Equipment

TOURING GEAR

On my world tour, I use products from 34 different brands. Only 4 of these brands provide equipment support for the world tour. Kron Bicycle Türkiye , Garmin Türkiye, The North Face Türkiye, Ortlieb Bicycle bags Germany. The other 30 brands you will read on this page are not my sponsors The list above also includes products that have worn out or been replaced over the years.

The products of non-sponsoring brands were gathered through the advertising revenue of www.gurkangenc.com and the support sent by my readers who followed my posts, saying “Gürkan, this is your writing right.” For years, I have also listed the support from individual contributors on the “Gürkan Genç Support” page

These pieces of equipment are the result of hard work, earned through sweat and effort. What is this sweat? It is the labor of sharing over 3,000 pages of travel memories and experiences with you, by writing and voicing them in both Turkish and English. This is the effort I’m talking about. In return, the heartfelt support is referred to as the “right of authorship.” Contrary to what many people think, there is no situation of “traveling for free, living off others.” Those who support or sponsor me didn’t and won’t say, “Go ahead and travel, we’ll provide you with cash or equipment as we please.” As I mentioned above, there is effort involved, and this effort has its rewards.

I have shared detailed answers to frequently asked questions such as how money is earned, whether I am wealthy, etc., on the frequently asked questions page (I particularly recommend looking at items 12 and 13). I would appreciate it if you could take the time to read it. “Frequently Asked Questions for Gürkan Genç.”

The bicycle I’m using during my world tour

G1 / Kron

In 2010, with my own means, I purchased a Kron XC4000 (this bicycle has been on display at the Ankara Koç Museum since 2012) and traveled to Japan. In March 2012, I sat down with Kron A.Ş and signed a contract for my World Tour. With designs by Bahadır Yılmazer, the 26-inch KRON WT and 29-inch KRON GG1 were specially produced aluminum frames for the world tour between 2012-2020, based on Kron’s MTB frames. With field data from KRON bicycles, today’s robust MTB frames were developed. I used the GG1 model until April 2024.

After 14 years of road experience and the expertise gained with Kron bicycles, I transformed my own bicycle design and exact specifications into the KRON G1 steel frame.

KRON G1 – Hybrid Bikepacking Bicycle

Design by Gürkan Genç – Welding craftsmanship by F. Duerte, Colombia.

Frame Weight: 1.8 kg Stainless Steel – Unloaded weight: 14 kg – Fully equipped weight: 34 kg

The weight is the same as the aluminum GG1 I previously used. Despite the bike being steel, there was no change in the total weight. This is because the rims, inner tubes, rear rack, front rack mounting brackets, cassette, and rear and front hubs were upgraded to higher groups, making them stronger and lighter.

The Kron G1 is designed to be compatible with Shimano’s MTB and GRX mechanical components, as well as the geometry of Ortlieb bags. Any rack system available on the market can be attached to this bike, including the GG Fork Hanger, a rack system I designed for the Ortlieb Fork Pack and produced with my friends at the Aspect company in Ankara Ostim.

The G1 frame combines features of Gravel, MTB, and Touring bikes. By changing the equipment on it, it can be used in the desired format. For example, with a rigid fork, gravel handlebars, and GRX components, it can become a gravel bike. It is a model that can be custom-made to fit the measurements of the individual.

The frame features a total of 6 water bottle cage mounts, all designed specifically for Bikepacking format Ortlieb bags and Stanley thermoses. I’m referring strictly to the frame here. Everything had to be top-notch on a bike like this, and I believe I’ve achieved that.

2 – Which crankset, derailleur, and cassette does Gürkan Genç use on his bicycle?

Since 2010, I have been using Shimano products, which are supplied by KRON A.Ş.

On the GG-1, I have a Shimano XT FC8100 26/36 crankset. Between March 2021 and February 2022, I tried a 28/38 crankset initially, and later switched to a single 34T crankset. Years later, when I transitioned the entire system to a 29-inch wheel, it was quite normal for me to make this change on the road within a year. I aimed to find the best gear ratio for my own loads, and the result that worked best for me was 26/36.

Many people’s preference and my experience with the 24/36/42 gear ratios that I used on my bicycle during my World Tour from 2012 to 2021 are as follows:

Shimano SLX 2012-2017 – During this period in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, I changed the 24 and 36 tooth gears once. I also replaced the HT bottom bracket four times during this time. The fine desert sand in these regions put the components under stress.

Shimano XT 2017-2020 – In South America, none of the gears needed replacement. The bottom bracket was replaced three times. In this region, high altitude climbs, rain, muddy roads, and pushing or carrying the bike often resulted in hitting rocks, causing significant damage to the crankset. Despite this, I continued my journey each time.

Shimano cassette, rear derailleur, rear shifter, front derailleur, front shifter

On the Kron GG1, there is a Shimano XTR 9120 rear derailleur and a Shimano XTR front derailleur. The Shimano XTR SL-M9100 series shifters are mounted on the handlebars for both front and rear shifting.

I used Shimano Deore, SLX, XT 11-36 cassettes between 2012 and 2021.

Deore – 15,000 km, SLX – 10,000 km, XT – 11,000 km, I regularly changed cassettes and chains at these distances.

Between March 2021 and March 2022, I changed one Shimano XT 10-51T cassette after 12,500 km. Actually, I was going to continue using it, but I decided to reset the whole setup when I changed the crankset and chain. The bike also has XT chainrings suitable for 12 gears.

So, what kind of change in performance did this 29-inch frame and gear change make on the bike?

I had the opportunity to test this bike’s performance against my old 26-inch bicycle, and I’ll talk about it based on digital data. After renewing the bike, I rode some of the roads I had previously traveled with my old bike in Colombia for a long time with my new touring bike. Without changing the items I carried, I covered all the routes faster and less tired than in previous months. On climbs with an average gradient of 8% and a length of 42 km, my heart rate dropped between 90 and 110 beats per minute during the ascent. Thus, renewing this bicycle was quite appropriate.

Why didn’t you switch to 29 inches earlier and used a 26-inch frame for years?

While traveling around the world by bicycle, it’s crucial to easily find inner tubes, outer tires, and brake pads in every part of the world. Between 2012 and 2017, it was quite difficult to find 29-inch inner and outer tires. However, I can now say that I can find 29-inch inner and outer tires in all the bike shops I have visited along the way.

3 – What Shimano brakes does Gürkan Genç use on his bicycle?

Between 2010 and 2021, I used V-brake systems on my bicycle. With the advancement of technology, disc brakes improved, and at the same time, V-brake pivot mounts were phased out from high-performance products. Accessibility to bicycle parts is a priority for someone touring the world on a bicycle. Starting in 2019, I began to have difficulty finding quality V-brake pads in the bike shops I visited. The reason is that most mountain bikes sold now come with disc brakes.

In addition, a mountain bike equipped with 2-piston disc brakes could not provide the braking power needed. How do I know? I tried a 2-piston mechanical disc brake on my own bike in Africa for a while, and I wrote about those memories. However, as I mentioned earlier, with the advancement of technology, when something (like V-brakes) disappeared, I didn’t hesitate to replace it with something new and improved.

On the Kron G-1, which braking system is there and how well they perform, let me share.

The rotors are Shimano XTR RT-MT900 IceTech, 180 mm. The brake calipers are Shimano XTR BR-M9120 IceTech, 4-piston. The brake levers are Shimano XT M8100, and the brake pads are Shimano XTR N04C IceTech.

Why did you like these brakes so much?

I had the great fortune of using this system for the first time in Colombia with this bike. It was the perfect area to test them. The bike carries a load of 26 kg, the bike itself weighs 14 kg, and Gürkan Genç is 1.87 meters tall and weighs 80 kg. This gives us a total of 120 kg for the bike and rider. Within one year, I covered 12,000 km, and the total elevation loss (downhill) was 84,354 meters. (I get these data from Garmin GPS.)

ICETech technology briefly; it ensures that discs and brake pads do not heat up quickly during braking and also allows the heated components to cool down very quickly after braking. In addition, the brake caliper features not two opposing pistons but four pistons with porcelain ends.

Why is this important?

It applies equal pressure to the brake pads from not two, but four points, ensuring that the pads contact the disc evenly. Additionally, the aluminum cooling fins in the pads reduce crystallization and ensure there is no loss of power even during extended braking sessions. There has been no instance of brake fade or loss of power. I’m talking about 84,354 meters of descent over one year with a total weight of 120 kg. I tested it on muddy roads in the Ant mountains during the rainy season, with continuous descents ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 meters.

After 2,500 km and 27,000 m of descent, the Shimano XT rear brake pads were worn out.

After 5,000 km and 50,000 m of descent, the Shimano XT front brake pads were worn out.

At 12,000 km, the Shimano XT rear rotor was replaced.

20,000 km have passed and the front rotor still hasn’t been changed.

Additionally, aren’t there any drawbacks to this braking system?

Of course, there are, aren’t there! First of all, it’s not easy to find brake pads for the 4-piston system with IceTech technology everywhere. These pads are larger than normal 4-piston pads. You can find non-IceTech pads, but even those aren’t easy to find at every bike shop. Changing brake pads is not as easy as changing V-brake pads. On the other hand, it’s too early to talk about hydraulic problems. We’ll see what happens in winter. Another question is when will I take the hubs out of the wheel due to the reverse force it puts on.

4 – Gürkan Genç uses which wheel hubs and wheelset?

I use Shimano FH-M810 on the rear wheel hub. I started using it in April 2024, and I will share my experiences.

From May 2012 to March 2021, I used a 42-hole Shimano XT hub. At 86,000 km, I changed the bearings twice and the inner hub four times.

On the front wheel hub, between 2012 and 2014, I used a SON28 brand dynamo hub. This allowed me to charge electrical devices while riding. The electricity generated by this dynamo does not assist in propelling the bicycle; in other words, the bicycle is not electrically powered. Instead, the electricity generated charges devices such as phones, GPS, GoPro, iPad, and cameras. The cables from the dynamo first go to a transformer. From there, depending on the amperage and voltage required by the device you want to charge, you adjust the settings and connect it to the output. In my bicycle, the cables from here first go to a lithium battery pack, and then to the device. This way, I can continue charging even when the wheel stops spinning. Both the transformer and the lithium battery pack are branded E-werk. Does it slow down the wheel’s rotation? It spins as freely as a Shimano Deore hub. It doesn’t slow down the wheel rotation speed enough to affect the ride. Since I often travel in places without electricity for extended periods, it’s quite useful for me. I’ve used solar panels and similar gadgets before. However, due to the small size of the panel I carried (limited to bike capacity), I couldn’t achieve efficiency with all the angles, positions, and everything. Therefore, I do not recommend solar panels. If you design them yourself in a way that increases efficiency, it might be beneficial.

You can use the Son28 dynamo hub for 100,000 kilometers without any issues. I’ve tested it 🙂

In April 2024, I started using the Shimano XT dynamo hub. I will share my thoughts on this hub in the future.

Charging time for GoPro:

• 0-100% charge: 5 hours
• Average speed of 20 km/h: charged in 100 km

Front and rear Rim set:  32-hole double-walled aluminum rims from Colombia, branded GW, supported with DTSwiss spokes.

They can handle any load and any road, and you won’t need to adjust the spokes for years.

5 – Which model of Shimano Pedals does Gürkan Genç use?

Most recently, I used Shimano XTR M9020 pedals from June 2021 to March 2022. Within a year, I managed to wear out the pedal bearings. These models didn’t last as long as an XT. My favorite feature of the pedal is its platform. It allows me to apply pressure on a wide surface with my clipless shoes and also ride comfortably with regular shoes. They continue to clip in and release easily in mud and snow. Although fine sand in the desert can cause a slight grinding noise, washing them restores their functionality.

For a touring cyclist traveling in my style, here are the lifespans of the pedal models I’ve used and the current pedal I’m using:

Deore – September 2012 to July 2014 (bearings failed on both the right and left pedals)

SLX – July 2014 to January 2017 (developed play in the hubs of both the right and left pedals)

XT – January 2017 to January 2018 (developed play in the right pedal hub)

XT – January 2018 to March 2020 (bearing failed on the right pedal)

XTR – June 2021 to March 2022 (bearing failed on the right pedal)

DXR MX70 – March 2022 to present (same weight as the XTR)

6 – What Fork or Suspension Does Gürkan Genç Use on His Bicycle?

I use a Fox Genuine Kashima Coat fork, which features a very sensitive and well-functioning locking mechanism on the side. This fork is one of the top three systems that can be mounted on mountain bikes. When riding off-road with a 120 kg bike, I prefer not to endure or like the strain on my arms and joints over the course of a long tour. This system provides comfort and ease. Its high quality and lightweight construction stand out, and its lockable feature ensures that the power I put into the pedals is not wasted when climbing hills or riding on flat terrain.

7 – Which Saddle Does Gürkan Genç Use on His Bicycle?

The saddle is one of the most important pieces of equipment for a journey. We all look for a comfortable saddle on our bikes. Seven continents, 84 countries, 115,000 kilometers – which butt can withstand that? Yes, the topic of the butt is important. Moreover, considering that I don’t wear padded shorts, it becomes a real issue. I just can’t get comfortable in those shorts. And walking into a store wearing them, oh boy. Everyone’s eyes are on your crotch. When everyone looks there, you start worrying about how you’re standing, whether it’s drawing too much attention, and whether you should adjust it. Anyway, while traveling from Turkey to Japan, I used a simple saddle with a gel cover. However, it added unnecessary weight and wore out over time. On my world tour, I use a Brooks B17 Titanium saddle. When you sit on a regular saddle, your butt conforms to the shape of the saddle. However, after about 2,000 km on this saddle, it conforms to the shape of your butt. With a broad pressure area, it provides a comfortable ride. About 90% of long-distance touring cyclists prefer this saddle. For this saddle to offer a comfortable ride, it’s essential to mount it with the correct position and angles. Although the saddle’s user manual suggests periodically oiling and stretching the leather, I have never done that. Whenever I’m not riding, I always protect the saddle with the cover that came in the box. During my world tour, I started using a new Brooks B17 Titanium saddle in 2021, after the first one had covered 84,500 kilometers.

8 – What Handlebars Does Gürkan Genç Use on His Bicycle?

I use the Koga Satori Denham handlebars. After years of using butterfly handlebars, I switched to these when transitioning to a 29-inch wheel bike. One reason for this change was to make handling the 29-inch bike easier and to adapt to a bikepacking style of travel. The handlebars approach the rider with a 36-degree angle from the grip points. This angled design and proximity to the rider not only provide a more comfortable riding position but also reduce the stress on the joints. Additionally, the horns at the front, which are positioned like the grips on racing bikes at an 8-degree angle, offer comfort similar to racing handlebars when climbing hills and provide significant comfort on long rides. On these handlebars, I use Ergon GP2 grips.

9 – What are the Front and Rear Luggage Models on Gürkan Genç’s Bicycle?

The G1 model does not have a luggage mounting system for carrying traditional bicycle bags on the front and rear. It has hard plastic fittings called Ortlieb Fork Pack.

Since 2019, I have been working on a luggage system at the back. In 2023, when I returned to Turkey for a U.S. visa, with the help of my friends Ramazan and Mutlu in Ostim Industrial Estate, I started manufacturing and using the GG Fork Hanger.

is no rear rack. I have a front rack with 20 kg carrying capacity.

The design of the front rack I’m using belongs to me which I produced together with Ismail Nalti in South Africa. I welded this by my own which I’ve been using since January 2017. It has passed all my individual tests, it is robust and user friendly, a perfect rack for bicycles with lightweight suspension forks. I may industrially produce this rack future .

10 – Gürkan Genç’s use which Helmet

Gürkan Genç is using the Abus Airbreaker bicycle helmet. After using helmets from various brands for many years, I started using the Abus Airbreaker helmet in March 2022 and have been very satisfied with it. I have also shared why I am satisfied with it in this video on my YouTube channel: YouTube Abus Airbreaker

11 – Gürkan Genç’s bike has how many water bottle holders and what is the water carrying capacity?

There are a total of 11 water bottle holders on the bike.

• Under the frame, there is a cage with a 2-liter thermos.
• There is a 500ml water bottle inside the frame cage, which also holds a thermos container used for cooking.
• Near the saddle on the upper tube of the frame, there is a mounting point for a 500ml cage, which is currently empty.
• In the middle of the frame, above, there are 2 water bottles of 750ml each.
• Additionally, on the left side of the suspension fork, there is a gasoline stove’s fuel tank, and on the right side, there is olive oil.
• In the rear rack designed for Ortlieb fork bags, there is space to carry 2 bottles of 750ml each.
• On the handlebars, there are two compartments where I can store 500ml bottles of water.
• Additionally, there are standard bottle cage mounts on the frame near the handlebar bag on the top tube.
• I can consume 2 liters of water comfortably while riding. Additionally, I can place two 1-liter bottles in the bottle cages on the sides of the frame. There is 500 ml of hemp oil in the middle bag of the bicycle with my food. I wrap the water bottles with summer polar fleece covers. This way, the polar fleece keeps the water cooler. There are always 6 liters of water on the bike’s body. In addition, I can put 1 liter of water on top of each of the front bags and also place a 4-liter water tank at the back. Also, there’s space for a liter of water in the two small snack pockets on the handlebar. Thus, the total water capacity can go up to 14.5 liters. If I also add water to the backpack on the bike, I can carry up to 22.5 liters of water. I haven’t seen another Bikepacking bike with this much water carrying capacity. This allows me the freedom to travel for long periods in areas without water and settlements. In short, this bike has the best and most organized capacity on the market. I dare say there is no other Bikepacking setup with this capacity and lightness.

13 – Which Tires Gurkan is using  on his world Tour

Schwalbe Marathon MTB plus 2.10

Between 2020 and 2024, I preferred this tire. You might think this tire would slow down a touring bike, but no, I have covered many stages with a 35 kg bike at an average speed of 26 km/h over 100 km. The bike’s total weight is also 35 kg. The tire’s grip on the road is excellent in rain, mud, dry, or wet conditions, and the comfort it provides is superb. Therefore, it is a suitable tire for gravel-style bikes or tourers who travel a lot off-road. After 8000 km, visible wear on the tire significantly increases.

Schwalbe Marathon 2.00

I had used these tires for the first time in South Korea which I continued to use after returning to Turkey. I didn’t even have one flat tire during those 10.000 km. These tires are good on paved roads and also on dirt road unless you do not speed up (I even took part in a MTB race with these tires). But unfortunately, they showed bad performance riding on mud and on icy and snow-covered roads. Also, they are heavier compared to the other tires. It is not possible to fold them and put in a bag resulting in structural deformation. They must certainly be preferred for paved road riding during long distance tours. When used continuously they last for about 10 000 to 12 000 km. I used them with a 45-55 psi pressure on paved road and reduced to 35-40 psi when riding on dirt road. The result: A very good tire.

Schwalbe Marathon Mondial 2.00

These tires are legendary among touring tires for long distance cyclists. One tire costs about 75 USD. There are two models, folding bead and wire bead. I have been using both these models for a long time. There are weight differences between these two models and the rubber of Mondial is hard. After 8000 km visible wear outs are to be recognized. The wide spaced tread voids between lugs increase the grip on muddy and sandy ground but also increase the chance of thorns or similar objects to prick into the tire! But that doesn’t mean the you get always a puncture. There is a special rubber belt (high-tech fiber breaker strip) which increases puncture resistance. Its grip on paved road and off-road is pretty good. Above 22 km/h speed the noise it makes on tarmac surfaces makes one mad after a while. Depending on road condition I inflate the tires to a pressure 40 or 50 psi. While using these tires I observed that if the load on the bike plus the cyclist’s weight goes beyond 140 kg it wears out very fast.  I have used these tires during two different periods and had 15 punctures within 5000 km plus tears and worn outs. For a total weight not exceeding 130 kg, it is a good tire. I had periods without a single flat tire for 10 000 km. Also, throughout my travel in Africa I didn’t have a flat tire.

Schwalbe Marathon Tour Plus 2.00

I’ve started to use these tires in South America. Above a speed of 18 km/h they are making a strong noise on paved road. The tread voids between lugs are small so that the chance of thorns or similar objects to prick into the tire is quite low. Anyway, these tires are protected by smart guard. Due to small tread voids its grip on dirt road is not as good as that of Mondial. The grip on wet surfaces is quite good. It doesn’t have a foldable model.

Schwalbe Marathon Extreme 2.00

This was the tire I had used during November to December 2012 and January 2013 riding through Moldova, Ukraine and Russia. The rubber is soft. This lightweight foldable tire occupies less space in bicycle panniers. Its grip on icy snow-covered roads makes it reliable to ride in winter.  Well, one must consider the heavy load on the bicycle also, without any load its grip on road may not as much. Nevertheless, I was pleased with this series of Schwalbe at snowy winter conditions.  Also, its performance on dirt road was very good. But on paved road with a speed above 18 km/h it makes too much noise which results in an uncomfortable ride after a while. Furthermore, it gets deformed and wears out soon on paved road and at hot weather. The wide spaced tread voids between lugs may increase the chance of punctures due to thorns or similar objects.  I’ve used them at a pressure 45-50 psi. I carried this tire as spare tire in my rear bag for a while until I found a foldable Mondial.

Schwalbe Ice Spiker

There are many followers wondering how I continue to ride on snowy roads. Well, thanks to this tire, the ultimate bicycle tire for winter usage. Spiked tires. It is possible to speed up on ice and snow even without heavy load on bicycle (I had a comfortable ride with a speed of 20 km/h) using these tires due to their good grip on snow and ice. I even pedaled on an ice skating field in Sweden. They are also foldable which adds up. When used on paved road and off-road without snow or ice the spikes wear out extensively. Its rubber is soft. During January, February and March in 2013 I used these tires riding through Finland, Sweden and Norway. Also, I passed the Arctic Cycle while riding through Finland in February 2013 with these spiked tires.

Scwalbe Smart Sam Plus

I started to use these tires on November 2017. This is a mountain bike tire different compared to those I’m normally using. This 2.1 tire features compact tread. It has an excellent grip off-road. It showed a good performance off-road with large rocks for 60 km with an average speed of 20 km/h. On the other side, is not durable for long distances since it wears out quickly due to its soft rubber. Although it is guarded, the possibility to get a flat tire by the tire-cords of truck tires on the road is high due to large tread voids between lugs.

Spare parts

The bike equipment I’m using wears out over time, but it is impossible to carry spare for every piece of equipment. I pay attention what to carry depending on the region I’m traveling. For example, it is nonsense to carry a spare chain in Europe because you can find a new one in every town. Instead, carrying a chain link is much more advantageous. On the other hand, you need to carry a spare chain in Africa. The same applies to tires. In Europe it may be enough to carry only tire patch, but in Africa a spare tire. In short, spare parts I carry differ depending where I’m traveling in Europe, South and North America or in Asia and Africa. Chain, V-brake pads, tire, inner tube, inner hub, cassette, V-brake and gear cables, V-brake adjustment screws, screws and ferrules, front hub ball bearings, additional apparatus for the suspension fork pump.

14 – Gürkan Genç’s bicycle bags

ORTLIEB BICYCLE BAGS

On the front sides, there are 4.1L + 4.1L bags: Ortlieb Fork Pack 4.1L

On the front top, there is one 15-liter bag:  Ortlieb Handlebar-Pack 15L

Front handlebar bag: Ortlieb Ultimate Six Plus 6L

Frame bag in the middle of the frame: Ortlieb Frame Bag 6L

Seat pack behind the saddle:  Ortlieb Seat Pack 16L

On the rear sides, there are 4.1L + 4.1L bags: Ortlieb Fork Pack 4.1L

In the middle of these bags, on top of the rear rack, there is another 4.1L Ortlieb Fork Pack, and on the top tube, there is a 1L Fuel Pack bag used as a tool bag.
In total, there is a luggage capacity of 64.5 liters.

I use Garmin Edge 840 Solar GPS system mounted on the stem of the bike during my journeys. I started using this in 2023 because it now charges itself from solar rays. I turn it on at 7:00 in the morning during the tour and stop around 18:00 before it gets dark, and the battery lasts for 4 days. Charging it from the dynamo is also great. The ClimbPro feature is a bit different here, without any route it draws a comprehensive map and shows the climbs ahead of Garmin GPS is the system I use when I prefer desert and village roads. It helps me see where the main road is on the map and allows me to travel on side roads, use water and supplies sparingly during desert crossings, and find the shortest way out of city centers. It’s one of the biggest helpers on the road. Also, it’s a device that records the track of the journey, where I have been, and how many meters I have climbed, as well as the cycling pedal speed, heart rhythm, and lost calories, and the weather temperature. In short, it records all digital data related to the road and officially records the journey on the coordinates and positions by bicycle. All road records are loaded to the Garmin Dashboard every month! The route logs of the Turkey – Japan journey are also available. Additionally, all data can be tracked through the Strava application.

The device uploads all data to Strava and Garmin Connect at the end of each day, it synchronizes with the phone during the ride, and it allows me to easily send geographic location data from Komoot program to the phone. Is there a negative side to the device? No, it’s very useful

Why do I keep track of my route?

Since I’m traveling so much, I decided to document my journey’s data for record-keeping purposes. My goal isn’t to break world records or anything, but when you go on such a tour, you inevitably break a few records. So, I thought it would be nice to document them while I’m at it. By the way, a small detail: keeping a record of your route during international trips can cause you trouble if you are subjected to an inquiry.

After -30°C, the processor of these devices starts to slow down. The touchscreen starts to respond slowly. At -40°C on the bike, the screen freezes. It still works when it’s -57°C, but the touchscreen doesn’t work. In addition, above 55 degrees Celsius, touching the screen won’t open the desired area. At 60 degrees Celsius, the screen freezes, but it continues to record path data.

Garmin Enduro 2: I started using Garmin watches during my world tour to get rid of the chest-worn heart rate monitor belts. The first product I bought and used was the Vivoactive series. After the band broke, I realized I couldn’t replace it. I switched to the Vivoactive Music series, but encountered charging issues by the third year. During this time, Garmin Turkey sponsored me and sent their flagship model, the Fenix 6X Pro Solar. Eventually, they took that device back from me and provided the Enduro 2 watch with longer battery life and different features. The Garmin Enduro 2 Pro Solar is one of Garmin’s top smartwatches.

Why do I use these systems?

1 – They show that the journey from point A to point B was done by bicycle. In the future, this documented information can be provided to the relevant authorities as proof of the journey.

2 – These data silence everyone who says “Gürkan must be getting into another transportation vehicle” in our country. It is now widely known in our country that I only traveled from point A to point B by bicycle on my world tour route. It’s not me anymore but those who know this situation who easily say that by following the records in these systems

My travel doesn’t have estimated figures. There are clear digital data!

Real-time location tracking and sharing system

Garmin Inreach Mini

Garmin Inreach is a personal safety and tracking system. There is a section called “Real-time Location Garmin Inreach” on the website www.gurkangenc.com. When you click on that area, you can see where in the world I am pedaling thanks to this device. Every morning when I start pedaling, I turn on the device, and I turn it off after setting up camp in the evening.With a 10 minute signal interval, the device’s battery lasts for 10 days, and with a 30-minute interval, it lasts for 20 days. I think using this device most delighted my mom. At least she can see where I am at any given moment. The device sends a signal every 10 minutes. It doesn’t perfectly track the exact path I take. For example, if I travel at 10 km/h for 30 minutes, the signals are very close to each other. If I then travel at 35 km/h for the next 30 minutes, the distance between the signals widens. This doesn’t mean Gürkan Genç is using a vehicle. Additionally, when you look at the page, on the right side you can see the day’s kilometers and other information; those are as the crow flies.

https://eur-share.inreach.garmin.com/gurkangenc

The device also has an SOS assistance button. With this button, it alerts the nearest emergency response teams and registered phone numbers in the system. It also allows you to receive weather reports from any part of the world, send predefined messages from your current location, and receive messages in return.

SUMMER-WINTER WEAR AND ACCESSORIES

 Jackets, pants, shirts, T-shirts, technical singlet, underwear, shoes, hat, head wear, glasses

Jackets

Throughout years the jackets have become lightweight, the fabric have changed and have become more resistant to wear out and occupy much less space in the bags. The North Face Turkey is sending me the new products for years.

At rainy and windy weather I use The North Face Men’s Fuseform Montro Jacket. It has large pit-zip vents underarms. The North Face has developed a new technology and got rid of the Gore-Tex fabric. The new fabric seems to be more durable than Gore-Tex. It is also wind-stopper.

At cold weather I use The North Face Men’s Thermoball Full Zip Jacket. It is possible to ride at minus 40°C wearing this jacket under Fuseform. It is stowable in hand pocket which reduces to palm size. This is an important feature occupying less space in the bag.

Pants

I carry 4 pairs of pants on my bike.

At rainy, cold and windy weather: The North Face Men’s Venture 2 half zip. While pedaling under heavy rain this pant remained waterproof completely. This pant is at the same time wind-stopper. But since it does not stretch it curls up during pedaling. I wear a pair of Gore-Tex gaiter titanium series of Colombia which I bought in South Korea during my Japan tour so that my pants stay tucked in and my feet don’t get wet. This pant is also stowable in its own pocket reducing to palm size.

At very cold weather: I use a thermal base layer tight. This is an old model, therefore it is not displayed on their web page.

During summer time: The North Face Men’s Paramount Trail Convertible. I have two pairs of this model, a green and a gray one. These convertible water repellent pants are easy to dry. During certain periods I use them on bike. Also, when I’m invited to formal occasions I wear them. They are also stowable in their own pockets reducing to palm size.

Shirts

I carry 3 The North Face Ventilation Long Sleeve shirts on bike. You already know the white one showing up in almost every photograph since the last 5 years. I have also cream and grey colored ones. The fabric has UV protection feature and doesn’t wrinkle. The shirts have underarm and back ventilation and dry quickly. With technical underwear it creates a cooling effect.

T-shirts

I use 3 T-shirts. A T-shirt of Atilim University, a The North Face technical T-shirt and a Merinos T-shirt of Wool Nat.

Technical singlet

I also have two singlets of the same series, Men’s better than naked which I’m wearing for the last 5 years under the white shirt.

Underwear

4 pieces of Mark&Spencer’s black cotton underpants.

Hats and beanies

I have two The North Face hats, one regular and one for desert traverses or very hot days. One The North Face beanie, 3 buffs (one of them is merinos buff of Wool Nat) and one The North Face ear gear.

Eyewear

Normally I’m wearing Oakley Half Jacket 2.0. It has 3 interchangeable lenses: One colorless, one polarized blue and one prism red. These special lenses inhibit reflections from surfaces. I use the red lenses during foggy and cold periods which enhances vision range and recognition of iced surfaces. Polarized lenses also remove the bad traces due to wear out over time.

In winter time I use Uvex Pocket. It is also very comfortable to use during sand storms in deserts. It is foldable and has interchangeable lenses.

Boots and sandals

The boots I’m wearing are Shimano MT91 Gore-Tex SPD MTB Boots. The ones who have experiences with SPD shoes know that they clatter when walking which is not the case with the Vibram sole of these boots. But walking off-road too much mud and snow accumulates on SPD lock mechanism which makes it hard to walk. The boots are waterproof which I used in summer as well as during winter. Below minus 10°C you feel the cold. I bought half a number bigger size so could place wool linen at the bottom which protected me from cold during winter. When on snowy and icy roads I don’t use SPD boots but all the other times I generally prefer to use SPD. When an elephant is wearing these boots for 365 days, they lose their Gore-Tex features and cracks appear at bends. Even, a finger sized hole appeared. But I must say for this pair of boots tested under such harsh conditions that they are worth to buy. I have also a pair of sandals and sports shoes. 2 pairs of knee high thermal socks, one pair of ankle high thermal socks and two ankle high socks.

CAMPING GEAR

Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, mattress, head lamp, first aid kid

The North Face Triarch 1 a one person, lightweight (860 g) one poled user-friendly tent. It has closed vestibules on the back and front large enough to store bicycle bags. All the four 10 L bags on my bike fit in the back vestibule. There are 6 pockets, 2 at the head, 2 at the feet and 2 up on the ceiling, for keeping gear. I’ve tested this tent under rain and 21 km/h wind, quite good. Without the fly you can watch the stars in the sky with 160° angle at night. I first started to use this tent in March 2016 and then received a second one in February 2018. Although I’ve used it carefully and clean it lasted only for 2 years.

Sleeping bag

An issue which catches the attention of the ones who know my world tour route is that I prefer to choose the toughest routes possible. I try to climb to the summits, to traverse the deserts in the hottest season, to pass through regions during the coldest period riding on my bicycle. Doing this way, I need to carry professional gear not to get sick or at least not seriously. One of these items is my sleeping bag and the liner.

Since I’m struggling with very cold weather I use The North Face Inferno. During my Russia traverse I encountered minus 40°C. It is waterproof. It is hard to use as a blanket because the zipper is on the middle and is only half-way but during winter it provides a high protection. The design of the zipper makes it easy to handle the computer, mobile phone and the Kindle. Furthermore, it is not heavy for a minus 40°C sleeping bag.

Sleeping bag liner

Sweating inside a sleeping bag is sometime annoying, therefore a liner is a must. The liner keeps my sleeping bag clean by this way I don’t need to wash my sleeping bag frequently and just wash the liner. There are various types of liners. The one I’m using is a model of Sea to Summit series, Reactor Compact Plus. This liner gives a 11°C protection which is enough for summer camping.

Mattress

The mattress I use is Therm-a Rest All Season. This is the second mattress since the start of my world tour. The first one was a different model of the same brand. After it started failing, my friend Ilker Burgac sent me this second one. Thanks again. The reason of failure for first one was extensive usage under harsh conditions for 3.5 years. With this mattress I slept on snow at minus 35°C and in a 5 cm thick water layer. I had never a problem.  One of the features of Therm-a Rest All Season is the small pump working with two small batteries. It automatically inflates the mattress to a certain pressure. Furthermore, during hot summer days it makes you feel good blowing out the air.

Head lamp

During this tour I changed 4 head lamps till now. Mostly they either broke down or failed to function due to moisture or cold. The one I’m using now is Black Dimond Revolt model a gift of my friend Ismail Nalti from South Africa. It works with 3 AAA batteries whopping 130 lumen light and if rechargeable batteries are used they can directly be charged via USB socket outlet.

First-aid kit

I carry a small first aid kit during the tour. I remove or add some items from time to time. I especially added a couple of items for ticks. Pain killers, muscle relaxants and jock itch medications. Nail clipper, tweezers, file, a small scissor. Medication for constipation and diarrhea. Antibiotics. Besides those, a serum mix for diarrhea and poisoning, I have 4 packages. I got vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, Japan encephalitis, meningococcus, yellow fever, typhoid, H. influenza, pneumococcus, hepatitis. I also carry condoms. (There are still people saying, “why are you mentioning this?” My dear, when you have a sexual relationship you have to use it in order to protect yourself from diseases.   Some sent me messages written in bold “shame on you.” Get away …..yallah!)  In this list there is no sun cream. I usually wear my long arm shirt and desert hat protecting my face and neck from sunshine. I had not a sunburn problem till yet.  It is important to use a hat especially covering your neck!! When you cream yourself after a while you will it sweat out anyway. Instead of sun cream, using long armed breathable shirts are more useful.

Camping Kitchen

Camp stove, water purification system, water tanks, cookware, multi purpose pocket knife, ax

Camp stove

My camp stove is MSR Dragon Fly which is a multi-fuel stove burning with both gasoline and also diesel.  It is robust and durable, easy to handle, shows excellence performance in dusty environment, easy to find spare parts in big cities or capitals throughout the world, it is space saving. What else shall I mention? It is good. It is the solution in itself. Basta! Let me give you an additional information. When you are connecting the gas tank to the stove check that the stove remains turned off. Pump the tank 30 times. Then, turn on the stove slowly just to let enough gasoline come out and turn off quickly. Lit it to warm up the upper cover of the stove. Don’t let the fire fade and then turn on the stove fully, first a black smoke will come out which will turn into blue soon.

Water purifying system

Guardia Purifier is the ceramic water purifying system which I’ve used during both of my tours. Sludge, sand, mud, haze, color, odor, bad taste, parasites and parasites eggs, larvae, heavy metal ions are removed with this filter and drinkable water obtained. Taking in to account that I purified my own urine and mixed with fresh water while traversing Gobi Desert, there is nothing left to mention further.

Water tanks

Ortlieb water bags. I carry two 4 L capacity water bags on my bike. I like to ride on roads away from any settlements, therefore these water bags are very useful for me. The mouths of the bags are compatible with the MSR water purifier. By the same time, they are handy for having a shower.  I also carry big plastic water bottles.

Multipurpose pocket knife

Leatherman Sidekick Wave. This handy pocket-size tool is a must for everyone on long tours or camping outdoors. Its pliers, knife and saw are quite good and handy. The blades get locked once opened which prevents you from having cuts, especially a good feature for saw and knife blades. It has also wire stripper, ruler, can opener, bottle opener and three different types of screwdrivers.

Ax

At the beginning I was thinking what the hell I’ll need an ax for, but I’ve used in so many situations that I got surprised. A small ax is really very useful on such long-distance tours. It is placed next to the water cage on the main frame.

Electronic equipment

 Computer, Camera, mobile phone, action camera, drone, music player, external hard drive, batteries, shaver, e-book, tripod, monopod, SD cards

Drone

I’m using a drone in my world tour since 2014. Even though I rarely share photos or video records done by drone, you can see that I’m using the drone from the videos and Instagram posts I share from time to time. With the further development of the technology, it became easier to carry a drone. For the time being I’m carrying DJI Mavicpro. Taking its compactness and feature in to account it is more than enough for such a journey. I’m using a Lexar 1000x 128Gb SD card with this drone.

External Disc

The resolution of photos and videos are quite high. A single photograph has a size above 20 MB. Furthermore, recording videos at high resolution like 4K, a problem to back-up the archives arises. I carry two 4TB external discs with me, Segate 4TB, but still they are far from enough. I have already sent 6 external discs to Turkey.

e-book

On top of such a heavy load it wouldn’t be wise to carry books. My answer to the question “Who knows better, the one who travels a lot or reads a lot?” is traveling while reading or reading while traveling. Therefore, I use a Kindle brand e-book reader.  I’m on the road for the last five years and have read only 57 books. I used the PaperWhite model of Kindle between 2012-2016 but then during an accident it broke down. I started to use Kindle Oasis .  Its battery lasts for about 58 days. The main difference of Oasis model from the other Kindle models is that it is waterproof. For many people this is not an important feature, but my former Kindle fell into water during an accident. You can connect to internet via WI-FI. By this way I can download e-books from Amazon and from Turkish e-book providers.  I also had the opportunity to use it at cold weather (when I say cold I mean – 40 °C). I never had any problems with it. Furthermore, I uploaded an English dictionary, when reading an English book, I click on the word which I don’t know and immediately its meaning in Turkish appears on the screen. Continue to read while on the road! To me, every touring cyclist (or backpacker) should get this product and read the books written about the region they travel in. The book you see on the photo was written by Dilara Nagib (16 years old) whom I met in Bahrain.