Best Mountain Bike For Bikepacking (2024 Update)
Looking to take your cycling adventures off-road and into the backcountry? A bikepacking trip allows you to explore remote locations and enjoy stunning scenery, all while getting a great workout. But to make the most of your bikepacking experience, having the right mountain bike is key. Here are some factors to consider as you choose the best bike for bikepacking:
Weight – Since you’ll be carrying your bike over all kinds of terrain, a lighter bike makes a big difference in how easily you can hike-a-bike up steep slopes or through technical sections. Look for a frame and components that save weight without sacrificing durability.
Comfort – To avoid fatigue over multi-day rides, seek out a bike geometry and touchpoints that work with your body type and riding style. Consider handlebar style, seat and tires that soak up vibration.
Versatility – The ideal bikepacking rig tackles paved roads, gravel, singletrack and everything in between with aplomb. Look for a durable hardtail or full suspension design with ample tire clearance and gear mounts.
Durability – Your bike will see plenty of wear and tear far from the trail head, so ensure it has reliable components that can handle the demanding conditions of a bikepacking adventure. Focus on puncture-resistant tires, powerful brakes and a durable drivetrain.
The freedom of exploring the world by bike awaits. By finding the best mountain bike for your needs and style of bikepacking, you’ll be ready to chase adventure wherever the trail leads you.
10 Best Mountain Bike For Bikepacking
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This product is ideal for providing comfortable seating for men when biking on all mountain, trail, gravel, and bikepacking bikes.
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This product is ideal for men's mountain, trail, gravel, and bikepacking bikes seeking an ergonomic and comfortable saddle.
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Ideal for storing cycling essentials (tools, tire kits, snacks) during mountain and road bike rides with a waterproof design.
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The product is ideal for bikepacking, providing waterproof storage on the handlebars of MTB and road bikes.
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Ideal for off-road mountain biking with strong, lightweight alloy frame and durable disc brakes.
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This product is ideal for adults who love mountain biking and want a powerful, efficient eBike with long battery life.
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The product is ideal for storing gear on bike seats during outdoor adventures and long-distance travels.
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This product is ideal for adult mountain bike riders who want a powerful and long-lasting eBike with reliable features.
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Ideal for carrying essentials on long-distance bike rides and bikepacking trips, while remaining aerodynamic and lightweight.
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10
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Ideal for storage and transportation of equipment during cycling, including long-distance touring and daily commuting.
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1. Ergon Sm Sport Bike Saddle – Ultimate Comfort!
The SM Sport MTB saddle is a versatile saddle that is perfect for riders who enjoy rough terrain. With its ergonomic shape and orthopedic foam padding, this Men's specific saddle provides all-day comfort, allowing you to focus on your ride without any discomfort. The saddle's flatter overall profile also gives you greater flexibility and freedom of movement.
This saddle provides pressure-free comfort by closely following the male anatomy, distributing your weight evenly on your sit bones and eliminating pressure on the genital area. This feature ensures that you can ride for longer periods without experiencing any discomfort.
The Men's specific relief channel is another feature that sets this saddle apart. It is rearward positioned and designed to eliminate pressure, numbness, and pain in the perineum and genital areas. This feature ensures that you can enjoy your ride without any discomfort or pain.
The SM Sport MTB saddle is made from pure materials that are of high quality. The saddle has a microfiber cover, an Ergon orthopedic comfort foam padding, and a nylon composite shell. The CroMo saddle rails ensure that the saddle is strong and durable, providing you with long-lasting performance.
The saddle comes with a limited 2-Year warranty against any defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty ensures that you have peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any issues.
2. Ergon Sm Comp Bike Saddle: Ergonomic Comfort King.
The SM Comp MTB Saddle is a versatile and comfortable saddle designed to keep riders happy on even the roughest of trails. Its ergonomic shape is specifically tailored to the male anatomy, with orthopedic foam and OrthoCell inlays providing all-day comfort without sacrificing mobility. The flatter overall profile also allows for greater movement, while slick side flanks help reduce friction during pedaling.
One of the standout features of the SM Comp is its pressure-free design. By closely following the male anatomy and distributing the rider's weight on their sit bones, it effectively eliminates discomfort in the genital area. This makes for a more enjoyable ride, particularly on longer trips.
In addition to its comfort-focused design, the SM Comp also boasts a range of high-quality materials. The microfiber cover is both durable and soft to the touch, while the nylon composite shell and TiNox saddle rails provide excellent support. The innovative OrthoCell inlays are also a key feature, delivering increased comfort, better pressure distribution, more durability, and lighter overall weight than traditional gel pads.
The saddle's rearward positioned comfort relief channel is another feature tailored specifically to men, helping to eliminate pressure, numbness, and pain in the perineum and genital areas. This is particularly important for longer rides, where discomfort can quickly become an issue.
Finally, the SM Comp comes with a limited 2-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, providing added peace of mind for riders. Overall, this is a well-designed, comfortable, and durable MTB saddle that is sure to keep riders happy on even the toughest of trails.
3. Lixada 10l Waterproof Bike Tail Bag
Introducing a highly functional and practical bicycle seat bag designed for riders who need to carry their essentials on long-distance journeys. The bag is made of lightweight, waterproof and durable materials, and is effortlessly secured to the bike with easy-to-use straps and buckles that require no tools.
The upgraded saddle and compression strap work in unison to reduce the pendulum effect commonly experienced with large rear loads. This results in a more comfortable and stable riding experience and minimizes the risk of flexibility and turbulence.
The bag boasts a large capacity that can be adjusted from 3L to 10L, allowing riders to store all kinds of items needed for long-distance riding. With a weight capacity of up to 8kg (17.6 lb), it is a reliable companion for any cycling adventure.
The bag also features four waterproof side pockets that provide easy access to small items, while an elastic cord on the top of the package offers additional storage space for extra items. The bag also includes a convenient loop for attaching a warning light for added safety during nighttime rides.
The seat bag is made of high-quality 900 D polyester, making it rip-proof and waterproof in light rain. Reflective tape and a reflective logo are added to both sides of the bag to ensure visibility and improve safety during nighttime riding.
4. Rockbros Waterproof Handlebar Bag – 14l Capacity!
The bike handlebar bag from ROCKBROS is the perfect companion for your bikepacking adventures or long travels. With a sturdy build and adjustable capacity, this bag is designed to provide you with a convenient and hassle-free experience.
The bag is built with extremely sturdy 5 fixed points. It features large magic straps and eight spacers, 2 nylon straps with side release buckles to secure the bag to the handlebars. A short strap is attached to the head tube to avoid shaking back and forth. Additionally, four alloy hooks are provided for adjusting the compression straps to protect your bike frame and brake shift cables.
The bag has an adjustable length with two openings, which makes it convenient for you to pack all your essentials. With a 7-14L adjustable capacity, it is a good size to fit a 3-person tent, sleeping bag, and clothing that needs to be kept dry. The roll-down closure design at each end makes it easier to find what you need. You can also attach more gear or even a tent using the two exterior straps.
The bike handlebar bag is 100% waterproof due to its high strength tear-resistant 600D nylon and waterproof TPU film. Its innovative seamless workmanship makes it 100% waterproof and easy to clean with a wet terry.
The bag has several detail designs that make it more convenient and safe to use. Three reflective logos increase your riding safety at night, while the strap storage loop is good to avoid straps being caught in the bicycle tires. External elastic cords are also provided for attaching some wet raincoats or a coat. They also fit a photography tripod.
The bike handlebar bag is suitable for a variety of outdoor activities like cycling, traveling, camping, mountaineering, and more. It is also durable and protects your things from harsh weather conditions or crashes.
ROCKBROS offers a product warranty for their bike handlebar bag. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact them.
5. Wheel Master 29er Alloy Mountain Disc Double Wall
This particular product boasts a 29in (ISO 622) wheel size, making it an ideal option for those seeking a larger wheel size for their cycling needs. The rim model featured is the WEI XM280 Disc, which provides a durable and reliable option for riders in need of a sturdy rim. The hub model utilized in this product is the W/M MT-2000, which is a highly regarded choice for its exceptional performance capabilities.
For rear wheels, a freehub body is included, which is compatible with 8-10s Cass. Additionally, for disc wheels, a 6B rotor mount is included, providing a secure and reliable option for those utilizing this type of wheel. With these specifications, riders can feel confident in the quality and durability of this product, making it a solid choice for their cycling needs.
6. Aspen Plus Ebike: Powerful & Long-Lasting Ride
The Das-Kit 750W rear hub motor and combo packs a powerful punch, making it the perfect choice for those who want to maximize their riding experience. Unlike other motors, this one lasts longer, so you can ride for longer periods of time without worrying about running out of power.
Equipped with a 48V 768Wh large battery from DEHAWK, this bike can cover up to 125 miles per charge, allowing you to take on long-distance rides with ease. Additionally, the battery features a convenient USB-A port, so you can easily charge your devices while on the go.
The bike's stout all-terrain 26" wheelset with 4-inch CST fat tires provides a smooth and stable ride on any terrain. These are the fattest tires ever seen on a bike, and they provide excellent traction and stability, especially on uneven surfaces.
The aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum frame is not only durable but also lightweight, making it easy to transport. The ergonomic saddle is designed to deliver a comfortable riding posture, so you can ride for hours without any discomfort.
NCM Bikes also provides a worry-free warranty, with 1-year warranty for the bike and a 2-year warranty for the frame. If you encounter any issues, their team of experts are always available to assist you.
7. Topeak Backloader Seat Bag
Looking for an exceptional outdoor recreation product? Look no further than this high-quality offering! Boasting a package length of 14.0 cm, a package width of 22.0 cm, and a package height of 44.0 cm, this product is designed to provide top-notch performance and reliability.
Crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, this product is perfect for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you're an avid camper, hiker, or simply love spending time in the great outdoors, this product is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
So why wait? Invest in this outstanding outdoor recreation product today and experience the ultimate in performance and reliability!
8. Aspen Efatbike – Powerful, Durable, And Fun!
Introducing the Das-Kit 750W rear hub motor and combo pack that promises to elevate your riding experience to a whole new level. With a powerful motor that packs more force and lasts longer, you can now enjoy a ride that's both thrilling and effortless.
Equipped with a 48V 624Wh large battery from DEHAWK, this bike can cover up to 95 miles per charge, making it perfect for long-distance rides. Additionally, the battery features a USB-A port, allowing you to charge your devices on the go.
The bike is fitted with a stout all-terrain 26” wheelset, featuring 4-inch CST fat tires – the fattest tire ever used on a bike. This unique combination of wheel and tire offers unparalleled stability and grip, allowing you to conquer any terrain with ease.
The aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum frame and ergonomic saddle are designed to deliver a comfortable riding posture, making it ideal for long rides. The frame is sturdy, yet lightweight, making it easy to maneuver.
At NCM Bikes, we take pride in our products and offer a 1-year warranty for the bike, and a 2-year warranty for the frame. In the unlikely event of any issues, our team of experts is always ready to assist you.
9. Framepak: Ultimate Bike Touring Companion
The Near Custom Fit Frame Bag is a versatile and durable accessory that is designed to fit most touring and fat bike frames. Available in three sizes, this frame bag is a perfect fit for riders of all sizes and preferences. To determine the best size for your bike, measure the inside length of your bike frame top tube, seat tube, and down tube, and compare to our sizing chart. Note that the size large tends to run big, so measure carefully and opt for the smaller size if in doubt.
Constructed from ripstop nylon laminated with thermoplastic polyurethane, this frame bag is both durable and water-resistant, making it perfectly suited for carrying ebike batteries and controllers, as well as all of your bikepacking gear. With an extra-large storage capacity, this frame bag boasts two zipper compartments with a removable divider, providing ample space for all your gear. The small bag has a capacity of 6.5L, while the medium and large bags have a capacity of 12L and 14L, respectively.
The Near Custom Fit Frame Bag attaches easily to your bike using strong velcro straps, and is designed to improve stability and load balance. By keeping the load weight low and stable, this frame bag enhances handling during steep climbs and technical descents, giving you greater control and confidence on the trail.
The premium YKK zipper is high-quality, durable, and water-resistant, ensuring that your gear stays secure and protected from the elements. In addition to the YKK zipper, the frame bag features a new and improved stronger liner material and shorter velcro straps for added durability and convenience.
10. Trail Frame Bag: Versatile Pack For Biking Adventures
This versatile frame bag is designed to fit most trail and mountain bike frames, thanks to its three available sizes. To ensure a perfect fit, simply measure the inside length of your bike's frame top tube, seat tube, and down tube, and compare your measurements to our frame bag sizing chart. This will help you determine the best size for your bike and ensure a near-custom fit.
With its adjustable and secure straps, this frame bag can be easily attached to your bike frame without slipping or bouncing around. It provides a convenient and accessible storage space for your essentials, such as snacks, tools, and personal items, while keeping them within reach during your ride.
Crafted from durable and waterproof materials, this frame bag is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough terrains. It features a sturdy zipper closure that keeps your items safe and secure, while also allowing for easy access when you need them.
Whether you're going on a long-distance bike tour or just a weekend adventure, this frame bag is an essential accessory that will enhance your riding experience. It offers a practical, stylish, and reliable solution for carrying your gear, without adding extra weight or compromising your bike's performance.
Invest in this near-custom fit frame bag today, and enjoy the convenience and comfort of having your essentials right at your fingertips on your next ride!
Best Mountain Bike For Bikepacking FAQs
How important is bike weight when selecting a mountain bike for bikepacking?
When it comes to bikepacking, the weight of your mountain bike is an essential factor to consider. A heavy bike can make your journey more challenging, especially when climbing steep hills or navigating through rough terrain. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a bike that is lightweight while being strong enough to withstand the rigors of your adventure.
A lighter bike offers many advantages on a bikepacking trip. It allows you to ride faster and with less effort, conserving your energy for longer rides. It also makes it easier to maneuver the bike on technical terrain, making your ride more enjoyable.
However, it is essential to balance weight with functionality. A super-light bike may not have the necessary strength to handle the demands of bikepacking, and you may find yourself with a broken bike in the middle of nowhere. Therefore, it is important to choose a bike that is both lightweight and durable.
In sum, when selecting a mountain bike for bikepacking, weight is an important factor to consider, but it should be balanced with durability and functionality to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey.
How important is the bike's geometry when selecting a mountain bike for bikepacking?
The geometry of a mountain bike is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a bike for bikepacking. The geometry of the bike determines its handling, stability, and comfort. A bike with a relaxed geometry will offer a more comfortable ride and better stability, especially when carrying heavy loads. On the other hand, a bike with a more aggressive geometry will be more suited for technical terrain and faster descents.
When selecting a mountain bike for bikepacking, it is essential to consider the length of the chainstays, the angle of the head tube, and the reach of the bike. A longer chainstay will offer more stability, while a shorter one will provide better maneuverability. The head tube angle will determine how the bike handles on steep descents and technical terrain. A steeper angle will offer better handling, while a slacker angle will provide more stability. Finally, the reach of the bike will determine the comfort of the ride, especially on longer rides.
In conclusion, the geometry of a mountain bike is crucial when selecting a bike for bikepacking. It is important to consider the length of the chainstays, the angle of the head tube, and the reach of the bike to ensure that the bike is comfortable, stable, and handles well on different terrains.
How many gears should a mountain bike used for bikepacking have?
When it comes to choosing the right number of gears for a mountain bike used for bikepacking, there is no set rule or standard. The number of gears you choose will depend on various factors such as your fitness level, the terrain you will be riding on, the weight of your gear, and your personal preferences.
For bikepacking, it is generally recommended to have a wide range of gears to tackle steep climbs and heavy loads. A bike with at least 20 gears is ideal for bikepacking, although some riders may prefer more or less depending on their needs.
In addition to the number of gears, you should also consider the gear ratios to ensure that you have a good balance between low and high gears. This will allow you to pedal easily uphill and maintain speed on flat or downhill terrain.
Ultimately, the best gear setup for your mountain bike used for bikepacking will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It's important to test different gear setups and find what works best for you before embarking on a long bikepacking trip.
What are some of the best mountain bike models for bikepacking?
Mountain biking is an excellent way to explore the outdoors, and bikepacking is a great way to do it. When it comes to selecting the best mountain bike for bikepacking, there are several models to consider.
One of the most popular mountain bike models for bikepacking is the Salsa Fargo. The bike is designed for long-distance off-road touring and is built to handle any terrain. The bike has a comfortable and stable geometry, a durable steel frame, and is also equipped with plenty of mounting points for racks, bags, and other gear.
Another great bike for bikepacking is the Surly Karate Monkey. The bike is designed for versatility and can handle any type of terrain. It has a tough steel frame, an adjustable suspension fork, and is equipped with plenty of mounting points.
The Trek 1120 is another popular mountain bike for bikepacking. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, a suspension fork, and is equipped with plenty of mounting points for bags and gear. It also comes with a wide range of gears to handle any type of terrain.
Ultimately, the best mountain bike for bikepacking will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as frame material, suspension, and mounting points when selecting a bike for bikepacking.
What are the best suspension systems for a mountain bike used for bikepacking?
When it comes to choosing the best suspension system for a mountain bike used for bikepacking, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to consider the terrain you'll be riding on, as well as your personal preferences and budget.
One popular option for bikepacking is a full suspension system, which offers both front and rear suspension. This can help absorb shocks and bumps on rough trails, making for a more comfortable ride. Some popular full suspension options include the Santa Cruz Hightower and the Yeti SB130.
Another option is a hardtail mountain bike, which has a suspension fork on the front but no rear suspension. This can be a good choice for riders who prioritize efficiency and weight savings, as hardtails are typically lighter and more responsive than full suspension bikes. Some popular hardtail options include the Trek Procaliber and the Specialized Epic Hardtail.
Ultimately, the best suspension system for a bikepacking mountain bike will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to test ride different bikes and talk to experienced riders before making a decision.
What are the best tires for a mountain bike used for bikepacking?
When it comes to choosing the best tires for a mountain bike used for bikepacking, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want tires that are durable and puncture-resistant, as you'll likely be riding on rough terrain and carrying a heavy load. Additionally, you'll want tires with good traction and grip, so you can handle a variety of trail conditions.
Some popular tire options for bikepacking include the Maxxis Ardent, Schwalbe Nobby Nic, and Continental Trail King. These tires all offer a good balance of durability, traction, and puncture resistance, making them well-suited for bikepacking adventures.
Ultimately, the best tire for your mountain bike will depend on your specific needs and riding style. It's always a good idea to do your research, read reviews, and talk to other bikepackers to find out what tires have worked well for them.
What are the best wheel sizes for a mountain bike used for bikepacking?
When it comes to choosing the best wheel size for a mountain bike used for bikepacking, it largely depends on personal preference and the type of terrain you plan to ride on. However, the most commonly used wheel sizes for bikepacking are 27.5 inches and 29 inches.
A 27.5-inch wheel is ideal for riders who prefer a more agile and responsive bike. This size is also great for technical terrain, as it allows for quicker acceleration and nimble handling. On the other hand, a 29-inch wheel is better suited for riders who prioritize speed and stability. This size is great for long-distance rides and smoother trails, as it rolls over obstacles more easily and maintains momentum.
Additionally, some bikepackers opt for "plus-sized" wheels, which are wider than traditional mountain bike wheels. These can provide added traction and stability, making them a great choice for rough terrain and loose dirt or gravel.
Overall, the best wheel size for a mountain bike used for bikepacking depends on your personal preference and the type of terrain you plan to ride on. It's important to test out different sizes and see what works best for you before embarking on a long bikepacking trip.
What are the most important features to look for when choosing a mountain bike for bikepacking?
When choosing a mountain bike for bikepacking, there are several important features to consider. Firstly, you'll want a bike with a sturdy frame that can handle the weight of your gear and provide stability on rough terrain. Look for a frame made of lightweight yet durable materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum.
Secondly, you'll need a bike with wide tires that can handle various types of terrain, including gravel, mud, and rocks. A tire width of at least 2.2 inches is recommended for bikepacking.
Thirdly, consider the bike's gearing system. You'll want a bike with a wide range of gears to help you tackle steep hills and challenging terrain. Look for a bike with at least 20 gears, including a low gear for climbing.
Fourthly, you'll want a bike with comfortable and adjustable handlebars, as well as a comfortable saddle for long rides.
Finally, consider the bike's storage options. Look for a bike with mounting points for racks, frame bags, and other accessories that will allow you to carry all your gear easily.
Overall, when choosing a mountain bike for bikepacking, prioritize durability, versatility, comfort, and storage options to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip.
What is the best way to pack a mountain bike for bikepacking?
When it comes to bikepacking, packing a mountain bike can be a bit of a challenge. The best way to pack a mountain bike for bikepacking largely depends on the type of terrain you'll be riding on and the duration of your trip. Here are some tips that can help you pack your mountain bike for bikepacking:
1. Start with the essentials – Pack your camping gear, food, and water first. This will help you determine how much space you have for other items.
2. Use a frame bag – A frame bag is a great way to utilize the space within your bike frame. This is an ideal spot to store heavier items like food, water, and tools.
3. Use a handlebar bag – A handlebar bag is a great place to store items that you need quick and easy access to, like a map, snacks, or your phone.
4. Utilize your seat post and seat tube – These areas are great for storing lighter items like clothing, a sleeping bag or tent.
5. Use panniers – Panniers are great for storing bulkier items like clothing or a sleeping pad.
6. Test your setup – Make sure to test your setup before hitting the trail to ensure everything fits securely and doesn't interfere with your riding.
Overall, the best way to pack a mountain bike for bikepacking is to be strategic with your packing and make sure to balance weight distribution.
What is the optimal frame material for a mountain bike used for bikepacking?
When it comes to selecting the optimal frame material for a mountain bike used for bikepacking, there are several factors to consider. The most popular frame materials used in bikepacking are aluminum, carbon fiber, steel, and titanium. Each material has its pros and cons, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the intended use of the bike.
Aluminum is a lightweight and affordable option that offers excellent stiffness and durability. However, it can be less comfortable on long rides due to its rigidity.
Carbon fiber is the lightest and most expensive option that offers excellent strength and stiffness. It also absorbs vibrations well, making it a comfortable option for long rides. However, it is susceptible to damage from impacts and can be difficult to repair.
Steel is a durable and comfortable option that can absorb vibrations well, making it a great choice for long rides. However, it is heavier than aluminum and carbon fiber.
Titanium is a lightweight and durable option that offers excellent strength and comfort. It is also corrosion-resistant and has a long lifespan. However, it is the most expensive option.
In conclusion, the optimal frame material for a mountain bike used for bikepacking depends on personal preference and the intended use of the bike. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to consider these factors before making a decision.
