Dirty Chain Podcast Episode 92: Bikepacking the MORE Route with Tristan and Sebastian

Overview:

In Episode 92 of the Dirty Chain Podcast, Trevor sits down with longtime friends and first-time bikepackers, Sebastian Stankowitz and Tristan Smith. The two recently completed the Lower Peninsula leg of the Michigan Off-Road Expedition (MORE Route), a challenging 580-mile mix of gravel, singletrack, and seasonal roads stretching from the Indiana border to the Mackinac Bridge.

The conversation blends personal reflection with practical insights—covering everything from gear malfunctions and nutrition mishaps to emotional breakthroughs and relationship dynamics. With humor and honesty, they recount how the adventure reshaped their identities as cyclists and as people.

This episode isn't just about the MORE Route—it's about redefining one's limits, embracing discomfort, and coming back changed. Sebastian and Tristan’s story is a raw, relatable, and deeply personal account of two cyclists who embarked on an ambitious journey, not for the accolades but for the transformation.

Their gratitude for the support from their partners, their openness about the mental and emotional highs and lows, and their commitment to experiencing the ride—rather than rushing through it—show that bikepacking is about far more than miles ridden.

Key Topics and Timestamps:

[00:01:30] Transition from gravel racers to bikepackers

[00:03:45] Sebastian’s Eurobike experience

[00:09:00] Lumberjack race reflections

[00:15:30] High-carb nutrition strategy experimentation

[00:19:45] Defining the MORE Route and their approach

[00:23:30] Route breakdown and terrain challenges

[00:27:10] Gear struggles and learning curve

[00:31:15] Trip preparation and doubts

[00:35:40] First mechanical at Yankee Springs

[00:38:10] Daily mileage summary

[00:42:00] Burger King disaster

[00:45:30] The critical role of their partners

[00:51:00] Life-changing impact and personal growth

[00:54:30] Future plans: Upper Peninsula, Tour Divide