All Bikes

Before the bike was even in my possession, I already had ideas brewing about how I’d build a bag system for it. Over the past couple of years, most of my bikepacking setups have included a rack-top bag, so that was a no-brainer. I opted to make my own rear rack using an OEM rack strut kit paired with scrap hardwood left over from my shop buildout. I added some “drillium” to reduce weight, and to keep things symmetrical, I decided to whip up a matching basket carrier for the front as well.

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 schwinn exercise bike 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.

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.

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 schwinn bike bars that came stock on the High Sierra are way too narrow for my taste. There aren’t too many wide handlebars 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.

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 schwinn exercise bike 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.