In the last years, we have seen an increasing trend in the number of cycling randonneurs that decide to take their bikes, attach their travel bags, and load them with a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking gear. Now, when you go out on the weekend ride, it is very typical not only to discuss about your bike, the last World Tour race, or your last ride but also to envision little weekend adventures with friends. The bikepacking community has grown exponentially, and the Bicycle Adventure Meeting (BAM!) is a clear example of it.
In 2015 took place the first edition of BAM! in the Italian Alps and, ever since then, every year the event has taken place relentlessly. The organizers offer bike enthusiasts, travelers, and adventurers the opportunity to meet people with similar interests and joy for traveling. It is more than a simple event, but a great party with activities, music, beers, and bonfires, to share the passion for two wheels together. An event organized with the collaboration of prestigious brands to discover the trends in the discipline, exchange experiences, learn from others, and make new friends for future trips.
After the two last ‘Campfire’ editions, in which only a few places were available due to sanitary restrictions, BAM! returns to its original format of an open, free, and popular event for everyone. The 2022 edition will take place in the Italian city of Mantova (Mantua) on 10-12th of June. The format of the event will be the same: music, stories, meetings, workshops, and opportunities to share a passion. In the village, there will be a big expo area, where it will be possible to meet the big brands as well as artisans. A few meters away there will be the large “camp” area, where travelers that go to BAM! by bicycle will be able to pitch their tent, exceptionally in front of the medieval walls of Mantova. Just remember to book your camping spot in advance.
In the last few months of compulsory break, the desire for bikes and freedom for traveling has grown, and BAM! is there to grant the opportunity to meet again, share stories, learn something new, and have fun. It does not matter where you come from, how long it takes you to get to Mantova, or if you come alone, with friends, or family. Simply pack up your bike and leave home to share the road with old and new friends and pitch the tent under the same sky facing the wonderful lakes of Mantova.
