Badlands is a race with a capital G, a race that Mattia De Marchi won in 2021 aboard a 3T equipped with Miss Grape bags. For those who don't know, the route starts in Granada and crosses Europe's only desert. The Badlands formula is that of autonomous ultracycling, meaning without support. The setting is Andalusia, Spain, with a backdrop of mountain ranges and deserts, at times reminiscent of the Rocky Mountains. A 760 km route with over 16,000 meters of elevation gain, it crosses the desert areas of Gorafe, Tabernas, and Cabo de Gata, and climbs the highest pass in Europe (Pico de Veleta, 3,350 m). The first, in 2020, was won by a certain Lachlan Morton in 43 hours and a bit. Everyone else, from second on, took at least 60 hours.
In 2021, Mattia completed it in 45 hours and 53 minutes.
He also brought along a series of Miss Grape , which are also his favorites overall.
“I used the Node 2H, which fits on the top tube of the frame. It has two holes underneath and is mounted (screwed) only on frames that have two-bolt mounting holes on the top tube. Small and compact, it's the bag that NEVER leaves my bike.
Not one, but two handlebar bags, two small Buds. The Bud is attached between the handlebar and the stem with two Velcro straps and secured to the fork crown with a strap, ensuring the bag remains stable. It features light padding that not only protects the contents from minor impacts but also acts as thermal insulation. It's ideal for carrying small items you need to keep close at hand, like a camera or phone, but also for snacks that are easy to reach even while pedaling. It can be used individually or in pairs, positioning them to the right and left of the stem. On the outside, there are two convenient nets that create two storage pockets. Nothing more and nothing less than what you really need.
The Internode FF Custom is the ultimate frame bag. Spacious with two different capacities, it's also extremely durable and designed not only for long trips, but also for day trips and for those who use their bike as a daily means of urban transportation. Placing the bag in the center of the bike improves the center of gravity, and that's exactly what I love about it.
And finally, the Cluster 7 Road Waterproof saddle bag : it's a must-have for anyone taking a bike trip. An essential item for any bikepacking experience. It's the smallest model, but its 7 liters provide enough space for everything you need for a solo ride of 1,200 km, without taking up too much space or weighing down your racing bike.
