The Radavist

I must say, the latest footwear drop from PEARL iZUMi really grabbed my attention. Over the years, the brand has made a big push to constantly update and redesign their classic silhouettes and one shoe that recently got a facelift is their X-Alp Launch SPD shoes. Now with a BOA closure system and this beautiful kiyote tan color, I had to try a pair out. After a few rides on our local MTB trails, I think I got the gist and can talk a bit about them, so read on below for a quick and succinct “This Just In” review…

In 2016, Salsa launched its EXP Cradle and bag design, offering up production bags previously only offered through smaller shops and manufacturers. This was a huge step in progressing the availability of bikepacking and bicycle touring accessories. Four years later, they just announced a series of updates, with a top-loading dry bag design and a refreshed side-loading dry bag, both of which utilize a new purge valve and lash attachments. Included in this update is a robust EXP front pouch with zippered access which can also act as a stand-alone bag for your gravel or MTB.

The whole system can convert just about any bike to a more capable tourer and these updates come at a time when we’re all pining for some time away from home on our bikes. Check out the full range at Salsa today and head to your local dealer for ordering.

The PTAP Designs Chonker is the perfect accessory for both your daily commute and your next bikepacking adventure. Influenced by classic English saddlebag design, the Chonker has added some new modern flourishes to work well for rack-less bicycle touring. The inspiration for its name comes from our resident chonky boi pupper Bodie.

Features include:
-Tapered side pockets that fold down flat when not in use
-Semi-rigid and removable HDPE liner to help keep shape whether empty or full
-Voile Nano straps and birch dowel for excellent mounting support
-Interior Dimensions 12”x7”x7”
-14L capacity
-Fully enclosed design for maximum water resistance

There are five total color options in case the floral is too flashy for your liking.

Additional Information:
When using rack-less as a front bag, please allow for a minimum of 9.5” clearance from the top of your handlebars to the tire. We recommend using a saddlebag support rack and a saddle that has saddle loops if you will be mounting it in the rear. The exterior of the bag measures roughly 14.5” wide (at its widest point) so make sure you have ample room if using drop bars

Retail is $170.00 with the pre-order live now, 8/24/2020 – 9/8/2020. Orders will be shipped mid to late September

While Restrap markets their new Adventure Musette as an accessory bag for bicycle touring, we can’t help but note that packable bags like this reduce paper and plastic bag use. When they’re this small, you can stuff them anywhere. These 70g bags are made in the UK, come in three colors (safety orange, olive drab, and black) and are available for ordering at Restrap for $37.49.

The Synchwire-constructed shoes Giro has been developing lately are really looking great. This construction is stitchless, vented, and reinforced. The Rincon is the latest in this new family of footwear. It’s a shoe for MTB riding, gravel riding, bicycle touring, and anything dirty. The Rincon features BOA closure and lots of rubber reinforcement areas for protection. Best of all, these high tech shoes only carry a $150 pricetag and yes, they come in black. See more at your local Giro dealer.

Our friends at Swift Industries are putting on a fall equinox campout this year in lieu of the normal summer solstice campout. This year, they’re offering dozens of overnighter routes, all over the globe and are like always, pairing this outing with lots of information and product. Due to the Covid19 pandemic, Swift Industries is encouraging everyone to take care when bicycle touring. Check out WTF BX for 8 guidelines to consider.

Head to Swift Industries to learn more!

If you have a Fab’s Chest, one of the best bags for bicycle touring, and are looking for some more support, then don’t miss out on this instructional video, produced by Ron and Namz for their Pec Dec bag support system, in stock now at RonsBikes.com.

Last week, Bombtrack announced their yearly Bilderbuch, a compilation of what to expect from the brand’s dense catalog of bicycles. Naturally, as a brand, they have diversified their line up to meet just about any preference. There are road bikes, disc road bikes, rigid MTB, hardtails, gravel bikes, and classic tourers. Check out preferences and why we have gravitated to them below.

Bontrager just announced the newest addition to their footwear catalog, marketed towards gravel riding and bicycle touring. The GR2 is an off-road specific shoe, with lace closure, a grippy sole and visual cues to the outdoor industry. This vibrant mustard-yellow with red laces and a speckled sole is quite the looker, or there’s a more muted all-black model. A Tachyon rubber outsole gives the shoes plenty of grip, while the Gnarguard upper reduces wear and tear from hike-a-bikes. The GR2 retails for $139.99 and is in stock now at Bontrager stores.

Over the years, the brand Full Windsor has created some magnificently well thought out products, usually surrounding simple tools and now, flatware. Magware is their solution to reusable and sustainable cutlery, perfect for bicycle touring or car camping. Head to their Kickstarter to see more!

Touring bikes and randonneuring setups are great ways to get out and spend some time bicycle touring or camping. The problem is when your bike is loaded down and you’re on a busy road, it’s sometimes hard to look over your shoulder safely. Now, there are dozens of mirrors on the market, but none look as clean or as minimal as the new Mkii Gilles Berthoud mirror. It inserts into your drop bar end and is made from aluminum. Safe and stylish!

Check out all the new GB goodies at the Compass Blog and see the stock at the Compass Web Shop.