We see a lot of people pedaling around with back packs that are essentially dry bags. While they’re functional, they’re about as user friendly as a waterproof shopping bag with backpack straps. However, if you were to repurpose those materials, adding usability in the form of compartments, zippers and useful dividers you’d have something special […]
Review: Camelbak Palos 4LR Waistpack
Over the last few seasons we’ve been exploring alternative ways to carry our trail riding essentials. We’ve tried utilizing seat bags, stuffing jersey and short pockets in addition to strapping tools to our bikes. While many of these solutions have been worked, our favorite solution has been a waist pack. Waist packs, AKA bum bags or fanny […]
Lowe Pro StreetLine BP 250
Most camera packs do a great job of carrying camera gear but forget that many of us want to carry regular stuff as well. The StreetLine BP 250 from LowePro bucks the trend with a small form factor that’ll tote a laptop and daily essentials.
Ditching the Pack Part III: 5 more ways to carry stuff without a pack
We’re always on the lookout for new ideas and products that enhance our capacity for hauling gear on our rides – especially when we’re not that far from home.
First Ride Review: 2016 Camelbak Skyline 10LR and Solstice 10LR Hydration Packs
The lumbar series of packs from Camelbak have been somewhat polarizing in how they were received by riders. Riders either loved them, or were not fans at all, with the feel of wearing them often compared to carrying a sweaty amorous koala on your back. Taking all the feedback into consideration, Camelbak redesigned their lumbar packs for […]
Review: Acre Supply Hauser Pack
ACRE is a new entry to the mountain biking community. The roots of the company, however, run deep in mountain biking. ACRE’s founders, Bart Kyzar and Mark Falvai, were the original founders of the iconic urban cycling brand Chrome Industries. Originally based in Boulder, the first Chrome bags were designed with mountain bikers in mind.
Review: Timbuk2 Race Cycling Duffel Bag
As certifiable gear heads, our closet is stuffed with gear bags. We’ve got oversized gear bags suitable for months of travel, capable of swallowing smaller bags for internal organization, to basic weekenders. Of all the bags in rotation, the Race Cycling Duffle by Timbuk2 has been a consistent favorite, thanks to its smart compartments and […]
Camelbak Charge 10 LR
A few years ago, on route to a bike event we found ourselves in the midst of a multi-car vehicular collision. Fortunately we got off relatively light, but we both sustained whiplash. After that, wearing packs on rides made us miserable. Our solution: stop wearing packs. From bottles to waist packs and stuffing additional bottles into pockets for […]
Ditching the Hydration Pack: What’s Your Every Ride Carry?
Hydration packs work extremely well for storing water and supplies needed for epic adventures, but for rides of shorter duration they are often overkill. Last year I returned to my roots and installed a bottle cage on my bike and left my pack at home. Rediscovering the freedom of riding sans pack has really enriched my regular riding experience. […]
Review: Timbuk2 Race Cycling Duffel Bag
Living in the city kind of sucks sometimes. An urban living situation for most means apartments and stairs, lots of stairs. (I hate using our elevator) Unless I’m pedaling directly from home base, loading bikes and gear in the car can be a challenge with multiple flights of stairs to traverse. My loading ritual consists […]
Review: Clik Elite Venture 30 Camera Backpack
I’m always on the lookout for better ways to carry my camera gear while riding. Over the last few years I’ve accumulated a number of camera packs, but have yet to find that perfect one pack solution. At this point, I’m convinced there is none; instead I’ve narrowed it down to two or three. My current go-to […]
Review: Timbuk2 Snoop Camera Messenger Bag
There was a time when I lived with a Timbuk2 messenger bag on my back. The thing accompanied me everywhere; in fact, years later I still have that damn bag, and although it looks a bit beat-down it is in decent shape and completely functional. Now that I’m 10 years older and my back started […]