Unbound XL Bike Setup: Gravel Tech, Revelate Bikepacking Gear & Tire Science | Ep. 60

Are you ready for 350 miles of unpaved grit? In this episode of ShiftLess Cycling Adventures, we dive deep into the ultimate Unbound XL bike setup as Caleb prepares his rig for the premier ultra-endurance gravel event. From drivetrain conversions to the "black art" of tire selection, we’re breaking down the gear that survives the flint hills.In this episode, we cover:The Unbound XL Rig: Caleb walks us through his Salsa Cutthroat overhaul, including a move to Shimano GRX, XTR cranks, and a massive 10-52 range paired with a 36T oval chainring for those relentless Kansas climbs.The "Tires are Like Sheets" Theory: We break down TPI (Threads Per Inch) and why high-thread-count tires are like luxury bedding—supple, fast, but potentially fragile. Plus, a look at the Continental Race King vs. the Vittoria Mezcal.New From Revelate Designs: Exclusive first looks at the Pitchfork Aero Bar system and the "Becca" bag, designed for maximum storage in the most aerodynamic "wasted space" on your bike.Endurance Nutrition & Hydration: Testing the new Skratch Super Carb and debating the B-RAD system vs. hydration packs for long stretches between resupplies.Cycling Industry News: The latest on the Giant/Stages acquisition, the state of Kona, and the concerning retail shifts in the gravel capital of Bentonville.Race Culture & Commentary: Highlights from the Sea Otter Classic broadcast and why we’re moving toward a "super grassroots" approach in an unpredictable industry.Whether you are a seasoned bikepacker, a gravel racer, or an ultra-endurance enthusiast, this episode is packed with technical insights and the "ShiftLess" culture you love.0:00 – Middle Management & Podcast Shenanigans4:00 – The New Cutthroat Setup: GRX, Gearing, and Ergonomics8:30 – Tire Tech: Continental Race Kings & TPI Explained16:20 – Revelate Designs New Gear: The Pitchfork System27:10 – The B-RAD System: Doubling Your Water Capacity31:40 – Nutrition Strategy: Gut Testing Skratch Super Carb1:10:02 – Tire Suppleness & The Maxxis Aspen ST1:21:00 – Industry Analysis: Kona, Giant/Stages, and the Bentonville BubbleTo better understand the conversation about TPI (Threads Per Inch) mentioned in the episode, remember that a tire's "suppleness" is determined by how densely the casing is woven.Higher TPI (like 120 or 170) uses finer threads, making the tire feel like a "high-thread-count sheet"—it conforms to the ground better for more speed and comfort, whereas lower TPI (like 60) uses thicker threads for better puncture protection but a stiffer ride.Follow ShiftLess:Subscribe for more unpaved bicycle culture, gear reviews, and ultra-endurance scouting.#GravelCycling #Bikepacking #UnboundXL #UltraEndurance #SalsaCutthroat #ShimanoGRX #RevelateDesigns #CyclingTech #ShiftLessPodcast #theusatrail #basepackingReach out and touch us: [email protected]