Besides adding bags all over my bike, I am making a couple other changes to try to make it better for the challenge of bikepacking. Let's take a,look at what I did to my new bike!
Handlebars / Stem
Stock: DiamondBack alloy 35mm
Change: Renthal carbon 35mm
Reason: I wanted to swap over to a 31.8 bar for the compliance, but couldn't justify buying a new cockpit when I had a 35mm Renthal bar stem combo available. They're wide, stable, and light (ish). Hopefully a little more compliant as well.
Innerends
Stock: none
Change: Added some Ergon bar ends in the middle of the bars
Reason: I've tried this out on a few bikes, and I really like having a second place to put my hands. I also wrapped a bit of the bar with bar tape so it's extra comfortable. This position helps with aerodynamics too, so I'm excited to try it out.
Chainring
Stock: 32t
Change: 30t
Reason: Easier climbing! and hopefully less stress on my drivetrain. While I fully expect to be running in a granny gear, I don't want to have my chain all stretched out all the time. This will allow me to run my gears a little easier, hopefully.
Tire inserts
Stock: none
Change: Cushcore regular rear, race front
Reason: Running lower tire pressure means I have a softer ride and great traction. It also means I risk pinching my tire or denting a rim. I gotta great deal on a Cushcore regular for the rear and a lighter Cushcore for the front. This will add a bit of weight, but it will payoff in confidence that my bike won't get all beat up or changing tubes all the time.
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