Colorado Trail 2026: Pack That Bike

Now that I've settled on a bike, let's talk about the bags I'm using. I have been building out a list of what I am planning on bringing based on past experience and reading online resources, and I have a good idea of how much volume I'll need to carry everything. 

This is where a resource like Bikepacking.com is so valuable. They do these Rigs of the (whatever) where they review all the bikes that are competing in an event, and the riders breakdown what they have and what they're excited about. It's great because I like to see what other people are doing. Here are some bikes I am using as inspiration for my trip:

Transition Transam

Bike: Transition Transam

What I like: It's the same as my bike! In this review, it didn't get stellar reviews, as it doesn't compete well with purpose-built bike packing bikes, but it is a decent all-arounder. I liked to see this bike with what looks like with bags on it.

Esker Hayduke

Bike: Esker Hayduke

What I like: Oh man this bike rules. It is cool looking, light, perfect for long days in the saddle. I like the rack, the small frame bag with a water bottle behind it, and the aero-bars. 

Unsure of this one

Bike: ???

What I like: I also like the rack, under frame storage, and the top tube bag on this bike. Really balanced packing.

Now let's get to my bike. I am lucky to already own quite a few bags to choose from, and am looking forward to testing out how everything will fit together. I have a couple goals for this setup:

• Distribute weight front to back
• Keep it under 50 pounds
• Limit storage, and if I can't fit something then reconsider bringing it
• Utilize a backpack as well

Here's all the storage options I am considering:

I've settled on six bags:

• Bar bag: Revelate Egress - This bag is designed to go over a stuff sack, but I am really happy with it solo on a custom mount
• Top Tube Bag: Revelate Mag Tank - Lots of snack volume in an easy access location
• Frame Bag: Revelate Frame Bag - This is a workhorse of a bag with plenty of space. It doesn't fill the triangle as well as it could, so I'm using the extra space for a 20oz water bottle
• Under Frame Stuff Sack: Revelate Joey - Great for out of the way gear I won't access often
• Top Tube Bag #2: Revelate Jerry Can - This bag was always in the way on my gravel bike, but the frame differences make it a good fit on the Transam
• Tail Bag: Revelate stuff sack on a custom rack - I like a stuff sack on a rack so much. It's stable, has a lot of volume, and balances out the bike weight between the front and back

Here is what it looks like all loaded up

Test Ride!

I also played with a Aeroe rear rack, but it rode funny and was heavy, so I am sticking to 'ol reliable: An alum rack built from Home Depot parts. 

Dry Fit

I loaded it up with everything and took it to the top of Joder and I'm happy to say it is working well! My initial concerns are that the racks hold in place and the bags don't swing around too much, and so far everything is working great. Have a longer few rides planned and we'll continue to refine.

Greetings from the Top