Dillon Beach Camp - Fully loaded test ride.
I must admit when I loaded up the bike, I had very little confidence on how it would hold up, or even myself in the ability to carry all of it during dirt trails or bumpy downhill roads. Decided to leave it to my luck in whatever happens.
The weather hasn’t been great the last week in the Bay, still on the 60s and windy, pretty much the same as it was during the winter season.The route was clear to ride with a GPS App, which I was surprised for its accuracy on details even through trails, I would recommend this even if you are hiking and it’s free.
It was a “great” 136km distance, with about 10h on route direction and about 6h - 7h of moving time, with some hike-a-bike sections, a bit too long for a solo ride. Beautiful landscape, lots of hikers, other MTB riders, bike packers, one flat tire and a small rear derailleur issue that was fixed with no major consequences. The overall test was very positive, even thought my wife wasn’t very happy for all the waiting she had to do at the camp site.
Pros & Cons:
I used Stan’s NoTubes Ironcross wheels, which are meant to use low pressure tires and for lightweight riders, but after loading the bike, the pair of wheels seem to get the job done even through pretty rough terrain.
Alpkit Fuel Tank Bag, big, but after a little while, it tends to tilt to one side when you have it filled up. I would have to figure out a way to make it more stable or straight up.
Porcelain Rocket, Mr Fusion, to my opinion, a big A+, never felt that rear bag was there, never wiggled, very easy to install.
Soto Windmaster Stove, very light, wind proof, with a micro gas regulator and built-in igniter is a really good choice.
What to improve:
- Definitely, choose wisely the repair tools.
- Consider using tire sealing liquids.
- Take loads of food and water.
- Easy access to clean clothes after the ride is over.
