Bikepacking bags put to the test: Get started at a favourable price with Topeak
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With its complete set, Topeak offers an affordable entry-level option into the world of bikepacking. With a total volume of 38.3 litres, it is one of the most spacious in the test - and for a set price of just 215 euros, it is second to none. Holsters for the saddle bag and handlebar bag make handling easier and make the set suitable for everyday use. However, there are weaknesses over time: The frame bag bulges out when fully loaded, the saddle bag wobbles slightly and the hooky strap fasteners are annoying. The set is a solid recommendation for beginners or occasional gravel excursions - those who are regularly and intensively on the road will sooner or later reach their limits. The set score is 2.2.
The bags in detail
1st Topeak Backloader X - Grade 2.0
| Price | 60 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 18 litres |
| Weight | 680 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,0 |
| Equipment | 2,5 |
| Assembly/stop | 3,0 |
| Handling | 1,5 |
Strengths
- Roll-up bag with air valve offers plenty of volume
- Holster is easy to fit
Weaknesses
- Halter does not hold particularly tight
- Belt buckles are stiff
- Saddlebag wobbles slightly
2nd Topeak Midloader 4.5 - grade 2.6
| Price | 45 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 4.5 litres |
| Weight | 183 grammes |
| Watertightness | 2,5 |
| Equipment | 3,0 |
| Assembly/stop | 2,5 |
| Handling | 2,5 |
Strengths
- Lightweight and affordable frame bag
Weaknesses
- Quickly becomes bulbous when fully loaded
- Sluggish belt fasteners
3. Topeak Fast Fuel Dry Bag II - Grade 1.8
| Price | 40 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 0.8 litre |
| Weight | 118 grammes |
| Watertightness | 2,0 |
| Equipment | 1,5 |
| Assembly/stop | 2,0 |
| Handling | 1,5 |
Strengths
- Lightweight, slim and dimensionally stable
- Sleekly ducks behind the stem
Weaknesses
- Screw fastening is recommended for a better hold
4th Topeak Frontloader - Grade 2.1
| Price | 70 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 15 litres |
| Weight | 533 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,5 |
| Equipment | 2,0 |
| Assembly/stop | 2,5 |
| Handling | 2,5 |
Strengths
- Swivel castor with plenty of volume
- Halter makes handling easier
Weaknesses
- Halter is only held by smooth straps and wobbles a little
- The smooth drybag can easily slip sideways
Overview of all bags
| Topeak Backloader X | Topeak Midloader 4.5 | Topeak Fast Fuel Dry Bag II | Topeak Frontloader | |
| Price | 60 Euro >> available here | 45 Euro >> available here | 40 Euro >> available here | 70 Euro >> available here |
| Volume | 18 litres | 4.5 litres | 0.8 litre | 15 litres |
| Weight | 680 grammes | 183 grammes | 118 grammes | 533 grammes |
| Watertightness | 1,0 | 2,5 | 2,0 | 1,5 |
| Equipment | 2,5 | 3,0 | 1,5 | 2,0 |
| Assembly/stop | 3,0 | 2,5 | 2,0 | 2,5 |
| Handling | 1,5 | 2,5 | 1,5 | 2,5 |
| Grade | 2,0 | 2,6 | 1,8 | 2,1 |
Set price: 215 euros | Total volume: 38.3 litres | Total weight: 1.5 kg | Set rating: 2.2
Matthias Borchers
Editor
