Throwback: Gerrod’s Bike Packing Scott Addict Gravel

About the Build

A day late for Throwback Thursday but I think we’re all eager for warm weather again to go on boundless adventures.

The Scott Addict Gravel was Gerrod’s go to choice for his ultra-endurance adventures in 2023. The week of Easter he embarked on a solo expedition to ride from Louisville to St. Louis. This was no easy feat as weather can always change and there is nearly always wind when riding West.

With the Addict Gravel being a gravel bike at heart, it was the obvious choice for such an excursion that could easily be unpredictable. With the additional payload of gear, the need for a longer wheelbase and ample tire clearance was paramount. Luckily the frame’s geometry is still just racy enough to have his fit position nearly identical to his road bikes, retaining familiarity and comfort, while being aero for the wind.

As for wind, he lucked out on not having any significant head-winds but there was plenty of steady crosswinds. ZIPP 353 NSW’s undulating Sawtooth rim profiling helped cut through the crosswinds for premium stability while spreading out the 36mm Challenge tires for an unrivaled stable and solid footprint on the side of state highways through Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and the Katy Trail in Missouri.

Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 was a not-up-for-debate necessity. Reliability, consistency, efficient, are all apt descriptors for the groupset and are exactly what are required when tackling ultra-endurance rides. Not to mention wanting as seamless of a transition from his road bike. Brakes never once failed to stop this 45lb rig on a dime, nor did the shifting give issues when having to anger shift on steep rollers.

Setup with 3x bottles, handlebar bag, frame bag, and who knows what on the rear, Gerrod was able to keep plenty of gels, drink powder, clothes, random essentials, and an ungodly number of fudge rounds on him at all times.

 

Who knows what Gerrod will plan next.