"We are all familiar with the idea of a library. You go, check out a book, read said book, and return the book when you are done. Yes, there is a bit more mixed in there, such as attaining a library card, due dates, and late fees, but I'm sure you get the general idea. We all know how libraries work."
"Not a Brand New Idea, but Finally Gaining Some Traction We've actually covered a similar story with Bikepacking Roots and gear libraries nearly six years ago. Then, Bikepacking Roots teamed up with Blackburn and NICA to provide gear and experiences to student athletes who wanted to give it a go. Why? Simple. Bikepacking is expensive. At least, initially. But even more than that, it can be daunting."
"These were some of the thoughts behind the first Bikepacking Roots gear library. However, the most significant point on their agenda was getting kids out on the trail. Unfortunately, due to COVID restrictions, this didn't happen on the scale they hoped. Where they built a traveling inventory of gear to outfit 20 bikepackers, in the end, much smaller groups would be hitting the trail. But, hit the trail they did, and the successful program laid the foundation for what would come."
Bikepacking Roots and Old Man Mountain are creating gear libraries to lend bikepacking equipment and lower the initial cost barrier. Gear lending allows newcomers to try racks, bags, tents, and other gear before purchasing. Early efforts partnered with Blackburn and NICA to provide equipment and experiences for student athletes. COVID restrictions reduced the scale of outings but smaller trips still demonstrated demand and value. The initial traveling inventory and successful outings established a foundation for expanding into permanent gear libraries around the country to broaden access and get more people onto trails.
Read at Bikerumor
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