability and durability but may be harder to pedal uphill.
Ultimately, it is essential to find a balance between weight, durability, and performance when selecting a bike for the Great Divide Trail. The best approach is to test ride several bikes and choose the one that feels comfortable and meets your specific needs.
What is the ideal wheel size for a bike on the Great Divide Trail?
Selecting an ideal wheel size for the Great Divide Trail ultimately depends on the rider's personal preferences and riding style. However, most riders tend to choose either a 29-inch or a 27.5-inch wheel size for this trail. The 29-inch wheels provide a smoother and faster ride, making them suitable for riders who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the 27.5-inch wheels provide greater maneuverability and are more suitable for technical terrain. It is also important to consider the width of the tire. A wider tire will provide better traction, stability and comfort on rough terrain, but will be heavier. Most riders opt for a tire width between 2.2 and 2.6 inches. Overall, it is recommended that riders select a wheel size that is comfortable and suitable for their riding style and the terrain they will encounter on the Great Divide Trail.
What size of bike frame should I choose for the Great Divide Trail?
Choosing the right bike frame size for the Great Divide Trail is crucial for a comfortable and safe ride. The size of the bike frame you should choose depends on your height, inseam, and riding style. Generally, a larger frame is suitable for taller riders, while a smaller frame is better for shorter ones. However, it's essential to consider other factors such as the terrain, weight of gear, and riding position.
The Great Divide Trail is a challenging and rugged route, and you'll need a bike that can handle it. A sturdy mountain bike with a frame size of 16" to 20" is ideal for the trail. However, it's always best to consult with a bike shop or a professional bike fitter to determine the right frame size based on your body measurements and riding preferences.
Remember, a well-fitted bike frame can make a huge difference in your comfort, performance, and safety, especially on long-distance rides like the Great Divide Trail. So take the time to find the right size and ensure a successful trip.
What type of bike is best for the Great Divide Trail?
The Great Divide Trail is a challenging route that spans over 2,700 miles from Banff, Canada to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. When it comes to selecting the best bike for this trail, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, the terrain can be quite rough, so a bike with wider tires, such as a mountain bike, is a good choice. Suspension is also important to absorb the impact of rocky terrain.
Secondly, you’ll want a bike that is durable and reliable. This means choosing a bike made with high-quality materials and components that can handle the wear and tear of a long-distance trip.
Finally, comfort is key. You’ll be spending many hours on the bike, so having a comfortable saddle and ergonomic handlebars is essential.
Overall, a high-quality mountain bike with wide tires and suspension is the best choice for the Great Divide Trail. However, it’s important to choose a bike that fits your individual needs and preferences, so make sure to test ride a few different options before making a final decision.
Which bike brands make the best bikes for the Great Divide Trail?
The Great Divide Trail is a challenging route that requires a sturdy and reliable bike. While there are several bike brands that make suitable bikes for this trail, some stand out more than others. One of the most popular brands for the Great Divide Trail is Surly. Their bikes are known for their durability, versatility, and ability to handle rough terrain. Another brand that is highly recommended for the Great Divide Trail is Salsa. Their bikes are designed specifically for off-road adventures and have excellent suspension systems.
Other notable brands include Trek, Specialized, and Santa Cruz. Trek's mountain bikes are known for their high-quality components and excellent performance on rough terrain. Specialized is another brand that offers a range of bikes that are suitable for the Great Divide Trail, including their Enduro and Stumpjumper models. Santa Cruz is also a popular choice, thanks to their lightweight and sturdy carbon frames.
Ultimately, the best bike for the Great Divide Trail will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to choose a bike that is comfortable, reliable, and able to handle the demands of the trail.
