Here at the Bikepackist, we are fans of all types of bikes. A question we often get asked by our amazing readers is, “What about classic bikes for bikepacking?” This is an amazing question, and as someone who uses classic bikes for bikepacking, I couldn’t resist answering it.

In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know about classic bikes for bikepacking, including why you might want to use them, why you might avoid them, and even what you can do to upgrade classic bikes. 

What Is A Classic Bike?

Bikes have been around for a long time, and technology has advanced greatly with advancements such as electronic gearing, stem suspension, and carbon fiber wheels. 

A classic bike was before this technology. Anything before around 1980 – 1990 is what I would personally consider classic. I am a huge fan of these types of bikes, and even though I have many carbon fiber beasts at home, I often choose classic bikes over these. 

A good example of a classic bike is this retro Raleigh below. It’s got everything from downtube shifters to classic rim brakes, steel wheels, and even that thin steel tubing. I actually picked this one up from a recycling center for £10 (around $12).

The Pros And Cons Of A Classic Bike For Bikepacking

It’s important to understand what makes classic bikes amazing and what makes them awful to fully understand them for bikepacking.

Advantages

There are a lot of advantages when it comes to using a classic bike for bikepacking. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to advantages. 

Durability

Classic bikes are incredibly durable, and because they are typically made of steel, they tend not to break easily. If they do, you don’t typically get a break but a bend, which is pretty easy to fix.

Cost

Classic bikes are incredibly cheap. Instead of buying a modern bike for $1500 or more, you can pick one up for as little as around $50.

Repairability

Classic bikes for bikepacking are incredibly easy to repair. They typically use bearings that just need servicing every so often, and unlike modern bikes, which use sealed bearings, you can take these apart and grease them before putting them back together. You don’t often rely on new parts with old bikes.

Classic Aesthetic

Classic bikes look fantastic and have a unique finish. They turn heads and are really unique compared to what is on the modern market. I currently have a few classic bikes and think they look mint!

Simple And Customizable

Classic bikes are super simple. The parts are easy to use, and when it comes to riding and making adjustments, there’s nothing difficult to work with. You will also find them incredibly customizable with parts and looks.

Relaxed Geometry

Many classic bikes had very relaxed geometry, which means they had some great, relaxed riding positions. Comfort is the most important thing when it comes to big miles, and older bikes excelled in this department.

Disadvantages

Then we have the disadvantages, which are typically what put a lot of people off. These soon get you thinking about what we take for granted on modern bikes. 

Heavy

Classic bikes and components are generally very heavy. This can make the work much harder and slow you down. If you’re not in a rush, who cares? If you are, it might be an issue.

Brakes

Classic bikes have rim brakes, and compared to disc brakes, they are awful. Not only is the mechanism terrible, but in poor weather conditions, they do not inspire confidence in many riders, especially the old technology.

Limited Tire Clearance

Older road and touring bikes generally have much less tire clearance. This means you will need to run tires, which might not offer the comfort you want or allow you to go on the trails you want.

High Gearing

Classic bikes are often geared very high, which can make climbing up bigger hills challenging. They were often suited to people who wanted to race, and this can make the work tough, and lower cadences are common.

Already Used

Finally, we have already used. Classic bikes have been around a long time, and whatever you buy will probably need one heck of a service. They are generally very used and need attention before even the first trip you go on.

Should You Use A Classic Bike For Bikepacking?

Using a classic bike for bikepacking is a great idea. Not only does it keep the cost down, but it adds another element of fun and nostalgia to a journey. The only recommendation we would make is to try not to go anywhere technical if the bike doesn’t have the ability to go there. 

In a perfect world, the best way to enjoy classic bikepacking is to make a few upgrades to ensure a better experience. Although it might cost a little more money, you will get a lot back for it.

Upgrading A Classic Bike For Bikepacking

When it comes to using a classic bike for bikepacking for the best experience, you can make some amazing upgrades to make it a completely new bike. Here’s what I have done to a classic bike, which I use for bikepacking. 

Modern Wheels

The first upgrade I can recommend is modern wheels. Changing to modern wheels increases reliability, improves performance, and makes the bikes look much cooler. It’s not the easiest upgrade, as it typically requires slightly bending out the stays, but it can be done.

Modern Gearing

You can easily link this up with modern gearing if you are going to modern wheels. It doesn’t have to be anything flashing, but with the change of a groupset, you can get nice low gearing for any occasion.

Modern Brakes

Although converting a classic bike to modern disc brakes is very difficult, modern rim brakes can easily improve performance. These not only work better but can also be paired with performance pads.

A Final Note: Classic Bikes For Bikepacking

Using a classic bike for bikepacking is a fantastic idea. It gives you a feel for the roots of cycling history, and it’s cheap, cheerful, and fun to do. We highly recommend it and feel that for many bikepackers, it is an unforgettable experience.

If you enjoyed this article, you might like 20 Top Tips For Beginner Bikepackers, Bikepacking Injuries, and Best Bikepacking Kit Upgrades!