Electric bikepacking: lessons learned over four days and 250 miles

Electric bikepacking is explored over four days and 250 miles by a tech journalist testing the Specialized Turbo Creo 2 Comp e-bike. The experience covered various terrains and included carrying 50 pounds of gear. Charging options were surprisingly abundant along the route in the Netherlands, with campsites offering free e-bike charging facilities. The journalist highlighted the bike's features, such as its lightweight design, multiple attachment points for gear, and smart battery control. The Creo 2 Comp's battery expansion capability with range extenders was noted, although charging logistics were challenging due to the integrated main battery. Planning the trip involved using Komoot Premium for route mapping and weather forecasts. The journalist also shared insights on gear choices, including a Gorewear jacket for weather protection. The article emphasized how e-bikes are making cycling more accessible, especially in Europe where e-bike adoption is high. Overall, the journalist appreciated the e-bike's capabilities but remained unconvinced, acknowledging the potential for e-bikes to broaden participation in cycling sports.