There are already a lot of bike bags on the market, but that hasn’t stopped Salsa from introducing their new EXP Series. Why more bags? A lot of it boils down to better fitment on their own bikes. When you control both the size and shape of the bag along with the frames that you’re making them for, items like frame bags can be tailored for the best possible fit. There were also items like the new Anything Cradle that didn’t really exist.
Depending on what you’re looking to carry, and what bike you have, the EXP Series looks like an excellent way to take it with you…
Rather than using a standard handlebar bag, the new Anything cradle provides a few different options for storage. Sold in three configurations, the Anything Cradle is sold as is, with the Dry Bag, or with the Dry Bag and front pouch. Built with an injection molded cradle and forged aluminum arms, the cradle is said to have an 8 pound weight limit which Salsa says is enough to carry something like a pack raft up front. Pricing is set at $75/$99.99/$149.99.
Promising to be the first in a series of bike specific frame bags, the $119.99 Cutthroat frame pack is naturally for the Salsa Cutthroat. Offered in multiple sizes to perfectly fit the frame, the bag is weather resistant with fully welded zippers and includes a number of storage tricks. Inside is a velcro divider as well as a D-Ring to mount a hydration bladder, while the non-drive side has a flat map pouch that will also work for other small items.
Not pictured, Salsa will have a top tube bag available for $49.99. Meant to bolt to the top tubes of many Salsa bikes with bosses, the bag will also mount to other bike frames with universal straps. The bag is weatherproof with a fully welded construction and PU-coated fabric.
Finally, Salsa takes on the seat pack with their massive EXP model. To make it unnecessary to line the insides with a plastic bag to protect from water, the bag uses PU-coated materials with a roll top closure to keep the contents dry. The bag also employs the use of 1000D material on the lower portion of the bag which functions as a fender due to the position of the bag. Additional storage is available on top with a stretch cord system, and the bag will retail for $119.99.
