top of page


Review: Mercier Kilo GRX Gravel Touring Bike
The Mercier Kilo GRX gravel bike is my choice for rural area roads and Rail Trail riding. It is also perfect for light and fast bikepacking. Read the review and the modifications to ready this gravel bike for varied adventures.

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
9 hours ago6 min read


UPDATE: the Hybrid Gravel Bike Goes #Bikepacking!
My riding styles require a hybrid bike for gravel roads and lite bikepacking. This article details the process of building this versatile bike for the varied conditions and the few updates after a year of varied riding.

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
6 days ago3 min read


Review and Update of the NEW Harbor Freight 5’ x 10’ Utility Trailer
The new Harbor Freight flat bed utility trailer is my choice for ALL my hauling needs. It combines the BEST value and features - now with the addition of the optional side rails!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Oct 66 min read


Review: BEST Value ADV Motorcycle Panniers | Bulletproof Soft Panniers for LESS than Half Price!
I found the BEST soft panniers for ADV riding - BUT they required a simple modification ($10.00 and 15 minutes) to make them bulletproof! Learn full details!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Sep 135 min read


DON'T Eat Gravel! Substitute FREEZE-DRIED Meat: Beef, Pork, or Chicken!
Freeze-dried meat (beef, chicken, and pork) are superior to dehydrated meats - both in flavor and storage stability. Learn how to enjoy more flavorful meals AND save money!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Sep 95 min read


FIVE Improvements to the Haven Tent
The Haven Tent is a versatile hammock sleeping system. But I made FIVE improvements for pitching, comfort, and versatility. Learn more in this FREE article.

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Aug 87 min read


Best Value Adventure Motorcycle: Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
The Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is the clear, BEST Value Adventure Motorcycle. Examine ALL the features and compare to its closest competitor, the Honda CRF300L Rally.

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jul 247 min read


Boondock Camper and 4x4 Suspension Modifications
Off grid or boondock camping requires a TOUGH tow vehicle and trailer! I upgraded the suspension on BOTH with Sumo Springs - polymer bump stops!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jul 236 min read


How and Where to Buy A Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
Shopping for a new motorcycle? Are you curious about Royal Enfield models? There is a RIGHT way to buy, and my preferred RE dealer! Take a road trip to Iowa!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jul 105 min read


Building the Honda Grom Cafe Racer!
The Grom Cafe Racer is the COOLEST city commuter and minimalist touring motorcycle! Read about the transformation from plain to Super COOL!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jun 216 min read


Mandatory FIX to the Perception Showdown Kayak Rudder
The Perception Showdown is a stable pedal-drive fishing kayak. BUT - it is completely non-functional if a TINY screw falls out! Learn the EASY modification to prevent the rudder from falling OFF!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jun 194 min read


Building the Hybrid Bikepacking Gravel Bike | Motobecane Elite Adventure PRO
My riding styles require a hybrid bike for gravel roads and lite bikepacking. This article details the process of building this versatile bike for the varied conditions, day rides, and extended bikepacking tours.

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jun 174 min read


Lifan KPX250 vs the Honda CT125: TWICE the Motorcycle for LESS!
The Lifan KPX250 has a LONG list of advantages over the Honda Trail CT125 - including DOUBLE the horsepower and OVER $2,000 in savings!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jun 1610 min read


Review: Jonny 100 Kayak | Building the Fishing Motor Kayak
When searching for a hybrid boat/kayak, I can highly recommend the Jonny Motor Fishing Kayak for its stability and versatility. This article covers all the options and upgrades in the Jonny Walleye - Crappie - Catfish Edition!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Jun 128 min read


Building the All-Road Grom Scrambler!
The Grom Scrambler isn't a stunt bike or a generic city commuter - but an ALL-Road adventure motorcycle. Read about the transformation here...

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
May 285 min read


REVIEW: Pirelli Cinturato M Gravel Tires | Light Bikepacking Tubeless Tires
Full review of the Pirelli Cinturato tires for gravel biking and bikepacking, including tubeless conversion tips!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
May 225 min read


NEW Harbor Freight 5’ x 10’ Trailer. Designing the PERFECT Kayak/Utility Trailer!
The new Harbor Freight flat bed trailer is my choice for hauling my kayaks, motorcycles, lumber and more! BEST value and features!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
May 219 min read


Comparing the Honda Grom to the Honda “Trail” CT125.
The Honda Grom has many design features which make it the SUPERIOR motorcycle - compared to the popular Honda CT125. Learn about the Top Ten advantages of the Grom over the "Trail".

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Apr 248 min read


State Bicycle Co. Announces the New TITANIUM All Road Gravel Bike
A titanium gravel bike promises the best ride, plus being light and indestructible. NOW the NEW SBC ALL Road Titanium is also AFFORDABLE!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Nov 26, 20245 min read


Review: Poseidon Dropbar Redwood
Poseidon Redwood review: I will give you my opinion of this versatile bike after a year of mixed riding, tours, and a gravel grinder race!

Randy Reek, The Great Out There
Nov 20, 20249 min read
bottom of page