Trekking bikes are designed to carry a cyclist’s essentials and can be made from various materials. Pannier racks are common, and some models have suspension. Off-road bikes have 26-inch wheels, while road bikes have 700c wheels. Trailers can also be used to carry gear.
Trekking bikes are built to support the weight of a cyclist and their essentials for life, such as food, water, sleeping bag, tent, etc. Such trekking bikes can be built from a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, titanium, and even carbon fiber. Bike sizes will also vary depending on the size of the rider and the type of hike being done. Some trekking bikes are made specifically for riding on paved roads, while others are designed exclusively for off-road riding; Some models try to accommodate both on-road and off-road.
Almost all trekking bikes will have accommodations for pannier racks, which are metal racks that mount to the frame of the bike. Pannier bags can be attached to these racks for storage of essentials. Such racks can be mounted to both the front and rear of the bike, optimizing the amount of gear the bike can handle. To accommodate said weight, trekking bike frames tend to be made of thicker metal gauges that can handle the extra weight. Metals like aluminum can be used for thicker frames without adding too much weight, although ride quality may suffer.
Trekking bikes made for off-road use feature wheels that measure to an international industry standard of 26 inches; Some newer models have 29-inch wheels. Bikes intended for road riding typically feature industry standard 700c wheels, which are larger but often narrower than off-road wheels and tires. These narrower wheels offer less rolling resistance than mountain bike wheels, although they are generally slightly wider and stronger than road racing wheels. Mountain bike wheels are smaller and wider, allowing wider tires with more tread for traction in off-road conditions.
Most trekking bikes do not feature suspension forks or rear suspension, as the added weight of the equipment mounted on the bike would make the suspension much less useful. Some models feature moderate suspension, such as suspension seatposts, which can make for a more comfortable ride, especially on uneven terrain.
One option for bike trekking that doesn’t involve attaching panniers or other gear to the bike itself, involves the use of a heavy-duty trailer that attaches to the rear axle of the bike. Gear, food, and water can be stored in the trailer, which is towed behind the bike, rather than on the bike itself. This method is a good option for anyone interested in how the bike will handle with too much extra weight; the trailer keeps the weight off the bike, thus improving the handling capabilities of the bike.
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