I’ve been riding my Masi CX stock (well, except for the pedals) since I bought it back in November. Its strange for me, since I usually upgrade parts out of curiosity instead of necessity. I’ve been considering swapping out all the Shimano Ultegra parts on my old gold Bianchi that I built up for commuting, but, well, its been in use as a road bike as of late, and now I’m looking for a steel road frame to upgrade.
It seems that I am jonesing to work on a bike. The new road frame is going to have to wait and I honestly can’t think of anything on my CX to replace (its really perfect the way it is, amazing!). I’ve been poking about online looking at all the fancy new gear that’s been coming out lately and came across a few badass bike bags that I would have seriously considered had they been around a year ago when I was in the bike bag buying mood.
Commuting by bike means that you will eventually get caught in the pouring rain. Waterproof bags and panniers are common, although they cost a bit more that their non-waterproof counterparts, they are really the best way to go. The waterproof fabric tends to be more durable and easy to clean and, well, it really sucks to step out of your office only to see its raining and not be prepared. With all of my little water sensitive i-gizmos, I literally can’t afford to get caught out in the rain.
Ortlieb Vario
Why I think its cool:
Unlike my Ortlieb Bike Packer Panniers (plus carrying system thing), this actually looks like it might make a comfortable daypack. The bag is waterproof in the roll-top compartment, there is at least one open top stretchy looking side pocket and the helmet holder is a bonus.
Ortlieb Saddle-Bag Micro
Why I think its cool:
Its has a roll-top closure that is easy to open and close so, not only is it totally waterproof, its easy to open. No yanking on the zipper this way and that, this thing opens with elastic bands and rolling!
Topeak MTX Trunk Drybag
Why I think its cool:
I have a Topeak rear rack with no trunk bag to attach to its neat quick-release system. Sometimes, instead of weighing down one side of the bike, I wish I had a handy dandy little trunk bag to stash a camera into. This bag, being waterproof and compatible with my rack, fit the requirements I’ve been building up slowly in my mind for such a product.