Hydration bladders and packs have been around for a long time. Aside from colors and logos, they all follow the same basic form and function. Geigerrig hydration packs take the utility of hydration packs to the next level in a way that’s hard to imagine someone hasn’t done sooner.

Traditional hydration packs deliver water through sucking on the bite piece at the end of a tube. Geigerrig uses a bulb system and one-way pressure valve to pressurize the bladder. This seemingly simple addition creates a host of benefits unique to Geigerrig systems. First, it doesn’t suck. Having pressurized water means you simply bite on the mouth piece to generate a stream of hydration.

Moreover, it means that you can use this stream of water for just about anything: cleaning camp dishes, washing hands or sharing water with someone, yet not using the same mouth piece. This feature alone has proven itself handy, not just on motorcycle rides but hiking and cycling, as well. Even hiking with the kids is less messy because washing hands is so much easier!

Even more important, pressurizing water means you can attach a couple different types of filters to the pack. Geigerrig/Aquamira currently offers both virus and bacteria filters which attach between the bladder and drinking hose. The result is you can dump the bladder in a stream, pressurize the system and get filtered water from your pack. You’d be correct in thinking a bag would get rather dirty with this type of use, which is why they designed the bladder to be reversible, so it can be put into a dishwasher for cleaning and sterilization.

Also, if you’ve already got a trusty old bag, there’s no need to throw it away. Geigerrig’s bladder systems are sold separately and will drop into just about any holder. Starting at $47 for a complete bladder system (without backpack), it’s is a great way to update your old system.

The backpacks themselves come in a variety of colors (from sporty to tactical) and are well made with strong stitching, molle webbing, quality zippers and lots of pockets. Sizes range from 300 to 1,600 cubic inches so there’s bound to be a model to fit most anyone’s needs. From the perspective of a hard-core survivalist to anyone with an active lifestyle, the Geigerrig backpacks are a true grab-and-go water solution for just about any occasion. MSRP: $175.00 Aquamira.com

 Where to Buy:

Click to enlarge image Geigerrig-RIG1600-03.JPG

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The Klim Nac Pak backpack was my trusty companion on every ride for years, including multi-month off-road journeys. The Klim Nac Pak excelled not only in ergonomics but also in durability; it still looked new after riding rough trails for thousands of miles. And I would still be using it today if it wasn’t for the fact that my son “borrowed” it.

He must have liked it as much as I did because it was never returned. When I asked him about the Nac Pak, he replied he was holding on to it for when his son would be old enough to use it, just like I’d done for him… I guess that’s what dads are for!

The stars aligned at the moment I was looking for a new medium-sized backpack when Klimlaunched the Arsenal 15 backpack and the larger Arsenal 30.The Arsenalbackpacks are the perfect example of Klim’s pursuit of excellence. With the Nac Pak performing beyond expectations, why would they bother trying to improve it? But that’s exactly what the Klimdesigners did, resulting in the Arsenal 15and 30backpacks.

The Klim Arsenal 15is essentially a next-generation Nac Pak. At first glance, they look similar, but the Arsenal 15 differs in subtle details. The most discernible differences between both backpacks are the 3M Scotchlite reflective stripes that adorn the Arsenal 15, the S-curve-shaped back panel, and the soft-shell goggle pocket that substitutes for the molded goggle hard case of the Nac Pak.

The Arsenal 15’s soft shell goggle pocket is larger, but I must admit that I miss the superior protection offered by the molded goggle case on the Nac Pak. I put a spare pair of reading glasses and sunglasses in that hard case, reassured of their protection during an involuntary get-off.

Similar to the Nac Pak, the Arsenal 15 doesn’t feature a hip belt. Don’t let that be a concern, as the excellent ergonomics of the adjustable 3D mesh shoulder straps and close-fitting chest harness keep the Arsenal 15 firmly in place when bouncing over bumpy trails. This is achieved by integrating the shoulder/chest harness straps with the upper and lower torso straps that are easily adjusted with the buckles. The glove-friendly swivel chest buckle securely locks the sternum straps together and cinching the torso side straps tight yields a snug and comfortable fit.

The S-curve-shaped back panel of the Arsenal 15 is a major ergonomic improvement, as it distributes the load to the lower back. The massive airflow through the large gap between the S-curve-shaped back panel and the rider’s back is a game-changer in hot weather.  Strategically-placed corrugated foam pillows and the offset mesh enhance the airflow’s cooling effect making it my preferred backpack for mountain biking and enduro riding.

Load compression and stability are also noticeable. The structural improvements to the harness and back panel are accompanied by the addition of an internal wire frame for load support and by optimizing the load compression straps. The upper compression straps are fitted with quick-release buckles and the lower compression straps are optimized for load control placement.

The Arsenal 15comes with the same Shape-Shift 3L HydraPak Bladder, but the hydration hose is now easier to find and use with the help of a magnetic clip that attaches to the chest strap. The carrying handle and the internal organizer panel with various pockets and key chain clip are other practical features carried over from the Nac Pak. The removable water-resistant Tool Pak features two elasticated webbing panels and a mesh pocket. It also comes with a waterproof rain cover. The sturdy 500D Cordura nylon construction and PU-coated outer panels shed mud and water, elevating its durability.

Another welcome improvement: the Arsenal 15 has two new chest harness zippered pockets and stretch mesh drop pockets that are quite a bit larger than those on the Nac Pak. I use these pockets all the time for keys, earplugs, lip balm, sunscreen, phone, Garmin inReach Mini, etc. The outer rear kangaroo stuff pocket with compression straps is also convenient for carrying things like a jacket or small bag of groceries.

If you’re in the market for a top-quality, medium-capacity, super-durable backpack with a highly-ergonomic harness, a three-liter hydration bladder, and a practical tool pouch, the Klim Arsenal 15 Backpack is a no-brainer.

In retrospect, I’m grateful my son decided to look after my old pack as it allowed me to upgrade to the Arsenal 15. Let’s hope he doesn’t read this review!

Klim.com

MSRP: Arsenal 15Backpack—$149.99 | Arsenal 30Backpack —$199.99 (Price might vary.)

PROS:

• Excellent fit and ergonomics of harness
• Load compression and stability
• Ventilation of back panel
• Durability
• Tool pouch
• Three-liter hydration bladder

CONS:

• Soft shell goggle case

When choosing a backpack for a multi-day ADV ride, or in my case a three-month exploration of the Backcountry Discovery Routes, one might be tempted to opt for a large capacity backpack. However, riding gnarly trails requires frequent standing on the pegs, which adds up when you ride day after day for three months. Trying to alleviate fatigue, I searched for a medium-sized backpack with a hydration bladder and sufficient quick-access cargo space for essential lightweight items. I opted for the recently redesigned Klim Nac Pak with Shape-Shift 3L HydraPak, which turned out to be an excellent choice.

In contrast to Klim’s largest capacity backpack, the Krew Pak, the medium-sized Nac Pak does not feature a hip belt, which was initially a concern when I contemplated my choice. However, my doubts were quickly put to rest after the first day of riding. The previous generation of the Nac Pak had proven to be popular, but Klim is well known for continuous product development and implementing improvements based on customer feedback. Klim incorporated input from rally racers and RTW riders in the new design to enhance the ergonomics, developing a close-fitting chest/shoulder harness that keeps the backpack from flopping about when bouncing over rough trails.

The great revelation of the Nac Pak was that the ergonomic design works so well that I completely forgot not only that the harness had no hip belt, but also that I was überhaupt (at all) wearing a backpack. Klim achieved this ergonomic marvel by integrating the new race-inspired shoulder/chest straps with the sternum and side straps. The padded shoulder and side straps feature easy-to-operate adjustment buckles that stay firmly in position. Once adjusted and cinched tight, the harness is securely locked in place by the foolproof round buckle of the sternum straps, enabling a snug and comfortable fit like I’ve never experienced before with any other backpacks.

The Nac Pak features four compression straps that help fend off distractions by preventing loose items from moving around in the backpack when the going gets rough. The Nac Pak’s ergonomics are further enhanced by the molded and vented back panel that’s thick enough to function as a back protector in case you’re not wearing one.

Klim’s relentless pursuit of perfection shows up in ingenious details, like the goggle chamois suspended from an elastic strap inside the sturdy goggle case at the top of the pack. Another example of advanced ergonomics are the zipper drawstrings with large molded loop ends that make operating the YKK heavy-duty zippers while wearing gloves so much easier.

The Shape Shift 3L HydraPak is a significant upgrade from my previous hydration bladders. The folding top slide closure is an innovative improvement on the conventional round screw lid design as it enables easy filling and facilitates turning the bladder inside out for cleaning. Other practical features are the internal organizer panel with various pockets and key chain clip as well as the carrying handle, which I found very convenient for keeping the backpack off the ground by hanging it from the handlebar when parked.

Another valuable item included in the Nac Pak is the removable water-resistant Tool Pak which comprises two elasticated webbing panels and a mesh pocket to carry and organize tools. A surprisingly convenient feature are the two zippered pockets on the chest/sternum straps ideal for storing a personal emergency locator beacon or tracker, phone, earplugs, balm, sunscreen, etc.

With the redesigned Nac Pak with Shape Shift 3L HydraPak, Klimhas scaled new heights in ergonomic backpack design for ADV riders. With its durable heavy-duty nylon construction, adequate cargo capacity, large hydration bladder, well-organized tool pouch, and über-ergonomic harness, the Klim Nac Pak served me exceptionally well during my BDR marathon, and therefore I recommend it without reservation.

Klim.com

MSRP: Nac Pak—$99.99 | Nac Pak with Shape Shift 3L HydraPak—$134.99

• PROS:

• Excellent fit and ergonomics of harness
• Versatility
• Durability
• Goggle case
• Tool pouch
• Three-liter hydration bladder

• CONS:

• Not waterproof

Serious adventure bike and trail riders have been attracted by Kriega’s reputation and world-renowned build quality for years; the introduction of the TRAIL range sees a pair of backpacks with specifications more closely tailored to their demands.

The TRAIL9 is the most compact adventure backpack ever produced by the British specialists, and is favored by riders for whom weight, speed and agility is key and comfort is essential. The bigger TRAIL18 shares much of the same class-leading features, but has twice the load-carrying capacity.

Both the TRAIL9 and TRAIL18 have two main compartments: one is fully-waterproof with a roll-top, the other has zip-access and is designed to take a choice of different removable hydration reservoirs. A distinctive, elastic, hexagonal Hypalon net adds additional storage.

Kriega used their 20-plus years of experience and the feedback from elite-level, extreme enduro champions in the development of their TRAIL backpacks, and thanks to this they have no hesitation in offering a 10-year guarantee with the new packs.

It wouldn’t be a Kriega backpack without the firm’s revolutionary Quadloc-Lite harness. This design is a vast improvement over traditional straps because the weight of the pack is taken by the rider’s torso, not their shoulders. Kriega’s original design minimizes fatigue, which is especially useful for ADV and trail riders facing long days and challenging trails.

100% waterproof, roll-top, storage body (11 liters or 5 liters, depending on model) constructed from extremely durable 420D Cordura and integrally mated to Kriega’s unique Quadloc-Lite harness system, adjustable for just about any body shape.

Auxiliary zip-access compartment (7 liters or 4 liters, depending on model) to transport essentials and house one of Kriega’s hydration packs (sold separately).

Additional, versatile carrying capacity offered by a Hypalon cargo net, backed with one of three colored panels offering optional injections of hi-viz lime or safety orange. It wouldn’t be Kriega if there wasn’t a trademark all-black option too.

See the TRAIL18 in action with Pol Tarrés in THE SEEKER as he pushes the bounds of reality on a Yamaha T7.

• FEATURES

• QUADLOC-Lite™ harness transfers weight from the shoulders to the chest and body, giving all-day riding comfort, even with heavy loads.
• Ultra-durable 420D Cordura® Lite Plusand Hypalon construction.
• Air-mesh back panel for rider comfort.
• YKK® heavy-duty zips throughout.
• 100% waterproof 11-litre main pack body (5L in case of TRAIL9).
• 7-litre heavy-duty zip access compartment (4L in case of TRAIL9).
• 100% waterproof 1-litre internal pocket (TRAIL18 only).
• Internal zip pocket with key clip (TRAIL18 only).
• 2L, 3L and 3.75L hydration reservoir compatible (3L not suitable for TRAIL18. Hydration packs (sold separately).
• External Hypalon net with elastic cord adds useful extra storage.
• Removable waist strap for extra pack stability when riding.
• Reflective panels on the harness give added visibility.
• Harness pocket compatible.
• Semi-rigid carry handle
• Available in Black, Lime or Orange
• 10 YEAR GUARANTEE

• SPECIFICATIONS TRAIL18

• DIMENSIONS: 445(h) x 250(w) x 170(d)mm / 17.5”(h) x 9.8”(w) x 6.7”(d)
• VOLUME: 18-Liters (1100cu in) total capacity
• WEIGHT: 1630g / 57oz
• COLOR: BLACK / ORANGE / LIME
• PRICE: $225
• AVAILABILITY: IN STORES NOW

• SPECIFICATIONS TRAIL9

• DIMENSIONS: 400(h) x 210(w) x 130(d)mm / 15.7(h) x 8.26(w) x 5.1(d)ins
• VOLUME: 9-litres (550cu in) total capacity.
• WEIGHT: 1030g / 36oz
• COLOR: BLACK / ORANGE / LIME
• PRICE: $175
• AVAILABILITY: IN STORES NOW

More Info available at KRIEGA.COM

Tail, tank and saddle bags are some of the most useful and popular accessories for dual-sport and adventure motorcycles. Affordable, innovative options that work across multiple platforms are popular for riders that own multiple bikes. Nelson-Rigg understands this and continues to develop solutions that think outside the box, making cost-effective products that work in an array of situations.

There are many tail bags on the market that convert into backpacks, but Nelson-Rigg flip-flops their approach with the Hurricane Backpack/Tail Pack. I’ve spent three years traveling and camping with the original Hurricane Backpack 20L. My Hurricane primarily stays in “backpack mode” except for the occasional motorcycle trip from TX to VA, or when it’s mounted to my SUV’s top carrier.

So, what’s new in the Hurricane Backpack 2.0? It’s now available in a 30L whereas the previous models were 20L and 40L. I praised the older 20L version for its ideal capacity, as it was able to hold a weekend’s worth of clothes. Capacity wise, the new design sits squarely in the middle of the previous options, making it just big enough to hold camping gear—mainly a tent, sleeping pad, and a sleeping bag. But in order for all that to fit you’ll need to opt for the most compact options on the market. It’s also compact enough to use as a regular backpack and will squeeze into an overhead bin on flights. The previous 40L option was a bit cumbersome to backpack with and worked best as a “haul everything” tail bag. Nelson-Rigg’s decision to remove it from their line-up makes sense, since they also offer Hurricane Dry Duffle Bags that can attach to luggage racks.

The Hurricane 2.0 Backpack/Tail Pack features improved ventilation panels against the back and straps. The MOLLE webbing front panel is a standout feature. On the inside of the panel, you’ll find a mesh pocket and a clear plastic pocket, while the older design had a removable, “flippable” panel (MOLLE on one side, plastic sleeve in on the other).

One of my favorite updates is the carry handles on the bag’s sides. They’re “beefy” and really make it easy to carry or throw on/off a bike. Inside the main compartment, there’s a laptop slot and some pen holders. The roll top is easy to use with multiple buckles to keep it closed, and a purge valve allows air to escape so the bag can stay as compact as possible. There’s also a bottle holder harness on the side.

The Hurricane 2.0 also features a new, patented RIGG STRAP system for secure mounting to luggage racks. When cinched down, the clamps have significant bite, reducing the chances of the system coming loose. And the shoulder straps can now be tucked away behind Velcro panels on the back of the bag for a clean look and a flat base.

Hurricane bags offer industry-leading waterproofing thanks to their UV-coated PVC tarpaulin construction, which can be hosed off when dirty. And the new design delivers all the ruggedness and versatility that the adventure motorcycle world can throw at it, yet it’s easier on the wallet than many others. Of all the motorcycle gear, gadgets and gizmos I’ve acquired over the years, I can’t think of another product I’ve used more than these bags. Whether by adventure motorcycle, overlanding SUV, flights or floating down a river in an inner tube, the Hurricane Backpack/Tail Pack reliably gets the stuff you need to the places you're going.

NelsonRigg.com  MSRP: $169.95

PROS:

• Interior compartment is 100% waterproof
• One of the most useful bags I own
• Affordable compared to the competition

CONS:

• Could use a few extra stitches for extra durability on the Velcro back panels
• 30L is a bit large for a dual-sport

Water-resistant gear is a necessity for dual-sport and ADV riders. From boots to suits, our stuff needs to be able to withstand unpredictable weather and deep-water crossings. Nowadays, designing a piece of gear to only be water-resistant isn’t a big deal, but 100% waterproof is no easy feat.

We first spotted Rigg Gear Adventure's Hurricane 20L Backpack at the 2017 AIMExpo. Instead of a tail bag that turns into a backpack, the Hurricane is the opposite. It’s optimized for comfort while wearing it, equipped with wide, padded straps and an air-channeling back pad. The shoulder straps utilize a quick release buckle system that converts the backpack into a tail bag in seconds. Mounting straps are included.

The Hurricane 20L is made of UV-coated 24-oz. Tarpaulin PVC. It’s rugged in design, and you won’t be afraid to toss it around when unloading at camp. The closure is a rollie type, which needs to be folded over at least three times to ensure a waterproof seal. Bottle holders and straps for carabiners can be found on either side.

The Hurricane will hold a weekend’s worth of clothes and gear. Inside the bag, there are no organization pockets other than an inner sleeve that can hold a 15" laptop, tablets, or notebooks. I’ve been using the Hurricane 20L exclusively for my expensive electronics, including my cameras and lenses, relying on its waterproof claim to keep my gear safe. Afterall, the possibility of loosing over $4,000 in equipment because I decided to take a "hero route", or foolishly depending on the weatherman doesn't sound like a very good time.

I even went hiking with it, utilizing the front exterior pocket for a hydration pack (not included). The Hurricane 20L held everything I needed with room to spare, although more organization on the interior would be nice, and a zip-up pocket would be handy for things like dirty tools. The wide, thick straps make this bag much more comfortable to wear than other backpacking tail bags I’ve used.

To see how well this product can withstand water, I completely submerged it in a bathtub stuffed with towels to see if they’d come out wet. But, just as Rigg Gear claims, The Hurricane is 100% waterproof, not letting a single drop into the main compartment.

The backpack has no interior rigidity support, so you’ll need to attach it to your tail rack or the passenger seat for more stability if you'll be mounting it on your bike. The purge valve helps keep everything as compact as possible, an important feature when you’re methodically outfitting your bike for longer trips. The bag can be mounted front to back or sideways, but keep in mind it only has one opening so if you want quick and easy access to its contents, mount accordingly.

The Hurricane 20L comes with a handy clip-on panel that has MOLLE on one side and a see-through, waterproof pouch on the other. This is a great place to store a map or legal documents. Without the panel attached, the stretchy webbing on the exterior is a great place to stuff your gloves during pit stops. Or, you could use the clip-on panel to secure your jacket liner to the bag.

I’ve found that I use the Hurricane 20L off the bike just as often as I do on the bike. It’s a bag that works great for hiking, traveling, or camping, and its versatility makes it valuable when compared to its modest retail price. The Hurricane Backpack is also a great alternative for those who don't necessarily want to mount motorcycle luggage, but still need to carry lots of gear. And for those looking to carry more during their travels, Rigg Gear also produces a massive 40L version of the Hurricane. MSRP: 20L—$129.95 | 40L—$149.95 RiggGear.com

• Dimensions:
20L 11”L x 7”W x 16”H
40L 12.5”L x 9”W x 22”H

Click to enlarge image Rigg-Gear-Hurricane-Backpack-1.jpg

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USWE, a leader in packs for action sports, today announces the launch of its new CORE Series, the ultimate dual-sport moto packs featuring USWE’sproprietary NDM 2.0 + Snug-Me harness system, smart organization, and two capacity options to create the perfect fit and meet the needs of the moto adventurer.

The CORE Series comes standard with the NDM (No Dancing Monkey) 2.0 + Snug-Me harness system. The combined efforts of NDMand SnugMe technologies with a supporting waist belt keep the pack stationary on the back even at high speed in the bumps. The USWE CORE packs are built for adventure riding, no matter the intensity of the terrain or length of ride, and thanks to the one-of-a-kind harness system, there are no boundaries to where you can go.

Built as a high-end dual-sport pack for off-road moto riding, the CORE Series features a zippered molded tool case, hydration compatible design, padded goggle pocket, and external armor attachment points.

• CORE Series 16L | 25L Features:

• Bounce free No Dancing Monkey 2.0 + Snug-Me harness system with integrated elastic straps that expands along with the chest during physical exertion. The harness is aligned with the waist belt to secure the lower part of the pack.
• 1x phone pocket (L17 / W9 / D3 cm) accessible from the front of the harness.
• 5x webbing loops to attach your radio or LED-Light to the harness. Accessible from the front.
• 2x big waist pockets that’s accessible from the front.
• Ventilated and multi-size adjustable back panel that easily can be adjusted up and down for individual fit and size of the pack.
• Outside compression system for a slim profile.
• 1x zippered molded tool case (27 x 15 x 5 cm) included in the organizer pocket with a large and smooth opening
• 9x webbing loops at the back of the pack to attach rider equipment and LED-Light
• Zippered top panel pocket with soft inner fabric to story your goggles
• Armor carry attachment points
• NDM Tech + Snug-Me Tech
• CORE 16L - $239.95 | CORE 25L - $249.95

USWE-Sports.com