Alissa Bell

Jan 22, 2025 | adventurecycling.org | Alissa Bell |Kyle Dunlin

Riding a bicycle on backroads and trails is actually, statistically speaking, quite safe. Still, it’s natural to feel anxious about “what ifs” when jumping into something new. The best way to cope with worry is to figure out what’s most likely to go wrong, make sure you’re prepared to deal with it, and then relax and enjoy the ride. Motor vehicles are statistically the biggest danger to most cyclists, so you can feel good about bikepacking’s focus on quiet backroads and trails.

Jan 17, 2025 | adventurecycling.org | Alissa Bell |Dan Meyer

Photo by Frederic GuyotSimply put, bikepacking is more fun when mind and body are on the same team. Many a long bike ride has begun with no training at all, and we’re not here to discourage anyone from trying if that’s your style. But there is freedom in feeling like your body is helping you cover the miles instead of complaining about them. If you’re new to cycling or haven’t ridden much lately, start by simply riding as much as possible: to the store, to work, to the park on Saturday afternoon.

Jan 10, 2025 | adventurecycling.org | Alissa Bell |Laura Killingbeck |Kyle Dunlin

Photo by Laura IrwinIf bike touring with panniers is like traveling with a big roller suitcase, bikepacking is like traveling with only a carry-on backpack. The goal is to have everything you need and also to need everything you have. Bring less stuff! Ask yourself “What would happen if I didn’t bring this?” If the answer is unremarkable, then leave it at home. Repackage consumables like toiletries, food, and chain lube into smaller containers and remove extra packaging.

Sep 17, 2024 | exploringwild.com | Alissa Bell

Ombraz armless sunglasses use a unique corded design that makes them comfier, easier to stash, harder to break, and more secure than typical sunglasses. The extra effort to put them on and take them off is a bit cumbersome for casual use, but for outdoor sports and all-day wear this tradeoff is absolutely worth it. I thought the transition from regular sunglasses might be awkward, but the attention to detail and flawless design quickly won me over.

Jul 4, 2024 | cyclingindependent.com | Alissa Bell

“When did you get into cycling?” he asked invitingly. Our wheels hummed side-by-side down a quiet rural highway somewhere in Wyoming, or maybe Nebraska, it’s all a blur. I privately hazarded a guess that this wiry and paternal gentleman had been into cycling longer than I’d been alive. The irony of the first answer that popped into my head, “I’m not actually into cycling,” didn’t escape me. My wheels were pointed at the opposite coast thousands of miles away.