The Other Trans-Am: TAT

tat-logoFrom Outside online, info here about Bikepacking, in the article these folks started in 2015 to be the first to Bikepack

the Trans-America Trail—the cob-rough, dirt-and-gravel path across the U.S. adored by off-road motorcyclists.

Bikepacking, in which the bike serves as both steed and pack mule along dirt single- and doubletrack—is one of the hottest trends in cycling. Statistics are elusive, but the anecdotes of bikepacking’s exploding popularity are many. For example, the Tour Divide, the famed 2,745-mile, self-supported knobby-tire course through the Rocky Mountains from Banff, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, went from 17 riders in 2008 to 185 in 2016 (though not everyone goes the distance). 

Large gear manufacturers are stepping up, too, joining niche brands in making equipment that’s stout enough to outfit a multi-day trip, but light enough that riders won’t curse themselves for bringing so much. Giant and Ortlieb now make bikepacking-specific bags, and Cali­fornia’s Blackburn Design can barely keep up with demand for its handlebar bags and seat packs. “It’s very redeeming,” says Robin Sansom, Blackburn’s brand manager. “You know that these products are being used for something joyful and extraordinary.” This summer, industry titan Specialized rolled out the Sequoia, the second bikepacking-ready model in its Adventure line, and unveiled a collection of packs, clothing, and accessories made specifically for the long haul.

My Own Route Planning Guide

I saw a Route Planning Guide on BikePacking and I realized that some of it I use and a couple of things I will add. The rest I will look at after a couple of trips and see what I could have done better.

First off, I love the Delorme’s Atlas and Gazetteer series of maps and have them for Washington and Oregon.

Then I really think OpenCycleMap is my next favorite along with RideWithGPS.

My new one to try will be BikeMap and I will let you know how it goes.

Interactive Network Map   Adventure Cycling AssociationWait, one that wasn’t in that article that I do use is the AdventureCycling Interactive Map, which is especially valuable for forest fires and other route conditions.