I've got access to all of the above bikes, and am planning on doing some bikepacking in the Netherlands, Belgium and France, primarily on fairly good quality roads but with the possibility of visiting a trail centre along the way, so I was wondering which you guys would pick. The Vitus (1) is the newest, best components and most comfortable position, but is really slow rolling, whereas the carve (3) is probably the fastest on roads. The stumpjumper (2) is the one I care about theft the least, and the lightest, however. Also, although I will likely have a lot of the kit in a rucksack (I'll have to do some hiking along the way, and it's fairly short distances per day so I'm not too worried about it being uncomfortable), so they won't have to carry too much stuff, but I'd also love some tips on how to add a bit more carrying capacity just to slightly lighten the load on my shoulders.
by undeniablydull
4 Comments
Ooh, that’s an interesting question. 1 would probably be better if you had slicker tyres, but I understand that probably adds cost and faff. Also, it depends if you do visit a trail centre as that’d be a big advantage for 1
I vote 3, if you’re spending most of the time on roads.
I vote 1 with faster rolling tires like rekons. Check out the aeroe rear rack plus a dry bag for carrying more gear. Compatible with just about any bike, easy to install, and rock solid.
Wanted to say that rucksack and handlebar bag is the way to go seeing the bike with Magic Marry on the front, but then I read that you will be going over roads. Weight isn’t crucial unless you will be hiking with your loaded bike on your back 😉 Take the fastest one and maybe rent a bike at trail center for some fun?