All Arround MTB

We’ve been using Alpkit’s bar-mounted bags for long rides and multi-day adventures since they first appeared. The latest, more minimal, version does away with the previous outer stretchy mesh pocket and is squared off at the base. Trimmable Velcro straps paired with a sewn-in webbing ladder give a choice of mounting options. The fabric is tough and durable, and sheds water and dirt with ease. It’s not totally waterproof, due to the elasticated drawcord opening, but this does allow one-handed access (a roll-top version is available for $45). There’s space for a 500ml water bottle, or a phone, camera and several handfuls of trail mix. Price $42

While not a biking-specific product, this hardwearing ‘duffel bag’ is ideal for lugging riding kit around. The 95l capacity of the large size tested makes it spacious but not so cumbersome that you can’t comfortably sling it on your back using the rucksack straps on top. There’s a mesh sleeve inside for valuables and a separate end pocket for keeping muddy shoes away from clean pants. The highly-durable waterproof and ripstop fabric is weatherproof enough to withstand UK conditions and tough enough to be thrown around by airport baggage handlers. This version isn’t big enough to max out a 20kg hold luggage allowance when filled with typical bike kit, but XL and XXL sizes are available too. It’s not super-cheap but should last you for years. Price $180 (large size)

We like the slim, minimal design of the Rapid Pack. Two amplysized zip pockets with internal mesh compartments offer plenty of easilyaccessible storage for races or shorter rides and there’s space between them for a standard bottle. The large foam back panel holds the bag in place securely and the waist strap doesn’t have any loose ends to flap around. With just 1.4l of storage, you can only pack the bare essentials. The back panel gets quite sweaty. No bottle is supplied and the tight fit of the bottle holder makes it difficult to slide your drink back into place while riding. Price $67

This bag gives you 4l of storage, which is enough for racing and even longer days in the saddle if you pack light. There are two exterior mesh pockets, where you can stash smaller items such as energy gels and multitools within easy reach. It comes with a 500ml bottle, and the slightly-angled bottle holder makes it easy to grab on the go. At $42 it’s by far the cheapest bag on test and for the price it’s hard to find much to fault. It’s not a bike-specific pack and its less figure-hugging shape means it tends to move around a little more than the others here when fully loaded. Price $42

There are plenty of places to stash stuff in this 3l pack – a big rear pocket, two zipped hip pockets and a tool pocket with mesh compartments. The back panel is quite rigid, so the contents stay put even when you’re fully loaded. Widely-spaced pads mean it’s fairly well ventilated too. The best feature is the side straps, which you can cinch down to pull the pack into your lower back and stop it bouncing around. The valve for the 1.5l Hydrapack reservoir is tricky to close while riding, and the magnetic hose tab isn’t as secure as CamelBak’s clip. Price $85

With a 2.5l capacity, front tool roll and side cargo pockets, the Palos has space for as much stuff as we’d want to carry around our waists. Hidden compression straps do a good job of pulling the 1.5l reservoir tight into your back so it stays in place while riding. CamelBak’s ‘Big Bite’ valve is easy to use while pedalling and we like the sliding magnetic clip on the hose. Although the compression straps help keep things in place, the back panel could do with being a bit more rigid, to stop the pack sagging a little when fully laden. Price $112

The Hipster’s removable harness (not pictured) does an excellent job of reducing movement and makes it the most secure pack on test. We like the single-sided strap adjustment, which keeps the loose end tucked away. There are bungee cords for a jacket, and the hose for the 1.5l reservoir is insulated. Without the harness, the pack slumps a little. There’s no support from the back panel and no side straps to pull the weight in, so it bulges away from your back when loaded, which makes it move around more. The three front pockets are very small. Price $105

If you like to keep your riding kit well organised when you travel, you’ll love this bag from Endura. Open it up and you have four easy-access compartments. The main one swallows enough clothing for a big week away, and contains three smaller pockets for gloves, eyewear and whatever else you want to keep separate and easy to find. On the other side, you’ll find three more zipped compartments, which are ideal for your helmet (although a full-face won’t fit – you’ll have to use the main compartment for that), shoes and riding kit. If you don’t want to compartmentalise your gear, the walls between the sections can be removed. Externally, the construction has been well thought out. The corners are reinforced, the material is robust and the buckle fasteners are neatly recessed, out of harm’s way. It’s a nice square shape too, which makes it easier to pack into a car boot. There’s also a handy pull-out mat to keep your feet dry when changing after a ride. Large, robust wheels and a lon