Join the Adventure: A Cyclist's Guide to Finding Ryan Van Duzer on the GDMBR
Embracing the Journey: A Celebratory Ride Across the GDMBR
This summer, a renowned endurance rider and internet sensation, Ryan Van Duzer, is participating in Adventure Cycling's 50th-anniversary festivities by undertaking a leisurely ride along the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Departing from Jasper, Alberta, around the summer solstice, he aims to reach Antelope Wells, New Mexico, within four to seven weeks, embracing the scenic beauty along the way rather than racing against the clock.
An Open Invitation: Riding Alongside a Cycling Icon
Van Duzer extends an invitation to fellow cyclists to join him on the trail. Whether for a few hours or a couple of days, participants can engage in Adventure Cycling's 50th Anniversary Drop-in Rides, which include segments of the TransAmerica Trail, Golden Gravel Trail, and the GDMBR. He emphasizes the need for self-sufficiency and a pace-matching ability, as he will not be acting as a tour leader.
The Epic Challenge: Section 5 with Priority Bicycles
For those seeking a more extended adventure, Van Duzer and Priority Bicycles are offering a unique opportunity for 20 bikepackers to accompany him for the entirety of GDMBR's Section 5. This challenging 500-plus-mile segment stretches from Salida, Colorado, to Grants, New Mexico. Applications are open until April 6, 2026, with comprehensive details available on the Priority Bicycles website.
Tracking the Journey: A Dot-Watching Guide to Van Duzer's Ride
To assist enthusiasts in following Van Duzer's progress, Adventure Cycling plans to launch a dedicated dot-watching page in mid-April. This platform will track his journey and those of other Drop-in Ride groups. Additionally, a detailed identification guide has been compiled to help fans spot Van Duzer in person.
Unveiling the Gear: Ryan Van Duzer's Essential Bikepacking Setup
Van Duzer's custom bikepacking setup is a testament to thoughtful design and functionality. His journey rig includes a Priority 600ADX hardtail, a prototype he previously tested. His luggage, designed with his input by Green Guru, features the Fullshift frame bag and a unique "Duzer" undersaddle frame bag. The Mountain Smith 13-liter Zerk hydration pack ensures comfort during long rides. His Point 6 wool socks, adorned with Boulder's Flatirons motif, pay homage to his hometown, while his Smith Forefront 2 helmet incorporates pink highlights for enhanced visibility. A lightweight Nebo Windbreaker from Outdoor Vitals provides essential protection. Notably, Van Duzer sustains his epic rides with beans, a vegetarian staple he carries in cans on his bike.