Recommend MTB backpack please

dingdong1234567

Been lurking for awhile in this forum, so hello to all!

I'm planning a trip to Ballyhoura (MTB) in April and want to get a decent Backpack for a day on the trails.

Planning to bring some provisions when i'm out. IE: Tae, biscuits, treats and water, maybe an auld smelly sandwich if i'm really lucky! etc.

I have briefly looked on CRC and Wiggle for some ideas but the range is blinding for someone who knows nothing about backpacks! Just wondering would any fellow forum members have tips/recommendations for a decent backpack for a days MTB'ing?

If any one is interested: a few tracks/trails i've mapped all over the shop:http://www.sportstracklive.com/user/Gilbo2010

Thanks in advance!

langdang

I've a Camelbak that I'm very happy with.
The model i have is the Mayhem I think, discontinued now but plenty of storage.
The Don looks to be the current equivalent.

The only negative of these hydration packs is that if you use a sugary sports drink in it then things tend to grow in the reservoir between cycles...

julio_iglayzis

The Camelbak mule is deadly, perfect for a long day on the trailks. Very comfortable and surprisingly spacious, given that it looks tiny.

Tenzor07

Sounds like your heading to the Himalaya's!

Anyhoo a quick search on CRC finds this: http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=57123

dingdong1234567

Tenzor07 wrote: »

Sounds like your heading to the Himalaya's

LOL .......i just eat like a horse when i'm out for the day on the bike. Seriously.

ednwireland

camelback blowfish

Tenzor07

dingdong1234567 wrote: »

LOL .......i just eat like a horse when i'm out for the day on the bike. Seriously.

A couple of power bars will save space in your backpack Horse!

You must be planning on doing the red loop?(51k)

dingdong1234567

Yep, can't wait to give it a shot. Going down there for two nights, so if anyone has any tips on places to stay that would be cool also. Priced the log cabins and its way too expensive plus electricity. AYE CARUMBA!

Would be looking for something close to good pubs and handy for the trails also. I did see a thread on this ages ago but i am struggling to find it atm.

zil

julio_iglayzis wrote: »

The Camelbak mule is deadly, perfect for a long day on the trailks. Very comfortable and surprisingly spacious, given that it looks tiny.

Another vote for the mule from me.

fenris

+1 for the mule!
I have the NV version, the main difference is that it has a plastic spine piece that keeps the pack far enough off your back to allow air to circulate and gives a little bit of protection for moments of stupidity!

dingdong1234567

Some good options there guys, thank you very much. Will spend lunch time searching for the best deal i think and let you know whats out there.

Thanks to all.

dingdong1234567

Ended up going for the: http://www.merlincycles.co.uk/ProductDetail.aspx?x=Order+Enquiry+Detail&p=Product+Detail/Camelbak+Mule+NV+-+2010_1694

Good enough value, should do the job. Thanks again for all the advise chaps!

langdang

Nice price, worthwhile investment if you will be doing a fair bit of off roading.

dingdong1234567

langdang wrote: »

Nice price, worthwhile investment if you will be doing a fair bit of off roading.

Indeed, if you become a VIP member with Merlin you get an extra 10% off that price so i actually got it for sub £50! All you have to do is accept the 'contact you be e-mail' option in your address book on the merlin site. Sweet deal overall.

Could be useful to others here?

EDIT: I have no affiliation with Merlin btw just passing on a potential bargin to fellow bikers.

dingdong1234567

Got my backpack at the weekend from Merlin Cycles. Delivered the next day....how bad is that!

Anywho gave it a test out over a 9km trail at Florence Court, Co. Fermanagh. Very happy with it indeed. The extra padding on the back is excellent at preventing you from sweating to much.

More than enough volume to store supplies for the day on the trails. Be it a 9km run or a 90 km run (ok 90km is a bit ambitious!) but you get my drift.

Thanks to all who recommended!