Hunter Cargo Rack

Rick Hunter has been refining racks for decades, but his new Hunter Cycles Cargo Rack felt like one of those rare designs that just clicks. It features a modular chromoly build, 29+ clearance, and axle mounts built around Old Man Mountain/Robert Axles that add strength and versatility. But what makes it special is its integrated cargo system with “NUBZ” strap keepers and cage feet that secure bottles or bags without extra hardware—perfect for hauling water or food on long and dry stretches, plus bonus derailleur protection in transit. Stable, adaptable, and purpose-built for modern bikepacking. We hope to see another batch soon.

$275 at Hunter Cycles

Tailfin Bar Cage

Handlebar cradles are somewhat in their infancy, with only a few options out on the market, but Tailfin’s Bar Cage is probably the most refined one we’ve seen to date. Its dual-axis adjustment solves common fit headaches, and their purpose-made waterproof packs add versatility and refinement. Plus, the system has several clever touches like Speed Hooks and the various attachments for lights and GPS units that add real practicality. Whether you want a minimalist fast setup or just need the ability to avoid cable interference, the design is versatile and works on just about any bike.

$150 at Tailfin

Revelate Portage Panniers

Revelate’s Portage Panniers are the brand’s polished take on holster-dry-bag panniers, clearly showing the amount of time and thought invested in the project. The rail-and-hook upper mount is rock-solid and easy to use, the welded-waterproof drybags are tough, and three sizes cover everything. Similar to their classic Terrapin seat pack, you load off-bike, slide in, cinch, and ride. Plus, the drybag doubles as a camp catch, and the holster can carry wet/dirty gear. They’re silent, stable, and arguably the new benchmark for off-road panniers.

$279 at Campfire

Old Man Mountain FLiP System

The Flip Cages proved to be one of the most genuinely useful cargo innovations we tested this year. They’re great as standalone cages with TPU strap holes and an optional foot, but they really shine in how well they integrate with OMM’s Hemlock bags and those from a growing number of cottage makers. Old Man Mountain opened the Flip Cage interface to other brands—a rarity in the bike industry—which adds a ton of versatility to the system.

$64+ at OMM

Outershell Mega Bar Cage

Outer Shell keeps churning out thoughtful, refined bags, and the Mega Bar Bag fits that pattern. The California-based bag maker’s first foray into a large, top-opening handlebar shows off a unique 3D-modeled construction with an internal frame that offers best-in-class stability and a size that works for bikepacking without feeling excessive on bakery runs. Every strap, pocket, and sleeve earns its keep, offering a one-bag fit for bikes with drop bars or flats.

$280 at Outershell

REEB Sam’s Pants

The recently revamped REEB Sam’s Pants is a rare gravel bike that takes the genre a step further and calls for big rides that dip into singletrack without hesitation. Modern geometry and 2.2″ tire clearance deliver stability and comfort without dulling efficiency; the Zona steel tubeset feels lively yet noticeably compliant on washboard and chunk. Neil raved about it and stated how difficult it was to talk himself into riding the other bikes he had on hand when it was at his disposal. Review here.

Salsa Spearfish

Salsa’s fourth-gen Spearfish pushed their XC full-squish platform into downcountry territory with a combination of progressive geometry and surprising stability. In short, it won us over with its confident descending without sacrificing the bike’s hallmark pedaling efficiency. With 120mm Split Pivot rear travel, it climbs and tracks well, and feels fast. Big frame space for bottles/bags and thoughtful adventure touches make it a compelling Colorado Trail-type bike for riders who want long-day efficiency that still rips on the way down. Review here.

Velo Orange Chessie

Released this year, the Velo Orange Chessie hits a sweet spot for a modern gravel bike on a budget. For $950, you get a durable, lightweight aluminum frameset (steel fork) with easy-to-use sliding dropouts, roomy (unofficially class-leading) tire clearance, and comfortable-yet-capable all-rounder geometry. It isn’t a bike chasing aero-speed hype or boutique tubing; instead, it delivers versatility and real value, allowing it to morph from commuter to bikepacker to rough-road explorer with few changes. Review here.

Trek Checkout

The Trek CheckOUT attempted to disrupt the cycling industry this year with its lightweight carbon frame, integrated rear rack, custom frame bag, and full-suspension design. Miles and Neil will be unpacking the CheckOUT in their full reviews soon, but they both agree that it’s one of the best riding drop-bar bikes they’ve had the pleasure to toss a leg over. Stay tuned for more.

Hudski Dualist

The new Hudski Dualist nailed the sweet spot between approachable gravel and light-duty mountain bike with a long wheelbase, rigid alloy frame, modern MTB specs, big tire clearance, and a smart build. It truly advanced the brand’s do-everything mantra: commuting, gravel, doubletrack, light singletrack, and loaded bikepacking. It won’t replace a hardtail or full-susser on rugged trails, but as a fast, versatile ATB that’s simply fun to ride, it’s a standout. Review here.

Canyon Grizl Escape ECLIPS

The Grizl Escape ECLIPS is the adventure bike many riders usually cobble together or have a shop build, now offered as a turnkey complete. It arrives ready to roll with integrated electronics, racks, and all the cargo-ready accouterments you could wish for. Out of the box, it’s thoroughly equipped for weekend rambles or multi-week trips, all as a ship-to-your-door expedition machine. It was pretty clear that the Bikepacking Collective thought that was a big plus. Review here.

Surly Straggler

Surly’s updated Straggler keeps the original’s go-anywhere steel ethos—disc brakes, generous tire clearance, and versatile rack/fender capability—while smartly modernizing where it counts. It moves to 12×142/12×100 thru-axles and ditches the finicky sliding dropouts, improving alignment with discs. Still built from Surly’s Natch 4130 and aimed at light touring and all-weather commuting, it rides grounded and forgiving, carrying weight well and remaining a true do-everything machine. Review here.

Stooge MK7

Last but not least in the Collective Choice vote, the Stooge MK7 stays true to the brand’s joy-first rigid trail ethos, opting for thoughtful evolution over reinvention. Subtle geometry tweaks, expanded sizing, a new fork, and added mounts make it more capable, especially for taller riders and bikepacking, while preserving the MK series’ raucous feel. The result is the most complete Stooge yet: a refined, mischievously fun rigid platform. Review here.

Teravail Clifty

It’s not that often you see a tire make the best components list, but the Teravail Clifty delivers a rare mix of speed, grip, and toughness. It stays composed and predictable on wet roots, loose gravel, and steep terrain, where many fast-rolling tires get sketchy. A firm casing shrugs off rim strikes and helps the tread hold its line in corners, and it has a solid tread life. Find our review here.

$80 at Campfire

Wolf Tooth CTRL Pedals

Wolf Tooth’s new CTRL pedals hit a sweet spot of control, fit, and serviceability. Quick axle-length (Q-factor) adjustment lets you fine-tune stance, while the larger platform boosts shoe contact and bike feel without looking out of place on gravel/drop-bar MTBs. They’re light for the category, feel Shimano-solid, and are fully rebuildable with right-to-repair parts. Subtle branding and multiple color options seal the deal.

$220 at Wolf Tooth

PAUL 100% Pure Cranks

Paul Component’s 100% Pure Cranks are a modernized love letter to simplicity: US-made arms that run on dependable JIS square-taper bottom brackets, with chainline and Q-factor easily tuned via spindle length and ring offset. The move to SRAM 3-bolt direct-mount future-proofs chainring choices, and the clean, industrial aesthetic suits nearly any build. They’re a long-term, serviceable investment, offered in four colors and six lengths. Find our review here.

$308+ at PAUL

WTB Solano

A couple of us have been blown away by the new Solano and Solano SL from WTB. It has just the right balance of short body, flat-profile, and padding and flex in the right places that adds up to a very comfortable perch for long rides, even sans chamois. It comes in medium or wide with chromoly, titanium, or carbon rails. The Solano SL trims padding and length (240mm) for harder, shorter efforts, but we like it just as much.

$105 at REI

SQlab 70X 2.0 Pro Grips

Another new product that multiple team members have been loving is the new 70X 2.0 Pro grips from SQlab. While designed for gravity and DH riding, SQlab’s 7OX 2.0 Pro grips are great for long rides. In short, they update the original with a softer, higher-grip rubber compound, a slightly longer body, and refined ergonomics aimed at reducing arm pump. Inside-only locking leaves more cushioning at the outer edge, while new texture zones at the palm and knuckle areas improve hand placement and control.

€35 at SQlab

Fox 36 SL

Fox’s 36 SL is undoubtedly a true upgrade from the Fox 34: notably stiffer and more composed on steep, rough trails, with the GRIP X damper easy to dial (and a handy lockout). Riders coming from a standard 36 may see smaller gains, but at a weight cost. Perks include 230mm rotor compatibility, clearance for 29 × 3.0 tires, low-profile bleeders, and a cassette-tool–serviceable air-spring cap. Bravo, Fox. Find our review here.

$846 at Jenson

Shimano XT/XTR Brakes

Shimano’s latest XT/XTR stoppers got a meaningful overhaul in 2025. The new lever and calipers use a lower-viscosity mineral fluid and updated seals to improve heat management and bite-point consistency; the end result fixes the fading that their predecessors were known for. A redesigned master cylinder moves the pivot 5mm closer to the bar for a more natural pull, and the hose now routes tighter to the handlebar for cleaner looks and better clearance for bar bags.

$530+ at Jenson

Wizard Works Badjelly

Wizard Works’ new Badjelly (a revamp of their Shazam) brings two big upgrades: true waterproof construction and more capacity. We’ve been using it for a few months and are digging it. The re-shaped, roll-top saddle/bar bag now comes in 10L, 15L, and 19L sizes with a deeper body, two internal drop pockets, an elastic quick-stash cord, and a Hypalon-backed attachment bar. It’s part of the brand’s fully waterproof lineup and comes in several great colors.

£189+ at Wizard Works

Shimano MT-001 Cleats

We were pleasantly surprised to find that Shimano’s new MT001 cleat adds significant versatility to their already simple SPD system. Multi-directional entry lets you stomp straight down or lead with toe or heel for faster clip-ins, especially handy on sketchy descents. Despite the easier engagement, they feel solid and stable. A tapered shape improves ground clearance for less clanking and wear while walking. And it’s backward-compatible with all SPD pedals.

$20 at Jenson

Rockshox Reverb AXS

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, electronic droppers are here to stay, and the revamped Rockshox Reverb AXS has impressed this year. Obviously, at $549, it’s certainly an upgrade, but it costs less than its main competitor, the Fox Neo. And, anyone using SRAM AXS already has a few batteries. The upsides we love the most are the excellent new Rocker Pod lever and the plush ActiveRide feature, which is a game changer for “lazy descending” on a hardtail.

$480+ at Jenson

HOVERAir X1 ProMax

This is more of a “tool of the trade,” but we’ve been so impressed with HoverAir’s ProMax that we had to include it. The ProMax has come in handy for getting riding shots for reviews with excellent image quality in a tiny, remote-free package. It consistently delivers stabilized, high-resolution footage that rivals what other bigger drones, yet it’s small enough to bring on every ride.

$599 at AMZN

Gear Blocks Bike Storage

Not a tool, per se, but the GearBlocks sliding bike storage cleans up the workshop in a pretty elegant manner. You buy standard unistrut channel locally, then add GearBlocks’ bearing-equipped hooks that glide smoothly to pack bikes tighter and free floor space. It’s DIY-friendly yet polished. Not a bike reducer, but an easy, affordable chaos reducer that installs fast and works well. Find the review here.

$16+ at Gear Blocks

COROS Nomad

COROS has continued its strong run of tech releases with the Nomad sport watch. Complete with in-depth mapping, phenomenal battery life, tons of tracking modes, and quality-of-life features that lead the industry, the COROS Nomad has served Nic and Neil well over the past year. With an increasing number of gadgets and gizmos crowding the cycling experience, this sports watch has made activity tracking, navigation, and simply staying on time much easier. It’s a minimal, uninvasive health monitor that shines as an outdoor companion.

$349 at AMZN

RatKing Rip Rack

RatKing’s RIP Rack is a basketpacker’s dream: a stout front rack with clever zip-tie-free hardware that secures Wald 137 and 139 baskets. The latest V3 keeps the same platform but adds redesigned one-piece legs and more adjustability to work with inconsistent mid-fork eyelets, boosting stiffness and stability. It’s officially rated to 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms), offers generous tire clearance, and our test sample weighed 753 grams.

$200 at RatKing

Spurcycle Mirrors

Added to their lineup this year, Spurcycle’s mirrors are a simple safety upgrade that quickly became indispensable after putting them to use. The clamp-on C Series works on flat/alt bars, great for shoulderless roads, long gravel climbs, and everyday town rides. The compact R Series plugs into drop-bar ends for a tidy, always-there rear view on gravel roads. Both reduce neck craning and add a little peace of mind with minimal bulk or weight.

$39 at Spurcycle

High Above Venture3d Hip Pack

Out of all the hip packs we tried this year, the High Above Venture3d stood out for its 3D-printed lattice back panel, which is plush, breathable, and grippy enough to stay put without over-tightening the belt, even with a small mirrorless camera aboard. A clean design, smart pockets, and quick-access Fidlock flap make it great for small-camera ride photography. It isn’t waterproof, and it ain’t cheap, but the comfort, stability, and build quality make it special. Find the review here.

$200 at Worldwide Cyclery

Rogue Panda Frame Bag Thumb Screws

Now that Salsa’s version is defunct, we were happy to see a small maker take the helm on purpose-made screws for securing bolt-on frame bags. Rogue Panda’s new Frame Bag Thumb Screw and Washer offers a fresh take using an 18mm M5 knurled thumb screw paired with a custom oblong plastic washer that’s lighter than a steel fender washer, spreads the pressure, won’t rust, and—crucially—resists vibration loosening. After several hundred miles, ours never backed out.

$3.50 at Rogue Panda

Thermodrop Thermometer

ThermoWorks’ ThermoDrop is a tiny, $25 digital thermometer that a couple of us on the team discovered this year. Cool thing about it is that it lets you log the actual temperature at camp—inside your tent, not the nearest town. It’s water-resistant, backlit, uses replaceable batteries, and weighs just a few grams. Whether for the sake of gear testing or simple curiosity, it’s a satisfying way to confirm how cold the night really was and how your sleep system performed.

$25 at Garage Grown Gear

Pact Ultra Lite Bathroom Kit

The Pact Ultra Lite Bathroom Kit is a palm-size, 60-gram aluminum trowel with a threaded blade and built-in storage for mycelium tabs and wipes—enough for roughly three uses. Each end cap unscrews to reveal compartments (about 9 tabs/7 wipes), and it packs to ~10×3 cm, stays rattle-free when caps are snug, and has a lifetime guarantee. It’s become a favorite for overnighters and weekend outings for a couple of folks on the team.

$40 at REI

Six Moon Designs Lunar Orbiter Tent

The Lunar Orbiter impressed us with how easy it is to pitch, especially in the rain, thanks to its external-pole design. Inside, it’s spacious in both height and length for a single-wall shelter. Two doors and two vestibules add versatility, and the short pole sections make it easy to pack in a frame bag or strap to a rear rack without fuss. Overall, it handled a range of weather this summer and proved to be a highly capable, durable, bikepacking-friendly shelter.

$320 at Six Moon Designs

Lifestraw Peak Filter

We found the Peak Series to be a reliable, no-fuss filter that outlasts most of the “self-cleaning” options we’ve tested. The fully enclosed filter and backflush design keep it running clean for longer, and it packs down small when empty. The expandable bladder adds capacity when needed, and the filter threads onto popular bottles and HydraPak bladders, making it incredibly convenient. The LifeStraw has become a simple, dependable piece of gear that accompanied Neil on every trip for over a year.

$44 at REI

Alpenflow Fuel Transfer Device

The Alpenflow from Alpenglow Gear is a featherweight (under 3 grams), $12 tool that simplifies isobutane fuel transfers. Unlike threaded versions, you just press the warmer canister against the cooler one for 5–10 seconds, and you’re done, perfect for consolidating partial cans, refilling smaller ones from larger ones, and cutting waste. It works on the same warm-to-cool transfer principle as other devices but is far easier to carry and use.

$12 at Garage Grown Gear

Vargo Jet-Ti 2

Vargo’s new Jet-Ti 2 is a 56-gram titanium canister stove with three dual-point pot supports that feel solid, fold neatly, and feed a 9,000-BTU burner that’s notably quiet and offers above-average low-flame control for simmering. Its sure-footed platform, durable build, and compact packability make it a standout ultralight option for minimalist cook kits.

$50 at AMZ

S2S Frontier UL Pot Set

Miles and Emily picked up the Sea to Summit Frontier UL Pot Set earlier this year to have access to a complete cook set and larger pot to make preparing more intricate meals at camp a little easier. The collapsible design has proven to be perfect for bikepacking, making it easy to slide a voluminous 2.2L pot, two bowls, and two mugs into a frame bag or handlebar bag.

$140 at REI

7mesh Guardian Air

The 7mesh Guardian Air jacket was released this year as part of its new Guardian Collection, consisting of three waterproof garments made from the new GORE-TEX ePE fabric. The jacket is PFAS-free, amazingly lightweight, and has proven to be exceptionally durable and functional for wet days on the bike. It’s pricey, but you usually get what you pay for with 7mesh, and the Guardian Air Jacket is no exception.

$425 at 7mesh

Alpha Direct

Polartec’s Alpha Direct is a unique insulating fabric that maintains unmatched breathability by placing patented low-density fibers between air permeable woven layers. Miles and Neil have been impressed by it as an active layer while riding and as a layering piece while at camp. Stay tuned for more.

Shimano GE900 HS

When you’re in shoes all day, comfort matters on and off the bike, and that’s exactly what we found with the GE900 HS. They strike a great balance of stiffness, walkability, grip, and overall comfort, and the ankle collar does a fantastic job of keeping trail debris out—a genuinely valuable feature when trail time adds up over a bikepacking trip. They’ve held up to near-daily use for close to six months, are easy to adjust on the fly, and look the part, too.

$188 at Jenson

Curious Creatures Ramble Scramble Shorts

These quickly became some of our favorite riding shorts this season. The slim fit, 7-inch inseam, and durable, heavy-duty 4-way stretch fabric make them comfortable for long days while staying out of the way when maneuvering the bike. The drawcord waist and side pockets are thoughtful touches for a phone or snacks, and the women’s version has been equally well received. They also come in a wide range of sizes and some excellent colors.

$139 at Curious Creatures

Albion Zoa Hoodie

Somehow both insulating and breathable, the Albion Zoa hoodie provides equal parts warmth and airy comfort for shoulder season and cold-weather riding. Made of a polyester-based Primaloft material, this cycling-specific hoodie has all the features—like a wider opening for helmets and pockets for extra storage—to make it a go-to layer when things really cool down.

£125 at Albion

Fine Bikes Rigid 29er (Philly Bike Expo)

Charles Thompson of Fine Bikes is no stranger to creating some exceptional custom offerings, and his rigid mountain bike at Philly Bike Expo this past year is one such example. Built with a custom fork that features internal dynamo routing and three pack mounts, it’s a beautiful rarity in the age of carbon fiber and suspension-oriented mountain bikes. Perfect for the rolling terrain of central North Carolina, it’s a custom design indicative of Charles’ attention to detail and mastery. Find the original coverage and more photos here.

Rare Earth Holy Mountain (MADE)

Brian Hall of Rare Earth Cycle Craft had two stunning bicycles on display at the MADE bike show this year, both packed full of wildly creative details, mind-blowing finishes, and medieval aesthetics. His first full-suspension mountain bike, named Holy Mountain, was in our mind the most beautiful bike at the show. Brian machined 99 percent of the bike himself, save the pivot link, and we can’t wait to see what he dreams up next. Find the original coverage and more photos here.

Bike (Sea Otter)

Haute Bicycle Co. and Cane Creek teamed up on a custom “Sauce” gravel bike for Will Hart that was on display at Sea Otter. Haute tailored the geometry to pair perfectly with Cane Creek’s Invert fork and applied their signature refinements: hand-bent seatstays and a 3D-printed chainstay yoke. Finished in a modern homage to the 1993 Bridgestone XO-1 “Construction Pumpkin,” the build weaves in Richmond’s 804 identity and Hart’s fit and handling preferences. Find the original coverage and more photos here.

Ballern Cycleworks Full-Suspension Bike (Bespoked UK)

Bennet Janz’s award-winning full suspension mountain bike at Bespoked Manchester impressed for more than a few reasons. Beyond the impeccable design, this Ballern Cycleworks rig was the first to be produced from Bennet’s university thesis project, a full-suspension mountain bike rear triangle and mitering jig. Aside from the mechanical brilliance, the custom-painted RockShox fork and linkage design is genuinely awe-inspiring. Find the original coverage and more photos here.