August 24, 2021

Justin Sets a New FKT on the COLT Bikepacking Route

Photos by Justin Ross

For those who may be unfamiliar with the term ultra-endurance bike packing; it’s the fringe sport of completing multi day bike packing routes as quickly as possible. You ride with a packed bike, often through the darkness of the night - battling mechanicals, sleep deprivation and the mental gymnastics required to stay motivated. While it’s not a new concept, it’s a sport that has certainly been growing in popularity, with the rise of bikepacking as a whole. In August 2021, staff member Justin Ross set a new FKT (fastest known time) on the COLT bikepacking route. He completed the 460km route in 26hr 54min 17sec car to car. He rode through the dark, only stopping for food and water at gas stations, corner stores and the lonely Tim Hortons in Bancroft.

For those who don’t know, the COLT is a bike packing route through central Ontario. It was originally created by Miles Arbour back in 2016 and spans 460km from Fenelon Falls to Port Hope, Port Hope to Trenton, Trenton to Bancroft and Bancroft back to Fenelon Falls. It follows a labyrinth of old rail trail, ATV trails and the waterfront trail. It’s known for being heinous, sandy and unforgiving to people adventuring on two wheels. For most cyclists, this route is best served over the course of a week, giving opportunities to sample patios, see landmarks and take in the beauty that Ontario has to offer. In a typical fashion, most bikes will be kitted with tents, sleeping bags, extra clothes and ways to cook food. When you are going for a speed record, however, a lot of those items can be removed - opting for a fast and light operation. Have a browse below to see what Justin brought along with him.

Closeup image of Justin's dusty chainrings Closeup image of Justin's tires Closeup image of Justin's handlebars & shifter

Bike

Carbon Trek Checkpoint frame
Shimano RS770 wheels
Teravil Cannonball tires, 38C, tough compound
Pro Discover medium flare bars
Pro Gravel bar tape
Cervelo stem & saddle
Shimano Di2 Grx hoods & derailleurs
Shimano 105 11-32 cassette
Shimano 48/31 chainrings

Closeup image of Justin's water bottles and top tube bag on the bike Photo of Justin's electronics laid out on the grass

Luggage

Pro Discover Team Gravel top tube bag
Pro Discover Team Gravel seat bag
Pro Discover frame bag
Camelbak Chase vest

Electronics

Maintenance

Spare tube x2
Patch kit
Tire levers
Hand pump
C02 x4
Co2 head
Multi tool
Chain breaker
Chain link
Chain lube
Zip ties
Valve cores
Presta Schrader adapter

Justin's hydration laid out on the grass (CamelBak pack and 2 water bottles) A photo of Justin's handlbar bag packed with the essentials: butter tarts and peperettes Justin's personal and maintenance items laid out on the grass