Originally Posted by
PadawanHealy
Would you recommend bikepacking with a group of other bicyclists on a tour or as a solo cyclist for my first time?
I recommend going with a good buddy who is also interested. start off with day trips, 40-60-etc. or 1-2 nighters of 30-50 miles each day. etc.
as for a bike, yeah, plenty of older used options out there like classic MTB styles. you just need to know what to look for, and that it can grow with you. 2-3 or more bottle mounts, rear rack mounts, etc. if you don't know bikes that well, it may be best to buy something made for bike backing (my salsa wanderlust rear rack won't fit on my 2018 hardtail MTB that has Boost spacing and 27.5 x 2.8 plus tires).
to save money on a new-to-you bike, buy used. or take advantage of year end sales which will be taking place soon. as 2020 models become available this fall, shops will need to get rid of 2019 models. some may still have a 2018 on the floor that would work for you.
if you're like me, then a new bike is in the picture. and you may find a Surly Bridge Club ideal. has tons of mounts, flat bars, disc brakes, steel frame and fork, fork mounts for extra bottles or storage bags, etc.
https://surlybikes.com/bikes/bridge_club
A flat bar Salsa Journeyman 700c comes in at $799.
https://salsacycles.com/bikes/journe...bar_claris_700
eric/fresno, ca.