When it comes to bikepacking, less is more. A gas stove is more of a luxury item than a must-have. At least when you’re out and about and there’s civilisation nearby.
For Outback enthusiasts who prefer to go bikepacking in the remote corners of Scandinavia, a gas stove like this is definitely a sensible choice. It’s straightforward, reliable and ready to use in seconds. The Japanese manufacturer has unveiled three exciting models. Prices start at 84.95 euros.
Consistent performance in cold conditions
We’ve all been there: the cartridge runs out or the temperature drops, and suddenly the gas stove is just simmering away listlessly. SOTO aims to solve this problem with three new models – equipped with miniaturised pressure regulator technology designed to maintain a constant gas pressure between the cartridge and the burner.
The Micro-Regulator system is a mechanical pressure regulator fitted between the cartridge and the burner. Two small gas chambers, a regulating valve, a diaphragm and springs ensure that the burner is supplied with a steady flow of gas even when the cartridge is running low or the cold causes the pressure to drop. With simple valves that lack this system, the flame simply shrinks as the pressure drops – which is far from ideal when you’re still waiting to eat your evening meal at an altitude of 2,000 metres.
Windmaster model: Lightweight, wind-resistant, precise
The flagship model in the trio is the Windmaster. Its aerodynamically shaped burner head, featuring more than 300 nozzles, sits low and is protected from crosswinds by a raised metal ring. Pans sit close to the flame, and the heat output can be precisely adjusted. Depending on the pan support – 4Flex or TriFlex – it weighs 87 or 67 grams. Piezo ignition included. Power: 3.26 kW.
Price: 84.95 euros.
Fusion Trek model: Stable for longer rides
The Fusion Trek is designed for anyone who wants to do more than just boil water whilst out and about. A low centre of gravity, legs that extend well out and a 16-centimetre-wide pot support make it a stable platform for larger pots. Over 300 burner nozzles and a side windscreen complete the package. Weighing 179 grams, it is the heaviest of the trio – but also the most convenient. Power: 3.26 kW.
Price: 115.95 euros.
TriTrail model: Micro-Regulator meets bayonet cartridge
The TriTrail is a first: it is the first SOTO trekking stove to feature an MSF-1a bayonet connector. These cartridges are available worldwide and are usually cheaper than screw-in cartridges – though they are often filled with pure butane, which burns out quickly in cold weather. This is precisely where the Micro-Regulator technology comes into its own. Titanium legs keep the weight down to 135 grams. Output: 2.6 kW.
Price: 84.95 euros.
Quick facts
Windmaster:
- Power: 3.26 kW
- Weight: 87 g with 4Flex / 67 g with TriFlex
- Burner nozzles: more than 300
- Ignition: Piezo ignition
- Price: 84.95 euros
Fusion Trek:
- Power: 3.26 kW
- Weight: 179 g
- Pot diameter: 16 cm
- Burner nozzles: more than 300
- Price: 115.95 euros
TriTrail:
- Power: 2.6 kW
- Weight: 135 g
- Cartridge: MSF-1a bayonet lock
- Legs: Titanium
- Price: 84.95 euros
Laurin Lehner
Editor
