In June 2026, Justin McKinley, a seasoned bikepacker from Boulder, Colorado, embarked on the grueling Tour Divide, a 2,700-mile self-supported race from Banff, Alberta, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico. This marked his third attempt at the event, and he completed it in an impressive 20 days, 13 hours, and 55 minutes. (trackleaders.com)
The Bike: Otso Fenrir Ti
For this endeavor, Justin chose the Otso Fenrir Ti, a titanium frame known for its durability and lightweight properties. The bike was equipped with a 32×18 gear ratio, ideal for the varied terrains encountered during the race. A Schmidt SON28 hub dynamo provided reliable power for lighting and charging devices, ensuring consistent performance throughout the journey. (dontcoast.com)
Cockpit Setup
Justin’s cockpit was meticulously organized to enhance comfort and accessibility. He utilized a DOOM Boner Aero Bar setup, which offered multiple hand positions and improved aerodynamics. The handlebars were complemented by a Growtac Equal Brakes system, ensuring responsive braking control. For hydration and easy access to essentials, he employed King Cage Hose Clamp Bottle Mounts, strategically placed for convenience. (dontcoast.com)
Tires and Wheels
The bike was fitted with Vittoria Mezcal 29×2.2″ tires, chosen for their balance between speed and traction. These tires were paired with WeAreOne Wanderer Rims and Industry Nine Hydra2 Hubs, providing a robust wheelset capable of handling the diverse challenges of the Tour Divide. (dontcoast.com)
Bags and Storage
Efficient storage was crucial for the self-supported nature of the race. Justin employed a combination of JPaks FramePak, Aerobar Pak, and Footlong EXT bags, offering ample space for gear while maintaining a streamlined profile. Additionally, San Util UL Panniers were utilized for carrying additional supplies, ensuring he was well-prepared for the journey ahead. (dontcoast.com)
Additional Gear Highlights
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Saddle: A Brooks C13 Saddle provided comfort over extended periods in the saddle.
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Pedals: Wolf Tooth Components Waveform Pedals offered reliable grip and durability.
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Frame Protection: Rockgeist Ultra PE Dry Bags were used for waterproofing and protecting gear from the elements.
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Navigation: A Sinewave Beacon, powered by the dynamo hub, ensured consistent lighting and device charging capabilities.
Justin’s meticulous preparation and thoughtful gear selection were instrumental in his successful completion of the 2026 Tour Divide. His experience underscores the importance of tailored equipment choices and thorough planning for tackling such demanding bikepacking challenges.
For a comprehensive look at Justin’s 2025 Tour Divide setup, you can watch the detailed breakdown below:
Justin McKinley’s 2025 Tour Divide Setup