Key Takeaway
- Bikerafting is the thrilling combination of biking and rafting that lets you explore remote trails, rivers, and coastlines. This guide covers gear, packraft choices, safety tips, and pro tricks so you can start your adventure with confidence.
If you’re still catching up on the latest trend in biking, it’s time to introduce yourself to bikerafting. Perfect for those who like a good mix of adventure and thrill that comes with biking – but don’t want their feet stuck to the ground!
This guide will give you all the information you need before embarking on your own two-wheeled rafting experience – from where (and when!) to go, what gear is required, and how best to prepare for an awesome ride!
So if you’re ready for an adrenaline rush unlike any other, let’s get this guide going!
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So, What Is Bikerafting?
In a nutshell, it’s biking and rafting. You’ll need a bike and a packraft, an inflatable raft that fits in a backpack. Bikerafting combines the agility of mountain biking with the freedom of paddling. You can travel down rivers, hike up mountains, and explore coastal areas that are out of reach for cars.
Why Is Bikerafting a Hot Trend?
Bikerafting is a great way to explore and have fun outdoors. It’s also an eco-friendly and sustainable way to explore the world.
One thing that biking and rafting have in common is that it gives you the freedom to travel to places that can be impossible to reach by car. You can explore your desired destination’s remote rivers and coastlines. You just need to unload your bike from your raft and pedal your way to discover the areas.
What Do You Need for a Bikerafting Adventure?
A bike, of course! Depending on the terrain you’ll be exploring, you’ll need a mountain bike or a fatbike with big tires. You’ll also need a packraft and the right gear, such as paddles, life jackets, and a helmet.
If you are going on an overnight adventure, you’ll need to pack the essentials: sleeping bag, tent, camp stove, and food. Don’t forget about your biking tools, such as a repair kit.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to consider your bike’s weight. Check out our guides on average bike weight and bicycle weight limit to make sure your setup works for bikerafting.
Choosing the Right Packraft for Bikerafting
Not all packrafts are created equal. For bikerafting, your raft should be light enough to carry yet strong enough to handle your weight and gear.
Things to consider:
- Length: A slightly longer packraft gives more space for strapping your bike.
- Capacity: Choose one with higher weight limits to handle your bike and gear.
- Durability: Look for reinforced fabrics that resist punctures.
- Upgrades: Consider thigh straps, spray decks, and cargo fly zips for extra safety and comfort.
- A slightly longer packraft. Since you will be strapping your bike to the raft, you need more space. These rafts are also capable of carrying more weight and are more stable.
- An inflatable packraft with a higher weight capacity. This will ensure your raft won’t break, even when carrying your bike.
- Invest in tie-downs. Not all packrafts come with tie-downs, but they are essential to keep your bike and gear secure.
- Consider investing in upgrades. There are many upgrades available for packrafts to improve their performance on the water. This can include thigh straps, a whitewater spray deck, and cargo fly zips. Think about what you will be using your raft for and consider any upgrades or accessories that could give you an edge.
How to Lash Your Bike to Your Packraft
1. Attach Adjustable Straps
To go on a bikerafting adventure, you need to find a way to secure your bike to your boat. If your bike has a standard grab loop, ensure that the pointed end is threaded through the straps first before attaching your bike. Then, detach the non-drive side pedal off. You don’t have to remove the drive side pedal off.
Keep your important bike parts away from the water, such as chain rings, brakes, cables, and your non-drive side pedal. Place them in waterproof bags or wrap them in plastic before you lash your bike. Avoid bringing valuable items as these can get wet.
Remove the front wheel and then the rear wheel off if you don’t have a rack on your bike. To ensure that your chain does not flop, run it over the axle for a bit of tension. Make sure not to lose your axle, as you will need them when you put back your wheel.
Not everyone removes their wheels when bikerafting. However, it is still recommended to detach the wheels and place them in a high, dry area. This will keep your bike away from water splashing onto it during your expedition.
You also have the option to keep your rear wheel in place. You just need to take extra care in balancing your boat. Balance your heavy side with a water-resistant seat bag insert attached to the opposite side of your pack to distribute the weight.
2. Place Your Wheels on Your Boat
Place your rear wheel down first, carefully avoiding the frame. Then put the front wheel on, keeping in mind to distribute the weight. Doing so will help keep your boat balanced.
You can test your boat by putting it in the water and holding the back end. If it is too heavy on one side, rebalance your gear.
3. Attach your Bike to Your Boat
To secure your bike, use a bungee cord to fasten the wheels. Use ski straps to keep everything else in place.
4. Packing Your Remaining Gear
Once you have your bike fastened onto the boat, it’s time to pack the remaining gear. Ensure that all items, such as food, are properly sealed in waterproof bags.
Don’t forget to pack your packraft with the necessary safety gear. Bring a whistle, flare, and flotation device to ensure your safety on the water.
Make sure that no hard objects come in contact with the floor of your bike. Cover them with a foam pad or use air bags to protect your bike from being scratched while in the boat.
If you have a GPS on your bike, remember to remove this before launching your raft.
Taking Care Of Your Packraft
Many things can go wrong while you’re out bikerafting. One major issue you want to avoid is your boat getting punctured. You may have a hard time predicting other things that can damage your boat. The least you can do is be aware of the things you will be bringing that can cause harm.
Be mindful of sharp objects such as bike tools, cranksets, and pedals. Let’s say your bike pedals have spikes, but you cannot remove the non-drive side. Place a foam pad underneath it for protection.
When loading your bike into the boat, do it carefully. If you used zip ties to attach your bike to the boat, make sure to cut the ends off with a pair of scissors. This will prevent your boat from getting scratched when it rubs against the ties.
Bikerafting Tips and Tricks!
- Test out your gear before going out. This will ensure that everything is in good working condition and will also give you a chance to practice your bikerafting skills.
- Bring extra zip ties and straps. These are helpful when it comes to fastening your bike onto the boat or in case you lose the ones you have.
- Bring a dry bag for your gear. This will keep your belongings safe and dry during the trip.
- Pack light! Keep your gear light and tight. This will help balance the boat and keep your bike from being too heavy.
- Listen to the weather before heading off. Make sure to check the forecast and plan your route accordingly.
- Do your research. Before choosing a destination, research the water conditions and make sure it is suitable for bikerafting.
- Wear a life jacket for your safety. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Have a blast! Bikerafting is an amazing experience, so remember to enjoy it.
For those who want to share the thrill, bikerafting also makes a unique gift experience — check out our gifts for mountain bikers.
Beginner vs. Advanced Bikerafting Routes
- Beginner-friendly: Calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, or coastal inlets. Great for practicing lashing techniques.
- Intermediate: Rivers with moderate current, requiring balance and endurance.
- Advanced: Whitewater conditions. Only attempt with professional gear and experience.
Expert insight: Outdoor guides recommend starting with calm waters for at least 3–4 trips before attempting whitewater bikerafting.
Costs of a Bikerafting Setup
- Entry-level packraft: $600–$900
- Mid-tier: $1,000–$1,500
- High-end with upgrades: $2,000+
- Additional gear (paddle, PFD, dry bags): $300–$600
Budget tip: Start with a borrowed or rental packraft to see if bikerafting fits your adventure lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bikerafting
Is bikerafting safe for beginners?
Yes, if you start on calm waters and wear a life jacket. Avoid whitewater until you gain more experience.
How much does bikerafting cost?
Expect $1,000–$2,000 for a decent setup, though rentals can lower the cost.
What’s the difference between bikerafting and bikepacking?
Bikepacking is long-distance cycling with camping gear. Bikerafting adds the water element, letting you cross rivers and lakes.
Do I need a special bike?
Not necessarily, but mountain bikes or fatbikes handle best.
Final Thoughts
Bikerafting is an awesome way to combine biking and rafting while exploring untouched outdoor areas. With the right gear, preparation, and safety mindset, bikerafting offers a thrilling yet sustainable adventure. If you’re ready for something new in 2025, bikerafting may just be your next big ride.
Reference
Dial, R. (2015). Packrafting! An Introduction and How-to Guide. Alaska Packraft. https://amzn.to/3WgFyO4
