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Building on the “V-mount” system used in their downtube bike bags, Tailfin introduces their new Top Tube Pack in an array of sizes. Available in a traditional zippered or a “flip lid” design, Ryan Wilson reviews both versions while weighing their respective pros and cons.
Living off the bike brings a new level of attunement to product testing and during his tenure as a bikepacking nomad these past few years, Ryan Wilson has certainly vetted a lot of gear. Today he reviews Tailfin‘s Aeropack and Mini Panniers.
The folks over at Tailfin have been steadily adding to the array of options in their collection of waterproof cycle-touring bags over the last couple of years. Another addition to their growing list of offerings comes in the form of the newly announced V-Mount packs. With 1.7L and 3L options, these bags are designed to mount to virtually any bike, even if you have no dedicated mounting points, thanks to their remarkably simple v-mount system.
For the last 9 months, I’ve had a chance to thoroughly put them through the rigors of touring in the South American Andes and offer up a few thoughts on who they might work for and who might want to look elsewhere, just in time for their launch.
People have been strapping dry bags to their bikes since long before the word “bikepacking” joined the cycling vernacular. It’s a simple way to add a bit of storage capacity but that extra space comes with obvious drawbacks. Typically those drawbacks include bag shapes that aren’t especially bike-friendly and instability if the bags are not meticulously secured. I’m not a huge fan of my cooking kit flying into my wheel or having bags constantly shift out of position on a rough downhill, so functional and stable bags are essential to me.
I always have my eyes peeled for new ways to mount, strap, and stuff things on my bike. Conjuring up ideas in my head of what the perfect setup would be, to meet my needs on a particular trip. First, I want enough space for everything I need without having to mash it all into a few tiny bags. Second, I don’t want anything constantly rattling around or shifting and sliding. The more options the better! So, when a package showed up from the UK-based brand, Tailfin, with a few new mysterious pieces of kit inside, I was intrigued to check them out.
Tailfin, makers of ultralight carbon and aluminum bike racks, just announced their new Mini Panniers, which work with both their racks and other third-party racks. These new roll-top panniers are long and slender, in a 5L ($85) and 10L ($110) size, and feature a new X Clamp aluminum mechanism designed to bring the ultimate clamping power. These panniers are shipping August 24th, so head on over to Tailfin to see more information…
Tailfin‘s unique rear rack setup looks more like a Tubus Tara system for your rear triangle than a traditional touring rack. Their carbon option has been quite popular and they just announced some crucial updates to their aluminum arch design, as well as a universal thru-axle, and much more. Read their full press-release below on this entire product drop.