I thought to myself, "I'm sitting here watching a guy change his bike tires on TV." But then I remembered, this isn't just any guy, it's Mat Ryder. Loved this vid!
Hi Mat, looking forward to following your adventure on the TA. I completed the TA 2024, took me just over a year to research and prep for the ride, and completed it in 28 days. Your kit looks great as this is not your first rodeo. Water is a plenty in NZ with exception for 90 Mile beach which was the only time I carried 4 bottles but after that only needed two full at any one time. You'll need your filter at the DOC camp sites and for the odd stream top up. There are only a few tough days/tracks to tend with but you just get on and do them. Rear bags, panniers and front bags all have to be removed for the Kaipara and Jet boat crossings and panniers will be a PIA for the trail approaching The Bridge to Nowhere. We have these trail bollards that are wide enough for a bike only, but not panniers throughout the trails. Stores are a plenty, great cafe and gas station coffee/food everywhere. Local pubs are great to say in for a meal and beer at the end of the day. The north Island is hot, undulating and all back country roads. South Island is beautiful but starting to get colder the further down the country you get so you'll need the gloves and rain pants. Please make sure that all your kit is spotless when entering NZ otherwise immigration will go nuts. $$'s. Looking forward to following you adventure. Best of luck. Richard
Pay particular attention to the Velcro, the bio guys are looking for in particular for seeds caught up in Velcro straps, the bike needs to be spotless, rag it down with Dettol and throw the rag in the bag, the smell reassures them that the bike is clean 👍 Also, good luck with the trip, I rode the TA in 2018 and had a real mixed bag of weather and poor luck with giardia through drinking contaminated water, pay attention to that Am currently in the north island and the weather has been incredible, 36c one day, 8c the next, the Kiwis are confused 😂😂
The gears the bags and engineering the packs is my favorite part, I am definitely a gear nerd also. Looks great, like a mini apartment (loft) on wheels. Have a great time .
We have hydraulic pumps in our lab. Whenever we have to change the oil, we drain the old out, put some new in, rinse the mechanism, drain it again and finally fill up with the new oil... just an idea.
One very minor, nitpicky thing is most mtb'ers line up the valve with tire logo. It makes it a little easier to find the valve stem, and it looks more "Pro". Lol. I hope you don't loose any sleep over that one. And a bit of random advice regarding tire sealant, is don't mix the "Orange Seal" or some of the other ones with either "Stans" or "Joes", as you'll get a weird chemical reaction from the concoction that may affect its performance. Basically, don't mix sealants, but I'm fairly certain that Stans and Joes (both ammonia based) are similar enough that nothing weird happens if you do end up mixing those in a trailside repair/refill situation. Looking forward to following along on this upcoming adventure.
Too late for the valve logo alignment. Maybe next time. It makes perfect sense. I hadn't considered the sealant mixing issue. Looks like I was lucky this time but I appreciate the information. Cheers.
I'm looking forward to following this advenure. Kit suggestion as I didn't hear it mentioned - Tyre boot kit for larger slashes in tyre wall etc. If you have to resort to inner tubes they will save the tube protuding
Hi Matt. I have a Sonder and the wheels are excellent but from experience I'd say get the hub and freehub bearings checked before the trip. They cost a few quid but a fresh new set will give peace of mind and won't give you any issues.
30psi is too high for a 2.6 tyre Matt. When you find you are pinging off routes and rocks, drop the pressures. You’ll get far more grip and comfort with lower pressures.
Hi Matt we have two Sonder Broken Roads with Pinion as well. We opted for the same tyre as you but upgraded the rims to DT Swiss FR541. The rear tyre is quite a close fit on the frame. My only suggestion on spares is a gas tyre inflator. You won't be able to re seat a tubeless tyre with your small hand pump. And perhaps a spare M5x40 Bolt and nut in case your dropout tensioner bolt works loose and is lost.
I did the TA in 2018. No doubt you have done your research but for what its worth heres some feedback. I did it on a budget and spent about $2,500 NZD in total. This was because I used camp grounds which are around $20 for a tent site for one person. I rarely ate in cafes or restaurants. Most food was bought from supermarkets. NZ camp grounds other than the very basic Department of Conservation (DOC) ones generally all have not only shower and toilet facilities but also communal kitchen and often a lounge/tv room. This is great to have if its raining and also means you can cook your own meals Many people were happy to spend the money and stay in Motels and have frequent cafe stops and so on. Motels tend to be at least $150 and a cafe meal $25 or more so doing it this way rapidly adds up. It is also problematic if you have booked in advance and then have to reschedule due to unforseen events A chunk of the total cost was actually in getting to the start (flight to Auckland from New Plymouth and then a charter bus to the start Then there was the boat from Poutou Point to Henderson. The Ferry from Wellington to Picton, boat from Queenstown to Walter Peak and the flight back from Invercargill I took 25 days including 1 1/2 rest days ( had family to stay with in Auckland and Wellington) You dont really have to worry about taking photos at the checkpoints or completing it within 30days or even following the route exactly. I am not a mountainbiker so I elected to take the road in a few sections - namely Apiti to Ashurst - road was very quiet anyway and from Reefton to Greymouth. The Big River track is very technical. One guy I rode with said he fell off 5 times on the track. The road was quiet for me but I think I read now there is a lot of coal trucks using the road so best to check Not much accommodation in Featherston. You could consider not stopping there and biking on to the summit of the Rumutaka Track. There is a shelter there and toilet. Should be ok to freedom camp there - some did. Queenstown limited camping and expensive accommodation. I stayed at the camp ground in Arrowtown instead and biked to Queenstown in the morning to catch the TSS Earnslaw Sandflys bad on the West Coast of the South Island - take repellant
The look when the first tire just beaded right up was precious. I have been using the syringe from the Sawyer water filters for sealant. I also use marine grease on the valve cores to keep them from gumming up with sealant. 😊.
You could add to your first aid kit: some decent micropore tape....not quite as intensely sticky as the Leukotape (which is still worth keeping as it's amazing for blisters). Also, some "trauma shears".....decent ones for only a few quid....which can be used to quickly cut clothing, e.g. if you or someone else broke an arm or leg, but also can easily cut clothing to improvise bandages. Also, consider a trauma dressing. My obsessive research led me to this, because of solo adventuring - if had a nasty break to a bone or similar that caused heavy bleeding, a trauma dressing is designed to quickly deal with that situation. Also, maybe include strong painkillers, such as co-codamol (but take care crossing borders with them, as importing opiates can be a jailworthy offence in some places).
The weather to date in NZ has been very mixed especially in the South Island with some very heavy rain and cold temperatures, meanwhile the temperatures in the North have included some very hot days 26c + with, some very strong winds and heavy showers in between. They say you can get 4 seasons in one day in NZ so make sure you are prepared clothes wise! On the upside the exchange rate is pretty good at just over $2 to the £ but most things quite expensive compared to the UK. I burnt the back of my hands quite badly doing the Lake Taupo Challenge, i just forgot to put sunblock on the back of my hands and burnt badly. There is hardly any ozone in NZ so the sun can be very fierce and you will quickly burn even when it is over cast. I would recommend factor 30 at least for the hands and face, factor 50 is not an overreaction. I would also get some anti histamines for the sandflies when they bite and they will! Someone else mentioned to get something to use if you split a tyre wall, i carry an old piece of tyre wall that i cut into a length and taped to my top tube so i could insert to protect a tube if i split a tyre wall on a rock or tree root.
It is adviced not to put sealant throu the valve because it can get clogged, but i have done it for years like that, no probs! One thing i'll do is take the valve core off after 12 hours and clean it. Put the core back and refill the tire. I have used Stans sealant on my bikes, works just fine.
Hi Mat cannot wait for you setting off on your adventure. Glad you did a test ride and found several issues. First time I have seen a Tim Horton over here as well & I thought they were unique to Canada. Re tensioning the belt several of my mates own Harleys and they have a small tool that they place under the belt to get the correct tension so I don't know whether you could devise something the same for your belt. Just a thought . Ted
Do you have a thin thermal baselayer? It's summer down there, but temps can get down to 15-18C with rain all day. A merino or hollow fiber/tech baselayer could keep you much warmer than just the sun shirt, even wet. That will really come into play as you get to the west coast of the south island. The southern alps mean it rains like mad on the west coast while there's a rain shadow in the other side and a mini desert. On most TA rides you see at least one day of rain as they're coming down the west coast, so I'd be preparing for couple of long cool-cold days of rain. I'd also be packing long chamois tights for under those shorts, or another exercise/running type pair, other than the ones you have there, if you don't wear chamois pants. Having a dry pair to change into and a dry sports t-shirt at the end of a long wet day may really help at some stage, for the mental boost as much as anything, and the summer weight long cycling tights really won't add much weight.
Everytime I watch your videos the wanderlust sets in. I cannot wait for my bikepacking trip across ohio once the weather gets nicer. I fear it may set me on a path of never wanting to stop though haha.
Also had trouble finding campsite in Hokitika - turns out GPS not up to date. Not sure if that has changed. Cowboy Paradise dont allow tents and rooms limited so probably best to carry on through to Hokitika. There is backpackers in Hokitika
I believe that helmets have a ‘best before date’ and are stamped as such. If you have yours for ‘ages’ might be worth giving it a good close look over for any degrading etc. Have a great trip.
Ooh, I'm excited about you coming to NZ! The wx here this summer has been absolute rubbish, but can only improve. Grum and I met you when we road the GDMBR last year, at Colter Bay. Swing by Hanmer Springs, or reach out if you need any help/info. Ju & Grum.
About your inside passage plan; your country adventurist Sarah outen did a world trip by canoe, rowingboat and bicycle did have a massive experience with what you’re planning. Maybe you can ask her for some advise? I will (again) follow you on your New Zealand trip, on your (like mine bought after your review!) sonder broken road! Great video! Thank you!
Hey Bert, I used to run a rando bag up front on my MTB bikepacker , liked the convenience but the rattling about did my head in! and it had to go............. Have a great trip, i'm well envious and look forward to following along. Take care. E
For securing your bags in the spots where it needs extra structure for the zippers ... can I suggest some accessory cord (very strong, thin, and light) and using Arbor knots instead of shockcord? You'll get a much firmer tie down. Use the pliers to ratchet the arbor knot down as tight as you want, seal it with another overhand knot, and it won't ever lose tension.
Mat thank you for sharing. Would you have a list you can post here, or a website with a list, of all the gear you're taking - bike model, bike components, bags, etc.? Love to see it and learn from it as I put together my kit for a longer trip.
When I lived in NZ I wanted to bike the "42 Traverse" near the Tongariro National Park. I never did it in the end 😕 I've done the top to bottom in a car, doing it by bike will be an impressive achievement ❤ I climbed Mt Doom (Mt Ngauruhoe), its now slightly frowned upon 😔 but there's plenty to see and it's a fab place so I hope you get plenty of non-riding adventures too.
You may have broken rule #40: Tires are to be mounted with the label centered over the valve stem. But all joking aside, really looking forward to following you along the TA !
Hi Matt, tyre size is perfect, 2.6 Mezcals are the business and 2.6 gives you lots of comfort. You can reuse that sealant. thats Stans Sealant. tape the whole rim.
Excellent video Mat, looks like you have most things covered, you mentioned your spare cycle Belt, if you had to use it are you able to buy another out there ? Have a great time, stay safe, i look forward to seeing you linking up with other cyclists, and learning what life is like out there, thanks for sharing Mat 👍 👏👋
Matt that is no where enough sealant for 2.6inch tyres. That small eylet at the end of the bags you’re putting cord through is by design to help you close it one hand. I have few bags from different manufactures despite having straps till the end. They suffer the same issue until I did what you did. If I’m going my remote I carry used toothpaste tube cut open into a square, (Parktool patches failed) industrial needles, usually a straight and a hooked one, industrial strength thread, rubber glue in case I get a cut on the sidewall
I'll add some more. I can't see a downside to doing that. How much would you recommend. I put 4 Oz in each. I did exactly what you did with the toothpaste tube. Cheers.
@ ahh that’s 120ml the recommended amount for a 2.2 inch tyre. I’d double it does mean a bit more weight in the tyres so moving off needs a bit more effort. On new tyres most of the liquid gets absorbed compared to older tyres which have had sealant in them
Hi Mat, thank you for the informative prep video. what is the make and model of the front rack you were proposing to use. I am looking for a side disc pannier rack.Thank you, Rob
Hi Matt. I fly tomorrow 8th to Auckland, gotva warm host night on the 10th and then will head north hopefully by bus. Your not far behind me, I've just packed up and getting excited now. . I hope we can hook up 👍
I always put sealant in through the valve stem. seems much easier to me and i've not yet had a problem (using orangeseal), and as you said, top-offs tend to be done that way anyway. maybe it depends on the makeup of the sealant, some might be more prone to clogging the valve?
I wonder whether the app is struggling to estimate a consistent frequency because not enough time is left between plucks. Maybe the chainstays are resonating more loudly and at a different frequency than the belt does after one or two seconds, and when you pluck again quickly the app might assume that the initial sounds are belt only. Or it might be that the app is crap. Or you could try holding your hand on the frame to suppress its resonance, while you pluck the belt.
Good video young sir. I know the app for the rear wheel tuning isn't great. But it'll save you tons of issues. Ryan Duzer had some real issues with not having it tight enough. Really looking forward to seeing how this trip is for you. It's been great watching your development and subsequent enjoyment of riding bikes. New Zealand, well I've never been. But I have fuck loads of good mates from there. If you need anything whilst you're there. Send me a message. I'm going to reach out to friends now and see who I can put you in touch with!!
Did you pack a coffee filter? I didn’t spot you putting the aeropress in- bit bulky in would think- but a reusable filter perhaps? Good coffee is essential - not a luxury😂
Why two tubolites, when you need them it is, just for a failing tubeless system. Two of those, will be extremely unlikely. Even though they are very light, it might be overkill…
I’m sorry if you’ve mentioned this before but could you tell me if your handle bars are the ‘Velo Orange Crazy Bars’? If not what are they? Please thank you
Mat, just to let you know, trying to decide whatever you want is not the domain of dictators, but demented schizophrenic dictators. Also, it's pronounced Taaaaaaaco bell, not Taccccco bell. Cheers, and another great insight into the mind of Britain's greatest traveler.
I thought to myself, "I'm sitting here watching a guy change his bike tires on TV." But then I remembered, this isn't just any guy, it's Mat Ryder.
Loved this vid!
🤣🤣 I'd watch you do this too.
@@matryderadventures lol we are geeks!
Got to admit, I did bleep through the bike tire stuff a bit : )
@@julietfitzpatrick6420 go back and watch... It's worth it.
Hi Mat, looking forward to following your adventure on the TA. I completed the TA 2024, took me just over a year to research and prep for the ride, and completed it in 28 days. Your kit looks great as this is not your first rodeo. Water is a plenty in NZ with exception for 90 Mile beach which was the only time I carried 4 bottles but after that only needed two full at any one time. You'll need your filter at the DOC camp sites and for the odd stream top up. There are only a few tough days/tracks to tend with but you just get on and do them. Rear bags, panniers and front bags all have to be removed for the Kaipara and Jet boat crossings and panniers will be a PIA for the trail approaching The Bridge to Nowhere. We have these trail bollards that are wide enough for a bike only, but not panniers throughout the trails. Stores are a plenty, great cafe and gas station coffee/food everywhere. Local pubs are great to say in for a meal and beer at the end of the day. The north Island is hot, undulating and all back country roads. South Island is beautiful but starting to get colder the further down the country you get so you'll need the gloves and rain pants. Please make sure that all your kit is spotless when entering NZ otherwise immigration will go nuts. $$'s. Looking forward to following you adventure. Best of luck. Richard
watching this at the end of a day of work. makes me absolutely think of resigning tomorrow and coming along on your adventure.
DO IT!!!
🤣🤣 It's always an option. I'd love to see you out there.
Pay particular attention to the Velcro, the bio guys are looking for in particular for seeds caught up in Velcro straps, the bike needs to be spotless, rag it down with Dettol and throw the rag in the bag, the smell reassures them that the bike is clean 👍
Also, good luck with the trip, I rode the TA in 2018 and had a real mixed bag of weather and poor luck with giardia through drinking contaminated water, pay attention to that
Am currently in the north island and the weather has been incredible, 36c one day, 8c the next, the Kiwis are confused 😂😂
Thanks for the tip. Giardia...I don't want that!!! Cheers.
Really can't wait for the Aotearoa. This is going to be an EPPIC adventure
Definitely go with the insulated water bottle. It is awesome to have ice cold water later in the day on a long hot ride. Love the front bag and rack.
The gears the bags and engineering the packs is my favorite part, I am definitely a gear nerd also. Looks great, like a mini apartment (loft) on wheels. Have a great time .
We have hydraulic pumps in our lab. Whenever we have to change the oil, we drain the old out, put some new in, rinse the mechanism, drain it again and finally fill up with the new oil... just an idea.
One very minor, nitpicky thing is most mtb'ers line up the valve with tire logo. It makes it a little easier to find the valve stem, and it looks more "Pro". Lol. I hope you don't loose any sleep over that one. And a bit of random advice regarding tire sealant, is don't mix the "Orange Seal" or some of the other ones with either "Stans" or "Joes", as you'll get a weird chemical reaction from the concoction that may affect its performance. Basically, don't mix sealants, but I'm fairly certain that Stans and Joes (both ammonia based) are similar enough that nothing weird happens if you do end up mixing those in a trailside repair/refill situation. Looking forward to following along on this upcoming adventure.
Too late for the valve logo alignment. Maybe next time. It makes perfect sense. I hadn't considered the sealant mixing issue. Looks like I was lucky this time but I appreciate the information. Cheers.
Loved this video Mat! I enjoy the planning and prep also. It is certainly time well spent. Can't wait to see you on the trail in NZ!
I'm looking forward to following this advenure. Kit suggestion as I didn't hear it mentioned - Tyre boot kit for larger slashes in tyre wall etc. If you have to resort to inner tubes they will save the tube protuding
I enjoyed the insight to your packing and gear choices, relaxing really. Excited for your next adventure. Happy New Year, be safe, have fun ✌🏻🤍🌟
👍👍
Those are some beautiful, MONSTER tires ;-)
The tubeless tire preparation and pinion system operation was all new to me. Useful, thanks.
Hi Matt. I have a Sonder and the wheels are excellent but from experience I'd say get the hub and freehub bearings checked before the trip. They cost a few quid but a fresh new set will give peace of mind and won't give you any issues.
I've left it a bit late. Hopefully they'll be ok. I'll get them checked when I'm out there if I get chance. Cheers.
Remember Mat: Sandfly protection!
Can't wait for this trip footage! Good luck!
Mezcals are a great choice for mixed surfaces.
Make sure your bike, tires and bags are very clean. New Zealand has very strict biosecurity rules.
Also how do you find doing these bikes trips with glasses? I wear glasses myself.
Yep. They emptied our tent in a clean room to ensure no contamination.
I had to steam clean my bike to send it from UK to Cyprus. Got a cheap cleaner off amazon, did a good job.
30psi is too high for a 2.6 tyre Matt. When you find you are pinging off routes and rocks, drop the pressures. You’ll get far more grip and comfort with lower pressures.
Hi Matt we have two Sonder Broken Roads with Pinion as well. We opted for the same tyre as you but upgraded the rims to DT Swiss FR541. The rear tyre is quite a close fit on the frame. My only suggestion on spares is a gas tyre inflator. You won't be able to re seat a tubeless tyre with your small hand pump. And perhaps a spare M5x40 Bolt and nut in case your dropout tensioner bolt works loose and is lost.
Great suggestions. Thanks. I'll try to pick up a CO2 cannister once I'm out there. I'll also check out those wheels. Cheers.
Day one of the TA is awesome. You ll love 80km of the beach. Look forward to meeting you at the start. Best wishes for your travel.
👍 see you out there.
Mat, love your videos. Sing out when you get to the lower North Island if you’re keen on any company along the way!
I do love the look of the grey side wall of those tyres with the titanium frame!
Thanks!
Awesome. I really appreciate this. Thanks for the support 👍👍👍
All best wishes for good travels and happy trails!
"The bead is on"... All we could hear was Glenn Frey singing.
Can not wait for this adventure! Really hoping it goes well and will be watching along! Be safe out there.
“Confession Walks with Mat Ryder “... interesting dynamic. 😊
I did the TA in 2018. No doubt you have done your research but for what its worth heres some feedback. I did it on a budget and spent about $2,500 NZD in total. This was because I used camp grounds which are around $20 for a tent site for one person. I rarely ate in cafes or restaurants. Most food was bought from supermarkets. NZ camp grounds other than the very basic Department of Conservation (DOC) ones generally all have not only shower and toilet facilities but also communal kitchen and often a lounge/tv room. This is great to have if its raining and also means you can cook your own meals
Many people were happy to spend the money and stay in Motels and have frequent cafe stops and so on. Motels tend to be at least $150 and a cafe meal $25 or more so doing it this way rapidly adds up. It is also problematic if you have booked in advance and then have to reschedule due to unforseen events
A chunk of the total cost was actually in getting to the start (flight to Auckland from New Plymouth and then a charter bus to the start Then there was the boat from Poutou Point to Henderson. The Ferry from Wellington to Picton, boat from Queenstown to Walter Peak and the flight back from Invercargill
I took 25 days including 1 1/2 rest days ( had family to stay with in Auckland and Wellington)
You dont really have to worry about taking photos at the checkpoints or completing it within 30days or even following the route exactly. I am not a mountainbiker so I elected to take the road in a few sections - namely Apiti to Ashurst - road was very quiet anyway and from Reefton to Greymouth. The Big River track is very technical. One guy I rode with said he fell off 5 times on the track. The road was quiet for me but I think I read now there is a lot of coal trucks using the road so best to check
Not much accommodation in Featherston. You could consider not stopping there and biking on to the summit of the Rumutaka Track. There is a shelter there and toilet. Should be ok to freedom camp there - some did.
Queenstown limited camping and expensive accommodation. I stayed at the camp ground in Arrowtown instead and biked to Queenstown in the morning to catch the TSS Earnslaw
Sandflys bad on the West Coast of the South Island - take repellant
I put my gates belt under the seat between seat and seat rails and zip tie in place
The look when the first tire just beaded right up was precious. I have been using the syringe from the Sawyer water filters for sealant. I also use marine grease on the valve cores to keep them from gumming up with sealant. 😊.
Good luck Mstt, getting excited now ? A bit of left over Xmas cake is a must this time of year 😀.
You could add to your first aid kit: some decent micropore tape....not quite as intensely sticky as the Leukotape (which is still worth keeping as it's amazing for blisters). Also, some "trauma shears".....decent ones for only a few quid....which can be used to quickly cut clothing, e.g. if you or someone else broke an arm or leg, but also can easily cut clothing to improvise bandages. Also, consider a trauma dressing. My obsessive research led me to this, because of solo adventuring - if had a nasty break to a bone or similar that caused heavy bleeding, a trauma dressing is designed to quickly deal with that situation. Also, maybe include strong painkillers, such as co-codamol (but take care crossing borders with them, as importing opiates can be a jailworthy offence in some places).
All great advice. Thanks. I'll look into your suggestions. My first aid kit is a bit too simple.
Don't like wishing my life away but I am very much looking forward to the NZ films 😀Have a safe flight
Excellent video thanks for sharing
The weather to date in NZ has been very mixed especially in the South Island with some very heavy rain and cold temperatures, meanwhile the temperatures in the North have included some very hot days 26c + with, some very strong winds and heavy showers in between. They say you can get 4 seasons in one day in NZ so make sure you are prepared clothes wise! On the upside the exchange rate is pretty good at just over $2 to the £ but most things quite expensive compared to the UK. I burnt the back of my hands quite badly doing the Lake Taupo Challenge, i just forgot to put sunblock on the back of my hands and burnt badly. There is hardly any ozone in NZ so the sun can be very fierce and you will quickly burn even when it is over cast. I would recommend factor 30 at least for the hands and face, factor 50 is not an overreaction. I would also get some anti histamines for the sandflies when they bite and they will! Someone else mentioned to get something to use if you split a tyre wall, i carry an old piece of tyre wall that i cut into a length and taped to my top tube so i could insert to protect a tube if i split a tyre wall on a rock or tree root.
It is adviced not to put sealant throu the valve because it can get clogged, but i have done it for years like that, no probs! One thing i'll do is take the valve core off after 12 hours and clean it. Put the core back and refill the tire.
I have used Stans sealant on my bikes, works just fine.
Hi Mat cannot wait for you setting off on your adventure. Glad you did a test ride and found several issues. First time I have seen a Tim Horton over here as well & I thought they were unique to Canada. Re tensioning the belt several of my mates own Harleys and they have a small tool that they place under the belt to get the correct tension so I don't know whether you could devise something the same for your belt. Just a thought . Ted
Do you have a thin thermal baselayer? It's summer down there, but temps can get down to 15-18C with rain all day. A merino or hollow fiber/tech baselayer could keep you much warmer than just the sun shirt, even wet. That will really come into play as you get to the west coast of the south island. The southern alps mean it rains like mad on the west coast while there's a rain shadow in the other side and a mini desert. On most TA rides you see at least one day of rain as they're coming down the west coast, so I'd be preparing for couple of long cool-cold days of rain. I'd also be packing long chamois tights for under those shorts, or another exercise/running type pair, other than the ones you have there, if you don't wear chamois pants. Having a dry pair to change into and a dry sports t-shirt at the end of a long wet day may really help at some stage, for the mental boost as much as anything, and the summer weight long cycling tights really won't add much weight.
Great information. Thanks. I'll probably grab another pair of tights. Cheers.
Looking forward to it 😊
I looked it up... phonetically it is 'awe tee uh row uh' I doubt i will ever get it right. Have a great flight!
Looking forward to following along! A spoke tool is good to have. And notes to remember how to use it!
@@John-cf4iv might be one on the multi tool
There is one on the Crank Brothers M20 👍👍
Everytime I watch your videos the wanderlust sets in. I cannot wait for my bikepacking trip across ohio once the weather gets nicer. I fear it may set me on a path of never wanting to stop though haha.
2.6 very comfortable size
Also had trouble finding campsite in Hokitika - turns out GPS not up to date. Not sure if that has changed. Cowboy Paradise dont allow tents and rooms limited so probably best to carry on through to Hokitika. There is backpackers in Hokitika
I believe that helmets have a ‘best before date’ and are stamped as such. If you have yours for ‘ages’ might be worth giving it a good close look over for any degrading etc. Have a great trip.
Ooh, I'm excited about you coming to NZ! The wx here this summer has been absolute rubbish, but can only improve. Grum and I met you when we road the GDMBR last year, at Colter Bay. Swing by Hanmer Springs, or reach out if you need any help/info. Ju & Grum.
The only thing you forgot was to have a "beeeir" while filming for us.🙂 Have a great trip!
excellent comment
I'll be back on the beeeeir as soon as I get to NZ 🤣🤣 cheers.
About your inside passage plan; your country adventurist Sarah outen did a world trip by canoe, rowingboat and bicycle did have a massive experience with what you’re planning. Maybe you can ask her for some advise? I will (again) follow you on your New Zealand trip, on your (like mine bought after your review!) sonder broken road! Great video! Thank you!
I'll look her up. Thanks for letting me know. Thanks for following along. How do you like the bike?
Looks like there is a new Hokitika Holiday Park with tents sites as well as cabins etc a little bit out of town
Sorry about the lost footage! Just be happy it wasn't from a big trip at the very least!
V interesting Mat. 👍🏼
Hey Bert, I used to run a rando bag up front on my MTB bikepacker , liked the convenience but the rattling about did my head in! and it had to go.............
Have a great trip, i'm well envious and look forward to following along.
Take care. E
For securing your bags in the spots where it needs extra structure for the zippers ... can I suggest some accessory cord (very strong, thin, and light) and using Arbor knots instead of shockcord? You'll get a much firmer tie down. Use the pliers to ratchet the arbor knot down as tight as you want, seal it with another overhand knot, and it won't ever lose tension.
Mat thank you for sharing. Would you have a list you can post here, or a website with a list, of all the gear you're taking - bike model, bike components, bags, etc.? Love to see it and learn from it as I put together my kit for a longer trip.
Hi. I keep meaning to put together a complete gear list. It might have to wait until I'm back from the TA but I'll make a note to get it done. Cheers.
Maybe tweezers to remove ticks? If that Would that be useful
When I lived in NZ I wanted to bike the "42 Traverse" near the Tongariro National Park. I never did it in the end 😕
I've done the top to bottom in a car, doing it by bike will be an impressive achievement ❤
I climbed Mt Doom (Mt Ngauruhoe), its now slightly frowned upon 😔 but there's plenty to see and it's a fab place so I hope you get plenty of non-riding adventures too.
You may have broken rule #40: Tires are to be mounted with the label centered over the valve stem. But all joking aside, really looking forward to following you along the TA !
I could claim that I did it on purpose to nick the trend, but I'd be lying. Cheers.
Hi Matt, tyre size is perfect, 2.6 Mezcals are the business and 2.6 gives you lots of comfort. You can reuse that sealant. thats Stans Sealant. tape the whole rim.
Always blow the rtyres onto the rim first, then add sealant through the valve.
Great job Matt
You've even got the same Pyrex jug as me haha
Hi Graham. I'm glad to hear this. I thought they were a bit too wide. Cheers.
I thought it made sense. Now I know it does.
6Ps. Proper Preperation Prevents Piss Poor Performance.
Happy prepping Matt
Cheers Scott 👍👍
Excellent video Mat, looks like you have most things covered, you mentioned your spare cycle Belt, if you had to use it are you able to buy another out there ? Have a great time, stay safe, i look forward to seeing you linking up with other cyclists, and learning what life is like out there, thanks for sharing Mat 👍 👏👋
Great point. I'll check to see if there are any stockists in NZ. Thanks for the suggestion. Thanks for following along. Cheers.
Matt that is no where enough sealant for 2.6inch tyres.
That small eylet at the end of the bags you’re putting cord through is by design to help you close it one hand. I have few bags from different manufactures despite having straps till the end. They suffer the same issue until I did what you did.
If I’m going my remote I carry used toothpaste tube cut open into a square, (Parktool patches failed) industrial needles, usually a straight and a hooked one, industrial strength thread, rubber glue in case I get a cut on the sidewall
I'll add some more. I can't see a downside to doing that. How much would you recommend. I put 4 Oz in each. I did exactly what you did with the toothpaste tube. Cheers.
@ ahh that’s 120ml the recommended amount for a 2.2 inch tyre. I’d double it does mean a bit more weight in the tyres so moving off needs a bit more effort. On new tyres most of the liquid gets absorbed compared to older tyres which have had sealant in them
Hi Mat, thank you for the informative prep video. what is the make and model of the front rack you were proposing to use. I am looking for a side disc pannier rack.Thank you, Rob
Hi Matt. I fly tomorrow 8th to Auckland, gotva warm host night on the 10th and then will head north hopefully by bus.
Your not far behind me, I've just packed up and getting excited now. . I hope we can hook up 👍
I hope so. I'll have a tracker so you can see where I am. Good luck out there 👍👍
Mat, Dominque recommends Aleve and basic aspirin.
Cheers Steve. I'll grab some aspirin. I'll see if we have Aleve here. Cheers.
I normally screw on the syringe remove the plunger then fill the syringe. But that’s just my suggestion.
That would be the sensible way to do it 🤣. I'll do the same as you next time.
@@matryderadventures It's a messy job regardless.
great content, what is the brand of the handlebar rack? will it work with other brands ?
Can you use any solvents to flush out all the gunk in your gear box before putting fresh oil back in?
I ended up dabbing it all out with a rag, but I'm sure a solvent would have worked. Cheers.
Maybe put the sleeping matress pump with the matress? Evertthing else looks good , Oh maybe a tarp?
I always put sealant in through the valve stem. seems much easier to me and i've not yet had a problem (using orangeseal), and as you said, top-offs tend to be done that way anyway. maybe it depends on the makeup of the sealant, some might be more prone to clogging the valve?
I wonder whether the app is struggling to estimate a consistent frequency because not enough time is left between plucks. Maybe the chainstays are resonating more loudly and at a different frequency than the belt does after one or two seconds, and when you pluck again quickly the app might assume that the initial sounds are belt only. Or it might be that the app is crap. Or you could try holding your hand on the frame to suppress its resonance, while you pluck the belt.
I'm probably doing something wrong. I'll take your suggestions into account next time. I doubt it's the app bit who knows. Cheers.
@@matryderadventures Even with a basic understanding of physics, I am still only really guessing here. Nice bike!
Maybe wrap that drive belt in cling film?
Whats the name of your handlebar bag...might be an option for my surly bridge club.
It's an Outer Shell 137 basket bag with a 'Jack the Bike Rack' rack. It seems like a good set up. I'll soon find out for sure.
Good setup. What make are your panniers? Have a great trip!
They are made by Tailfin. 10 litre rears and 5 litre on the front.
@ thank you 😁
Good video young sir.
I know the app for the rear wheel tuning isn't great. But it'll save you tons of issues. Ryan Duzer had some real issues with not having it tight enough.
Really looking forward to seeing how this trip is for you. It's been great watching your development and subsequent enjoyment of riding bikes.
New Zealand, well I've never been. But I have fuck loads of good mates from there. If you need anything whilst you're there. Send me a message. I'm going to reach out to friends now and see who I can put you in touch with!!
I'll persevere with the app. I must be doing something wrong. Thanks for the offer. If I need anything I'll definitely get in touch. Awesome.Cheers.
Which sonder are you using for the trip
It's the Broken Road Pinion.
Recuva Software can be a good way to recover deleted files on your PC/SD card/phone. Not sure if it works on Mac.
👍
What saddle are you using on this trip? Thank you,
I have an Ergon SMC. I used one on the TransAm and it worked well.
Maybe check your wheel bearings while they're off?
Did you pack a coffee filter? I didn’t spot you putting the aeropress in- bit bulky in would think- but a reusable filter perhaps? Good coffee is essential - not a luxury😂
Good coffee in NZ means something very much better than most places on Earth! It’s something we take a lot of pride in :)
What happened to your flextail tiny pump for your inflatable sleeping pad? Did you find it lacking?
@@danbell1312 he packed it in the video
👍👍
It went in the front bag. I still rate that little thing. It's proved itself.
Why two tubolites, when you need them it is, just for a failing tubeless system. Two of those, will be extremely unlikely. Even though they are very light, it might be overkill…
Hi. You're right. I think I'm being over cautious. When do you start the GDMBR?
I’m sorry if you’ve mentioned this before but could you tell me if your handle bars are the ‘Velo Orange Crazy Bars’? If not what are they? Please thank you
Just found your pre gdmbr bike video and yes you mention them in there. Crazy bars …thought so.
I see you've already worked out what they are. I love those bars.
Not sure you've mentioned your bicycle brand and model recently, what is this machine? Looks titanium.
It's a Sonder Broken Road Pinion and yes, it's titanium. I love this bike.
@@matryderadventures Thanks for the reply!
Are those 650b or 700c tires
700c (27.5")
I can't tell from the video, what bike are you using?
It's a Sonder Broken Road Pinion.
England is slowly being taken over...lol.
Clean and Lube your bag zippers
Or rub candle wax on zippers works well
I didn’t see a tent or sleeping bag and is that all the clothing you take? Looks like not much at all….plus hair wax of course 🤣😉
@@richardstoner866 was packed in the tailfin top bag
You.must have blinked 🤣🤣 The tent and quilt are in the top Tailfin bag. I never take many (enough) clothes. The wax just appears naturally. Cheers.
Mat, just to let you know, trying to decide whatever you want is not the domain of dictators, but demented schizophrenic dictators. Also, it's pronounced Taaaaaaaco bell, not Taccccco bell. Cheers, and another great insight into the mind of Britain's greatest traveler.
🤣🤣 fantastic Steve. This gave me a good laugh.
Good luck on your new adventure Mat . Quick question . No shaving kit ? . If so, I’m slightly jealous.
🤣🤣 . When on trail I aim for once a month.
Immodium....
Not a huge need for it here unless you’re dumb.