@TheBromptonGuy, at last, someone thinking about a proper touring bag for the Brompton rear rack. Your solution is a defo a step in the right direction, well done, great mock up too, 👍whats the volume?; PROS(i) its designed to fit the rear rack footprint and avoids pedal strikes, (ii) it sits below the seat doesn't interfere with rider, (iii) it appears well secured to bike and relatively easily strapped on and off, (iii) doesn't compromise the fold. CONS (i) on its own, limited space for camping touring, without the use of front carrier means you are carrying a rucksack on your back, (ii) off the bike you have to carry rear bag in by hand (which may be difficult if you also use a front bag, not so if like you a day sac on your back is used). Some thoughts; - Use a Klickfix attachment on the base for ease of use (adds cost). - Defo put another mesh pocket on the blank side (or maybe two smaller pockets on that side) - Incorporate ruck sack shoulder straps on the blank side for ease of carrying off the bike. - I'm presuming its going to be a stiff construction, not floppy, as that will help it sit on the rack. - Some additional straps or at least tie down loops on top to allow easy securing of "stuff" to the outside of bag. - Reflective tape on sides and rear. Good luck with your design, lots of good suggestions in the comments which confirms you are not alone in your journey. I really hope it works outs and you get a workable solution.🙂
I take your point about a front bag but I like it and I think it balances the load. I have a fairly old S bag which is 20L at the front. When going on a bus or train it is my hand luggage and has all my things that I need quick access too. Wallet, mobile, food etc. My rear bag is the 30L Decathlon Itiwit waterproof rucksack. It sits on the rear rack, slightly back but is quite narrow and there is no heel strike. It is secured first with the elastic straps from the back, then with two straps from the side and is rock solid. It contains all my camping gear and stuff I only need when stopped. I'm just back from Raasay where it was brilliant and survived downpours and my stuff was dry. The tent is secured on the side which is at the top when on the rack. Total capacity 50L Both bags are under the 10kg limit for both back and front. When I'm ready to board trains buses or in-between; The S bag is in my left hand, the Itiwit is on my back and Brommie is in my right hand either carried or rolled. It really works both cycling and for multi modal transport and changes and after all that is the whole point of the Brompton. I also recently did the Hebridean Way with the same set up but a different non waterproof rucksack on the back. It really worked but the waterproof Itiwit is great. I did the Heb Way in four days and did 249 miles in the week and it was brilliant. Enjoy your videos, thanks 🙏
What a great insight and share with the community thank you! The Heb way is stunning and definitely on my list for sure, also fancy NC500 on the Brompton
Glad someone is having a go at this and your bag looks promising. I’d add a shoulder strap, the mesh net on both sides (you don’t have to use them but so useful when you want to stuff that meal deal somewhere) and a waterproof cover. I’d consider stitching on the 4M Scotchlite (?) strip to go right round the waist of the bag 👍🏻
Hello there. I always use the old-style Brompton Rack Bag, which is a little bigger than the current one, and strap the tent on top with bungees. This also controls any tendency to sway from side-to-side. With a lower seatpost I don’t think I’d be able to fit on a bag as tall as yours. Interesting to see how it evolves. My front rack is used for my dog in her carrier…
I like the idea, I think the bottom strap should be a lot wider to counter act the extra weight and side to side motion, perhaps the width of the rack (? Velcro) How about instead of mesh side panels you had side pockets that open up and become panniers like the Big Nash. If the fabric is not waterproof then perhaps you could have a rain cover inside the lid for quick access. Also as many have mentioned straps for carrying would be ideal. Perhaps zipper pockets inside for storage of small items.
I've also been on the hunt for the perfect brompton bag, so I have a lot of ideas; - It needs attachment points for a shoulder strap, or ideally, 2 shoulder straps so you can use it as a backpack. The brompton metro backpack does this! - The wotan pioneer bag has a cool inner mesh that you can pull out and extend the height, for when you need that extra space. - Putting an attachment point for the front carrier block/a rack on the side would be a cool idea, that way you can decide to carry it on the front too!
Hi. I appreciate your effort on designing this bag - interesting. But you asked for opinions from fellows with some experience camping with a Brompton. I did a lot of bikepacking with my Brompton, the longest ride was a 3500 km looping around Germany starting from France up to the Stetin in Poland, two years ago. And just during last weekended we went to Mont Ventoux in France, again with all camping gear. There are a few lessons I learned: 1st in my humble opinion electric does not really work on such a ride - and would just complicate everything, adding weight and limits on where to go and were to stay. If the route is to steep it's a wonderful experience for me to just get off the bike and push, listening to nature sounds like birds and wildlife. Everything above 10% gradient is a challenge for a loaded Brompton - at least on a 6 speed standard. 2nd I want all in one bag, and that is the front bag. Like this its very easy to hop on a train, if the weather is bad, or store it in a hotel, a tight corner, or whatever. The front carrier block is the quickest thing to operate and such a great invention. And I really hate riding with a backpack or even a hydro pack. The fold function (kickstand-mode) should always be available and not blocked by something on there. 3rd there are good options in the market to enhance the carrier block load capacity - I got the full metal bracket from EerderMetal in the Netherlands. 10kg limit is not anymore. Vincent is stating that the load capacity is higher than you can handle. 4th I used the large Explorer-Bag from Lumabag in Bremen/Germany, made from Canvas, and fits really all my camping gear fro 6 weeks. The Explorer Bag comes with a shoulder strap, but I removed it, never used. And I added as small saddlebag to the back of my Brooks to hold small items like a power bank or a rain jacket. Hope that helps in general, maybe not so much with your design process. ;-)
You certainly meet the experienced side for sure so thank you so much for this input. Have a long way to go before I cover half your bikepacking mileage. I do understand your thoughts around electric but a question if I may. My plan was to use it for like a 2 days bikepacking on steeper terrain but to try and make it super comfortable. You reckon this wouldn’t work very well? Thanks Dave
The whole idea of NOT using the front luggage facility of the Brompton seems bizarre to me! The luggage block, and the wide range of bags that fit onto it, is one of the best features of the Brompton. Also, many people feel the bike handles better with a bit of weight over the front wheel... the weight being taken on the frame, thus, without interfering with the steering. However, this is to say nothing bad of your proposed rack bag.. the concept for which looks very good to me. Congratulations on the obvious thought you have put into it... so far!
Great Input and thank you for sharing. I definitely get your view point and honestly most people would definitely agree. I’m hoping to do a review of a front bag soon so I might be converted but honestly like the idea of my long haul touring bike being electric which would minus a decent front bag. Still learning and finding my way bikepacking but looking forward to learn a lot.
@juliehilton1701 But there is NO weight on the handlebars with Brompton front bags. That is the whole point of the *frame-mounted* luggage block. The load does not affect the steering as handlebar carriers do. Myself, I can hardly feel the load on the Brompton luggage block, (10kg limit), and I use the biggest bag that wss ever made.. the Brompton T-bag. But opinions vary. Other users say a load at the front of the bike balances out the rider, and makes the whole bike feel more stable on the road.
I don't own a Brompton, but I do a lot of bikepacking, and I feel like a lot of responses are only semi-helpful. Your design is good, but I do recognize the top as the concern as you do. So the strap on the back of the lid probably won't help much unless it's extremely tight and has multiple lashings to secure to the case (probably 3, back and sides). Also, once you cinch it down, you won't be able to open the lid without loosening it. I would personally not use the lid as an anchor for the pack, but instead put it just below. To keep it from swaying as you pedal as bikepacking gear tends to do, you need it either braced or packed extremely tight and cinched down equally as tight. The sell "Bikepacking Braces" that attach to the back of the saddle to keep the pack from swaying side to side. That could be a logical point of securing it. In my opinion, I think this will work okay if the pack design is firm, but if it's just material, with this type of lid, you won't be able to "pack" it. Everything will sit in loose. Personally, it would be a better design as a roll top where you can pack it down and compress everything. If you use material like XPAC, it will be waterproof and abrasion resistant as well. However, in doing this, you won't be able to use the brace. Lastly, you may need to look at your kit. Backpacking/bikepacking products are different than normal consumer products. It's meant to be packed down small and compressed. I can get my entire sleep system (sleeping pad, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, pillow, tent, stakes minus poles) into about 12 liters. Which in a 16L Ortlieb saddlebag leaves me room for other items I don't need until I am at camp. My recommendation is to have a look at the Ortlieb Rackpack, something like the 24L or Tailfin's Aerropack as an inspiration. These are bags that kind of go in the same direction of your design. Another option since you have a pannier rack is to have a look at the Ortlieb GravelPack panniers. They're 12.5L for each pack and they're meant to sit higher and further back (out of the way) than normal 25L panniers. There is also Old Man Mountain that makes axle mounted racks for the front where you can attach stuff like Ortlieb front rack packs to the fork. All of which are quick disconnect.
Incredible share! Thank you so much for the input and really enjoyed the read. Learned a lot and great to lean off your experience. Will try and pin this comment when at a computer cause I think it could be useful to people that find this video. Thank you
Thai Firm: Vincita makes a large bag to be - clicked on a carrier. And also long bags for the top of/on the frame. I personally use their "padded pouch" for the folded pedal, which is absurdly expensive, but it functions, and unless being lost, I suppose it will last my time (being 76 helps by that, of course!)? I do have a, pirate T-bag in front, as I have absolutely no plans of going Electric! I know a set using large Bosch 36 volt Industrial Batteries, for which I have some garden tools, but I think it is only being added to a Brompton in the UK, and that may be a little too much effort to do, to obtain a set! A mesh pocket on top of your bag would be an option? But as both You and I are a little more than standard high, you maybe should think about that - not all seat posts are as high up, as we need it? I do use a black titanium, Standard Size (535mm), Brompton shaped seat post, with a turned round AceOffix seat clamp, which is below the saddle, but by that it is still able to be inside my soft, German made B&W transport bag, as a folded bike. Having to take my "folding bike" apart for transport, is absurd! I do have a 550mm black seat post, also from titanium, but for now I manage with the shorter version. I don't know, if I'm able to to use it in my Solid black B&W box, which is too compact for a long seat post, I know! I do have several Brompton shaped titanium carriers, but I have never actually mounted one on my bike, as I find my T-bag fine for my needs! I don't intend to go camping on mine! My dear wife would definitely complain if so! Finn. Denmark 😄
You could consider attachment points for a shoulder strap. That would let you roll/carry the bike with the bag over your shoulder. That's a configuration I find useful in train stations etc.
Think you have a workable solution and only thing to add is shoulder straps to carry it when not on bike. Plus add cargo mesh to other side too. If you’re banking on it being mass produced to recoup your development costs then probably need to consider it being a little smaller for more average sized folk who have lower seat posts. I’ve just started touring with my Kinetics converted Brompton and successfully clip my osprey exos 48l rucksack onto my back rack. I hook the bottom straps over rear rack wheels and top handle is clipped to back of my saddle with a carabiner. Easily removed and carried on my back when transferring between public transport. Or I want to walk up a hill mid bike trip. I can fix bottom of rucksack far enough back so I don’t catch it with my heels.
Really interesting to see your design approach. I would have mesh on both sides just to give you flexibility of use. I would also consider additional loops in case you need to quickly strap/attach something to the outside (when getting food or water bottles from local shops and not for the main part of the ride).
Thanks good stuff. Everyone has their tastes and that is great. I don't prioritise looks - as a relatively tall guy cycles on a tiny bike, the look department is already lost imho. Using the rack means, one can't use kick stand mode. But on the other side there is so much space above the tiny wheel, which one should use for large hauls For the rack fixing, you can check out the klickfix uniklip or uniklip 2. They come attached to the vincita nash and big-nash and work great on the brompton.
@@TheBromptonGuy oh I hoped one can change the angle of the uniklip but it seems one can‘t - shoot. Since you don‘t use a brompton front bag, recommending the eerder metaal seatpost hugger to you felt a bit weird. I swear by it - brompton luggage block above both wheels makes for great touring setup
1) Dual mesh pockets? Yes, this gives you a place to dry things while you ride and I can't overstate how nice this is if you're riding through rain. Other ideas could be a bottle holder and whole pack for tools or kitchen utilities. 2) For the overhang you might want to add something to stiffen the bottom of the bag. 3) I think the strap is probably going to be overkill for reducing bag wag. With all those straps around the seat post you'll likely be g2g
First, you may have to make a small, medium and tall height version since shorter folks can't use your design. Second consider a stiffener like a plastic heel cup on some shoes with a feature to provide a more positive contact with the rack. That will give you more stability than a strap parallel to the ground at the top of the bag. Finally, I use the Brompton large electric basket bag which only needs an integrated cover to make it more water and dust proof. Note Brompton sells a FRONT CARRIER RAIN COVER, E-BAG LARGE for this feature but then you don't have access to the battery rack handle or the bag's strap handle. Brompton also sells a medium size bag for the electric models which has zipper closures. The front bag may actually improve the balance of the bike. Look at Valerias bike accessories' brompton-electric 752-zip-cover-shopping-bag.
Do you know about the Big Nash Rack Bag by Vincita? Its pannier dual side pockets are expandable and quite deep. Its maximum capacity is 25L when using them both.
I’m very aware of them thank you 🙏. I might actually be doing a collaboration with them soon! Unfortunately the mash isn’t compatible with the p line rack
What about looking to other Brompton tourers on TH-cam? The guy thats been arround the world just uses a huge ruck sack on the rack and ties it under the saddle and it is a good thing beeing able to carry it all in busy stations etc. The idea is good but are'nt you rushing it too much to get into production? Maybe you will want to make it so the tent always can be secured to the outside since it often will have to be packed more or less wet. Like your channel! Best wishes from Denmark
Thanks for the input to the community! I love the idea of a ruck sack but when I’ve tried it I kept suffering heels strikes to the point it’s impossible to cycle. It’s not going into mass production just me making a one off prototype my friend.
Interesting. Not being a fan of front loading, after your review I also purchased the newer rear bag. It is large enough for my use case but I can see potential for a bigger version. With a couple of caveats: First, maybe place cargo net(s) above horizontal centre and push to the rear to prevent shoe heel 'arc' hitting anything that might protrude. Second, I'm guessing the 'Jumbo' bag will weigh minimum 1.75-2kg - it'll need a decent quality/thickness wall insert to retain shape integrity, eating into the max rear load suggestion of 10kg. I follow with interest. Always enjoy your vlogs, and your hair! - I'm bald!
Well thanks for the hair comment friend going grey fast but had may discussions in work about not being able to complain about being grey when I could be bald 🤔. However I like the idea of no sweat from my hair while riding… anywho hope the rear bag has been working well and I still highly rate it. I to will be curious about the overall weight of the bag and pretty sure with the load I will break the 10kg rule 🫣
Hmm. Like your design but I started thinking about shorter riders with shorter seat posts. Will your design work if the saddle is lower than the top of the bag? It's late and I haven't thought this through: how about a piggyback bag? Design a unit to attach to the saddle and sit on top of the current rack bag. (I'll probably think this is a dumb idea in the morning 😊 )
Great input and no currently it’s designed full for a 6ft 2 person and accept this might need work for the masses. Currently obviously a prototype and for one specific purpose. However the community input is invaluable.
The side panels material / insert are going to need to be quite rigid to retain its form / integrity and not flop over, with or without an encompassing strap around the whole bag and seatpost. It may need internal metal structural support.
I can only give my opinion as how I see it , it not criticising you because you do come across as a charming soul , as mentioned before with comments in some of your other videos = personally I think you’re going down the wrong road or missing the most valuable item that probably most camping or backpacking people have missed to their misfortune = the Chubby trailer by Radical Design, designed especially for the Brompton , if your vision is to make camping or backpacking in to a delightful experience rather than a hard work experience, getting the Chubby would open up a completely different concept and you wouldn’t even need an electric version of the Brompton to give you what you think you need , we must all learn in our own way be it hard or easy = if you want to know what’s down the road ask someone on their way back.
Unfortunately, the brilliant Chubby trailer for the Brompton is even more expensive than it used to be, since UK Brexitised itself out of the EU. Private importation red tape, customs charges, etc. now make this super product more or less unavailable to us Brits. Even riding your Brompton to the Netherlands to buy one in person and then pull it home, is difficult, now that we have had freedom of movement taken away.
@@effyleven just get someone in the Netherlands to buy it and they can send it over as a present, I shouldn’t concern yourself about the Europe experiment that’s coming to the end pretty soon , most of the countries in Europe are bankrupt or failing in one way or another, it’s all falling around their ears , it’s costing a fortune for hundreds of bureaucrats to make laws for states they have less interest in than flying to the moon . Their days are numbered, people are finally waking up to the nonsense of these clowns ,
You're making it too complicated. I use a 40 liter dry bag on the back & could easily use a 55 liter bag instead. The bag's top buckle goes under rubber block and the bag goes back over rack & not across it. I use two straps to secure it to the rack. It stores all I need & is waterproof. Last week I did a 300 trip with no problem
Good question. I had to experiment with that and the best solution was not to roll the top up as tightly as I could which had the effect of pushing the bag bad somewhat and then made sure the buckles remained inside the rack's wheels. I'm going on another tour next month & maybe I'll use a bungee cord a around the buckles to narrow it some more
This is brilliant and great usage of an already made solution. Definitely a great share with the community. As a content creator I’m always trying new things but appreciate some things already work well
hi i would suggest cargo nets on both sides,so that a choice of keeping luggage on kerb side depending on which country/side of the road you ride on.
Ohh that’s a solid point! Never thought about travel outside the UK 🤔
@TheBromptonGuy, at last, someone thinking about a proper touring bag for the Brompton rear rack.
Your solution is a defo a step in the right direction, well done, great mock up too, 👍whats the volume?;
PROS(i) its designed to fit the rear rack footprint and avoids pedal strikes, (ii) it sits below the seat doesn't interfere with rider, (iii) it appears well secured to bike and relatively easily strapped on and off, (iii) doesn't compromise the fold.
CONS (i) on its own, limited space for camping touring, without the use of front carrier means you are carrying a rucksack on your back, (ii) off the bike you have to carry rear bag in by hand (which may be difficult if you also use a front bag, not so if like you a day sac on your back is used).
Some thoughts;
- Use a Klickfix attachment on the base for ease of use (adds cost).
- Defo put another mesh pocket on the blank side (or maybe two smaller pockets on that side)
- Incorporate ruck sack shoulder straps on the blank side for ease of carrying off the bike.
- I'm presuming its going to be a stiff construction, not floppy, as that will help it sit on the rack.
- Some additional straps or at least tie down loops on top to allow easy securing of "stuff" to the outside of bag.
- Reflective tape on sides and rear.
Good luck with your design, lots of good suggestions in the comments which confirms you are not alone in your journey. I really hope it works outs and you get a workable solution.🙂
Amazing input and happy to say some of this has made it to the final design 😊. Thank you so much
I take your point about a front bag but I like it and I think it balances the load. I have a fairly old S bag which is 20L at the front. When going on a bus or train it is my hand luggage and has all my things that I need quick access too. Wallet, mobile, food etc. My rear bag is the 30L Decathlon Itiwit waterproof rucksack. It sits on the rear rack, slightly back but is quite narrow and there is no heel strike. It is secured first with the elastic straps from the back, then with two straps from the side and is rock solid. It contains all my camping gear and stuff I only need when stopped. I'm just back from Raasay where it was brilliant and survived downpours and my stuff was dry. The tent is secured on the side which is at the top when on the rack. Total capacity 50L Both bags are under the 10kg limit for both back and front.
When I'm ready to board trains buses or in-between; The S bag is in my left hand, the Itiwit is on my back and Brommie is in my right hand either carried or rolled.
It really works both cycling and for multi modal transport and changes and after all that is the whole point of the Brompton.
I also recently did the Hebridean Way with the same set up but a different non waterproof rucksack on the back. It really worked but the waterproof Itiwit is great. I did the Heb Way in four days and did 249 miles in the week and it was brilliant.
Enjoy your videos, thanks 🙏
What a great insight and share with the community thank you! The Heb way is stunning and definitely on my list for sure, also fancy NC500 on the Brompton
Glad someone is having a go at this and your bag looks promising. I’d add a shoulder strap, the mesh net on both sides (you don’t have to use them but so useful when you want to stuff that meal deal somewhere) and a waterproof cover. I’d consider stitching on the 4M Scotchlite (?) strip to go right round the waist of the bag 👍🏻
Brilliant and can confirm this input has helped shape the finished and set off product. Can’t wait to show the results (arrives mid/end July)
Hello there. I always use the old-style Brompton Rack Bag, which is a little bigger than the current one, and strap the tent on top with bungees. This also controls any tendency to sway from side-to-side. With a lower seatpost I don’t think I’d be able to fit on a bag as tall as yours. Interesting to see how it evolves. My front rack is used for my dog in her carrier…
Yeah I suppose I’m a little blessed are a change being so tall. Also dog in the front carrier is certainly the way to travel 👌🏻
I like the idea, I think the bottom strap should be a lot wider to counter act the extra weight and side to side motion, perhaps the width of the rack (? Velcro)
How about instead of mesh side panels you had side pockets that open up and become panniers like the Big Nash. If the fabric is not waterproof then perhaps you could have a rain cover inside the lid for quick access.
Also as many have mentioned straps for carrying would be ideal. Perhaps zipper pockets inside for storage of small items.
Thanks as always for the input and can say this helped me form the finished product 🙌
I've also been on the hunt for the perfect brompton bag, so I have a lot of ideas;
- It needs attachment points for a shoulder strap, or ideally, 2 shoulder straps so you can use it as a backpack. The brompton metro backpack does this!
- The wotan pioneer bag has a cool inner mesh that you can pull out and extend the height, for when you need that extra space.
- Putting an attachment point for the front carrier block/a rack on the side would be a cool idea, that way you can decide to carry it on the front too!
Great ideas and thanks for sharing. The backpack mode is definitely something I’ve under valued for sure
Love it! The cardboard template is genius! Can't wait to see the final result!
Hi. I appreciate your effort on designing this bag - interesting. But you asked for opinions from fellows with some experience camping with a Brompton. I did a lot of bikepacking with my Brompton, the longest ride was a 3500 km looping around Germany starting from France up to the Stetin in Poland, two years ago. And just during last weekended we went to Mont Ventoux in France, again with all camping gear. There are a few lessons I learned:
1st in my humble opinion electric does not really work on such a ride - and would just complicate everything, adding weight and limits on where to go and were to stay. If the route is to steep it's a wonderful experience for me to just get off the bike and push, listening to nature sounds like birds and wildlife. Everything above 10% gradient is a challenge for a loaded Brompton - at least on a 6 speed standard.
2nd I want all in one bag, and that is the front bag. Like this its very easy to hop on a train, if the weather is bad, or store it in a hotel, a tight corner, or whatever. The front carrier block is the quickest thing to operate and such a great invention. And I really hate riding with a backpack or even a hydro pack. The fold function (kickstand-mode) should always be available and not blocked by something on there.
3rd there are good options in the market to enhance the carrier block load capacity - I got the full metal bracket from EerderMetal in the Netherlands. 10kg limit is not anymore. Vincent is stating that the load capacity is higher than you can handle.
4th I used the large Explorer-Bag from Lumabag in Bremen/Germany, made from Canvas, and fits really all my camping gear fro 6 weeks. The Explorer Bag comes with a shoulder strap, but I removed it, never used. And I added as small saddlebag to the back of my Brooks to hold small items like a power bank or a rain jacket.
Hope that helps in general, maybe not so much with your design process. ;-)
You certainly meet the experienced side for sure so thank you so much for this input. Have a long way to go before I cover half your bikepacking mileage.
I do understand your thoughts around electric but a question if I may.
My plan was to use it for like a 2 days bikepacking on steeper terrain but to try and make it super comfortable.
You reckon this wouldn’t work very well?
Thanks
Dave
The whole idea of NOT using the front luggage facility of the Brompton seems bizarre to me! The luggage block, and the wide range of bags that fit onto it, is one of the best features of the Brompton. Also, many people feel the bike handles better with a bit of weight over the front wheel... the weight being taken on the frame, thus, without interfering with the steering.
However, this is to say nothing bad of your proposed rack bag.. the concept for which looks very good to me. Congratulations on the obvious thought you have put into it... so far!
Great Input and thank you for sharing.
I definitely get your view point and honestly most people would definitely agree.
I’m hoping to do a review of a front bag soon so I might be converted but honestly like the idea of my long haul touring bike being electric which would minus a decent front bag.
Still learning and finding my way bikepacking but looking forward to learn a lot.
I don’t like the weight on the handlebars though
@juliehilton1701 But there is NO weight on the handlebars with Brompton front bags. That is the whole point of the *frame-mounted* luggage block. The load does not affect the steering as handlebar carriers do.
Myself, I can hardly feel the load on the Brompton luggage block, (10kg limit), and I use the biggest bag that wss ever made.. the Brompton T-bag.
But opinions vary. Other users say a load at the front of the bike balances out the rider, and makes the whole bike feel more stable on the road.
I don't own a Brompton, but I do a lot of bikepacking, and I feel like a lot of responses are only semi-helpful.
Your design is good, but I do recognize the top as the concern as you do.
So the strap on the back of the lid probably won't help much unless it's extremely tight and has multiple lashings to secure to the case (probably 3, back and sides). Also, once you cinch it down, you won't be able to open the lid without loosening it. I would personally not use the lid as an anchor for the pack, but instead put it just below.
To keep it from swaying as you pedal as bikepacking gear tends to do, you need it either braced or packed extremely tight and cinched down equally as tight. The sell "Bikepacking Braces" that attach to the back of the saddle to keep the pack from swaying side to side. That could be a logical point of securing it.
In my opinion, I think this will work okay if the pack design is firm, but if it's just material, with this type of lid, you won't be able to "pack" it. Everything will sit in loose. Personally, it would be a better design as a roll top where you can pack it down and compress everything. If you use material like XPAC, it will be waterproof and abrasion resistant as well. However, in doing this, you won't be able to use the brace.
Lastly, you may need to look at your kit. Backpacking/bikepacking products are different than normal consumer products. It's meant to be packed down small and compressed. I can get my entire sleep system (sleeping pad, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, pillow, tent, stakes minus poles) into about 12 liters. Which in a 16L Ortlieb saddlebag leaves me room for other items I don't need until I am at camp.
My recommendation is to have a look at the Ortlieb Rackpack, something like the 24L or Tailfin's Aerropack as an inspiration. These are bags that kind of go in the same direction of your design. Another option since you have a pannier rack is to have a look at the Ortlieb GravelPack panniers. They're 12.5L for each pack and they're meant to sit higher and further back (out of the way) than normal 25L panniers. There is also Old Man Mountain that makes axle mounted racks for the front where you can attach stuff like Ortlieb front rack packs to the fork. All of which are quick disconnect.
Incredible share! Thank you so much for the input and really enjoyed the read. Learned a lot and great to lean off your experience.
Will try and pin this comment when at a computer cause I think it could be useful to people that find this video. Thank you
P.S. Once you have the prototype, you might consider a kickstarter campaign to fund production and scale it up so that you can produce and sell these.
This never even crossed my mind! However maybe if it works like a plan that is a great business strategy! Thank you
Thai Firm: Vincita makes a large bag to be - clicked on a carrier. And also long bags for the top of/on the frame. I personally use their "padded pouch" for the folded pedal, which is absurdly expensive, but it functions, and unless being lost, I suppose it will last my time (being 76 helps by that, of course!)? I do have a, pirate T-bag in front, as I have absolutely no plans of going Electric!
I know a set using large Bosch 36 volt Industrial Batteries, for which I have some garden tools, but I think it is only being added to a Brompton in the UK, and that may be a little too much effort to do, to obtain a set!
A mesh pocket on top of your bag would be an option? But as both You and I are a little more than standard high, you maybe should think about that - not all seat posts are as high up, as we need it?
I do use a black titanium, Standard Size (535mm), Brompton shaped seat post, with a turned round AceOffix seat clamp, which is below the saddle, but by that it is still able to be inside my soft, German made B&W transport bag, as a folded bike. Having to take my "folding bike" apart for transport, is absurd! I do have a 550mm black seat post, also from titanium, but for now I manage with the shorter version. I don't know, if I'm able to to use it in my Solid black B&W box, which is too compact for a long seat post, I know!
I do have several Brompton shaped titanium carriers, but I have never actually mounted one on my bike, as I find my T-bag fine for my needs! I don't intend to go camping on mine! My dear wife would definitely complain if so! Finn. Denmark 😄
And if mowing an eventual top-zipper down on the side, with a higher top inside, it will prevent water from coming in! Finn. Denmark
I’ll actually be working with Vincita shortly on a bikepacking video so will let you know if their products hold up 👌🏻
You could consider attachment points for a shoulder strap. That would let you roll/carry the bike with the bag over your shoulder. That's a configuration I find useful in train stations etc.
Already amended my friend
Think you have a workable solution and only thing to add is shoulder straps to carry it when not on bike. Plus add cargo mesh to other side too.
If you’re banking on it being mass produced to recoup your development costs then probably need to consider it being a little smaller for more average sized folk who have lower seat posts.
I’ve just started touring with my Kinetics converted Brompton and successfully clip my osprey exos 48l rucksack onto my back rack. I hook the bottom straps over rear rack wheels and top handle is clipped to back of my saddle with a carabiner. Easily removed and carried on my back when transferring between public transport. Or I want to walk up a hill mid bike trip. I can fix bottom of rucksack far enough back so I don’t catch it with my heels.
Great insight and very helpful for helping me refine the finished product. Hope the customer build is treating you well 🙌
Would you consider a middle zipper so that the size can be reduced when not needed
A very good input and idea 💡
Really interesting to see your design approach. I would have mesh on both sides just to give you flexibility of use. I would also consider additional loops in case you need to quickly strap/attach something to the outside (when getting food or water bottles from local shops and not for the main part of the ride).
The bag has arrived and a follow up episode due soon!
Thanks good stuff. Everyone has their tastes and that is great. I don't prioritise looks - as a relatively tall guy cycles on a tiny bike, the look department is already lost imho.
Using the rack means, one can't use kick stand mode. But on the other side there is so much space above the tiny wheel, which one should use for large hauls
For the rack fixing, you can check out the klickfix uniklip or uniklip 2. They come attached to the vincita nash and big-nash and work great on the brompton.
Lmao I think I look amazing as a 6ft 2 Brompton user. People compliment me all the time 🤣. Great comment
Also I might be reviewing some of there products soon but sadly the Nash doesn’t work with the p line rack.
@@TheBromptonGuy oh I hoped one can change the angle of the uniklip but it seems one can‘t - shoot.
Since you don‘t use a brompton front bag, recommending the eerder metaal seatpost hugger to you felt a bit weird. I swear by it - brompton luggage block above both wheels makes for great touring setup
1) Dual mesh pockets? Yes, this gives you a place to dry things while you ride and I can't overstate how nice this is if you're riding through rain. Other ideas could be a bottle holder and whole pack for tools or kitchen utilities.
2) For the overhang you might want to add something to stiffen the bottom of the bag.
3) I think the strap is probably going to be overkill for reducing bag wag. With all those straps around the seat post you'll likely be g2g
Thanks for the input, bag is now made and will be doing a update video shortly
@@TheBromptonGuy Cool deal man, can't wait to see it. I've been investigating having a larger frame bag made for the top tube on my C-line.
First, you may have to make a small, medium and tall height version since shorter folks can't use your design. Second consider a stiffener like a plastic heel cup on some shoes with a feature to provide a more positive contact with the rack. That will give you more stability than a strap parallel to the ground at the top of the bag. Finally, I use the Brompton large electric basket bag which only needs an integrated cover to make it more water and dust proof. Note Brompton sells a FRONT CARRIER RAIN COVER, E-BAG LARGE for this feature but then you don't have access to the battery rack handle or the bag's strap handle. Brompton also sells a medium size bag for the electric models which has zipper closures. The front bag may actually improve the balance of the bike. Look at Valerias bike accessories' brompton-electric 752-zip-cover-shopping-bag.
What a brilliant and insightful input! Thank you so much for sharing with the community. Have me a lot to think about also
Do you know about the Big Nash Rack Bag by Vincita? Its pannier dual side pockets are expandable and quite deep. Its maximum capacity is 25L when using them both.
I’m very aware of them thank you 🙏. I might actually be doing a collaboration with them soon! Unfortunately the mash isn’t compatible with the p line rack
What about looking to other Brompton tourers on TH-cam? The guy thats been arround the world just uses a huge ruck sack on the rack and ties it under the saddle and it is a good thing beeing able to carry it all in busy stations etc. The idea is good but are'nt you rushing it too much to get into production? Maybe you will want to make it so the tent always can be secured to the outside since it often will have to be packed more or less wet. Like your channel! Best wishes from Denmark
Thanks for the input to the community! I love the idea of a ruck sack but when I’ve tried it I kept suffering heels strikes to the point it’s impossible to cycle. It’s not going into mass production just me making a one off prototype my friend.
Interesting. Not being a fan of front loading, after your review I also purchased the newer rear bag. It is large enough for my use case but I can see potential for a bigger version. With a couple of caveats: First, maybe place cargo net(s) above horizontal centre and push to the rear to prevent shoe heel 'arc' hitting anything that might protrude. Second, I'm guessing the 'Jumbo' bag will weigh minimum 1.75-2kg - it'll need a decent quality/thickness wall insert to retain shape integrity, eating into the max rear load suggestion of 10kg. I follow with interest. Always enjoy your vlogs, and your hair! - I'm bald!
Well thanks for the hair comment friend going grey fast but had may discussions in work about not being able to complain about being grey when I could be bald 🤔. However I like the idea of no sweat from my hair while riding… anywho hope the rear bag has been working well and I still highly rate it.
I to will be curious about the overall weight of the bag and pretty sure with the load I will break the 10kg rule 🫣
Have tried the vincita big nash bag
Unfortunately doesn’t work with the p line rack
I’m a bit late here but I think a strap over the top as well as around it for stability
Never to late, thank you
Hmm. Like your design but I started thinking about shorter riders with shorter seat posts. Will your design work if the saddle is lower than the top of the bag?
It's late and I haven't thought this through: how about a piggyback bag? Design a unit to attach to the saddle and sit on top of the current rack bag. (I'll probably think this is a dumb idea in the morning 😊 )
Great input and no currently it’s designed full for a 6ft 2 person and accept this might need work for the masses. Currently obviously a prototype and for one specific purpose. However the community input is invaluable.
The side panels material / insert are going to need to be quite rigid to retain its form / integrity and not flop over, with or without an encompassing strap around the whole bag and seatpost. It may need internal metal structural support.
Yeah not sure how the company are going to achieve it but they said it should be possible 🤔
Do your feet hit the bag while riding? You might consider a cut out for your heels
Already considered my friend. Tested with the cardboard template and the heels clears 👌🏻
I can only give my opinion as how I see it , it not criticising you because you do come across as a charming soul , as mentioned before with comments in some of your other videos = personally I think you’re going down the wrong road or missing the most valuable item that probably most camping or backpacking people have missed to their misfortune = the Chubby trailer by Radical Design, designed especially for the Brompton , if your vision is to make camping or backpacking in to a delightful experience rather than a hard work experience, getting the Chubby would open up a completely different concept and you wouldn’t even need an electric version of the Brompton to give you what you think you need , we must all learn in our own way be it hard or easy = if you want to know what’s down the road ask someone on their way back.
🔥🔥🔥
@@radicaldesign Always a pleasure never a chore = it’s not what you look at that counts it’s what you see.
Unfortunately, the brilliant Chubby trailer for the Brompton is even more expensive than it used to be, since UK Brexitised itself out of the EU. Private importation red tape, customs charges, etc. now make this super product more or less unavailable to us Brits. Even riding your Brompton to the Netherlands to buy one in person and then pull it home, is difficult, now that we have had freedom of movement taken away.
@@effyleven just get someone in the Netherlands to buy it and they can send it over as a present, I shouldn’t concern yourself about the Europe experiment that’s coming to the end pretty soon , most of the countries in Europe are bankrupt or failing in one way or another, it’s all falling around their ears , it’s costing a fortune for hundreds of bureaucrats to make laws for states they have less interest in than flying to the moon . Their days are numbered, people are finally waking up to the nonsense of these clowns ,
I think I’ll need to get in touch with RD to see if they can lend me a unit for review 🤔
I agree the current rear pack is too small and it’s smaller than its predecessor.
For sure! I get this bag isn’t for everyone and a little over kill for the work commute 🤣
You're making it too complicated. I use a 40 liter dry bag on the back & could easily use a 55 liter bag instead. The bag's top buckle goes under rubber block and the bag goes back over rack & not across it. I use two straps to secure it to the rack. It stores all I need & is waterproof. Last week I did a 300 trip with no problem
How do you avoid kicking the bag with your heels?
Good question. I had to experiment with that and the best solution was not to roll the top up as tightly as I could which had the effect of pushing the bag bad somewhat and then made sure the buckles remained inside the rack's wheels. I'm going on another tour next month & maybe I'll use a bungee cord a around the buckles to narrow it some more
This is brilliant and great usage of an already made solution. Definitely a great share with the community. As a content creator I’m always trying new things but appreciate some things already work well