Bikepacking bags in the test: The German manufacturer Topeak lovingly calls the bikepacking bags in its Lineup Loader. With a complete range, you offer high-quality and robust equipment for every adventure.
If you have always had the feeling that you are not making the best possible use of the space on your bike on cycle tours and bikepacking excursions, you should definitely take a closer look at the various Topeak bags. Because not only do you have a wide variety of models for handlebars, frames or saddles, but each model also comes in different sizes with the appropriate capacity.
Easy handling and clever features combined
At first glance, it quickly becomes clear that Topeak combines robust and high-quality material with a number of technical features in its loaders, without restricting the products in terms of their practicality. On the contrary, the innovative features are used where they make sense and still use classic Velcro straps or fastening straps to enable easy handling.
For example, the BackLoader (saddle bag) is attached to the seat post with a larger Velcro fastener and two smaller straps over the seat stays. The only drawback to the saddlebag is the relatively large contact point with the seat post, which is why it has to be extended at least 10 cm so that the bag can be mounted. As a clever feature, a packsack is used here, in which you can load all your luggage, while protecting it from water and dirt. But the biggest advantage is noticeable on the go, because you can simply take out the packsack with your items without having to dismantle the saddlebag. This definitely saves you an annoying reassembly. In addition, a valve has been installed on the BackLoader, which helps to minimize the size and to let unnecessary air out of the pack bag after closing it.
Better protection and more flexibility thanks to the stuff sack
A similar system is also used on the FrontLoader (handlebar bag), because here you also rely on a packsack including a valve, which can be removed quickly and easily while the fastening system remains attached to the handlebars.
Topeak's bikepacking equipment is rounded off with mid- and top-loaders. Both bags are attached to the top tube and the frame triangle with Velcro strips and offer good support. While the TopLoader offers space for smaller items, the MidLoader has enough space for various packaged goods, depending on the volume, which is always easy to reach thanks to the zippers on both sides.
Topeak bikepacking bags – features at a glance
- Topeak BackLoader: Capacity: 6L, 10L, 15L / Weight 413 – 565 grams / Price: EUR 79,95
- Topeak front loader: capacity 8 liters / Weight 451 – 457 grams / Price: EUR 79,95
- Topeak MidLoader: Capacity: 3L, 4,5L, 6L / Weight 152 – 337 grams / Price: EUR 59,95
- Topeak TopLoader: Capacity: 0,75 liters / Weight 155 – 169 grams / Price: EUR 34,95