"This amazing Libre CR takes me out of my routine, whether it’s for short one-day escapes or multi-day bikepacking adventures." Alexey Piskunov
I’ve slightly tweaked it to suit my needs, and it runs on two different wheelsets. Both are affordable yet robust Fulcrum Rapid Red 900s in 650b size. One wheelset is equipped with Panaracer GravelKing 650x48 tires (which actually measure 51 mm wide) and an e*Thirteen 9–44 wide-range cassette — perfect for regular gravel roads and long-distance trips. The other wheelset features WTB Sendero 47 tires and a Shimano XT 11–46 cassette, which is better suited for singletrack riding. Both setups are tubeless.
Depending on the terrain, I switch between 38T and 40T front chainrings. A Wolf Tooth Components chain guide helps prevent a dropped chain on bumpy terrain. SwissStop cooled brake pads help avoid brake fade on long descents when the bike is loaded. A carbon seatpost helps reduce weight and absorb road vibrations.
When choosing bags, the key factors for me were waterproofing, quality, and a clean, minimalist design. That’s why I went with Ortlieb a while ago — these bags came over from my previous bike.
Seat-Pack Saddle Bag – 16.5L This bag usually carries my sleeping bag, a change of clothes, and hygiene items — everything I don’t need quick access to.
Frame-Pack Toptube – 4L The frame bag holds items I need quick access to — phone, documents, power banks, gels and bars, lightweight outer layers, first aid kit and so on.
Cockpit Top Tube Bag – 0.8L This bag carries a couple of TPU tubes just in case, a tool kit, a headlamp, and other small essentials.
Handlebar-Pack – 9L The handlebar bag holds my tent, inflatable sleeping pad, and some clothing.
Fork-Pack – 4.1L The fork bags carry my cooking pot, a small gas stove, a gas canister, and some food supplies.
