When we set out to design the All-Packa, we wanted a bike that would open doors for people, a bike that could liberate them with all the mobility of cycling, without the usual inconveniences. And as with every Bike Friday, it was essential that when you arrive, unfold, and start pedaling, you have a bike that rides every bit as well (if not better) than a traditional bike.
When Kevin shared his story with us, we knew we’d built exactly that…
“I’ve ridden (my) All-Packa on several bikerafting trips, but it had never carried me on my favourite doorstep-to-doorstep overnighter from my home in Edmonton, Alberta to (and back) from Constable Chelsey Robinson Park on the North Saskatchewan River.
The 3.5 hour ride was a pleasant mix of trail, gravel and quiet countryside asphalt. The Bike Friday is extremely comfortable and pleasant, and it’s surprisingly quick on every terrain. With its abundant space between rack and handlebar, it confidently carries the bulk of the raft and other gear every bit as easily as my full-sized bike. Maybe more easily.
The real magic, however, starts at the water’s edge. The bike’s short length means no disassembly is required for use with my raft. Just inflate the boat, strap the bike across the bow, throw the gear and provisions on the floor under the bike, and paddle away.
Kevin uses a CW-270 Pack raft, which is slightly longer than the standard model at the cost of a few pounds but at the advantage of better handling and more space to stow the bike on the front
After recent rains, the river was running high, but not in flood. After 70 km and nearly 11 brilliant hours on the water, I arrived at my take-out. With raft and gear quickly back on the bike, it was only a short 3 km ride back home with new memories of a lovely sandbar campsite, many dozens of critters and another couple of great days of self-propelled adventure.
Total trip time: 28 hours, 13 minutes.
Note: Bikerafting is not without hazards, particularly solo. This was a Class 1 route that I’ve paddled several times. I always wear a PFD and carry (and know how to use) all required watercraft gear. I also carry satellite communication, a robust First-Aid kit, full camping set-up, water filter and additional emergency supplies. Readers interested in learning more about packrafting should read “The Packraft Handbook” by Luc Mel and the “Bikeraft Handbook”by Lizzy Scully & Steve Fassbinder before ever getting wet.”
Our thanks to Kevin for sharing his experience with us. If you have an unusual way of using your Bike Friday, we’d love to hear about it and share it with the rest of our community. You can also explore more rider stories in our archive.
You see more of Kevin’s expeditions on his intagram @dusty.wheel
One Response
Great story telling. Can we know what components Kevin installed on this bike? That crank set is so mesmerizing, I didn’t notice there was a river in the background. While I don’t own a Bike Friday ( I live in Asia), it’s entertaining to see how the bikes are used (and customized) by Americans.