Why I Ride a Tumbleweed Prospector — Full Build Walkthrough

Here’s a full bike check of my Tumbleweed Prospector (v1) — the adventure rig that’s carried me through so many big days around Los Angeles. This build has changed over the years, but it’s become one of the most reliable and versatile setups I’ve ever owned. I walk through the entire build: • RockShox Pike fork for trail capability • SON dynamo hub for lights + power on long days • Rohloff internal gear hub for ultra-low maintenance touring • Thomson dropper post for technical climbs + descents • Selle Anatomica saddle for all-day comfort • Porcelain Rocket frame bags + panniers (still some of my favorite bags ever made) It’s a mix of bikepacking function, trail comfort, and long-distance dependability — and honestly, it might be the closest thing I’ve ever had to a “forever bike.” If you're curious about bikepacking setups, dynamo systems, Rohloff hubs, steel adventure frames, or you're thinking about building a Prospector of your own, hopefully this walkthrough helps. In this video: • Full Tumbleweed Prospector v1 build breakdown • Why I chose a Rohloff hub for adventure riding • My dynamo + lighting setup • Bag + pannier choices for day rides and overnighters • What I’d still change or upgrade • Why this bike works so well for LA dirt, gravel, and mixed-terrain exploring Thanks for watching — and for riding along. Follow on Instagram → @Area45