So it hasn’t officially been announced yet, but the new Rapha+Apidura packs are one of the worst kept secrets from either of the two companies. We had spotted them on Facebook and Instagram accounts from both companies. Then at the Berlin Bike Show we actually got our hands on a set to have a look at the features and see what sets them apart from the Apidura packs that we did a long-term test on last year. Pack though after the break to see what we know…
The Rapha+Apidura packs are clearly in the Brevet family, whether or not they will get named that. The Rapha bags include the distinct high-vis white and pink stripes of the typical Brevet kit. They look to also use the exact same almost totally waterproof laminated nylon fabric as the original lightweight Apidura packs, just this time in a black version that doesn’t show the diamond pattern of the weave quite as much.
The handlebar pack looks to probably be the same compact 9l size that we tested. And while we found it harder to pack and access once it was on the bike, it did allows us to pack things like an extra change of clothes for the evening or next day of riding. One thing we did note on the handlebar pack was that it adds a third strapping point. Whereas the pack we tested only strapped to the bar, much like Apidura’s new Dry Packs, this one had a place for a strap to somewhat loosely attach around the headtube to limit its swaying. Having not ridden it, it’s not clear how that will interface with cables on a road bike, but it would probably be especially helpful with a flat bar setup.
The Brevet saddle pack looks to be a bit smaller than the mid-size version we tested, based on the number of lashing points for the bungees on its top. That would likely make it the Compact size ate 11l if it sticks to Apidura’s standards. Having packed the next size up down to about this size on most occasions, that should offer a weekend’s worth of gear storage without resorting to racks and panniers.
One big change from the bags we used is visibility, a hallmark of Rapha’s Brevet lineup. The Rapha bags use the large and brightly reflective white and pink stripes, plus there are also more subtle reflective details throughout in the similarly colored bar tack stitching and even woven into the bungee cord on the front pack.
No word on pricing or official launch of the packs yet (it looks like July availability), but the original bar and saddle packs are £70/£85, so expect a bit of a premium for the improvements and additional features, plus a bit for brand cachet. Having ridden a good bit with the original bags, they make good sense for the long self-supported brevet style of racing, where packing light to ride long distances is key.
