As the 2026 Tour Divide approaches, riders are meticulously preparing their gear to tackle the challenging 2,745-mile route from Canada to Mexico. Among them is Riley Osgood, a seasoned bikepacker from Colorado, who is set to ride his Specialized Chisel HT in this year’s event.
Riley Osgood: A Brief Introduction
At 29, Riley has a diverse background that spans environmental compliance in the chemical industry and a passion for traditional craftsmanship, including wooden-spoon carving and leatherwork. His journey into bikepacking began in Ohio, where he spent his youth restoring vintage bicycles and exploring extensive riverfront bike paths. This early exposure ignited a long-standing ambition to conquer the Tour Divide.
The Specialized Chisel HT: A Purpose-Built Machine
Riley’s Specialized Chisel HT is a testament to his commitment to performance and durability. Designed with the rigors of the Tour Divide in mind, the bike features:
- Frame: 2025 Specialized Chisel HT, chosen for its optimal balance of weight and strength.
- Fork: RockShox Pike, providing 120mm of travel to absorb the varied terrain.
- Wheels: Zipp 3zero Moto rims paired with Zipp ZM2 hubs, ensuring reliability and responsiveness.
- Tires: Rene Herse Fleecer Ridge Endurance+ tires, offering a mix of speed and traction.
- Drivetrain: SRAM Eagle S200 derailleur with a 10-52 cassette, facilitating smooth gear transitions.
- Braking System: TRP Spyre-C mechanical disc brakes, known for their consistent stopping power.
- Handlebars: 46cm Ritchey Beacons, providing a comfortable grip for extended rides.
- Saddle: Brooks saddle with titanium rails, featuring a cutout design for added comfort.
- Seatpost: OneUp dropper post, controlled via a PNW trigger, allowing for quick saddle height adjustments.
For storage, Riley employs a combination of bags from Oveja Negra and Sea-To-Summit, ensuring he can carry essential gear without compromising performance.
Design Philosophy and Inspirations
Riley’s approach to building this bike was influenced by Lael Wilcox’s 2023 setup, which exemplified a harmonious blend of speed and capability. The goal was to create a machine that could efficiently navigate singletrack and rough sections while maintaining speed on smoother paths. The inclusion of a dropper post was a strategic choice, allowing for rapid saddle height adjustments to optimize comfort and aerodynamics during descents.
Personal Challenges and Preparations
Beyond the physical demands of the Tour Divide, Riley faces the added complexity of managing type 1 diabetes during the race. He utilizes a Dexcom G7 sensor and insulin pens, emphasizing the importance of meticulous planning and self-monitoring to ensure safety and performance throughout the event.
Looking Ahead
As the Tour Divide commences, Riley’s Specialized Chisel HT stands ready to face the diverse challenges of the route. With a thoughtfully assembled bike and a clear strategy, he embodies the spirit of adventure and determination that defines the bikepacking community.
For more insights into Riley’s journey and bikepacking adventures, follow him on Instagram at @rilosgood.