Bikepacking - a viable alternative to racks & panniers

Ask @RankinJ nicely

I could also have a crack at making what you're looking for if you want. Got a load of 600d cordura and velcro left still from other projects. All I'd ask is a few quid for materials

Thanks for the offer! I might actually consider it, obvious compensation, beers and eternal gratitude are implied. Will PM

Side sleeping is fine if you know how to lie in the hammock properly (diagonally, unless it's a bridge hammock).

The travelpak sleeping bag @giofox88 mentioned is perfect for warmish weather hammocking since you can zip it around the hammock, too. (The footbox opens completely)

You can also just use a normal ground mat (inflatable, or otherwise) underneath you in a hammock. Works fine.

Tried all of those options except adding insulation under the hammock due to fears of rain/dew ingress.

Oh dear

Can probably manage something if you want. I'd go for Turkish first as I'd probably want a bit of money for my time

Restrap saddle bag (14l) and large frame bag ordered. Aww yis

Bought a 20L alpkit bag and tested if everything fits:

Had to put 3rd strap in the middle to prevent tire rub (limited space between tire and bars because tiny frame), but other than that it takes all the essentials \o/ (bivi, sleeping bag, pad, cooking stuff) with room to spare

Nice! Gonna order one of those then

Sorry it took me a while to reply had to have a look at one of the current saddle packs.

You're correct they now have 2 straps that go around the Seatpost, a little Velcro loop and then a big Velcro strap over the top.

I am not,.. but some say soon! Thanks for the headsup

The Alpkit Koala was just about big enough (read: almost too small) to fill it up properly with no movement whatsoever, best part is the bike doesn't feel any difference on the climb.

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Any suggestions for trip from Lewisham way down to South Downs and back taking on roads/gravel/bridleways (non technical) for an overnighter?

Thanks - that's handy to know - the holster slipping sideways on the seatpost was the only thing I didn't like about it, so pleased that shouldn't be a problem if I get another.

I am looking for a second hand frame bag a la a Blackburn outpost large. Anybody got something knocking about they are looking to sell?

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14663191
and https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14663186
are two routes made for an overnighter which will help you plan

After some deliberation I have ordered a restrap bar holster and 14l dry bag.

Next question; will this fit on handlebars with older 7800 shifters that have an external gear cable?

The Downs link is a good one from Guildford to Shoreham. Mostly gravel track along an old railway line.
@spotter s' route uses it.

What tyre pressures do people suggest for,

700x35c Clement X'Plor USH Clinchers >90psi
25kg Bike + Gear
70kg Rider
Road riding in the Scottish Highlands with some gravel tracks.

What did you fit in it?

Would it hold bivvy, pad, jacket?

90PSI! I had the Xplor 40c and ran them at 35-40PSI

Staying at hostel mean just towel, toilette, cable lock, lightweight short and merino top, think it's 3ltr, idea for single or couple days night in hostel.

Rest of smaller item like snack, money, phone etc. In handlebar bag.

Bike is under 9kg.

Top rated on the tyre itself is 90psi.

I'm unlikely to pump them up during a 9 day tour. So I'm thinking set reasonably high to allow for pressure loss.

Maybe I looked at the wrong one. £70 for 3lts bag?