This has put me right off Apidura! Nice to hear real opinions from someone who has clearly used the products in the video. Too many reviews from people who have just taken things out of the packaging. Thank you!
Great video. Open close, open close. That was killing me. You really nailed it on this break down. Thanks much. I’ve used used both ortlieb and revelate and it’s great stuff
@@KevDoes I'm quickly realizing there is no perfect system, but a system that works perfectly only for me. The gear needed for most bike packers is really pretty much the same stuff, but each person interprets it differently. I did like the sweet roll for side entry access on my Surly Moloko bars, but I've been putting my tent on the front bars with a couple of Whiplash Straps and that works fine. I can then drape the Ortlieb Accessory pack off the front for a few additional items.
Have an Apidura frame pack from the Expedition series, it lives on my bike permanently. Carries the TexLock, all the tools and a spare tube just in case my tubeless setup completely gives up on me. Then it gets stuffed on shopping commutes, or on longer weekend rides. Haven’t had an issue with the zipper at all. That being said, with the bolt on top tube from the same collection I did have an issue. If the zipper is not closed snug, it will let some water in, which I luckily learned while washing the bike with the bag being empty. Learned how to close it properly and no issues whatsoever. Their racing series has a top tank with a flap like Revelate, and it is hands down my favorite. I replaced it because I wanted my bags to match. On the topic of Ortlieb and zippers, they have a frame pack with roll-top closure that looks great in black with orange details. Also a top tank with a magnetic flap, but damn the thing is ugly!
I have same, 14L one, ortleib handlebar bag plus and ortleib backpack that is trapped into my rear rack. None of the ortleib stuff I have has zippers so I have been super happy with them. I wanted to just avoid zippers as much as possible anyways because of this reason. For top tube I use Acid see trough bag that you can use smartphone trough. It's basically my phone holder, It's not my navigator so I don't need to have proper access to it, but it's nice to keep it from elements. It does have zipper with a lot of curves so it might fail at some point, but that bag is not really crucial gear and I can easily do without it. Fortunately everything has been working so far. Pretty careful with frame bag zippers so hopefully they last. If I was getting new frame bag, I would totally go for custom folding one. from somewhere like Alpkit, about same price anyways. Very hard to trust any zipper ;D And based on this video, probably better to stay away from apidura anyways.
Great video. I have a Salsa Cuthroat gravel bike and the original Salsa framebag is awsome. It’s custom made for every frame size, very well designed and good quality. If you have a Salsa, don’t hesitate!
I have the terrapin seat bag system as well and I had the same problem, the little hook snapped, and you will love this. I contacted revelate designs and it turns out there was a safety recall for that kind of hook system. they completely replaced the whole harness and bag for me. they sent me a brand new set the only thing they requested was a picture of me making the old saddle bag harness useless by cutting its straps to ensure it was not used anymore. the new harness uses buckles and it is a lot better. I totally love it. so I recommend you contact them about it! I was very pleased with their service.
Great video. My wife and I are preparing for our first long bike pack and are researching gear. Your video gives a good overview of the pros and cons of each bag and will influence our purchases. Thanks
Thanks for laying out your experience. I have 200+ days' riding, 14000+ road miles, with Apidura's zippered accessory bag on the front of their handlebar bag. They work very well for me (no zipper problems) but the handlebar bag is difficult to remove/replace, so the Revelate holster style interests me. Ortlieb handlebar bag remove/replace seems easier than Apidura's, and they do support a zippered accessory bag too, and they have the standoff spacers that will probably avoid the abrasion problem I had with my Apidura bag, so I will consider switching to Ortlieb handlebar bag and accessory bag. I have 150+ days' riding on a zippered Ortlieb toptube frame pack, with no zipper problems. Kev, consider the possibility that your zipping technique is overly powerful or insufficiently subtle. I rode with Revelate toptube framepack for a while; I loved its dual side zippers and its inner divider, but it was not waterproof enough for where I ride (across the northern USA). I switched to Ortlieb toptube framepack and added some inner division by getting a couple of cheap cosmetics pouches at Walmart to help organize the contents.
Absolutely love the Ortlieb bags. I have the handlebar and seat pack. I use the seat pack for my sleep set up. It fits my bag, pad and pillow easily. Even a puffy coat too. Waterproof, durable... great stuff.
Revelate, originally Epic Designs, the OG of frame bags, was issued a cease and desist letter from Specialized, because Specialized claimed they owned the word ‘Epic’ in the bike world. Epic Designs, to small to fight an international company, changed to Revelate.
Great reviews! I love your critical evaluation of both the customer service and endurance of these products. I've had excellent experience with both Revelate and Ortlieb products (sans zippers). Recently, I've come across Tailfin products and gotta say that for any serious pikepacker or commuter, these have to be considered. Hope you can review some of the Tailfin products.
Really love your review style! Funny and brutally honest. I feel you when it comes to the looks of it. I’d love to use just brand all over my bike, too. I’ve just used the Apidura full frame pack. The zipper got out once, but I could fix it within seconds. I didn’t like Ortlieb seat pack qr too much, coz it was really hart to get it fixed. So I sold it again and used the Revelate Design spine lock seat pack. It’s really been a great bag! No flaws at all and as easy to remove as with a harness, even without a harness. The Ortlieb handle bar qr is kinda great, too. But sold it, too, after 2 longer tours. Now I’m switching to the Specialized/Fjällräven line. It’s, in my opinion, really beautifully and smartly designed. I fear you might not like the habe bar rack though. Go check it out though. And thx for your effort and spirit! Really appreciated!
Thank you for sharing these hard earned perspectives! I have been gravitating towards the revelate designs, it seems like they'll be worth the price tag in the long run!
Im so honored Paul thank you! There are always several takes - I want to make sure I get the information out to you in the most efficient manner possible!
A good angle to take for the evaluation, Kev. I agree that Ortlieb has fantastic customer service as they replaced my commuter pannier after it started to unstitch after 4 years. For bikepacking I've gone down the Topeak route which has been pretty satisfactory.
I've seen a few videos of yours by now, and really my compliments! Great videos, love your honest and enthausiastic personality, and a lot of valuable (like I said, honest) information! Thanks!!
Ahhh. I feel you on zippers. It's not just bags. My OR jackets have failed twice because of zippers. I have 2 or 3 backpacks that are done because of zippers. It's now the #1 thing I look for in new outdoor gear: a heavy zipper that will stand up.
Maybe try Restrap? I like it a lot, the looks are good, love the cordura ;-) and high vis internals (orange) and they are holster bags, so good for dropbars 😎. Allso have a fullframe apidura but i prefer the restrap one.
Funny that you've had issues with Ortlieb too. I used to have the Ortlieb seat pack but I always had a hard time getting it to keep its shape and it would always sag on me, to the point where during one weekend trip it had sagged all the way to my tire unbeknownst to me, and the tire wore holes in it, rendering it completely useless after that trip. I now use a Rockbros seat pack which is considerably cheaper, still waterproof, and holds its shape much better. I'm a huge fan of Rockbros products.
Outershell Adventure. I have a front rack bag that I've taken on bikepacking trips and use everyday. No zipper issues on the front rack bag or my half frame bag. Also, I've been in heavy downpours, and everything stayed dry. They look good and are made in California.
hey Kev, i've used bikepacking bags from Topeak, Woho and Brooks and yeah each of them have pros and cons: Topeak - not great of a build but it sure works all around, drybags are good, the buckle system is easy, but the frame bag sips water inside. Woho - fully waterproof, lightweight, no zippers, rolltop on frame bag, downside is the buckling and strap system are a hassle. Brooks Scape - durable, fully waterproof, a bit on the heavy side, buckling and strap system the best by far for me, but yeah, it's a bit heavy. so my conclusion on seeing me and others using bikepacking bags, if you want the best, you have to mix them up.
@@KevDoes i also want to add that i'm also using some from Rhinowalk. not the best quality but it does the job well. not all 100% waterproof though. hope this gives some insight. also love your insight on the 3 brands in this video. 👍🙏
Wow - that's a lot of top-quality bags! Or at least, expensive ones, given all the troubles you've had with zippers. I've found myself gravitating towards Topeak, but it's much more of a hybrid cycle-touring/bikepacking setup. The zipper pulls have worn out for me, before the zippers themselves - fortunately, zipper pulls are easy to replace, and Topeak's been excellent about sending replacement parts (or even complete replacement units when a cradle was stolen along with my old bike!)
Ovens Negra or Rogue Panda for frame and cockpit (both do very good looking bags), then I use Restrap holsters/harness for front and seat in basic black.
Tailfin is King. The carbon fiber support eliminates sway when out of the saddle. Plus it has aero gains over other designs. Revolate for food pouch and top tube.
Wow great review … I had Ortlieb trouble with wear and tear on the saddle bag without much use…. Revelate is awesome I agree, better to pay more for trouble free bike packing. Also the separate removable dry bags ….only way to go… I dropped way too many clothes, sleeping bags etc onto muddy ground with the Ortlieb… pain in the azz..never again
I had a very similar experience with Apidura. My frame bag's main zipper failed on the very first day of my first multi-day bikepacking trip! Luckily it didn't rain my entire trip, but I was still upset that it failed! They had good customer service, but sending it overseas seemed ridiculous. Luckily, I just watched some other TH-cam videos and figured out how to fix these broken zipper situations!
@@KevDoes No cutting was required thankfully, apparently the slider got torqued so it wasn't engaging the zipper teeth properly, so it wouldn't close. But a little pressure from some pliers fixed it. This is an example of the problem I had: th-cam.com/video/vpDbUFKaUyY/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the review. I was choosing a handlebar bag. I had a lot of trouble putting on and off a smaller Ortlieb handlebar with another system, so I sold it almost new. You convinced me of the harness system. Decathlon (Riverside) does cheaper ones. It seems that they are copying the Apidura color code. I'll try them.
@@KevDoes Finally, I bought a Restrap barr gab holster 14 + 3 liters and the Restrap top tube race 2L bag. Both our good. I'm most satisfied with the first one, as it fits perfectly my 2 person Ferrino tent (1.85 kg) and the 3 l bag is useful for stuff to keep handy. The top tube bag really is useful only to keep extra things handy. 1.5 liter one, going half top tube could be enough as well.
Ive used Ortlieb and Revelate and tend to agree with you for similar reasons as you, although when my Ortlieb bag (saddle pack) broke I contacted their customer service with photos and they never even replied! so 0 out of 10 from me. I moved over to Restrap for all my bags, their race series and 'oh my' the quality and how well thought out they are is impressive. You can just tell it's designed by fellow bike packers, ticks all the boxes for me.
I know the description for products on restrap's homepage includes info on whether they're waterproof but do you have any „real life“ experience when it comes to them staying dry?
@@KevDoes yesyes, I was referring to the original comment as they were saying they moved over to restrap. :) Great video by the way with a very reasonable way to go about criticism and thanks for replying!
Rogue Panda will make you a fantastic frame bag, with a fabulous zipper, I also like the top bag for my phone and accessories and they have a great bottle/snack holder...all of which you get to pick the fabric. they are handmade for you....Then I use Panniers made by Waterfly and my front handlebar bag for my tent is Ortlieb . I have traveled thousands of miles with this set up and no leaks or zipper damage.
I've only used Ortlieb, so they would be my favorite. Got a good discount through my shop for rear panniers, whatever the popular ones are, I can't remember names, just know they work great.
Great review. I'm also still looking for the perfect top tube bag. My own experience tells me that - velcro strap is a no-no. Voile strap is better if it is effectively secure. - Zipper quality is important especially for someone who perspire buckets, like myself. Topeak zipper did not last long. Apidura zipper seems to have held up for me, thus far, knock on wood. Other brands you might want to look at are .. ORUCASE - based in the West Coast - I've personally used their Smuggler bar bag and saddle bags - Never tried the top tube bag, but the one-hand operation based on magnetic seals look interesting TOPEAK - I have the TopLoader top tube bag. It is spacious. But the waterproof zipper became stiff really quickly, due to perspiration and condensation. - velcro strap protruded out and scuffed my Assos bib shorts within a couple of hours of use I've heard and seen many good things about the Tailfin top tube bag. However, international shipping is pricey unless you buy 2 of the already-expensive bags :(
Excellent video. Have you looked at Arkel bags made in Canada? There frame bag is awesome! Burito Bag-Fantastic. I have the Arkel dry lite pannier bags but the Arkel seatbag with frame is waterproof and seems ut would fit a lot. Definitely, check them out.
Great Video - since you have bad experience with ortlieb zippers, you might wanna get a look at the newer RC line wich doesn't use zippers, also there is a new cockpit called "Fuel Tank"
I would strongly recommend trying Restrap stuff. I have their race top tube bag 5/5*, their 14L saddle bag 8/10* (it wiggles a bit more than others I've tried), their 14L handlebar bag 5/5* and their Large carry everything frame bag 3.5/5* (the zip isn't quite waterproof - I'll be trying their race frame bag in future as it's got a waterproof cover for the zip
I‘m thinking of the Vaude Trail series, maybe combined with panniers in the back?. So far I only have one Trailmulti 2 and not taken for a ride yet (weather), but maybe that series works?
Leadout is starting to make Dyneema bags. They don’t have a line of bikepacking specific bags, but the fact that they are exploring Dyneema makes me think something is coming in the future. For those that don’t know, Dyneema is a strong lightweight material used in ultra light backpacking gear. Check them out!
@@KevDoes most definitely I should get it by next week the problem is my bike is a Santa Cruz carbon chameleon so it has a small front triangle and I was looking up bags that would fit and there customize bags and the base price was 250 🥲
i just do my own bag repairs its easy and cheeper then sending it back and i like to add a pocket on the inside for hiding cash and cards and i get better quality zippers. and dont throw them out they can be repaired. I like the salsa bags.
Oh gosh, you've given me such a dilema: Epidura looks cool (soooo important :)) but Revelate is more practical. Love things that work. Oh what to do?????
the biggest takeaway i have from this review is that i chose well in buying a rockgeist roll top frame bag because your experiences with zippers sound like a nightmare
One of the best bikepacking videos I've encountered on TH-cam till now! Luckily for me the Revelate Designs looks perfect with my Candy Apple Red Frame 😅 Ps. Have you ever encountered issues with stuff falling out of Revelate's Mag Tank? Thanks!
Did you try Restrap? U.K. based company. I'm all with you on the "" harness & drybag" over "stuck to the bike" bags, and am also not charmed by the looks of Revelate...
@@KevDoes Yep, I've been using the front harness and the saddlebag (17l.). In the front harness i can fit two (!) drybags; one with tent including poles (MSR hubba 1p) and the second my sleep system (exped R4 sleeping pad and Thermarest Questar 20 Down Sleeping Bag). Saddlebag is spare clothes and cooking stuff. No experience with their customer service, because nothing has broken in the first two years of use (maybe 2 months actual use). Enjoy!
Could you link to the companies and products in your description? It would help viewers and might also get you credit with the manufacturers when they see the traffic you're sending ;)
Ortlieb's Pack-Rack? If so, although it requires a rear rack, it's largest size (49L) might accommodate a lot of folks' bikepacking needs, much more than their 17L Seat Pack, eh? Could be a great option and access to everything inside of it is as easy as a typical duffle bag.
Love ortlieb but far to complicated and you need to take night classes to figure out how to fit it properly especially items like the ortlieb frame pack RC toptube.
rockgeist baby you dont know what your missing!! 2 things, Api does their top tube bag with magetic flap too and its awsome, yes that zipper one sucks. 2 dont take this the wrong way but you might be a little small to be on their ambassador team and they might not want to burn a bridge by telling you so right away. also maybe wax your zippers eh! lol come ride in canada anytime my dude
dude I bloody love your videos! hahaha you're so fricking funny! hahaha love it! but dude....what's wrong with you and your zippers man!? I need to see how you treat those zippers! haha no,....now onto serious stuff... are any of those YKK zippers?? I am not trusting any top quality outdoor gear that simply doesn't wear YKK zippers... they are the best and outdoor gear brands put "YKK zippers" on their specs section for a reason. They are just the best and simply work and are the most robust stuff... but hey ho...they might be YKK and still break because of manufacturing defects of the bags themselves I believe...? anyway, I'm after a bikepacking bag bundle and I am not sure about how many litres the whole combo should have... I'm after a combo that is about 17 litres...is that too little? can you do a video on capacity? what things we should look into / consider when buying bikepacking bags please!??
Aw thank you so much for the comment! I appreciate it! I honestly have no idea what’s wrong with all these zippers… but I’ve broken many brands and styles lol (except Revelate so I hope it’s not me 😁) As far as capacity, it really is personal. How much stuff are you bringing, and how big of a bag can you fit on your bike? For example, my ortlieb seat bag has a 17 liter capacity and I fit my entire sleep system in it (tent, quilt, liner, pillow, sleeping pad). I am big guy so my things are a bit bigger, but I’ve also got some really compact/light gear that I can compress. Overall, I would go into my local bike shop with my gear that I want to pack and ask if they’re ok with me packing the bike to test it before you buy bags!
The reason why Ortlieb is sending you new bags without asking any questions is that they are used to them breaking and don't want to get into trouble for it. It's simply a sign that they don't have good quality control at the factory, had lots of returns on several issues, and know about them.
I found that in general zippers on touring and bike packing bags are bad. Every bag with a zipper has failed me. Maybe the kind of stress the bags and zippers face when biking doesn't work well with the zipper construction. The strap-kind of bags are much better.
Really disappointed with Apidura toptube bag. Bikepacking Ireland and first not even really heavy rain and it's wet inside, how I'm supposed to put phone and power bank inside. €65 for completely useless product
This has put me right off Apidura! Nice to hear real opinions from someone who has clearly used the products in the video. Too many reviews from people who have just taken things out of the packaging. Thank you!
My pleasure! I am so glad it helped!
great to get a non-embassador review, thank you. I think this is the only way forward for unbiased reviews.... 👌
My pleasure! Glad you found it helpful!
What an amazing review! A lot of problems were highlighted. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
@@KevDoes Have you tried any of Tailfin bags?
Great video. Open close, open close. That was killing me. You really nailed it on this break down. Thanks much. I’ve used used both ortlieb and revelate and it’s great stuff
Haha glad you enjoyed it!! Did you have a favorite?
@@KevDoes I'm quickly realizing there is no perfect system, but a system that works perfectly only for me. The gear needed for most bike packers is really pretty much the same stuff, but each person interprets it differently. I did like the sweet roll for side entry access on my Surly Moloko bars, but I've been putting my tent on the front bars with a couple of Whiplash Straps and that works fine. I can then drape the Ortlieb Accessory pack off the front for a few additional items.
Have an Apidura frame pack from the Expedition series, it lives on my bike permanently. Carries the TexLock, all the tools and a spare tube just in case my tubeless setup completely gives up on me. Then it gets stuffed on shopping commutes, or on longer weekend rides. Haven’t had an issue with the zipper at all. That being said, with the bolt on top tube from the same collection I did have an issue. If the zipper is not closed snug, it will let some water in, which I luckily learned while washing the bike with the bag being empty. Learned how to close it properly and no issues whatsoever. Their racing series has a top tank with a flap like Revelate, and it is hands down my favorite. I replaced it because I wanted my bags to match. On the topic of Ortlieb and zippers, they have a frame pack with roll-top closure that looks great in black with orange details. Also a top tank with a magnetic flap, but damn the thing is ugly!
That magnetic flip top does seem really appealing!
I have same, 14L one, ortleib handlebar bag plus and ortleib backpack that is trapped into my rear rack. None of the ortleib stuff I have has zippers so I have been super happy with them. I wanted to just avoid zippers as much as possible anyways because of this reason. For top tube I use Acid see trough bag that you can use smartphone trough. It's basically my phone holder, It's not my navigator so I don't need to have proper access to it, but it's nice to keep it from elements. It does have zipper with a lot of curves so it might fail at some point, but that bag is not really crucial gear and I can easily do without it.
Fortunately everything has been working so far. Pretty careful with frame bag zippers so hopefully they last. If I was getting new frame bag, I would totally go for custom folding one. from somewhere like Alpkit, about same price anyways. Very hard to trust any zipper ;D And based on this video, probably better to stay away from apidura anyways.
Great video. I have a Salsa Cuthroat gravel bike and the original Salsa framebag is awsome. It’s custom made for every frame size, very well designed and good quality. If you have a Salsa, don’t hesitate!
Ah I can imagine that would be satisfying to have a perfect fit!
I have the terrapin seat bag system as well and I had the same problem, the little hook snapped, and you will love this. I contacted revelate designs and it turns out there was a safety recall for that kind of hook system. they completely replaced the whole harness and bag for me. they sent me a brand new set the only thing they requested was a picture of me making the old saddle bag harness useless by cutting its straps to ensure it was not used anymore. the new harness uses buckles and it is a lot better. I totally love it. so I recommend you contact them about it! I was very pleased with their service.
AMAZING Jesus! Thank you that's good news! And congrats on the bag!
Great review and love the energy you bring. Feels different to other bikepacking channels - very refreshing!
I’m so honored! Thank you!
Great video. My wife and I are preparing for our first long bike pack and are researching gear. Your video gives a good overview of the pros and cons of each bag and will influence our purchases. Thanks
Glad it was helpful! let me know what you end up going with
Thanks for laying out your experience. I have 200+ days' riding, 14000+ road miles, with Apidura's zippered accessory bag on the front of their handlebar bag. They work very well for me (no zipper problems) but the handlebar bag is difficult to remove/replace, so the Revelate holster style interests me. Ortlieb handlebar bag remove/replace seems easier than Apidura's, and they do support a zippered accessory bag too, and they have the standoff spacers that will probably avoid the abrasion problem I had with my Apidura bag, so I will consider switching to Ortlieb handlebar bag and accessory bag. I have 150+ days' riding on a zippered Ortlieb toptube frame pack, with no zipper problems. Kev, consider the possibility that your zipping technique is overly powerful or insufficiently subtle. I rode with Revelate toptube framepack for a while; I loved its dual side zippers and its inner divider, but it was not waterproof enough for where I ride (across the northern USA). I switched to Ortlieb toptube framepack and added some inner division by getting a couple of cheap cosmetics pouches at Walmart to help organize the contents.
Glad it’s working for you!
Absolutely love the Ortlieb bags. I have the handlebar and seat pack. I use the seat pack for my sleep set up. It fits my bag, pad and pillow easily. Even a puffy coat too. Waterproof, durable... great stuff.
Isn't it the best when you find products you really enjoy??
Revelate, originally Epic Designs, the OG of frame bags, was issued a cease and desist letter from Specialized, because Specialized claimed they owned the word ‘Epic’ in the bike world. Epic Designs, to small to fight an international company, changed to Revelate.
It’s an interesting story for sure
That’s a Specialized special right. Claim copyright on every cycling term (Roubaix anyone?) and destroy anyone who uses those words and letters.
Great reviews! I love your critical evaluation of both the customer service and endurance of these products. I've had excellent experience with both Revelate and Ortlieb products (sans zippers). Recently, I've come across Tailfin products and gotta say that for any serious pikepacker or commuter, these have to be considered. Hope you can review some of the Tailfin products.
Really love your review style! Funny and brutally honest. I feel you when it comes to the looks of it. I’d love to use just brand all over my bike, too. I’ve just used the Apidura full frame pack. The zipper got out once, but I could fix it within seconds. I didn’t like Ortlieb seat pack qr too much, coz it was really hart to get it fixed. So I sold it again and used the Revelate Design spine lock seat pack. It’s really been a great bag! No flaws at all and as easy to remove as with a harness, even without a harness. The Ortlieb handle bar qr is kinda great, too. But sold it, too, after 2 longer tours.
Now I’m switching to the Specialized/Fjällräven line. It’s, in my opinion, really beautifully and smartly designed. I fear you might not like the habe bar rack though. Go check it out though. And thx for your effort and spirit! Really appreciated!
Thanks for the reco! I will go check that line out!
Great honest review. Much appreciated the time you spent on creating this video.
I’m honored by you, thank you!
Great video, dude. Was looking at the Rev frame pack already. Sold me.
It’s amazing honestly! Glad you enjoyed it!
You hit it perfect on the quality control of these high dollar bike packing gear manufacturers
Thank you Keith!
Really entertaining. Loved that. Alpkit are well thought out products at a reasonable price and look good too…
Let me take a look! Thank you
Thank you for sharing these hard earned perspectives!
I have been gravitating towards the revelate designs, it seems like they'll be worth the price tag in the long run!
Glad it was helpful! I keep leaning more and more that way
For me, I use Oveja Negra bags. They're awesome bags and are great folks in Salida, CO.
Thank you Karl! I’ll give them a look!
I second this. The wacky pack designs definitely have appealing style!
I like the way you thought things thru. 👍
Thank you :)
Great review- well-founded, honest and fun at the same time!
Glad you enjoyed it!
You have great screen presence/delivery. I wondered how many takes it took you, awesome. Also v helpful.
Im so honored Paul thank you! There are always several takes - I want to make sure I get the information out to you in the most efficient manner possible!
A good angle to take for the evaluation, Kev. I agree that Ortlieb has fantastic customer service as they replaced my commuter pannier after it started to unstitch after 4 years. For bikepacking I've gone down the Topeak route which has been pretty satisfactory.
You’re the second person to say Topeak! I have to check out their bags. Which ones do you have?
I've seen a few videos of yours by now, and really my compliments! Great videos, love your honest and enthausiastic personality, and a lot of valuable (like I said, honest) information! Thanks!!
I’m honored! Thank you so much! Glad you’re here and enjoying the content!
Ahhh. I feel you on zippers. It's not just bags. My OR jackets have failed twice because of zippers. I have 2 or 3 backpacks that are done because of zippers. It's now the #1 thing I look for in new outdoor gear: a heavy zipper that will stand up.
Hard to find
I use bags from all three of those companies and Aeroe too. All of them are incredible bags. Not cheap, but extremely durable and very well made.
Glad you’re having such a good experience with them! I’ll check out Aeroe
I needed this video no lie just put me on game thank you 🙏🏾
I got you 🙏🏽
Maybe try Restrap? I like it a lot, the looks are good, love the cordura ;-) and high vis internals (orange) and they are holster bags, so good for dropbars 😎. Allso have a fullframe apidura but i prefer the restrap one.
Interesting ok I’ll check it out thank you!
Funny that you've had issues with Ortlieb too. I used to have the Ortlieb seat pack but I always had a hard time getting it to keep its shape and it would always sag on me, to the point where during one weekend trip it had sagged all the way to my tire unbeknownst to me, and the tire wore holes in it, rendering it completely useless after that trip. I now use a Rockbros seat pack which is considerably cheaper, still waterproof, and holds its shape much better. I'm a huge fan of Rockbros products.
Yeah, I know Ortlieb started selling a little adjustment strap to avoid that exact issue.
But glad you’re happy with the rockbros!
Have you ever tried Oveja Negra or Rogue Panda?
Never have. Would you recommend?
@@KevDoesyeah for sure! Oveja Negra is made out of Salida, Colorado and Rogue Panda out of Flagstaff, AZ
This is a ‘no brainer’, just go buy the Apidura stuff. It works! It’s good. Very glad I did!
Awesome!
Outershell Adventure. I have a front rack bag that I've taken on bikepacking trips and
use everyday. No zipper issues on the front rack bag or my half frame bag. Also, I've been in heavy downpours, and everything stayed dry. They look good and are made in California.
Awesome! Thank you for the reco Christopher let me check them out!
hey Kev, i've used bikepacking bags from Topeak, Woho and Brooks and yeah each of them have pros and cons:
Topeak - not great of a build but it sure works all around, drybags are good, the buckle system is easy, but the frame bag sips water inside.
Woho - fully waterproof, lightweight, no zippers, rolltop on frame bag, downside is the buckling and strap system are a hassle.
Brooks Scape - durable, fully waterproof, a bit on the heavy side, buckling and strap system the best by far for me, but yeah, it's a bit heavy.
so my conclusion on seeing me and others using bikepacking bags, if you want the best, you have to mix them up.
Thank you! These are such helpful reviews - I’m just hoping there eventually is one bag that I can use. Staying hopeful lol
@@KevDoes i also want to add that i'm also using some from Rhinowalk. not the best quality but it does the job well. not all 100% waterproof though. hope this gives some insight. also love your insight on the 3 brands in this video. 👍🙏
Apidura Food Pouches are the best I have ever used. I wouldn't recommend any others over them. Simple and useful for any and all bikepacking trips.
I completely agree!
Wow - that's a lot of top-quality bags! Or at least, expensive ones, given all the troubles you've had with zippers. I've found myself gravitating towards Topeak, but it's much more of a hybrid cycle-touring/bikepacking setup. The zipper pulls have worn out for me, before the zippers themselves - fortunately, zipper pulls are easy to replace, and Topeak's been excellent about sending replacement parts (or even complete replacement units when a cradle was stolen along with my old bike!)
Oh man! I didn’t think about Topeak! I’ll have to check them out
Ovens Negra or Rogue Panda for frame and cockpit (both do very good looking bags), then I use Restrap holsters/harness for front and seat in basic black.
Oh mix and match??? And they all look good together?
I love the Vaude Collection ❤
Ohh okay thank you!
You are so funny!!😂😂 Thank you for this review.. gonna buy revelate now..
I hope it works out for you! Let me know!
@@KevDoes i will :)
Tailfin is King. The carbon fiber support eliminates sway when out of the saddle. Plus it has aero gains over other designs. Revolate for food pouch and top tube.
I am really interested in trying tail fin. Seems like a cool option for sure
Wow great review … I had Ortlieb trouble with wear and tear on the saddle bag without much use…. Revelate is awesome I agree, better to pay more for trouble free bike packing. Also the separate removable dry bags ….only way to go… I dropped way too many clothes, sleeping bags etc onto muddy ground with the Ortlieb… pain in the azz..never again
Haha you live and learn right? Do you have a full Ortlieb setup?
I had a very similar experience with Apidura. My frame bag's main zipper failed on the very first day of my first multi-day bikepacking trip! Luckily it didn't rain my entire trip, but I was still upset that it failed! They had good customer service, but sending it overseas seemed ridiculous. Luckily, I just watched some other TH-cam videos and figured out how to fix these broken zipper situations!
It basically just requires a good pair of pliers..
To fix the zipper did you have to do any cutting of the pack?
@@KevDoes No cutting was required thankfully, apparently the slider got torqued so it wasn't engaging the zipper teeth properly, so it wouldn't close. But a little pressure from some pliers fixed it. This is an example of the problem I had: th-cam.com/video/vpDbUFKaUyY/w-d-xo.html
Superb content creation here. Well done my man.
So glad you liked it! Thank you!
Thanks for the review. I was choosing a handlebar bag. I had a lot of trouble putting on and off a smaller Ortlieb handlebar with another system, so I sold it almost new. You convinced me of the harness system. Decathlon (Riverside) does cheaper ones. It seems that they are copying the Apidura color code. I'll try them.
You’ll have to let me know how it works out! I’m excited to see!
@@KevDoes Finally, I bought a Restrap barr gab holster 14 + 3 liters and the Restrap top tube race 2L bag. Both our good. I'm most satisfied with the first one, as it fits perfectly my 2 person Ferrino tent (1.85 kg) and the 3 l bag is useful for stuff to keep handy. The top tube bag really is useful only to keep extra things handy. 1.5 liter one, going half top tube could be enough as well.
Ive used Ortlieb and Revelate and tend to agree with you for similar reasons as you, although when my Ortlieb bag (saddle pack) broke I contacted their customer service with photos and they never even replied! so 0 out of 10 from me. I moved over to Restrap for all my bags, their race series and 'oh my' the quality and how well thought out they are is impressive. You can just tell it's designed by fellow bike packers, ticks all the boxes for me.
You're the second person to mention them! I have to give them a serious look now
I know the description for products on restrap's homepage includes info on whether they're waterproof but do you have any „real life“ experience when it comes to them staying dry?
I haven’t used restrap bags yet so I do not
@@KevDoes yesyes, I was referring to the original comment as they were saying they moved over to restrap. :)
Great video by the way with a very reasonable way to go about criticism and thanks for replying!
Rogue Panda will make you a fantastic frame bag, with a fabulous zipper, I also like the top bag for my phone and accessories and they have a great bottle/snack holder...all of which you get to pick the fabric. they are handmade for you....Then I use Panniers made by Waterfly and my front handlebar bag for my tent is Ortlieb . I have traveled thousands of miles with this set up and no leaks or zipper damage.
What a cool setup! Ok, going to check out all of these ideas!
Hi! I would be interested in your opinion with the Decathlon bikepacking bags! :)
I’ve never heard of them! What do you like about them/what’s got you interested?
I've only used Ortlieb, so they would be my favorite. Got a good discount through my shop for rear panniers, whatever the popular ones are, I can't remember names, just know they work great.
Yeah I hear their panniers and absolutely amazing
Thank you. I have the same problem with Apidura zipper
Ah man I’m sorry to hear that
Great review.
I'm also still looking for the perfect top tube bag. My own experience tells me that
- velcro strap is a no-no. Voile strap is better if it is effectively secure.
- Zipper quality is important especially for someone who perspire buckets, like myself. Topeak zipper did not last long. Apidura zipper seems to have held up for me, thus far, knock on wood.
Other brands you might want to look at are ..
ORUCASE
- based in the West Coast
- I've personally used their Smuggler bar bag and saddle bags
- Never tried the top tube bag, but the one-hand operation based on magnetic seals look interesting
TOPEAK
- I have the TopLoader top tube bag. It is spacious. But the waterproof zipper became stiff really quickly, due to perspiration and condensation.
- velcro strap protruded out and scuffed my Assos bib shorts within a couple of hours of use
I've heard and seen many good things about the Tailfin top tube bag. However, international shipping is pricey unless you buy 2 of the already-expensive bags :(
The other one I really like is the revelate designs top tube bag. The flip with the magnetic closure is really nice!
The revelate tangle zipper IS waterproof indeed!
Depends on your definition of waterproof, but yeah it’s really good!
Excellent video. Have you looked at Arkel bags made in Canada? There frame bag is awesome! Burito Bag-Fantastic. I have the Arkel dry lite pannier bags but the Arkel seatbag with frame is waterproof and seems ut would fit a lot. Definitely, check them out.
I appreciate the reco!
Pregunta en español. Realmente con cual te quedarías, pero pensando también en apidura Race. Gracias
No tengo algo de Apidura race, entonces si tengo que decidir ahora mismo me quedo con Revelate
Great Video - since you have bad experience with ortlieb zippers, you might wanna get a look at the newer RC line wich doesn't use zippers, also there is a new cockpit called "Fuel Tank"
Ok I will take a look! Thank you!
I would strongly recommend trying Restrap stuff. I have their race top tube bag 5/5*, their 14L saddle bag 8/10* (it wiggles a bit more than others I've tried), their 14L handlebar bag 5/5* and their Large carry everything frame bag 3.5/5* (the zip isn't quite waterproof - I'll be trying their race frame bag in future as it's got a waterproof cover for the zip
I love the detail here! I’ll have to give them a try, thank you!
I‘m thinking of the Vaude Trail series, maybe combined with panniers in the back?. So far I only have one Trailmulti 2 and not taken for a ride yet (weather), but maybe that series works?
When you try it out let me know how you like it!
Try the Ortlieb fuel Pack its without a zipper and its waterproof.
I will add it to the list! Thank you!
Here's a guy I believe.
Wish I'd have seen this when Revelate was on sale.
Edited to say hi from Anoka. Surprised you havent tried Cedaero.
Honestly I’ve been on the fence several times about Cedaero but something hasn’t clicked and sold me
@KevDoes they're alot of $ even compared to Revelate.
Leadout is starting to make Dyneema bags. They don’t have a line of bikepacking specific bags, but the fact that they are exploring Dyneema makes me think something is coming in the future. For those that don’t know, Dyneema is a strong lightweight material used in ultra light backpacking gear. Check them out!
That’s super exciting!
Going to be buying myself a revelate hopper bag..
Let me know how you like it!
@@KevDoes most definitely I should get it by next week the problem is my bike is a Santa Cruz carbon chameleon so it has a small front triangle and I was looking up bags that would fit and there customize bags and the base price was 250 🥲
i just do my own bag repairs its easy and cheeper then sending it back and i like to add a pocket on the inside for hiding cash and cards and i get better quality zippers.
and dont throw them out they can be repaired.
I like the salsa bags.
That’s a good point! Are you pretty good at sewing?
@@KevDoes iam ok been doing it for about a year but my uncle is going to be teaching me how to do upholstery
I‘d love to See That Food pouch filling Video 😂😂
That's such a good idea!!
Have you considered Aero spider rack with a dry bag system?
I have not! But I’ll look into it!
Try the framebag without the zippers. And their Limited edition looks astonishing :)
I wish they had that before I got mine lol but I agree, SO pretty!
Do you have something about Tailfin bags?
I’ve never tried them before!
i love tailfin rack and bag .. try review bro !!
I gotta do some research on those. It seems like a cool system but I wonder if the weight tradeoff is worth it
Oh gosh, you've given me such a dilema: Epidura looks cool (soooo important :)) but Revelate is more practical. Love things that work. Oh what to do?????
I am in the same boat! It’s a tough situation to be in
Did you had a chance to get a look on the Restraps Collection?
Looked through but haven’t purchased anything yet - I will soon :)
Excellent review
I’m honored thank you!
Really useful info!
So glad it was helpful!
Have a look at the agu selection.
Ok I will, thank you!
the biggest takeaway i have from this review is that i chose well in buying a rockgeist roll top frame bag because your experiences with zippers sound like a nightmare
some of them have been pretty bad lol but glad you're liking your rockgeist!
One of the best bikepacking videos I've encountered on TH-cam till now!
Luckily for me the Revelate Designs looks perfect with my Candy Apple Red Frame 😅
Ps. Have you ever encountered issues with stuff falling out of Revelate's Mag Tank?
Thanks!
Thank you so much!
I’ve never had anything fall out of the mag tank whether it was really full or a little empty :)
Was the Ortlieb handlebar pack the 9L or the 15L version?
I got the 15L!
Did you try Restrap? U.K. based company. I'm all with you on the "" harness & drybag" over "stuck to the bike" bags, and am also not charmed by the looks of Revelate...
I haven’t yet tried restrap! Have you had a good experience with them?
@@KevDoes Yep, I've been using the front harness and the saddlebag (17l.). In the front harness i can fit two (!) drybags; one with tent including poles (MSR hubba 1p) and the second my sleep system (exped R4 sleeping pad and Thermarest Questar 20 Down Sleeping Bag). Saddlebag is spare clothes and cooking stuff.
No experience with their customer service, because nothing has broken in the first two years of use (maybe 2 months actual use). Enjoy!
@@KevDoes restrap 3,5 liter framebag just great interior hand made great zipper live long garantee and signed by maker a personal touch
Could you link to the companies and products in your description? It would help viewers and might also get you credit with the manufacturers when they see the traffic you're sending ;)
I appreciate the advice!
Check out thief… love it. Handmade.
Ohh and the name is intriguing too. Thank you Janice!
Alpkit and Wildcat are too companies worth having a look at. Both UK based.
Hey thank you! I will go ahead and take a look!
You do have to baby those Ortlieb zippers.
Hey, it that’s worth it for you that’s perfect!
Restrap, Cyclite and Tailfin are brands you should have an eye on.
I appreciate the recommendations! I will take a look at these thank you Chris! Which of these do you have?
@@KevDoes just got a restrap frame bag, didn´t try it yet. Can give you an update on this 🤙
Maybe try Restrap
I’ve heard it a lot. I gotta try
Mate, try out Arkel and Tailfin
First time I’ve heard of Arkel! This is helpful thank you!
I see Ortlieb make a roll top frame bag now -no zip
Ortlieb's Pack-Rack? If so, although it requires a rear rack, it's largest size (49L) might accommodate a lot of folks' bikepacking needs, much more than their 17L Seat Pack, eh? Could be a great option and access to everything inside of it is as easy as a typical duffle bag.
@@FlowJunkie65 He means the Ortleib Frame-Pack RC
Yeah that’s an interesting bag!
Try Brooks England
Thank you!
Love ortlieb but far to complicated and you need to take night classes to figure out how to fit it properly especially items like the ortlieb frame pack RC toptube.
Night classes 🤣
CLOSED! 14:45 😁
😅
Restrap is the way forward
Haven't been able to get my hands on some yet!
Man, do you have love-hate special relationship with the zippers?😅
Mostly hate haha.
rockgeist baby you dont know what your missing!! 2 things, Api does their top tube bag with magetic flap too and its awsome, yes that zipper one sucks. 2 dont take this the wrong way but you might be a little small to be on their ambassador team and they might not want to burn a bridge by telling you so right away. also maybe wax your zippers eh! lol come ride in canada anytime my dude
I’ll check rockgeist out!
Tailfin!
You've had good luck with it?
dude I bloody love your videos! hahaha you're so fricking funny! hahaha love it! but dude....what's wrong with you and your zippers man!? I need to see how you treat those zippers! haha no,....now onto serious stuff... are any of those YKK zippers?? I am not trusting any top quality outdoor gear that simply doesn't wear YKK zippers... they are the best and outdoor gear brands put "YKK zippers" on their specs section for a reason. They are just the best and simply work and are the most robust stuff... but hey ho...they might be YKK and still break because of manufacturing defects of the bags themselves I believe...? anyway, I'm after a bikepacking bag bundle and I am not sure about how many litres the whole combo should have... I'm after a combo that is about 17 litres...is that too little? can you do a video on capacity? what things we should look into / consider when buying bikepacking bags please!??
Aw thank you so much for the comment! I appreciate it!
I honestly have no idea what’s wrong with all these zippers… but I’ve broken many brands and styles lol (except Revelate so I hope it’s not me 😁)
As far as capacity, it really is personal. How much stuff are you bringing, and how big of a bag can you fit on your bike? For example, my ortlieb seat bag has a 17 liter capacity and I fit my entire sleep system in it (tent, quilt, liner, pillow, sleeping pad). I am big guy so my things are a bit bigger, but I’ve also got some really compact/light gear that I can compress. Overall, I would go into my local bike shop with my gear that I want to pack and ask if they’re ok with me packing the bike to test it before you buy bags!
Ortlieb, just don’t get the stuff with the zippers and get their limited edition purple and orange ones.
Purple and orange??? That sounds awszome
The Revelate Feedbag is also way better.
than what?
@@KevDoes :-) Fair enough, thx! - Than the other feedbags. You might have shown it as well.
Do people put hammers on display? Picard makes a gold plated carpenters hammer.
I’m a little confused lol I need context. Why are we displaying a hammer?
The reason why Ortlieb is sending you new bags without asking any questions is that they are used to them breaking and don't want to get into trouble for it. It's simply a sign that they don't have good quality control at the factory, had lots of returns on several issues, and know about them.
I mean… this is surprising to me but I don’t have any evidence to argue!
I found that in general zippers on touring and bike packing bags are bad. Every bag with a zipper has failed me. Maybe the kind of stress the bags and zippers face when biking doesn't work well with the zipper construction. The strap-kind of bags are much better.
I’ve had a similar experience except with the revelate designs frame bag. That zipper has held up great
Really disappointed with Apidura toptube bag. Bikepacking Ireland and first not even really heavy rain and it's wet inside, how I'm supposed to put phone and power bank inside. €65 for completely useless product
Yeah… I really wanted apidura to be the perfect brand for me
restrap
Their stuff looks REALLY nice. There are a lot of votes for restrap, I will have to go grab some gearp
Cyclite
Never heard of them! I’ll take a look
@@KevDoes German Brand
Restrap
Gonna try to get my hands on some bags. Thank you!