It seems like a small update, but Restrap’s new Race Top Tube Bag Short fills the short gap that’s been lurking on the top of their adventure racing bikepacking bag line-up for four years. Newly adding an option for direct bolt-on mounting, it’s a more compact solution for easy-access storage.
On that same line, Restrap also just introduced some unique sideloader Side Release Cages that will be especially interesting for bikepackers and mountain bikers cramped for space, who need a super secure way to carry water bottles in their frames.
Restrap Race Top Tube Bag Short easy-access storage
More than simply shrinking down one of their most popular bikepacking bags, Restrap updated and overhauled their Race Top Tube Bag, while at the same time making it Short. It’s now the third size – with the original and later Long – sharing many of the same details. But this new Shorty bag adds the option for a direct bolt-on mount to toptube bosses (in 2 positions).
Tech Details
The 1.2L Restrap Race Top Tube Bag Short is designed for shorter off-road adventure rides, or for bikepackers who prefer extra clearance over their frame. The smaller bag is made of waterproof X21 fabric like the rest of the Race series, backed by another waterproof 6oz nylon lining in bright orange to make it easier to fit small items inside. A YKK aquaguard zipper keeps all your goodies inside safe. Stretch mesh pockets on either outside will keep a snack close at hand, or stash your trash after you’ve eaten them.
Inside a light plastic insert gives it structure and keeps it upright, whether you bolt or strap it on. There’s also a foam pad to cushion and quiet its contents. And a stretch strap to secure heavier items inside while riding over rough terrain.
Plus, Restrap’s tall front half-wrap sheath + cord and clip fits around pretty much any headset and stem combo. It offers stability to pull against for the traditionally sticky waterproof zip, whether bolted or strapped to your bike.
Bag Size Specs & Pricing
The black with reflective logos bag sells for £60 / $84 / 72€. The 1.2L Short bag is 24cm long overall. Compare that to 37cm for the 1.5L Standard and 49cm for the 2L Long. The new Restrap Race Top Tube Bag Short weighs as little as 115g in bolt-on mode. Or 120g with its single rear attachment Fast Strap.
Restrap Side Release water bottle cages
Sideloading cages are a mainstay of full-suspension mountain bikers, loaded bikepackers, and really any cyclists riding small bikes. So what makes the Restrap Side Release cages stand out? Yes, they are kinda just another side-opening plastic cage. But Restrap Side Release cages molds a hook into either side of the opening. So, you can snap a heavier-duty o-ring across to keep the two sides from opening up and ejecting your bottle over rough surfaces. The rubber ring can be tucked securely away when not needed. But will secure you bottles when the going gets rough.
Restrap Side Release bottle cages sell for £15 / $21 / 18€ and weigh 51g a piece. And their symmetric design with a flip-down base means one cage can work for either right or left-handed release. Plus, there’s 25mm of up-and-down adjustment to tuck your bottles in tightly. And Restrap ships the cages with a rubber ‘Grip Strip’. You can mount between the cage and your frame for a more sure mount or to protect your frame.
The new Race Top Tube Bag Short, new Side Release cages, and two sizes of recycled BPA-free Tacx Shiva water bottles are available now direct from Restrap.
