Hey all.
Just wanted to say hello and tell you a little about me.
I have only just found out about this bikepacking malarkey and am keen to get into it.
Im already an avid Hammock camper and spend every spare weekend walking to the woods for a night out.

I have just purchased a Catalog special...........Boss Blade hard tail.
Ok i know its not the best of bikes but its the only way i can afford one at the moment and it gets me on the road quick.
I will in the future (once a job has been secured again.) be making my own custom from parts, starting with a lovely On-One Alu frame and building up my dream machine.
I have not been on a bike since i was a teen, im now 31 and defo looking to lose some weight and get fitter.

Im really looking forward to getting out on my bike and the freedom it gives me, also the fuel i will save from not driving my 4x4 to the woods.

Thanks

Martin

Hi Martin,

You don't need a fancy bike. Enjoy what you've got for now. I hope you have some good trips.

Rich

Aye, you can ride anything ... contrary to how it sometimes appears here and elsewhere, it's much more about attitude than whether you've got the latest this or the lightest that*. The riding will get easier, just give it time and remember that feeling like you're breathing out of your arse is quite normal at times.


*be aware that you may develop this affliction in time.

Brilliant ) Welcome to a whole new world!
Reading this makes me think how great it'd be to not have been into bikes for so long myself, discovering it all from the start now would be wonderful.

Yep, get out on what you have. These people who say "just saving up to get this or that then I'll start" rarely actually start or if they do they tend to drop out pretty quick. Welcome to a wonderful new world.

Have fun out there. And post your plans if you want company, or your results if you didn't