No kray780 I'm new to this also. Very excited also to get some trips in. I just bought a new bike to get on and am in the process of sewing up bikepacking bags. I thought we could start a club and plan some group trips. So far no one has really responded to my request except yourself. I think there is probably a lot of people who would get into this, however they may not know about bikepacking yet. If you are interested in getting something going or want to discuss and share some different locations to try let me know and we can talk over the phone or email. Would be interested in knowing what gear you are using. My plan is eventually to do the ttour divide race, but just some weekend trips for now. We have some fantastic areas here to ride. Talk to ya later. Richard.

Yes the fargo has plenty of spots for water bottle cages to attach. They even have water bottle attachments on the fork legs. The only reason I did not go with a fargo, was that I got a full shimano xt grouping and 180 mm brake rotors on this ghost bike. I use Lightweight bikepacking bags on my bike. I don't use panniers because less to worry about breakage and less weight. One thing I find about my 29er is that it seems to move much faster with less effort compared to my 26 er trek. You definitely have to get used to riding a 29 er. It feels as if you are riding on top of the bike more. On my 26 er I feel like I can throw it around on single track more than the 29er. My opinion you should take one for a good test ride to see if you like it first. For bikepacking I am sold on the 29 er and love mine. If you live near edmonton I would gladly let you try mine. Another option is 27.5 which give you the best of both worlds. Problem is not many on the market at this time. Another thing that made a difference is that the place I bought my bike from did a pro fit which made a huge difference. You can pick up the lower end fargo for 1450 canadian or the higher priced model for 2500 which comes with a carbon fork. If you have some sewing skills you can make your own bikepacking bags for cheap. There are lots of ideas and patterns on here. Make sure u buy the small sleeping bags to minimize weight and bulk. There are some benefits to being short. If you need anymore advice feel free to ask and there are a lot of great people on here. Richard

I'm 5' 4" and don't have any trouble with a 29er. Remember a lot of your gear is smaller than tall people.

Thanks buddy. Richard

I suggest a 29er. I bought a ghost carbon fiber bike. You can't go wrong with a salsa fargo. I went with the ghost because it came with full xt components for 2950.00 A new fargo in canadian dollars will be 2500.00

I work for the sheriffs dept. No shortage of work.

Those look sweet.

Good idea Eastman, I never even thought of it. I will try some of your ideas. I will definitely look u up if I come out your way. The same invitation to you if you come this way. Thanks buddy. Richard

Wow, no one out there?

Yeah, here in Canada we have something similar to rei called mec. They have no clue about bikepacking. I too am surprised none of these stores are producing bikepacking gear yet. I think the earlier post is right, where he say's that bikepacking is still a niche market.

Nice beaver mitts. I've got to build a pair for winter riding next year. Well done.

Nice job. I like how you recycled material. Good use of resources and keeping items out of the landfill. Well done. Hadfield

Hey anyone interested in getting together to do some bikepacking trips. I'm in Edmonton Alberta, Canada.

Very nice job. I would love some dimensions. That is a very kind offer from you. Richard.