Today's Weekend Snapshot finds folks from our global community pedaling and packrafting around three countries. Explore a roundup of scenes from Canada, Trkiye, and the United States, and use the short form to contribute to a future edition of our longstanding reader-powered series here...The post Weekend Snapshot appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Known primarily for its oval chainrings and high-end graphene-infused chain lubricant, the latest from absoluteBLACK might surprise you. A few days ago, we learned that the speciality cycling brand is entering the tubeless tape market with the debut of its Polyimide Tubeless Rim Tape for Carbon Rims. This transparent polyimide tape with high-tack adhesive is intended to take the guesswork out of installation and provide a consistent, reliable seal.absoluteBLACK Polyimide Tape DetailsThis new rim tape is made from engineering-grade polyimide and is transparent with a light amber color. According to absoluteBLACK, the polyimide material is widely used in aerospace and electronics applications for its strength and stability. At just 100 microns, it conforms precisely to the rim bed, while a controlled level of elasticity helps it settle into place without lifting.Importantly, the transparent tape has no logos or graphics, which absoluteBLACK says can often hide imperfections and air bubbles that result in poor adhesion and sealing. This makes it easier to see bubbles and other imperfections during installation, so they can be worked out and corrected, thereby improving conformity to the surface of the rim bed.Additionally, absoluteBLACK is using a higher-tack adhesive, which they say is specifically designed for high-pressure applications and use with carbon rims. The brand states that the thicker adhesive layer increases compliance, resulting in an enhanced ability to adapt to varying shapes and profiles. The thicker adhesive reportedly conforms more readily to irregularities and surface imperfections, which increases contact and improves the consistency of the seal.Together, absoluteBLACK intends its Polyimide Tubeless Rim Tape to reduce the guesswork in tubeless setups making it possible to see, correct, and achieve a consistent, reliable seal before riding.SpecsAvailable Widths: 23, 25, 27, 29, 32mmLength: 10mColor: Transparent amberMaterial: Engineering-grade polyimide / higher tack adhesiveCompatibility: Specifically designed for Carbon rims (also works on Aluminum)MSRP: $19.95 / 16.95AvailabilityabsoluteBlacks Polyimide Tubeless Rim Tape is available now. Head to the brands website to learn more or order a roll for your next tubeless tape job.absoluteblack.cc

Lectric burst into the electric bike market 7 years ago when they introduced the affordable XP folding e-bike. Since then, the brand has established itself as the low-cost e-bike leader and grown into one of the most popular in North America. Lectrics product lineup has grown in kind, and now includes several models of XP folding bikes, along with electric commuters, cargo bikes, fat tires, and even a trike.Lectric introduced the original XPress commuter/cruiser a couple of years ago, adding a budget-friendly big-wheeled model to its lineup. I tested the XPress at the time and came away quite impressed by its performance at its $1,299 price tag. Earlier this year, Lectric gave this value-packed e-bike an update, giving the XPress2 numerous upgrades, including more advanced sensors, a much quieter motor, nicer components, a better display, and more.The Xpress2 High-Step Commuter in green.Ive been testing the Lectric XPress2 Commuter for the past several weeks. From errands and grocery runs to river dips and visiting friends, Ive been avoiding driving as much as possible in favor of riding this zippy e-commuter. Sure, the price has gone up by $100, but the XPress2 is definitely more refined, smoother, quieter, and an all-around improvement over the original.Lectric XPress2Check Price at LectricSpecificationsMSRP: $1,399Frame styles: High-step, step-thruMotor: 750 rear hubBattery: 672 WhClass, 1, 2, or 3: Sensors: Torque or cadenceDrivetrain: Shimano Altus 8-speedBrakes: Hydraulic discFeatures: Lights, fenders, cargo rack, suspension forkWeight: 63 lbs. w/o battery, 71 lbs. w/ batteryProsAffordablePowerful and fastQuieter and smoother than previous versionCan switch between e-bike classes and sensor typesComes with useful featuresComfortable ride plump tires and suspension forkConsHeadlight vibrates a bit while ridingHeavyJeremy BensonLectric XPress2 Details(photos/Lectric)Like the original, the XPress2 comes in two frame styles: a High-Step Commuter and a Step-Thru Cruiser. Beyond the obvious differences in frame shape and design, the High Step version has a fixed stem and more of a city bike/commuter-oriented cockpit setup, while the Step-Thru has an adjustable stem, swept-back handlebars, and a more casual/cruiser-style front end.Otherwise, both versions have identical specs and components. They have a 330 lbs total weight capacity, new 80mm travel SR Suntour XCM 32 suspension forks, and 602 hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors. The XPress2 comes with an 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain with intuitive trigger-style shifters. It rolls on 27.5 x 2.1 city-style tires with reflective strips and Slime installed to help reduce the chances of flats. Front and rear lights are also included, and the rear light functions as turn signals and a brake light.The XPress2 comes with an 80mm suspension fork, fenders, lights, and a rear rack.The Cruiser comes in Stratus White or Raindrop Blue. The Commuter is available in Tempest Grey or Pine Green. At present, and all the time, I think, Lectric includes a rear cargo rack (30 lbs capacity), a set of plastic fenders, and an Elite headlight with 850 lux of illumination. It seems that some accessories are always included with purchase, and there are even more available to find your ideal setup.The XPress2 bikes are one-size fits most with a recommended 52 63 range for the Cruiser and 54 64 for the Commuter. Lectric claims that both versions of the XPress2 weigh ~60 lbs with the battery removed. I weighed my test bike, and it clocked in at 71 lbs with the battery and 63 lbs with it removed.The battery is easy to remove.The 750W hub motor is 99% quieterQuieter MotorThe XPress 2 comes with the new Stealth M24 750W rear hub motor, which puts out up to 85Nm of torque and 1,310W of peak power. According to Lectric, this motor is 99% quieter than the motor on the previous version and just as powerful. In the downtube of the frame is a removable 672 Wh (48V, 14Ah) battery thats certified to UL 2271, and the bike and all of its electric components are certified to UL 2849.Through the menu, users can set the XPress2 to Class 1, 2, or 3, to suit their preferences or local regulations. In Class 2, the XPress2 can reach speeds up to 20mph using the throttle or pedal assist. In Class 3, the throttle still tops out at 20mph, while the top pedal-assisted speed bumps up to 28mph.Pick your e-bike class.Pick your sensor preference.Updated TechThe original XPress only used a cadence sensor, but the XPress2 has both torque and cadence sensors. Through the menu, the user can choose between the torque sensors more refined, responsive pedaling experience or the cadence sensors more effortless ride. Lectric also upgraded the display to a detachable backlit 3.5 TFT color screen thats larger and easier to read and has a USB-C charging port.Lectric says they also updated the five riding modes to be more intuitive: Eco, Tour, Tour+, Sport, Sport+, and Turbo. Switching between them is done with an all-in-one control unit by the left grip, with a paddle throttle for the thumb.Unboxing and AssemblyThe XPress2s protective materials include almost zero plastic, which is a nice touch.Lectric sells its bikes directly to the consumer, and, more often than not, they are shipped straight to your door in a large box. The brand prides itself on easy assembly, and its XP folding bikes even show up with no assembly required you just have to unfold them. The XPress2 is a little more involved than that, but still very easy to put together on your own. Lectric advertises it as tool-free assembly, but that is a little misleading.The bike arrives mostly assembled, and some aspects of the remaining assembly are indeed tool-free, like the quick-connect pedals and quick-release thru-axle for the front wheel. Attaching the handlebar, front fender, and front light, however, requires the use of the included hex key set, which also functions as a torque wrench. Lectric includes printed instructions and, of course, there is an assembly video, too.So while it might not actually be tool-free, it is really easy. It took me about 30 minutes total to unbox, unwrap, and finish the XPress2s assembly. If you dont have the time or are unsure of your mechanic skills, your local bike shop will probably be happy to help.Riding the Xpress2Riding the XPress2 back home after a run on the local trails. When I tested the original XPress, I had the Step-Thru version. While it was quite comfortable, the seated pedaling position was a bit more relaxed than I liked. So, I got the XPress2 with the High-Step Commuter frame, which aligns much better with my preferences. At 60, Im well within the recommended user height range. Ive got a lot of seatpost showing, but it feels like a good fit, and Im a fan of the city/commuter-style cockpit setup. Its still fairly relaxed but much less so than the Cruiser version.Right out of the gate, the XPress2 is very intuitive to use and easy to ride. The controls are straightforward, and the upgraded display is easy to read and understand. Even at noon in June with the sun beating straight down on it, I could easily see the display. Entering the menu and making changes to the settings was also a snap, and I immediately bumped from Class 2 to Class 3.The new motor feels plenty powerful, and it has no problem reaching its top 28 mph on flat ground in Turbo. Ive found the five pedal-assist modes provide a good range of power output and top speeds for any riding scenario. The XPress2 will also happily rip along at 20mph using the throttle and has good pickup when getting started from a complete stop. As advertised, the motor is also much quieter than the previous version. 99% quieter might be a stretch, but it doesnt emit those whiny or tinny noises that cheap hub motors often do.Riding the XPress2 at 25mph up a hill, one-handed.I also appreciate the ability to switch between torque and cadence sensors. Even on an e-bike, I like to pedal and get a little exercise, so I strongly prefer the smooth power delivery and ride feel of a torque sensor system. But many people just want to soft pedal and let the motor do all the work. With the XPress2, you decide whats best for you. You can also make adjustments to throttle response and throttle power settings, display units, brightness, sleep mode, and more.With slick 2.1 tires, the XPress2 rolls fast on pavement and, along with the 80mm Suntour suspension fork, it is forgiving over cracks, bumps, and rougher surfaces. Its very smooth and stable, and maintaining control has also been easy with the powerful hydraulic disc brakes. The 8-speed drivetrain has more than enough range, and Im a huge fan of the trigger shifters, which are a step up from the thumb shifters that often come on bikes at this price point. While none of them are fancy, the components work well and seem nice for the price.Powerful brakes.Cargo rack in need of a basket.I appreciate that the rear cargo rack is included, even if I still need to install some sort of basket on it. Interestingly, the rack has a 60-pound limit printed on it, while the website says its capacity is 30 pounds. The lights work well for daytime visibility and are bright enough for riding in the dark. My only complaint is that the large elite headlight vibrates a tiny bit while riding. Not a deal-breaker, but less than ideal. Fenders are also a nice touch, and while I havent needed them, Id always rather be prepared for changing weather than not. Altogether, these features add value and utility for commuting, cruising, and everyday use.As far as range is concerned, I havent even come close to fully draining the battery while testing. My trips to the store, around town, or to the trailhead for runs are generally in the 3 to 5 miles per trip range, which barely even makes a dent in the battery percentage. Is Lectrics up to 60 miles range estimate reasonable? Probably not. But Im willing to bet it could easily go 30-40 miles between charges, depending on how youre riding it.Ive been enjoying the XPress2 for quick rips around town and spending less time in the car.My TakeawayIn the past several years, Ive tested four different models of Lectric e-bikes, and they just keep getting better while maintaining their low price, high-value position. The original XPress was a darn good bike for the money, and the XPress2 builds on that with numerous upgrades and refinements that noticeably improve its performance with only a modest $100 increase in price.The new motor, torque sensor, upgraded display, and higher-quality fork all combine to make the XPress2 quieter, smoother, easier to operate, and more comfortable than its predecessor. Is it the best e-bike in the world? Absolutely not. Is it the best e-bike for the price? I think it might just be. At $1,399, the XPress2 may be the best value commuter/cruiser on the market.lectricebikes.com

So its the magical time of year when were all transported to the French Alps. When we watch (or listen to) the Tour de France while we should be working. Where we dare to dream if a rider will emerge from the field that was waiting to prove his might against the favorites. Watching the riders overcome the most grueling and punishing elements that this new climate can throw at them. Last but not least, we ask, Is what Im watching naturally possible, or am I signing up to be let down by another super-human once-in-a-lifetime effort?(Photo by Spring Cycling Agency/UAE Team Emirates)Is The Tour de France Clean?The latter question has bubbled to the top more in recent years, especially as Tadej Pogaar looks all but clear for a 5th Tour de France victory. Anyone who lived (and believed) through the Lance Armstrong era knows the feeling, that cheated feeling. Who can we really ask about these kinda of things? Our buddy (and persistent thorn in cyclings doping side) Phil Gaimon decided to take a different approach to his yearlyare they doping?Tour de France talk. This time, Gaimon brings on Tom Danielson for a longer conversation about doping. If you know anything about Tom Danielson, this is a pretty big deal. You can check it out in the video below or in the linked podcast.This guest choice is not random. Danielson comes with his own history, including doping sanctions. It is a conversation between people who know the sports baggage. But still think the current peloton deserves more than blanket suspicion every time the racing gets hard to believe.Gaimon is not asking anyone to forget cyclings past; its impossible not to. Because theres a difference between healthy skepticism and just yelling doping at every result you do not understand.Ride fast, Do Drugs, Tell Lies oh, Lance! (Photo/BikeRumor)SoAre They All Doping?The conversation between Gaimon and Danleison delves into the uncomfortable aspects of being a cycling fan in 2026. We want fast racing, big attacks, and history-making performances. Unfortunately when they happen, half the internet decides they must be fake. That tension is not going away, especially at the Tour.But Gaimons conversation is worth hearing. Because the past matters, up-to-date drug testing matters, and transparency matters. So does giving current riders at least some room to race before dragging every old scandal back onto their shoulders.Doping talk will always be part of cycling. Maybe it should be. The sport earned that baggage the hard way. But this video is a better conversation than the usual comment-section sludge.Watch the video, hear the argument, then decide where you land.

This week at the Tour de France, French bikemaker Lapierre marked their 80th anniversary with Team Picnic PostNL riding a limited-edition, lighter-than-ever Xelius DRS aero road bike. Their flagship lightweight aero road racing bike gets a lighter layup and a special edition paint job, meant to celebrate eight decades of bike building and racing. Debuted on Bastille Day at the Tour, just 100 individually numbered anniversary frames will be made available to cyclists. So snap one up quickly!Lapierre Xelius DRS aero road bike, 80th Anniversary edition(Photo Chris Auld/Team Picnic PostNL)Painted in a subtle 3-color blue fade dubbed Kinetic Dust, Lapierre describes the anniversary edition Xelius DRS as a celebration of the legacy Gaston Lapierre began in 1946. The anniversary frameset introduces a new Kinetic Dust colourway concept, which illustrates the emotional residue of performance. Visually, this design is represented by particle dispersion across the frame, with the density increasing in areas put under the highest stress, such as the bottom bracket, aero fork, and the junction of the seat stays and top tube. The backward scattering of the dust also embodies the continuous forward movement.The dark blue represents the brands heritage & legacy. The middle teal suggests motion & modern performance, or as Lapierre also describes it, the moment pain transforms into momentum. And finally, the Champagne is an on-the-nose reference to success and winning races. This Xelius DRS has been raced to stage victories in all three of the Grand Tours, after all.The bike itselfLapierre launched the 6th gen Xelius DRS back in late 2024, as a unique all-rounder combining top-tier aerodynamics, comfort from its unique seatstay configuration, and ultralight weight. Faster on the flats, faster on the climbs. Perfect for Grand Tour racing.It already came in two carbon spec levels: a 908g frame that gets built into complete bikes starting at 3600 with 105 Di2, and a 790g frame that looks to start now for builds from around 6500 with Force AXS. But now, theres an even lighter ultra-premium UD Factory Lab carbon layup just for this anniversary bike. With a claimed weight of just 740g, it is now even lighter than Lapierres previous Xelius SL climbers bike.Tech detailsXelius DRS UD Factory Lab ultra-high-modulus UD carbon frame & fork 740g claimed frame weight (size M, unpainted without hardware)80th Anniversary Kinetic Dust paint job blending dark blue, teal & champagneincludes size-specific Lapierre 1-piece carbon cockpit with 5 flareall Xelius DRS bikes include thru-axle with multi-tool, plus out-front GPS mounts1.5 Acros integrated headset for fully internal cable routingproprietary D-shaped aero carbon seatpost, 0mm offsetmechanical or electronic 2x shifting compatible32mm max tire clearanceflat mount disc brake with 12mm thru-axles3 frame sizes available (S-L)Lapierre Xelius DRS 80th Anniversary edition Pricing and AvailabilityOnly 100 individual 80th Anniversary Xelius DRS framesets will be sold globally. The special 80th edition sells for 4500, include painted-to-match frame & fork, plus seatpost, headset, cockpit, GPS mount, thru-axles, and integrated multi-tool. It is available in small, medium, or large sizes only. (Photo Chris Auld/Team Picnic PostNL)Pre-orders are open now until the one hundred frames sell out. Lapierre will deliver the framesets to buyers starting in October 2026. Then, its up to you how you build it up. LapierreBikes.com

Neil's latest video is a thoughtful look back at a recent journey along the picturesque Colorado Trail. Reflecting on how his outlook on life, bikepacking, and more has changed as hes gotten older, it's an insightful personal story with lessons for everyone. Watch it and find a written version with photos here...The post Im Done Bikepacking by the Rules appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Our Reader's Rig of the week comes from Nathan in Bend, Oregon, who shares the custom Mostly Forever titanium hardtail he uses to pursue his main passion of heading out for adventurous rides through remote places. Meet Nathan and read a little about the challenges of finding a well-fitting bike as a 68 cyclist here...The post Readers Rig: Nathans Custom Mostly Forever Titanium Hardtail appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.