Next weekend is finally RIDEALIVE 2015.
Tickets were sent out to all participants today, so please wait a little while longer for them to arrive.
Time flies so fast; I felt like August had only just begun, and now the event is already upon us next weekend. Is everyone's preparation all set? If you prepare early, you’ll have time to handle it if you find you’re missing something at the last minute.
With that said, I’ve finished prepping my bike and gear a bit early.
I’ve been on several camp rides already this year, and while my gear remains basically the same, my RIDEALIVE setup is complete with this bike. I hope this serves as a reference not only for those participating, but also for others thinking of going on an adventure this year.
・Bike: [Salsa Cycles] Vaya
This is my trusty bike. I usually keep fenders on it, but once the rainy season ends, I take them off to set it up for touring. People still ask me often, but I’m running 650B wheels on a frame designed for 700c. In my case, using a front rack and panniers shifts the weight balance to the front, but the handling remains calm and secure even on descents—it’s a truly fun bike that proves why Salsa is known for adventure bikes.
・Tires: [Bruce Gordon] Rock’n Road Tire 650x43B
The only thing I’ve changed from last year. They roll incredibly smoothly, and the generous air volume promises a comfortable ride even when carrying extra cargo. Of course, I’m ready to dive into the gravel at any time (laughs).
・Rack: [Blackburndesign] Outpost Front
This is a star performer—made of aluminum, lightweight, yet with more than enough load capacity. I mount pannier bags on the sides and strap my tent to the top. A key point is that the top platform is slightly offset forward, which is a hidden advantage for keeping cargo from interfering with the drop bars (SimWorks Wildhoney) I use.
・Panniers: [Blackburndesign] Universal Pannier
These roll-top panniers, which work for both front and rear, are simple and offer perfect waterproofing. I pack mats, changes of clothes, and cooksets inside. Using stuff sacks or dry bags inside makes it easy to keep things organized so they don't get jumbled; plus, the nylon fabric is slippery, which makes them easier to pull out and helps pack everything tightly. It’s also safer to keep heavy items as low as possible to lower the center of gravity.
・Seat Bag: [Porcelain Rocket] Mr. Fusion Seatpack
A large-capacity seat bag is an incredibly useful item. It’s no exaggeration to say that since I got this, the scope of my daily rides has expanded. I’m using an older model, but the current Mr. Fusion makes packing heavy items stress-free thanks to its support hoop. Inside, I keep bike-related essentials like a transit bag (a large one that can fit a bike with a rack; I actually use it as a sleeping bag substitute, haha), a multi-tool, and a spare tube, all packed together for easy access.
・Tent: [MSR] Hubba Hubba NX
My partner, who usually only does daily rides and rarely goes on long-distance trips, is joining RIDEALIVE. Since they’re putting in the effort, I decided to take care of our sleeping quarters to make things a little easier on them. That’s why I’m bringing the lightweight two-person MSR Hubba Hubba. When going on a camp tour with multiple people, you can pack smarter by splitting or sharing necessary gear.
・Mat: [Thermarest] ProLite Plus
・Chair: [Crazy Creek] HEX2.0 Original Chair
・Waist Pouch: [Hunter Cycles X Porcelain Rocket] Fanny Pack
I keep things I always want to have on hand, like my phone, wallet, and digital camera, in this fanny pack. It’s great for rides, as well as travel and short outings.
・Touring Mapple (Road Map)
Even in this age of digitalization, this is my indispensable bible. It’s a great help when visiting a new area or looking for new routes.
With RIDEALIVE coming up, our shop, Circles, is fully stocked with bike-packing gear—racks, panniers, frame bags—and camping items. We’re ready to handle any last-minute needs, so if you’re not quite finished with your preparations, you can still make it in time.
Imagining everyone busily preparing in their own way makes me excited because it means the time is finally here. I’m looking forward to seeing you all on the day.
Let’s take the long way around for once.
Let’s seek out unseen scenery and new encounters by traveling roads we’ve never stepped foot on before.
The luggage might be a bit heavier than usual, but let’s do our best to carry it, or get creative with how we pack it on our bikes.
Don’t forget that sense of challenge and the spirit of having fun.
Your RIDEALIVE has already begun—from the moment you start thinking about what gear to bring, how to cook your breakfast on the second day, or staring at a map to plot your route.