Apidura Expedition Top Tube Pack
The Expedition Top Tube Pack is a top tube bag from Apidura. It comes in 0.5â and 1âliter versions. In this review weâll look only at the larger one. It weighs just 90 grams. Itâs even lighter than the Racing variant, likely because it mounts to the bike with only two Velcro straps. Thereâs also a cable port, so you can easily charge, for example, your navigation device while riding.
Assessment
The bag is indeed waterproofâbut as with the Long version, the critical spot is the zipper. While the Expeditionâs zipper is more robust, my issue is with cinching it closed. I often see zipper ends covered so water canât get in through the gap, but for reasons unknown this bag doesnât have that. Over time, a piece of plastic at that termination got damaged, so fully closing the bag is a choreâand even then itâs not perfect. On a new bag the system would probably work better.
As mentioned, the bag attaches with two Velcro straps. One is fixed to the bag and the other you can choose to your preference. In general itâs better if the Velcro straps arenât permanently part of the bag, because then they can be replaced when worn. It sits well on the frame.
The bag is reinforced with a plastic structure to hold its shape. There are no internal pockets, but you can stash small items behind the stiffener. After a few years of use, one spotâwhere the frame and bag touchâhas abraded. It still seals for now, but you can already see light through it.
Summary
The usefulness of this top tube bag is unfortunately marred by the poorly executed zipper waterproofing. I really donât understand why they chose not to cover the zipper end. If rain hits the bag directly from above, it becomes hard for me to use. I get that on a new piece the closing would likely work betterâbut how long will it last? With a price tag around 50 EUR, I expected more.
Advantages
- Cable port
- Lightweight
Disadvantages
- Waterproofing not well executed
Overall rating: 2.5/5
Published | #Bikepacking
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