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Tour Divide 2023 : The race, the gear, the whys and everything in between

• May 13, 2023

It was just over 2 years ago the first time I ever heard of the Tour Divide. I didn’t even know what bikepacking was or that bikepacking racing was a thing.

By then, I had become a time trialist specialist on the road. I had become obsessed with mastering my mind, mastering the art of executing a perfect time trial. I love it so much. I know very well this feeling, my sight on the road ahead, my head tucked in, my lungs expanding to their max, my legs flowing over the pedals. That feeling when I get in the zone, when I’m able to fully surrender and let no amount of pain bother me. It’s pretty amazing. And quite freeing.

A few years ago when I was reading this passionating book “How Bad Do You Want It”, the author spoke of how references are limiters to the mind and the body. If you can remove the information that you know as your references, you could push your body much further. I decided to test the concept and did a 20-minutes blind test – no numbers, no references. Increasing my best 20-min power by 18% was a shocking, yet insightful experience. “You are stronger than you think.” Simply remove the thinking.

I was on the stationary bike trainer when a youtube video came up about the Tour Divide (the documentary was I Just Want to Ride featuring Lael Wilcox – record-holder of the fastest female time on the Tour Divide). A 4,300 km time trial. WOAH! Now everything I know as references are quite irrelevant. How the hell is this humanely possible? Then… What if I remove what I know as possible. What if this was just another example of the amazing things a body can do when you remove references. I was immediately filled with curiosity.

I couldn’t sleep that night. I had to find out: where is the limit of what I can do. Am I able to apply what I came to master in road cycling time trial to a 4,300km bikepacking time trial?

Covering a distance of 4,300km, the Tour Divide is one of the longest and arguably the hardest ultra-endurance bike race on the planet. From Banff (Alberta) in Canada, to Antelope Wells (NM) at the border of Mexico, the course takes the riders along breathtaking scenic landscapes of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (designed by the Adventure Cycling Association back in the 1990s), one of the most well-known off-road touring route that attracts bikepackers and bike tourists from all over the world.

The race has been going on for many years, starting on the 2nd Friday of June of each year, but only started to gain popularity lately with the rise of bikepacking and bikepacking events. The 2023 edition has currently over 250 participants registered to this day (one month before the start). 26 of them are female or non-binary, the highest non-male participation rate ever!

The Tour Divide is more than a cycling race, it is the definition of an endurance and resilience test. The race is self-supported, which means you are not allowed to receive any help. You can use public services such as hotels and restaurants, but you must carry everything you need (clothes, food, camp & sleep, tools). The route goes through many remote areas where a satellite device is the only way of communication. High-altitude mountain passes, changing weather, and wildlife encounters are all part of the race.

Getting ready – my journey to the start line

There is the physical journey, then it’s freacking scary! 2 years ago I had never camped before, never packed gear on a bike, never ridden in the dark or encountered a bear.

Before I could attempt this, I had a few classes to take on. So, 3 weeks after watching the youtube video about the Tour Divide, I departed for my first bikepacking trip. An improvised, but oh so life-changing, one-month bikepacking trip in Utah and Arizona hooked me up. From there, I would use bikepacking for training when I’m not racing.

Last year (2022), I was still racing as a pro road cyclist when a series of events occurred, one of them being the cancellation of BC Superweek, my beloved crit series in July. I was going to fly to western Canada (near Banff) for Road Nationals, but then I had an opening in my calendar. “What a great opportunity to check out the course of the Tour Divide!” I thought.

I flew with all the gear I had and set to ride as much as I can of the route after racing Nationals. I had a wonderful ride in the time trial at Nationals, I rode the absolute best I could. Another 2nd place, but I felt satisfied. I love when I leave it all on the course. I was not going to be National Champion but that’s how it is. I don’t have less joy riding my bike fullgas. It was time to swap bikes.

So, a week later on July 4th, 2022, I departed from Banff and headed south on my pretty beat-up Cannondale FSi mountain bike hardtail, to see if I was capable of riding the terrain, to overcome my fear of bears (oh, I did come face-to-face with a grizzly! But that’s for another storytelling time), to overcome my fear of riding in the dark and confronting the weather of the high-altitude mountain passes.

The course was absolutely mind-blowing!!! Every day, I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscapes surrounding me. The “non-technical” terrain was very much challenging for my roadie skillset. I was very unprepared for the hike-a-bike and the rain, but it was so empowering to come out of these challenges stronger.

I completed the route in 28 days (about twice as long as the race-winning time), averaging over 10 hours of riding to cover 150km each day -it was the hardest thing I had ever done !!

This course recon was the first step to getting prepared to race. It also made obvious that I needed to improve my MTB skills, to strengthen my upper body for the hike”push”-a-bike, to fasten my camp-to-bike transition, a warmer and more reliable sleep system, and better overall gear and bike.

My 2023 Tour Divide Gear List

By now I have gathered enough bikepacking experience to know better what I want and need for my ideal setup. So I have reached out to my favorite companies and I’m very fortunate that they embarked on my dream race project with me! Here is the best bikepacking setup I could build for racing the Tour Divide :

• Cannondale Scalpel HT, 100mm suspension fork
• Sram X01 mechanical 34T x 10-52 Eagle cassette
• SL4 Lucky Jack – Duke Racing Wheels (XC carbon wheels, 1200g a pair)
• Son 28 dynamo hub
• Ergo grips and aero bars
• Maxxis Ardent Race and Ikon 2,2 tires

Packs: Backcountry Series by Apidura

• Apidura 11L handlebar pack (clothes)
• Apidura 2x 1.2L feed pouches, 1L top-tube feed bag, 1L rear top-tube pack for accessories
• Apidura 4L frame pack with a hydration bladder (food & water)
• Apidura 1.8L down-tube pack (tools and pharmacy)
• Apidura 10L saddle pack (sleep system)
• possibly a hip pack or hydration vest… TBD
• 7mesh cargo bib (pad removed) paired with 7mesh Foundation Shorts
• 7mesh Hollyburn light thermal pants
• 7mesh Chico Anorak pull-over
• 7mesh merino buff
• 7mesh Skypilot Gore-tex rain jacket
• MEC 800-down jacket
• Mountain Hardwear 800-down pants
• MEC rain pants cover
• Showerpass waterproof gloves and socks (available at MEC)
• Defeet merino gloves

Sleep System :

• MEC Talon 0 degree C 800-down quilt
• MEC Vectair Ultralight insulated air mat
• Mountain Laurel Designs FKT bivy
• Warmlite Gear Vapor barrier long-sleeve jersey
• Warmlite Gear Vapor Barrier socks

Electronics :

• Garmin 540 Solar for navigation (MEC)
• Garmin inReach satellite tracking (MEC)
• GoPro Mini 11 for self-documenting the race
• iPhone and AirPods
• Sinewave Cycle Beacon2 headlight (dynamo powered)
• 1x 5,000 mpa power bank, 1x 10,000 mpa power bank, fast-charging wall charger, and cables
• Black Diamond headlight (MEC)
• Set of rear lights (MEC)

Tools, toiletry, and other items :

• Sunscreen (lots of sunscreens)
• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Laundry handwash soap
• Eye mask, ear plugs
• ibuprofen, allergy med
• Caffeine, melatonin
• BeFree water filter and water purifying tablets
• Muc-Off Hydro chain lube with a rag
• Hand pump, tire plugs and sealant
• Multi-tools with chain breaker
• Spare derailer hanger, spare brake pads, chain links
• Patch repair kit
• Protein powder, BCAAs, Greens powder

Thank you to my sponsors for gearing me up with the best. Find this gear online: MEC outdoor gear , 7mesh cycling apparel , Apidura bikepacking bags , Duke Racing Wheels , Warmlite Gear vapor barrier gear .

Live-Tracking – From June 9th, 2023

We will depart from Banff (AB) on June 9th, 2023. You can follow the race live via satellite tracking here .

Even though I will try to film as much as possible, I will not be posting a lot on social media during the race (because it’s a race!) and there isn’t much service between towns. If you do follow my progress, I will love to read your messages of encouragement!

You can find me on instagram at @msoleilblais74 and you can subscribe to my Youtube Channel to be notified when my Tour Divide film is up!

But why in the hell would someone want to race this?

I have long asked myself this question. What is my motivation, why do I want to race the Tour Divide and put all of the efforts behind such a big commitment? Multiple answers come to my mind.

First, it’s the curiosity, the need to push the limits and see how far I can go. I see this as a continuation of my fascination for the power of the mind and playing with the concept of removing references. To see what I could do if I go into something where I have no references at all. Can I carry my time trial state of mind over 4,300km ? How resilient am I?

Second, it’s the transformation. Endurance has never been something I particularly excel at naturally. I had a strong anaerobic profile as a pro cyclist but that is quite useless over a long distance. I think you never become ready for the biggest race of your life, just like you don’t do a marathon before your first marathon. You “become” someone who is capable of doing it, by doing it. I want to become the person at the finish line who was able to race that distance and push her limits to a new level. No matter what happens, I will come out of this test stronger and more resilient.

Lastly, I want to live the experience. The experience of racing my bike all day, all night. Riding as far as I can, every day, with nothing else on my mind than going further. I quite enjoy the solitude of riding long distances in remote areas, and I look forward to re-discovering the magnificent, yet challenging course that is the Tour Divide.

Stay tuned, peace out

Full heart, fullgas

Marie-Soleil Blais

Bike Racer & Adventurer

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Top 10 Bikes of The Tour Divide Race 2023

Bikepacking the Tour Divide has been on my bucket list for some time now

And I am sure on the lists of many other adventure seekers. Those looking to push their personal potential, to see just how much they can accomplish. It’s the ultimate endurance cycling event!

It’s an annual off-road ride traversing the length of the Rocky Mountains, from Banff, Canada all the way to the Mexican border. Racing all 2,745 miles of Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.

One epic ultra-endurance bikepacking spectacle!

Although the route itself is fascinating and the people who ride these races!

One thing seems to spark the curiosity of people interested in taking on such an adventure!

Listen while you read: I filmed a video version of this blog post so you can just listen to me talk about these bikes, while you read more below.

But, what bikes are used for the Great Divide Trail and the Tour Divide event?

In this write-up, we take a look at some of the best bikes for this epic adventure

Much like some of the best bikes for endurance cycling events , these bikes are built for off-road riding but also offer the comfort needed for those long days in the saddle.

I’ve made the mistake in the past riding my stock Kona Sutra LTD on the Vic Divide which is an Australia Bikepacking event that runs from Melbourne to Albury around 500 km. It’s just a warm-up to the Tour Divide in the USA which is a 4,418 km non-stop bikepacking race!

But the gearing on my bike was not ideal the 1×11 SRAM Rival 1 setup had a 30T crank and 10-42 Cassette which gave me only a 24.45” climbing gear which made it hard on the very steep sections with all my potatoes

Also, the tires that came with this bike are WTB Venture 700c x 50 tires. Some of the riding was very jarring and tough on the gear. I got a couple of punctures. 50mm wasn’t quite enough, which is why I later opted for 2.3” MTB tires which do the trick!

All these bikes are the perfect steeds precisely for the Tour Divide, with ample rubber and tire clearance, as well as adequate gearing often 20” or lower for ease when climbing the steeper stuff

But my point is that you need to invest in the right gear if you plan to take on these grueling events! Make sure you have the right bike that is going to be capable enough to get you over the finish line and be as comfortable as possible.

Also speaking of comfort!

Amongst all the riders of the Tour Divide, 77% used aero bars. Less for the aerodynamics and extra efficiency but more so for comfort, offering more hand positions and the ability to stretch out.

But one issue I have always run into with aero bars for bikepacking is how much stretching happens. Resulting in discomfort and I just never end up spending that much time in the aero bars while riding!

This product is the perfect solution to aero bar comfort!

I’ve been testing out the Fred Bars and I use my aero bars all the time now! Raising the aero bars and bringing them back, results in less reach allowing you to rest in a more relaxed, crouched position.

I noticed quite a few of these top 10 bikes of the Tour Divide are running aero bars. However, most are missing out on the extra comfort the Fred Bars can provide ultimately resulting in less fatigue over the long haul.

Also included are the photos of the exact bikes that raced this year, thanks to bikepacking.com’s Riders Rig content. Part 1 (Dropper Bar Bikes) and Part 2 (Flat-Bar Bikes)

Additionally, I have done the hard yards and included detailed specs like climbing gear inches, price, weight, geometry, and other information for most bikes.

But let’s get into the top 10 bikes, shall we?

1. BMC Twostroke 01 One

Winning this year’s Tour Divide, the Twostroke 01 stands out as a modern and versatile hardtail bike. It boasts a TCC-designed carbon frame with unique geometry tailored for challenging terrains.

The winning bike build was a full custom setup. featuring XS30 Carbon wheels from Beast Components paired with a SON Dynamo hub in the front. Powered by an SRAM Eagle XS Red Drivetrain, configured at 34T x 10-52T.

This gives this build an 18.68″ to 97.72″ gear-inch range and a gear ratio of 0.65 to 3.40

The suspension is a RockShox SID SL Select+ fork with 100 mm of travel and a Beast Component drop bar. The pulley wheels, use low-resistance ceramic components from Kogel, ensuring a seamless pedal experience. The bike is rolling on Hutchinson Skeleton & Taipan tires, both at 2.15”. The standout feature is the Supernova M99 DY Pro front light.

The Twostrok comes with added features like wide tire clearance, integrated protection for both the fork and frame, and internal cable routing to enhance its design.

Moreover, it’s ready for a dropper post addition if needed.

The bike is equipped with a RockShox SID Select+ fork, carbon handlebar, and a 12-speed SRAM GX Eagle AXS groupset.

Rounding off its build are the DT Swiss X 1700 wheels paired with Vittoria Barzo tires.

A progressive, compliant, and confidence-inspiring fast hardtail. Its TCC-designed carbon frame has radical geometry for steep and loose terrain

Price:  $5,799

Weight:  9.5 kg (20.94 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material:  Frame – Carbon / Fork – RockShox SID Select+ with 100 mm travel

Groupset & Drivetrain:  1×12 Electronic GX Eagle AXS

Gear Ratios:  18.84” to 98.56” (0.65 to 3.40 ratio)

Geometry (Medium frame): Stack/Reach ratio 1.34 – chainstay 425 mm – wheelbase 1,135 mm – (steering) headtube angle 67 deg – trail 109 mm – Fork offset/rake 44 mm – bottom bracket drop 64 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance):  2.25-inch tires, with a max tire clearance of 2.3 inches

2. Trek Procaliber SL

The bike pictured above has drop bars with a 100mm front suspension. It rides on Hunt XC Beyond wheels, which have a dynamo that powers the Supernova M99 DY Pro light.

The Trek Procaliber is a race-ready cross-country hardtail. Its fast carbon frame boasts a trail-taming IsoSpeed decoupler, quick-rolling 29er wheels, and a RockShox Recon Gold RL suspension fork with 100 mm of travel to keep you fast and smooth over roots and rocks during your most demanding mountain bike rides.

This upgraded fork gives you a remote lockout which means you can lock out the suspension while keeping your hands on the bars. This fork comes with a more plush spring and allows for more control over the rougher stuff.

More than just a bike for single trail riding, perfect for those who put in long miles on trails and are looking for the speed, efficiency, and light weight of a carbon cross-country bike.

The IsoSpeed decoupler and carbon frame make it ride smoother than any other hardtail, so your body doesn’t get beat up by trail chatter. Essentially added suspension on the frame.

The Straight Shot downtube helps add extra stiffness and responsive handling without the added weight. Along with the Knock Block headset which protects against spinning bars and fork crowns. Stopping your handlebars from spinning all the way around when you crash.

Price:  Around $3,099

Weight:  11.43 kg (25.21 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material:  Frame – Carbon / Fork – RockShox Recon Gold RL with 100 mm travel

Groupset & Drivetrain:  Shimano XT 30T crank and 10-51T cassette

Gear Ratios:  17.04” to 86.66” (0.59 to 3.0 ratio)

Geometry (Medium Frame): Stack/Reach ratio 1.42 – chainstay 432 mm – wheelbase 1,103 mm – (steering) headtube angle 68.8 deg – trail 97.3 mm – Fork offset/rake 42 mm – bottom bracket drop 60 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance):  29 x 2.2″ tires With a max tire clearance of 29 x 2.4″

3. Girs Nomade

With a very unique paint job, this MTB Girs Nomade Carbone comes with a Sram 12-speed mechanical set, Shimano XT/DEORE brakes, fresh Maxxis Ikon tires, and a 1×12 drivetrain sporting a 32T chainring.

It rides on DT Swiss 29-inch wheels, with a front SON Dynamo hub.

The bike boasts ENVE handlebars, a Cane Creek post with a touch of suspension, a Selle Idéale seat, and a Profile Design extension complemented by 70mm shims beneath the armrests. It’s also equipped with a Garmin 67i.

The Nomade bike, designed for the adventurous and curious traveler, prioritizes versatility and freedom in its design.

The frame, weighing at 1090g, is priced at 1490€, while the combined frame and fork kit comes in at 1880€.

The main allure of the Nomad is its adaptability. Whether you’re navigating wet grounds, mountains, or sandy terrains, the Nomad can adjust accordingly.

Its XC-type geometry promotes control and agility, especially evident when equipped with a 110 mm fork for winding trails or set in a Beach Race mode with a rigid fork and 35mm rim, ideal for sandy conditions.

The balanced geometry, featuring a slack 68.5-degree head angle and enhanced reach with 435mm chainstays, ensures precise control over challenging terrains and preserves agility for tighter trails.

Additionally, the Nomade includes a universal derailleur hanger designed for compatibility across all drivetrains while protecting the derailleur from impacts.

The bike’s durability and performance are anchored in the use of Toray 700 and 800 carbon materials combined with a specialized resin blend, ensuring consistent performance.

Lastly, the bike focuses on integrated design, with cables and housings seamlessly entering the frame, enhancing both the bike’s aesthetics and function.

This integrated system is compatible with a variety of standard ACR-type integration systems available in the market. All in all, whether you’re looking for a daily ride or gearing up for a competition, the Nomade offers a reliable and versatile biking experience.

4. Binary Bicycles Havok

The Havok bike, tailored for those with an adventurous spirit, is built for both speed and endurance.

Its titanium frame ensures a comfortable ride, absorbing the roughness of terrains like washboards and ruts.

This versatile frame can accommodate a range of tire sizes, from skinny gravel tires to broader 29 × 3.0 tires, allowing riders to adapt based on their upcoming journey.

One of its standout features is its sizable front triangle, perfect for fitting a frame bag.

It comes equipped with triple bottle mounts on both the top and bottom of the downtube and also offers rack and fender mounts for added bikepacking and touring gear flexibility.

For those looking at drivetrain options, the Havok is 2x compatible and provides dropper post routing.

It is designed to support either drop bars or other preferred touring bars.

The sliding dropouts offer adaptability, even allowing for a singlespeed setup. Furthermore, the bike can be paired with a 100mm 29er fork if riders seek added suspension.

In terms of standard features, the Havok boasts a lightweight titanium build with a hand-brushed finish, accented by sandblasted logos.

The bike’s axle spacing is set at 12mm x 148mm boost, and it employs sliding Paragon-style dropouts. It’s designed with a 44mm straight headtube, compatible with a tapered fork, and a threaded 73mm BSA bottom bracket.

The external cable routing and 31.6mm Seatpost, which is internal dropper compatible, add to its functionality.

Moreover, the bike can comfortably fit 29+ tires (up to 3.0), and its geometry supports both rigid and 100mm 29er suspension. Whether it’s for gravel paths, singletracks, all-road, or bikepacking, the Havok promises a reliable and adaptable ride.

5. Moots MX RSL

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Moots Bicycles (@mootscycles)

6. Fezzari Solitude 29

This Fezzari Solitude bike build is fully rigid, featuring an Enve carbon fork for stability. It rides on ZIPP zero moto wheels equipped with a Dynamo hub, and its tires are the Schwalbe Racing Ray and Ralph, both at a size of 2.1”.

The bike has SRAM transmission, which comes with a 34T chainring and a wide-range 10-52T cassette.

For added comfort on bumpy terrains, it incorporates a Redshift stem and a Cane Creek Seatpost for some suspension. A notable feature for those long rides is the infinity seat, ensuring rider comfort.

Additionally, it comes with an aero bar that brings together various features, giving the rider an aerodynamic advantage. Along with a product like the Fred Bars you can also ride in comfort!

This bike appears to be a solid choice for those considering participating in the tour divide race, providing a blend of speed, comfort, and durability.

The Solitude is a hardtail mountain bike designed for cross-country riders seeking speed, adventure, and the thrill of competition.

Its carbon frame utilizes Monform™ technology, which offers a single-piece carbon construction rather than the traditional two-piece, resulting in a lighter yet stronger frame with enhanced power transfer.

This bike’s geometry strikes a balance between racing and recreation: a 68-degree head tube angle provides stability in rough terrains and during turns, while a 75-degree seat tube angle ensures an optimal riding position for power and efficiency.

Notably, the Solitude’s frame weighs less than 1000 grams and showcases improved lateral stiffness and strength compared to its predecessors, giving riders added confidence in diverse terrains.

In essence, for those eyeing the Tour Divide race, the Solitude might be a worthy contender, combining speed, durability, and a fun riding experience.

7. Salsa Cutthroat

The most common bike chosen for the Tour Divide and it’s no surprise as the Cutthroat is Salsa’s Tour Divide-inspired drop bar bike!

The bike pictured above is a 2020 Cutthroat model featuring a GRX 800 1×11 drivetrain and RaceFace Next SL cranks, boasting a 32T OVAL chainring combined with a 10-46T cassette, ensuring smooth rides on hilly terrains. Comfort is guaranteed with a Koda saddle and the handlebars are wrapped in Lizard Skin tape for added grip along with aero bars.

As it’s an immensely capable carbon bikepacking bike!

Derived from a rich lineage, the Cutthroat features a unique drop-bar mountain bike geometry designed to instill confidence, even when the trails get rough.

Its carbon frame ensures efficient energy utilization while its Class 5 VRS rear end effectively absorbs minor jolts from both roads and trails, helping riders maintain their energy.

Additionally, the Cutthroat offers multiple cargo mount options, allowing riders to personalize their gear setup.

A notable component is the SRAM’s GX Eagle AXS groupset, which has proven to be durable and dependable, making it an excellent choice for extended backcountry adventures like the Tour Divide.

Price:  $3,499 to $7,799 ($5,599 Cutthroat C GX Eagle AXS Model) – Comparable to the Epic Hardtail Comp above

Weight:  11 kg (24.3 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material:  Frame – Carbon / Fork – Carbon (Earlier 2019 models offer a 100mm RockShox Reba front suspension setup!)

Groupset & Drivetrain:  1×12 Electronic GX Eagle AXS, Rival eTap

Gear Ratios:  18.78” to 98.22” (0.65 to 3.40 ratio)

Geometry (56cm Frame): Stack/Reach ratio 1.61 – chainstay 445 mm – wheelbase 1,090 mm – (steering) headtube angle 69 deg – trail 79 mm – Fork offset/rake 51 mm – bottom bracket drop 70 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance):  29 x 2.2 mm tires, with a max official tire clearance of 2.4” for both frame and fork. While some have measured for up to 29 x 2.8″ tires

8. Rodeo Labs Flaanimal 5.0

The bike in the first picture is rolling on a Rodeo 2.0 wheelset. Sram AXS drivetrain (36t chainring, 10-50t 12-speed cassette), Hope Tech4 X2 brakes, and Maxxis Ikon 2.0″ / Vittoria Mezcal 2.1″ tires.

Since 2015, the Flaanimal has been the gold standard for adaptability. Whether on roads, gravel, or challenging terrains, this bike can be tailored to any rider’s imagination. A production steel and carbon gravel/adventure bike that has all you could possibly need

It can be blisteringly fast on the pavement with skinny slick tires. It can be smooth, efficient, and competitive on gravel. And is now considered an It can be blisteringly fast on the pavement on skinny slicks. It can be smooth, efficient, and competitive on gravel. And is now considered the perfect choice for a bikepacking racing rig, with its win at the 2021 Tour Divide as piloted by Jay Petervary.

You can tailor your Flaanimal 5.0 with custom finishes and build specs.

The CNC machined yoke and dropped stay design allows for tire sizes up to 700c x 50mm or 650b x 2.4”

While retaining the strength of steel, a carbon seat tube has been integrated to ensure a balance between durability and weight.

Custom butted and heat-treated Japanese tubing ensures strength and durability, even on the most challenging terrains. Let’s be honest The Japanese know how to make stuff!

The updated sliding dropout design offers an additional 10mm of slider range, allowing riders to tweak the bike’s handling and tire clearance.

Tidy aesthetics and modular design thanks to rubber routing port plugs which accommodate various build types.

The improved bottom T47 bottom bracket design it ensures quiet operation, compatibility with all crankset spindle diameters, and room for internal Di2 and dropper post routing.

Price:  $1,548.75 (Frameset)

Weight:  12.5 kg (27.6 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material:  Carbon and steel fusion

Groupset & Drivetrain:  Frameset Only

Gear Ratios:  Frameset Only

Geometry (56cm frame): Stack/Reach ratio 1.47 – chainstay 425 mm – wheelbase 1,033 mm – (steering) headtube angle 71 deg – Fork offset/rake 45 mm – bottom bracket drop 65 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance):  Max tire clearance of 700c x 50mm or 650b x 2.4”

9. Mason InSearchOf

The first photo features a Mason InSearchOf steel frame paired with a carbon fork, and features SRAM’s 1×12 electronic shifting system, blending Force and X01 components.

It’s equipped with a Shimano XT crankset and a unique XT 10-51T cassette that’s compatible with the SRAM shifter.

The bike rides on René Herse Fleecer Ridge tires mounted on a custom wheelset combining a SON dynamo hub and DT Swiss 240.

Lighting and charging are managed by KLite. For handling, it sports a 46cm Ritchey Beacon drop bar wrapped in a double layer of Wolf Tooth tape.

Rider comfort is prioritized with a Redshift suspension stem and Ritchey aerobars featuring SRAM shifting buttons.

The bike stands on XT pedals, and seating is provided by a Specialized Power saddle. Additional features include Reverse Fillmore valves, Orange Seal tire sealant, SRAM HS2 brake discs, and SwissStop brake pads.

This rig is available in some nice build options with about 4 models to choose from all starting from $3,864 (Rival 1x). In this article, we are going to use the GX Eagle AXS priced at $4,737 model for specs. But it might be worth checking out some other options to better suit your needs.

This has to be one of the most capable-looking drop bar bikes upon first impression.

The ultimate steel adventure bicycle has been adopted by the Ultra-Endurance community realizing the comfortable, fast, multi-surface capabilities of this bike making it ideal for such Continent Crushing rides. Much so that Josh Ibbett won the 2015 Trans Continental race on a Mason.

The frame is composed of custom-formed Progressive-butted Dedacciai ‘Zero’ Steel tubing which is used on the Top Tube, Down Tube, Seat Stays, and Chain Stays. While the Seat Tube uses Reynolds 853 steel and a Stainless bottom bracket.

There is plenty of clearance and the bottom of the down tube for mounting gear like the ‘Anything Cage‘ style bosses on top of and underneath the Down Tube.

The geometry has been suspension fork corrected for up to 100mm of travel if you want that extra comfort on the rough stuff.

However, it comes with the Hot Shoes fork which is internally routed for dynamo light systems and eyeletted for rack and mudguards. With all the mounting options you could ask for up front. You also get a Shutter Fender which is exclusive to Mason

The frame is also stealth dropper compatible, with a max tire clearance for up to 29 x 2.4” or 27.5 x 2.8” tires. Comes with the Ritchey Venturemax Comp handlebars that have a generous 24 deg flare for that extra comfort in the drops.

Looking for even more comfort??

Price:  $3,864 to $5,285

Weight:  Just over 11 kg (24.25 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material:  Frame – Steel / Fork – Carbon

Groupset & Drivetrain:  1×12 Rival eTap, GX Eagle (with a 34T crank and 10-52T cassette)

Gear Ratios:  18.58” to 97.21” (0.65 to 3.40 ratio) with 27.5 x 2.8″ tires

Geometry (50cm Frame): Stack/Reach ratio 1.64 – chainstay 445 mm – wheelbase 1,082.3 mm – (steering) headtube angle 69 deg – trail 85.8 mm – Fork offset/rake 50 mm – bottom bracket drop 75 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance):  Choice of either WTB Ranger 29 x 2.4″ or 27.5 x 2.8″ With the same tire clearance.

10. Lauf Seigla

The holy grail of gravel bikes!

The 2022 Lauf Seigla pictured above is equipped with 520mm PNW Coast drop bars, augmented by Profile Design T1+ 70mm risers (could have been better to opt for the Fred Bars instead, allowing you to sit more upright and back then these aero risers would allow for). And cushioned with Redshift Cruise Control grips.

For the tires, it sports a 2.1″ Mezcal at the back and a 2.2″ Race King up front. The bike rides on DERBY carbon wheels, paired with a White Industries rear hub and a Son front hub.

Power transmission is managed by a SRAM 10-52T cassette coupled with a 34T Wolf Tooth Oval chainring, ensuring a versatile range for both uphill and flat terrains.

A fast gravel bike that is also comfortable, capable, and fun for exploring. A suspension gravel bike that we haven’t covered too much of here at Cycle Travel Overload. However, we have covered the very unique carbon gravel suspension fork design, that comes with this bike as an option. Adding to that extra on-bike comfort.

The bike is available in 4 main build options with that Grit 3rd Gen carbon Suspension Fork.

The top pick for the Tour Divide is the Seigla Ultimate model. While some have transformed this into a mullet drive conversion. This Ultimate comes with a 1×12 electronic drivetrain setup.

Price:  $2,590 to $5,990

Weight:  8.44 kg (18.6 lbs)

Frame/Fork Material:  Frame – Carbon / Fork – Carbon Lauf Grit Suspension Fork with 30mm travel

Groupset & Drivetrain:  1×12 Electronic RED XPLR eTap, RED eTap with 40T Crank and 10-44T Cassette

Gear Ratios:  25.51” to 112.13” (0.91 to 4.00 ratio)

Geometry (Medium Frame): Stack/Reach ratio 1.43 – chainstay 425 mm – wheelbase 1,040 mm – (steering) headtube angle 70.5 deg – trail 75 mm – Fork offset/rake 47 mm – bottom bracket drop 65 mm

Tires and Wheel Sizes (Tire Clearance):  Comes with 700c x 45mm tires. With a max tire clearance of 29 × 2.25″

Tour Divide Q&A

How long does it take to do the tour divide.

The Tour Divide typically takes riders between 15 and 35 days to complete, depending on skill, conditions, and individual pace.

How do you get into the Tour Divide?

The Tour Divide is an unsanctioned race, so there’s no official entry process. Riders simply choose a start date, typically aligned with the grand départ, and begin.

How many people do the Tour Divide?

Each year, the number varies, but typically around 100 to 200 riders attempt the Tour Divide, with completion rates varying.

Can you do the Tour Divide on a gravel bike?

Yes, a gravel bike can be used for the Tour Divide, though many riders prefer mountain bikes for added comfort and capability on rough sections.

How much elevation does the Tour Divide route have? (How many feet of climbing are in the Tour Divide?)

The Tour Divide has over 200,000 feet of elevation gain, making it a challenging and intense ride.

How much does Tour Divide cost?

There’s no entry fee for the Tour Divide, but riders should budget for gear, food, accommodations, and other personal expenses during the ride.

What is the weather window for the Tour Divide?

The most popular time to start the Tour Divide is the second Friday in June, but riders can choose other start times, generally between June and September, depending on weather conditions.

What is the difference between the Tour Divide and the Gdmbr?

The Tour Divide is a bikepacking race along the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR). While the GDMBR is the route itself, the Tour Divide is the specific self-supported race that takes place on this route.

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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Tour Divide 2023

Ulrich's Winning Ride

14 days 3 hours 23 minutes.

That's how long it took ambassador Ulrich Bartholmoes to ride 4,345 km (2,745 miles) with over 51,000 meters (167,000+ feet) of climbing.

Not only did Ulrich win the prestigious race, he did it through torrential rain, unprecedented headwinds, knee-deep mud, and many more unexpected challenges.

This was Ulrich's first Tour Divide — a statement of what he can achieve, and what's to come.

Images by Nils Laengner, Ulrich Bartholmoes, and BikesorDeath

One of Ulrich's first photos from his ride.

Relentless climbing has its perks.

Challenge From the Start

On the first day of Tour Divide, Ulrich covered over 450 kilometers (280 miles). Only Justinas Leveika was able to keep up. One reason for this: Ulrich and Justinas simply rode through the first night.

Despite the large distance traveled, the beginning of the race posed its own challenges - the rain started at kilometer 160 and it didn't stop, resulting in unrelenting mud.

"The mud-clogged drivetrain made riding really hard and exhausting. Add to that the brutal climbs and the cold at night, and I was already suffering"

Shelter in a Porta Potty

Seven days into the race, Ulrich had reached the the half way point, averaging 326 kilometers per day. Perhaps the toughest section of the entire Tour Divide lay ahead — 150 kilometers of straight road consumed by a crushing headwind. And thanks to the rain, gravel had turned to mud. Ulrich had planned on 9 hours to cross the expanse, it took 26.

The mud was knee deep, it was raining, it was windy, and it was cold. The horrible conditions forced the leading riders to seek shelter in a Porta Potty. Wrapped in their emergency bivys, three riders squeezed into the toilet – and spent more than 10 hours there waiting for the rain to pass and waiting for the mud to dry up until at least walking or pushing the bike became possible again.

Done & Dusted

Ulrich took his last nap in Pie Town, about 550 kilometers before the finish line. From there he rode consistently to the end.

After 14 days of almost non-stop riding, it's best practice to first remove your shoes, then celebrate.

Final Numbers

• Arrival at the Finish line in Antelope Wells / New Mexico: United States on the 23th of June at 10:23 am local time (GMT-6)
• Final position in race : 1
• Total Kilometers in race : 4,345 kilometers (2,700 miles)
• Total time in race : 14 days / 03 hours / 23 mins — second fastest time in course history
• Total Elevation gain : 51,509 vertical meters (168,993 feet)
• Total calories burned : 121,000
• Total sleep time : An average of 3 hours per night for 14 days

Ulrich's Tour Divide Race Kit

Men's CONCEPT Bib Short

Women's CONCEPT Bib Short

Men's CONCEPT Radiator Jersey

Women's CONCEPT Radiator Jersey

Men's Ultralight Bib Short

Women's Ultralight Bib Short

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• Bikepacking Races

2024 Tour Divide

June 14 @ 8:00 am,  alberta, canada    2745mi (4,418km).

Next Event Sat Dec 23, 2017

Next Event:

Hungarian Divide 2024

The 2024 Tour Divide takes place on Friday, June 14th at 8AM. Race the length of Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, from Banff to New Mexico, 2,745 miles of ultra-endurance bikepacking.

Date: June 14

Time: 8:00 am

Event Website

Tour Divide Grand Depart

Banff , Alberta Canada

The Tour Divide roughly follows the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR) is the most recognized and important off-pavement cycling route in the United States, if not the world. The route crisscrosses the Continental Divide from north to south starting in Banff, Alberta, Canada and finishing at the US/Mexico border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico.

Time-trial season on the GDMBR begins annually with Grand Départ, occurring on the second Friday in June from both termini of the Route; the main Depart takes place in Bannf, Alberta. The Tour Divide see hundreds of riders each year, with the goal of these Solstice common starts is for athletes to challenge the Route in situ, under similar weather conditions and maximum daylight. If one cannot make a grand départ, there is a season-long ITT-Divide format to contend. Tour Divide requires no entry fee or formal registration. There are no prizes for finishing. Riders who carry SPOT GPS Messengers are tracked via the Live tracker.

For more on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, check out our guide, here . Also, find previous Tour Divide rig roundups here , and check out #tour-divide for many more articles and resources.

Registration: Send a letter of intent after winter solstice to [email protected] .

Event image by Matt & Brett, A View From Two Wheels. 

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