Colo trail

[alpka]

Would it be entirely ridiculous to bikepack the CT with a rigid SS?  My bro and I are thinking about doing it next year (he'll be 50, I 40) and that is what I have for a MTB.  I am also considering an Internal hub for the bike, and a carbon fork.  I just don't want to spend the dough on a squishy fork.  But, I have a feeling that after a couple of long days, if the trail has any bounce to it, I'll be thinking otherwise...

Any thought?

[ScottM]

Chris Plesko rocked the CTR (race version) on his rigid singlespeed.  Also Jason Shelman.  I'll bet a few others have toured it too.

Whether it's a good idea or not (both those riders are certified bad asses) is up for debate.  I've ridden most of the CT on various bikepacking trips and I like my suspension, especially after a few days on the trail.

[frejwilk]

Scott just posted. I was also going to point out that a couple of people have done it now. And faster than some of us geared, suspended riders. I don't think your age is the important consideration. But I do think most people capable of pulling off the CT on a rigid SS will already know it. Your past riding experience should tell you.

If comfort were the goal (and it usually is for me), I'd personally go with a suspension fork over a carbon rigid. I know that as a rule carbon forks are cheap-er, but there are a lot of suspension options out there and there are some affordable, reliable options. More control and possibly a more upright position might be two extra benefits.

Good luck,

FW