Bikepacking experts put the Velduro Phantom to the test

When Aeroe, one of New Zealand's leading bikepacking specialists, chose the Velduro Phantom for a 170km overnight mission on the Hauraki Rail Trail, we knew it would be a real evaluation.

Andrew took the Phantom X while Steph rode the Phantom S, both fully loaded with gear. The route pushed through the Karangahake Gorge with its technical sections, tunnels, and climbs. Perfect conditions to see how the complete package performs when it counts.

Over 70km on a single charge with a full bikepacking load, the Phantom handled everything thrown at it. The DJI Avinox system delivered instant response and consistent power. The carbon frame stayed composed under load. Wide tyres and stable geometry kept handling predictable through technical sections.

Andrew summed it up perfectly: "light enough to ride unpowered, quiet enough to forget it's electric, and powerful enough to make steep pinches fun." Not a commuter in disguise, but a proper gravel adventure bike where everything works together.

This is validation from people who know bikepacking gear inside out. They loaded the bikes properly, rode them hard through demanding terrain, and came back impressed. No marketing spin. Just honest feedback from experts testing the Phantom in exactly the conditions our customers will face.

Read the full story on the Aeroe Adventures blog for complete route details, gear breakdowns, and their in-depth impressions of both Velduro Phantom models.