The recent growth in the popularity of bikepacking seems to parallel the explosive popularity of gravel bikes. It makes sense when you think about it. Gravel bikes allow you to explore beautiful and often remote areas that would be impossible to access with old-school skinny-tire touring bikes. Unfortunately, traditional panniers and racks (with their additional weight and bulk) are not well-suited for venturing into these backcountry areas. In response, companies are now building a range of bags that let you carry your kit into these more isolated regions while reflecting the new minimalist and lightweight ethos that permeates much of the bikpacking community.
So, with that out of the way, here are our top-10 bikepacking bags for 2023.
Best for riders seeking maximum water protection and reflectivity.
Ortlieb Bikepacking Frame Pack
A roomy waterproof frame pack with welded seams.
Nestled discretely in the centre of the bike frame, the Ortlieb Bikepacking Frame Pack adds a surprising amount of carrying volume, and thanks to its slim profile and low centre of gravity, it won’t severely impact bike handling or create clearance issues. As with many Ortlieb bags, the Frame Pack features a highly waterproof fabric, waterproof welded seams and a waterproof zipper, resulting in a pack that will keep your gear dry in the worst deluge. Attachment to the frame is achieved via a series of hook-and-loop straps, ensuring minimal movement even when riding on challenging surfaces.
Best for riders seeking maximum water protection for their gear.
Ortlieb Bikepacking Seat Pack
A roomy waterproof seat pack with welded seams.
Best for riders seeking maximum water protection for their gear.
Built with an easily adjustable roll-top closure, the Ortlieb Bikepacking Seat Pack provides the waterproof and expandable carrying capacity required for extended trips. The Seat Pack features the same waterproof fabric and welded seams found on many other Ortlieb bags, ensuring that this pack will protect your kit regardless of how hard it’s raining. Ortlieb has also spec’d a purge valve, which allows excess air to escape as the bag is sealed. This not only simplifies packing (you’re not battling an inflated balloon while you’re closing the bag), but it also significantly helps reduce the pack’s overall size when the air is…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Canadian Cycling Magazine…