Friday Debrief 212: New Gear, Events, and Community Highlights
This week’s Debrief brings you the latest in bikepacking gear, events, and community stories. Here’s what’s new:
New Gear Releases
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Carradice Duxback Poncho: Designed for wet conditions, this poncho is crafted from 6oz waterproof P200 EverWax dry cotton duck fabric. It features an extended rear cut for saddle and handlebar coverage, an elasticated, helmet-compatible hood, internal waist belt, and wrist loops for stability. When not in use, it packs into a compact drawstring carry bag. Priced at £112.
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Hyperlite Pemi 15 Vest: Ideal for lightweight carrying capacity, this vest is made from welded ALUULA 97 fabric with a UHMWPE Stretch Mesh pocket. It includes a roll-top main closure, hydration bladder sleeve, multiple smaller pockets, and compression straps. Available in four sizes for a range of body types, priced at $250.
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Bedrock Sandals Rockhound Flip-Flop: Responding to customer requests, Bedrock Sandals introduces the Rockhound, featuring an adjustable strap system, 3D+ footbed, and sticky Vibram outsole. Set to launch on March 24th.
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South City Stitchworks Packable Ballcap: Made in St. Louis, Missouri, these caps are available in black and white with an embroidered SCSW logo. Priced at $30, they are designed to fit comfortably under a helmet.
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Teravail Mid South Updraft Tire: A special edition tire featuring cartoon imagery reminiscent of Oklahoma roads, available in both 700 x 45 and 50mm widths, priced at $75.
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Ornot Alpha Sweater: Part of the “Special Projects Collection,” this sweater is made from Polartec Alpha Direct active insulation, which wicks moisture, dries quickly, and retains insulating properties even when damp. Available in two colors and six sizes, priced at $148.
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Stealth Mountain Panniers: Updated with a new attachment system and two sizes (8L and 10L), these panniers feature three adjustable velcro straps and a lower adjustable strap for a secure connection. Custom sets can include an Ultra-stretch mesh front pocket. Priced at $350 NZD.
Industry Discussions
- The Fate of 32-Inch Tires: There’s ongoing debate about whether 32-inch tires will become a lasting trend or fade like 29+ tires did. Some enthusiasts believe 29+ tires offered a unique riding experience but were discontinued due to limited adoption. The question remains whether 32-inch tires will achieve widespread acceptance.
Community Highlights
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Desert Dogs: Texas Tech Adventure Media: A new docuseries shot, edited, and produced by Texas Tech students follows their bikepacking journey through Big Bend Ranch State Park. The first episode is available on their YouTube channel.
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Queer Cyclist’s Best Day Ever: A cyclist shares her experience participating in the Huracan Bikepacking Challenge in Central Florida, detailing the challenges and triumphs of the journey.
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Angry Catfish is Hiring: The Minneapolis-based bike shop is looking to fill three positions. Interested individuals can find more information on their website.
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Industry Nine Galaxy Treatment: Industry Nine’s in-house design team has created a custom one-of-a-kind Galaxy treatment featuring an impressive level of detail. More information is available on their Instagram page.
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MONDIAL Launch Party: Atelier Olympia in Montreal is launching a new house brand called Mondial and is hosting a launch party on March 18th. The event is free and open to the public.
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Dismount Bike Shop’s Custom Wilde Yo Jeffy: Dismount Bike Shop in Toronto has completed a custom Titanium Wilde Yo Jeffy, inspired by an ’80s Toyota pickup truck. The build includes a custom paint job, Fox 34 fork, and SRAM XX AXS drivetrain. More details are available on their website.
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Old Man Mountain is Hiring: Old Man Mountain is looking for a customer service specialist to handle inquiries, orders, returns, and refunds. Interested individuals can find more information on their careers page.
Upcoming Events
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DOOM 2026: The 2026 DOOM event begins today, Friday the 13th, featuring long miles, remote country, and diverse terrain. Participants will navigate singletrack, forest roads, tarmac, and rugged doubletrack in the Ouachitas.
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The Drift 100: A self-supported winter race in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming, covering approximately 100 miles. Forty riders are registered, and live tracking is available on the event page.
Route Spotlight
- The Colorado Trail: A bikepacking route through Colorado’s high country, offering stunning views and challenging terrain. Ideal for those seeking an adventure in the Rockies.
Weekly Social
- Natalie Peet’s Bikepacking Trip Through Chile: A visual journey documenting a bikepacking trip through Chile, showcasing the landscapes and experiences encountered along the way.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights in our next Debrief.