I thought the BQ frowns on disc brakes - which is what makes it possible to swap out wheel sizes in a bike like this.

I should have added that I see this as a drop bar bike.
And i think the differences between your mode 1 and mode 2 would be quite noticeable in terms of handling and geometry as that's a lot less wheel in there. I dunno, though, never tried it.

Saw this "Unbeaten Path" bike on the web just now: http://www.bikerumor.com/2015/04/17/soc15-open-cycles-gets-closer-to-the-road-with-unbeaten-path-gravel-bike/ Quite a lot interesting about it, but what interests me most is the idea of a single frame that'll work in two modes, depending o...

Anyone tried this?

Maybe not bargain of the century but 34% / 25% off Genesis Fortitude Adventure frames / forks at UK Bikes Depot. The Fortitude may have been superseded by the Longitude, but it seems a popular bikepacking choice and I like mine. The fork has the three eyelets on each blade for mounting Salsa Anythin...

As flasks go, the Lifeventure Thermal Mug takes some beating. 300ml. Doesn't leak. Usually under a tenner at Mountain Warehouse, Millets etc. More: http://thebikeshow.net/cycle-touring-lifeventure-insulated-mug/ It's just too narrow for a bottle cage, but cut an old piss bottle in half and jam the f...

Very helpful replies, thanks. Thinking back to the same era as the Phreebooter, the Saunders Spacepacker was another favourite, though I never had one myself. Single pole - though a long one - helps keep weight down. And it gives me excuse to post another classic tent ad! And made in Chigwell, bring...

As enjoyed the windy night of the Ford Fiesta under my tiny tarp I was somewhat envious of John Russell, pitched next door to me, in his Alpkit tent, just the outer with a pole and a half seemed to weight not much more than large tarp with its poles. I gather they were a bunch of tents that Alpkit m...

Another first timer on a bikepacking 'event'. Thanks all round, especially to Stu and Dee. Great concept and organisation, very friendly and supportive crowd. All very memorable, especially the sensational bivvy in the grove of trees beneath Pumlumon Fach, thanks to whoever it was at the George Borr...

For an atmospheric bivvy spot try the ruined village of Runston. All that's left standing is the chapel. Couple of miles west of Chepstow on some lovely lanes. Access via footpath from the lane on the northern side.

ST 495 914

I'm planning on driving up to the FF from Abergavenny. If anyone needs a ride from the area, or wants to carpool to save the planet, let me know. Flexible on time, was thinking early Saturday morning but could be arm-twisted into a Friday night escapade if you have a plan. Return Sunday pm, possibly...