"I have had the quite a mash up of mountain bikes over the years. I have owned everything from steel to carbon, single speed to Sram transmission and full suspension to rigid. I have gotten to learn first hand all of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of bike.

Last year I had the oportunity to try the Vemont Bikepackers Super 8 bikepacking race, and I really wanted something that was going to be comfortable across all 650 miles if I was going to do it again. When I was choosing my next bike I wanted to find a really good compromise between a few different riding characteristics: effeciency, comfort, and weight.

I finally settled on the new Trek Procaliber AL frameset because it was light and durable. The Procaliber has rear rack mounts which made attaching gear to it a cinch, as well as the option to run a suspension fork which can be vital when riding for long periods of time.

Once I picked a frame I had to carefully select all of the components that would make a very good compromise of durability, comfort and speed. I went with Kovee Pro wheels because the are super light and they have no rider weight limit, which is important when I am carrying extra gear. Next I had to choose a drivetrain. I went with a mechanical Sram drivetrain over an AXS drivetrain only because it would be one less battery to have to charge in the middle of the woods, when power is at a premium. I chose Sram Code brakes for the extra stopping power with a loaded down bike as well as delaying hand fatigue when braking down long descents. Tires are one of the most important parts of a bike. I had to listen to my co-workers Michael and Jake argue about tires for the entire summer, so I decided to go with one of their recommendations: the Pirelli Scorpion XC RC. They roll very well, are grippy in the corners, durable and light. Most importantly for a long bikepacking race: they hold air very well. I barely need to add air even if my bike sits for a week without riding.

Many of my coworkers can attest to my indescisiveness on which handlebar I wanted. Years ago I broke my humerus near my shoulder and ever since I have be concious of my shoulder causing discomfort. I tried a Salsa Salt handlebar and am currently running the Salsa Bend handlebar for the extra backsweep. I like the 17 degrees of backsweep as it protects my shoulder and also helps alleviate numb hands or wrist pain. I also added in the Ergon GA3 grips to help with hand numbness. I am a big fan already, having struggled with hand numbness a lot in the past."

- Chris

Watch Chris as he tackles the Super 8 with this Live Tracking Link!:
Vermont Super 8 2024 live tracking app by trackleaders.com