That said, I fully acknowledge the privilege of having access to tools needed to make all the components, a scrapped pack, leftover materials, and a sewing machine—not everyone has these resources at their disposal. However, I hope this kit and process inspire others to think creatively and resourcefully when assembling a bikepacking rig. Despite the fact that a solid 30 to 40 percent of the content we produce here on the website is about gear, much of it new, you truly don’t have to buy new things.
The wedge won out, and I was able to make it using repurposed Cordura perimeter fabric, straps, and a zipper from my old Kona Sutra frame bag I burned with an iron several years ago. Obviously, not everyone is going to have that as an option, but using an old backpack could provide the same base materials. I used the blue jeans—complete with the pocket being a non-driveside knife sheath—and some leftover X-Pac I had on hand for the side panels.
They say it provides a good cardio workout that works both legs and arms at the same time. The bike is described as simple and effective, providing a smooth, stable, and pain-free workout. Customers find the stationary bicycle has a solid construction and sturdy handles. They say it’s a substantial machine for home use, with well-protected parts. The workout is described as great and enjoyable, though tough.
However, that’s exactly the direction I wanted to push this project. In fact, I originally proposed the series schwinn mountain bike concept to the team with name Concours de Rummage, taking inspiration from the sophisticated builders challenge called Concours de Machines. However, I realized that’s just my style and approach, and there are infinite interpretations to a capable low-cost touring kit. In the end, we all found different ways and motivations to tackle this challenge, and that made it even more interesting.
For me, the process behind the Build-Off was equally as rewarding. It was a means of forcing myself to consider the bikepacking puzzle from a different perspective in order to see what’s possible, be creative, and negotiate budgetary obstacles. Believe me when I tell you that it’s very hard to stay under the $500 allowance and still create something that’s trustworthy, beautiful, and interesting. Aside from the pad, sleeping bag, and a reclaimed piece of Tyvek I used as a groundsheet, the only other component of the sleep system I carried was a borrowed DIY tarp. I’ll talk more about that in the Further Budget section below, but since the tarp didn’t come with stakes, I decided to make some using leftover flat aluminum bar that Virginia had purchased to make her rack strut.
Customers have different views on the value for money of the stationary bicycle. Some find it well-built and worth the price, while others feel it’s disappointing for the price, with poor displays and crank threading issues. They say the directions are clear, and the bike is ready to use. The Local Overnighters Project is a unified effort to document and map one-night bikepacking routes all over the world—by locals, in their own backyards.
The seat may be too hard, soft, or slippery, causing soreness after riding. Automatic front and rear LED lights shine as soon as you power on the bike. First, while the High Sierra was fine to ride as is, there are a couple of modifications I’d make based on my own preference and fit. The tiny 610mm bars that came stock on the High Sierra are way too narrow for my taste. There aren’t too many wide handlebars schwinn exercise bike out there with a 25.4mm clamp area, but after some research I found the 740mm Steve Potts Camper, which would be a pretty good fit.