Yonder Journal: Bikepacking Instructions

This past weekend was spent dong something that I would probably consider to be "bikepacking". The Milk Lodge crew and I loaded up our bikes with bags and backpacks and made the long trek from Chicago to Milwaukee (I'll likely post all about it soon). It would have been nice to have come across this post on Yonder Journal prior to leaving though. There are some great tips for traveling by bicycle there, or at the very least, good reminders of things to bring.

Read it all here.

Bunyan Velo - Issue No. 04

I'm pretty sure everyone's seen this already, but it's just too good not to post. There are some incredible images in there...

Chrome Knurled Welded Bags

I dig the new Knurled Welded bags from Chrome. I especially like their front rack bag and panniers, which is something totally new for the company. They're practical, simple, rugged, and look pretty damn cool (a quality not often found in bike bags). I really like the versatility of the front bag, which allows you to take it off and throw it over your shoulder without looking like you're carrying a bike bag. The panniers feature some pretty clever attachment hardware and some details that make it ideal for both everyday commuting, and long distance touring.

The J.D. Drifter, a 150mi Gravel Caravan

The Slender Fungus Cycling Association has just announced a new gravel event, set for the month of June. This is the latest brainchild of our beloved leader, Ari, and it will be routed by the one and only Jakey La Kruz. I will make it a point to be a part of this one by whatever means necessary. The exact date is still pending, so clear out your entire month of June because it is guaranteed to be a great ride with some very scenic views. 

You can view a few more details in the original posting here, on Ari's blog, the homepage of the SFCA. I'll post more details as they are determined, or you can just look for them on Flandria Velosport.

Swift Industries "Get Lost" Patches

I really love the stuff that Swift Industries does. They make me want to build up a randonneuring bike just so I have a reason to own some of their bags. Unfortunately, that won't be happening soon, but in the mean time I can settle for this really COOL patch that is now available for a mere $4. Grab one here.



Looks like they've got some bidons coming soon too...

Dreaming of Brighter Days

Winter this year has been relentless. It feels as though it's never going to end, but if the forecast is correct, spring-time weather is right around the corner. I've been preparing myself by looking through photos of brighter days and getting excited for all of the fun that goes along with warmer weather. Here are a few of those photos:

Adventure in the Black Hills with La Kruz and Agatha

My good friends Jakey La Kruz and Agatha spent their "spring break" out in South Dakota, exploring the Black Hills by bike. Jake posted some fantastic photos on his Instagram feed, so follow @biglucille and check them out, or just visit his Instagram page here. Looking at these photos really makes me want to get out there and have an adventure of my own. 

A couple select photos from his feed can be seen below:

Brooks/Land's End & John O'Groats Travel Panniers

I'm not really sure what role Land's End played in the production of these panniers, but they appear to be very well designed and look great. This short video was done well and effectively demonstrates just how much crap you can fit in these panniers.