|
|
|
| |
Submitted by
radu adri
a Cross Country Rider
from brasov
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | XC | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | gift | | Strengths: | 1,5 liters | | Weaknesses: | small pocket, ugly colors, useless | | Similar Products Used: | a bottle | | Bike Setup: | XC | | Bottom Line: | fancy stuff that only a few recers (for competition) can use with success | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Man The Change
a Weekend Warrior
from SA, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: June 15, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | Whole Earth Provision | | Bottom Line: | Well, I don't know - I'm doing some research today on this because I've gotten sick the past two times I've used my bladder.
I've never used anything but filtered water in it and only have used it maybe 15-20 times. I do not have a sensitive stomach.
I used to work for an outdoor supply company and they reccomended using denture cleaners to clean out the bladder. I used those last night before refilling and flushed that sucker 5 times.
Yet here I am this morning, sick again. This sucks. The bladder shows no physical signs of bacteria or mold. I don't know that the hell is going on. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SJ
a Weekend Warrior
from Upstate NY
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$5.00 | | Purchased At: | A yard sale,of all places | | Strengths: | -I can cycle for MUCH longer than before
-Easy to use
-Durable
-Pretty comfortable--after a while the only clue that it's still there is the sound of sloshing water | | Weaknesses: | -A pain in the ass to refill
-No screw-on cap(the press-on cap is a leak waiting to happen)
-Affects your balance on jumps(I did a 3-foot 50-deg. ramp wearing the thing,and the weight swung around hard on my back.Scary!)
-Wouldn't hurt to have more capacity | | Similar Products Used: | My first Camelbak | | Bike Setup: | Yes | | Bottom Line: | It's great for trailriding,lets you ride harder and longer without fear of dehydrating.I wonder why I put up with the stupid botttles for so long.
It's not perfect,though.See the weaknesses column.
I still highly reccomend this or any Camelbak to any serious trailrider,especially those who like to ride for more than an hour. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt dieken
a Weekend Warrior
from tucson az
Date Reviewed: September 10, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
it holds water well and the insulation is great too great actually i can't put too much ice in becuase then i'll run out of water before i run out of ice. it hasn't leaked yet and the valve puts out a ton of water it's good stuff | | Weaknesses: |
needs to hold more water and the tube is too long | | Similar Products Used: |
water bottles | | Bike Setup: |
trek 7000 | | Bottom Line: | it's a good pack for the price but if you are gonna get one and you have a few extra bucks then i sugest that you get a mule or a hawg. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
N.Rocca
a racer
from Chile
Date Reviewed: December 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Is really gooooooooooooooooooooooood. And its beautifull for all riders who want the best.Thankssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.
And is vey cheaper, more than i want, is a best sale. High precision cold forged alluminum.
KOOL STOP pads.
Tektro's easy installation / adjustment design.
Internationally race proven.
Dual-tensioned linear springs.
Wide splay angle for quick tyre removal.
Unique splay limitation safety feature, in case of cable breakage.
No, that isn't all the features!
We haven't even told you yet :-
You only need 2 tools (2mm and 5mm Allen wrench) to install or adjust or do anything to this brake.
We've incorporated stainless steel hardware to avoid rust.
That you can put many of your old favorite canti pads on the 820's.
That these brakes don't act like an alarm clock on the trail. We didn't put a rattling parallel pushing mechanism on them.
That there isn't a $him kit available for these brakes, cos our 820's don't need one.
So that's still not enough features?
Well try this one
Available in two colors
GRAY
or
SATIN SILVER | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ian
a cross-country rider
from NH, USA
Date Reviewed: November 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
they leak all over the place from the bite valves, usaully onto your legs or chain ring. they need to get replaced every 10-15 rides it seems. relatively tough, survived 25-30mph endo w/ double summersault without damage. it could use more comfortable straps. The cap could also take a lesson from platapus, screw top, not pop top. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
RMC
a cross-country rider
from CT
Date Reviewed: August 4, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Glad the competition has picked up the slack. Over the last 4 years of my wife and myself using camelbacks for biking, skiing, hiking, etc, I have lost count on how many replacement bladders and nipples I have bought. The caps leak, the nipples leak or fall off (until now with the new model which leaks) and the bladders spring leaks with impact - which is understandable. Just finally broke down to order a blackburn with its screw-on cap (novel idea!) and gulp valve. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roderick Allen
a weekend warrior
from Louisville KY
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
July24 1998
I have used my cambalbak for four years and love it. As a matter of fact I
hate to ride with out it.But I also have to replace the bladder every year
because the seams always develope a leak.I would like to know is the a common
problem with the camalbak or am I just unlucky. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
monkeyboy
a cross-country rider
from Redfiel, SD
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ok, I have had a camelback hydroback(the small version of the classic)and I have loved it!! It has been used so much and wrecked on so much and it is still holding together great!! I have had only a few problems with it. The first one was the when I got it, the slit in the mouth peice was not completely cut all the way through the rubber so I had to cut it myself,and after I did that it leaked all the time so I eventually got a new mouth peice. The second one is, after wrecking of it once or twice, the lid on the bladder started to leak.( I kind of think that is to be expected after wrecking on it ) The third one was that the tube was too long and I would put some push some of it down in the bladder holder and the tubing would sometimes slide out and I would have to stop and adjust it. This is a good buy for those of you that like to stay out for long time. I give it 4 flaming bananas!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Billy Joe Bob
a cross-country rider
from CA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned a Camel Back for years it hasn't given me any problems. I still have
my original bladder in it. The thing is indestructable. Soon I'll be upgrading
to the Mule for more carrying space and a bigger blader. I also have the Pakster
which I bought with my camel back and it is still in good shape. I must give
camel bak a thumbs up. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jack
a weekend warrior
from keene
Date Reviewed: April 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a camel back yesterday and it does a good job a supplying water with little movement on your back i need fifty words so a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a cross-country rider
from Wooster, OH
Date Reviewed: March 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
*****************Having problems cleaning your Camelbak?******************** First: DO NOT BUY THOSE EXPENSIVE CLEANING PRODUCTS!!!!!!! Instead of that $15 device that effectively dries out your bladder, USE A BENT HANGER!
Second:when cleaning your bladder, do not buy those expensive cleaners or even soap. The former doesn't leave a residue, but using Palmolive will leave an aftertaste of soap for about 20-30 uses. Instead, let the fungus sit in ARM'N'HAMMER baking soda for a few hours. No nasty aftertaste, and all the fungus is gone.
Source:I haven't learned these things from wasting money, I just listened to my mother who has cleaned things effiecientlt much longer than I have been alive. Try it, it works!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mike
a cross-country rider
from Wooster, OH
Date Reviewed: March 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
First off, I love my Camelbak. My Camelbak and my Camelbak only. OK, maybe my Pakster too, but let me tell everyone that all these accessories are not needed. First, we are told that we all need seat packs, then we are all told we need to put a 20 lb pack on our backs so that our bikes can be lighter. Now, it is all wieght distribution and it is a personal preference. Now, once we all have our bike stands and shop quality tools shoved in a pack, we now realize why there are racks (but oh so unfashionable). Before our rack realization, our backs start getting sweaty. What to do what to do... answer: Trek's Suspension Pack. It is a decent size, with all the necessary straps, but a cushioning between your back and the pack itself: hence...much less sweat and more comfort. Check it out it is very cool and practical. Except for that non-cult status of the Trek logo. Get over it. Ride what works, not what looks cool. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Oscar
a cross-country rider
from South Africa
Date Reviewed: January 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Went trail bashing with friends, it was 34 degrees celsius (100far). They all had hot water after the first hour, mine was still cool. Only complaint is that the bite valve does not always supply good flow when in a rush and must prime the first bit of water otherwise you drink HOT water. Fits great and does the job. I don't go without it in this heat!!! -1 chery for bite valve +1 for keeping my water cool when needed most! +1 for comfort. +1 for fitment. +1 weight. +1 for easy adjustment. It beats the bottle! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt N.
a weekend warrior
from Wixom, MI
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I can't imagine ever riding without one of these strapped to my back ever again. You can take a drink without having to grab down for a bottle and it holds 70 oz. of water, which is more than I've ever needed. My only complaint is that the bladder is difficult to open and the bite valve doesn't give me enough water. Even with these flaws it still beats drinking from a bottle. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
m
a weekend warrior
from Mountain View, CA
Date Reviewed: December 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Works as advertised, but not a very good value. If you really wanted to, and are handy with a sewing machine, you *could* fashion a reasonable facsimile for about 1/2 price with a better purchased bladder, but who is realistically going to do that? The cap is extremely difficult to open; as soon as my bladder needs replacing, I am replacing it with one with a screw cap. Bite valve is OK, but expensive to replace. Overall, a poor value, but it gets the job done. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jordan
a weekend warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: November 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Product works for what it's made for. What else could you want. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Starbreeze
a cross-country rider
from Las Vegas, NV
Date Reviewed: September 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
WOW! I can't believe all the problems people have posted with their Camelbacks. I have had mine for four years and never had a problem with it. A little soapy water after each ride keeps the grunge out and we hang them to dry. Not only is it a must when riding out in the desert but it has also saved my spine in a couple of very nasty wrecks.....Sure there are other systems out there...but I am sticking with my Camelback. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris babbitt
a cross-country rider
from indianapolis, in
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Dissapointed in the H2 Flow. The tube connector broke in the first month, and the bladder leaks all over the place. I do like the storage area including the bungee cord. Hopefully this is an isolated incident. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steve
a cross-country rider
from england
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The camelback is great.Its very good on very rough race courses when it's difficult
letting go of the bars to long.The only problem with it is the bite valve I replaced mine with a
Blackburn gulp valve. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lois Segal
a cross-country rider
from Woodland Hills CA
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Went riding last week durring a heat wave. 104 deg. I would have melted into the dirt if not for my Camelbak. I went from shade to shade to shade and drank four-fifths of that 70oz bladder in 5 miles. Thankfully, the trip back to the car was all downhill so that last bit was all I needed to get back. If I had been using bottles, I would be a dried out mummy out by Shepherd flats right now. With a better bite valve (more flow needed) and more durable filler cap it would get 5 stars. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BEAV
a cross-country rider
from USA
Date Reviewed: August 9, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Awesome product.
Very easy to make it better.
Get a Platypus Hoser II long.
This blader is indestructible.
It can be frozen, boiled...whatever.
Plus they cost only $14 at REI. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John L...
a weekend warrior
from Midwest
Date Reviewed: August 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Hmmm...Love the concept..Love my Aeroflow for the road..Regret, my H20Flow is a piece of dung...Been through 2 bladders in 6 mos, both leak at the fill ring...If ya can't make quality, dont make it guys...I get cranky when icewater runs down the crack of my butt from yur leaky bladders!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Agent Orange
a racer
from Connecticut
Date Reviewed: July 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a hydrobak, which works great except, the stupid bite valve thing comes off too eaisly, during my last race it cane off about 1/4 mile into the race and all my water poured out, leaving me with only a half filled bottle to drink, so, heed my advice if you use a camelbak, also carry a bottle! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a cross-country rider
from Loganville, Georgia
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My gripe is not with Camelbak in particular but with hydration
systems in general.
You have to close your lips around the bite valve to get water,
but while racing, with your chest heaving for more air, it's very
difficult to drink. I wasted $30 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Johnson
a cross-country rider
from Loganville, Georgia
Date Reviewed: July 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
My gripe is not with Camelbak in particular but with hydration
systems in general.
You have to close your lips around the bite valve to get water,
but while racing, with your chest heaving for more air, it's very
difficult to drink. I wasted $30. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Duckworth
a cross-country rider
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: July 11, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Camelback rules. I've had one for over a year, and I have never had a problem with it. It is much better than any water bottle and it isn't that hard to get used to. It also doesn't sling all around your back like I thought it would. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Louie Arias
a weekend warrior
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: June 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The Camelbak sleeve might be very useful but the bladder and bite valve need to be rethought. CheckWater has a drinking system that will work with the sleeves from any hydration system, but all CheckWater's hydration systems interface with off the shelf bottles and tubing. The CheckWater bite valve is leak tight and will not accidentally come off the delivery tube. The Camelbak bladder can be replaced with a 1.5 or 2.0 liter beverage bottle, which can be easily dried, cleaned and replaced. Also the price is right -- a basic CheckWater hydration system is $13 for the cap, tubing, tube clip, and bite valve. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
R@LPH
a weekend warrior
from SWEDEN
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
TRUST ME... IT SUCKS... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Healy
a weekend warrior
from Jakarta, Indonesia
Date Reviewed: June 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Good stuff! It holds much more liquid than a water bottle and is very convient to use. In use, I don't even know that it is on my back. The only problems are keeping it clean, not loosing the bite valve and filling the bladder. Putting water in it is like jugglling Jello! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn Joyce
a cross-country rider
from PA
Date Reviewed: May 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Wow, Camelbaks rule- that's when mine isn't breaking. The IMPROPERLY GLUED RETAINER RING fell off numerous times resulting in me going through several of new 'bak's. (under warranty- of course!) they're great when they work, terrible when they don't. i'm probably just gonna get a new blackburn anyway | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron DesMarais
a cross-country rider
from Tiburon, CA
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a Camelback with the Pakster (sp?) several years ago and am really pleased with it. Recently, after I could no longer conscionably drink from a bladder that had a lot of mildew in it, I went out and got a new one. The material that it was made of is different than the old as the new is more rubbery and seems to have less plastic content than my old bladder. The new bladder is much more flfexible and it is here that my problems lie.As the material is so flexible, it is hard to place the new bladder when full into my Pakster. It is like trying to push a water balloon through a hole. Also, it seems to allow air into it during rides so that I, and those I ride with, can hear it sloshing around on my back. I regret not buying more of the older plastic bladders but realize that I had no idea that they would be discontinued.There is a company that provides a hydration system with a bladder of the same material I yearn for, but the system is much too big for me and is comparable to a small back pack. The company is Jand and many praise its virtues, but if given the space, Iknow I will fill it and regret it later when I am climbing Pine Mountain and hating life. So, my rating is on the new bladder alone. Otherwise, the CamelBack is the best thing going as it affordds so many options.Ron | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Duma
a weekend warrior
from Dedham, MA
Date Reviewed: April 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I use the Camelbak Go-Bee Hydration system. This attaches around your waste like a fanny-pack, but holds a good amount of water and has extra pockets for tools and stuff. I like it because I have broad shoulders and do not like having anything strapped to my back! If you are like me and want the convienence of a Camelbak without strapping it around your shoulders and chest, go for the Go-Bee, its cheaper and gives you freedom from wearing a backpack. Hydrate or Die! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon French
a racer
from aussie
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the best investment that any mountain biker can ever make! Highly recommended from a sofa slug to a pro racer this product kicks arse!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christopher
a cross-country rider
from Kamloops, BC, Canada
Date Reviewed: April 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Camelbak's are not only a container for holding H20, but it can also can hold many other things.
Like Draft beer, except you have to drink it rather quickly so it doesn't go flat. Camelbaks also
can be used in making a great screwdiver. Just add your Vodlka, then OJ. You can ride around
around town getting pissed, and nobody would even know it. The camelbak can also be used as a oxygen
supply. Just blow up with air, then dive into lake. Wow, this product is amazing! Good job Camelbak. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ricardo Samuel
a weekend warrior
from Berkeley, California
Date Reviewed: March 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm getting rid of my Camelbak and switching over to the Blackburn hydration system. Why? I've been through two Camelbaks in roughly 6 months and they both started leaking at the so-called no leak filler cap in no time.
Camelbak? Great idea, but mediocre craftsmanship. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Branden Jew
a weekend warrior
from Burbank, CA
Date Reviewed: March 28, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I like this camelbak even though it doesn't hold anything except for water.
It is enough for a 1 to 2 hour ride. But if I was going on a long trip,
I would like to have a H.A.W.G | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
nita
a cross-country rider
from texas
Date Reviewed: March 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
i have to agree with some of the others here- great idea, spotty quality control, and (in my case) lousy warranty fulfillment(its been over a month and i still don't have the correct replacement bladder). it will be interesting to see what happens as the competion heats up in this catagory... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charles
a cross-country rider
from Emeryville
Date Reviewed: March 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Now that I have used a Camelbak for a year now, I have a few gripes about it...Yes, yes, yes, it is convenient: it allows you to get rid of the bottles, the cages,
and also for those of you (and me) that have a bike that doesn't have a good
bottle mount location, we are actually stuck with it.However, it is hard to clean (after 10 rides soaking really doesn't help) both the
bladder itself and the tube. The bladder will also tear easity. Did an end-over-end and
landed flat on your back? Time to get a new reservoir, among other things that
might have been damaged. Oh, and don't lose that bite valve! It will cost you 5-7
dollars, depending on where you buy it. I guess this is how CamelBak makes its money.
And don't forget to clean the valve as well.Overall, a very good idea, but with poor execution. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kendrick Rice Fong
a weekend warrior
from Toronto, Ontario
Date Reviewed: March 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I just bought a MULE less than 2 weeks ago. It's excellent. It's also the little things that makes it better than all the other hydration systems out there. It comes with hidden pockets, key chain holder, quick release buckles, hip strap, and much more! When using a Camelbak, I find that I drink more frequently, therfore eliminating dehydration. If you drink when your thirstly then it means your dehydrated and your body wants water! So, drink eventhough your no thirsty!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad
a cross-country rider
from MA
Date Reviewed: March 10, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Wouldn't want to fall off a cliff without one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jerry
a cross-country rider
from Corvallis, Or
Date Reviewed: February 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Whether a Camelback or other competitor these are the advantages: 1) Drinking small amounts of water more frequently (before significant thirst) is much better for maintaning riding strength and vitality, 2) Less mud and contamination than from water bottles (but be careful wherever there is horse traffic or stream crossings), 3) Larger water capacity than two water bottles.
Drawbacks: 1) Not as cheap as water bottles, 2) Effort must be made to keep the system free of bacteria (bleach or antiseptic mouth wash), 3) A full Pakster and bladder tend to add to hand numbness for me (perhaps the newer wider straps would help).
I suggest that these types of hydration systems are ideal for most riders. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jerry
a racer
from Michigan
Date Reviewed: February 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I only give it a chili because I really can't go any lower than that on
the scale provided. I will never buy another. If it comes down to it I will
go back to bottles and cages, and learn to recycle my saliva. I currently
am using a Haversack with a blackburn 90 oz bladder and I give that 5
chilies. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a cross-country rider
from Mesa, AZ
Date Reviewed: February 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Buy one! It makes a huge difference in the way that you ride. Very durable- body armor for your spine. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Birch
a downhiller
from Etna, Ca 96027
Date Reviewed: February 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Had a question- can I order the nipple that is attached to the end of the suction tube? I lost mine. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jon Tranqui
a cross-country rider
from Gainesville Fl.
Date Reviewed: February 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
It rules! you don't have to reach down and try to find that ever eluding water bottle and the cage to put it back. I've had my camel back for a year now and wrecked on them a few times and everything seems to be holding up. and if it's good enough for the Navy SEALs then that's all I have to say!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lenny Neugarten
a cross-country rider
from NJ
Date Reviewed: February 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
A Camelbak will last a lifetime, if you ride once a year. In the two plus years using a Camelback(for lack of a better solution), I have gone through no less than 5 bladders. I ride all year round, and the original bladder was made out of a material that became nonflexible in cold weather, causing the bladder to crack. Scratch one. Since then, they have corrected this problem with a bladder that remains flexible in cold weather, but the biggest problem remains unchanged. The filler cap they use sucks! Not only has EVERY cap leaked after several uses(in the summer), it is very hard to open in winter temperatures. It only makes sense to me that it should be a screw type filler, instead of that crap they use. I'm sure glad that other manufacturers have learned this lesson and improved on Camelbacks dated design. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a weekend warrior
from Hastings,MI
Date Reviewed: February 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The camelback is a great product! There is only one complaint is you have to hold the tube in your mouth. They have fixed that they came out with a clip that holds the tube by your mouth. other than that camelback ROCKS!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gordon Yang
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: February 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've got a Y bike. There aren't a whole lot of places that you can put a waterbottle on my bike. Trek seems to think that they can squeeze two mounts on it. It's not really even two mounts!! One of them is a pair of seatpost clamps (which I don't believe qualifies for a mount so it doesn't count.) The other is on the underside of the downtube so it sucks up dirt and mud like a vacuum cleaner, especially after muddy creekcrossings. Plus, adding weight to your bike that you paid an arm and a leg to make light just doesn't make sense.There are only two solutions to this problem:
1)Go for a ride with no water and DIE, or
2)Get a Camelbak.Solution 1) What!? No water equals no ride!
Solution 2) Get a Camelbak and ride around with more water than I could ever carry on my bike. The Camelbak is just an all around great product. You can buy those cool covers: cow, forest and desert camo, safety orange, and even upgrade and carry more stuff with the Integrator fanny pack/waist belt and the Pakster.
HYDRATE OR DIE! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gordon Yang
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: February 3, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've got a Y bike. There aren't a whole lot of places that you can put a waterbottle on my bike. Trek seems to think that they can squeeze two mounts on it. It's not really even two mounts!! One of them is a pair of seatpost clamps (which I don't believe qualifies for a mount so it doesn't count.) The other is on the underside of the downtube so it sucks up dirt and mud like a vacuum cleaner, especially after muddy creekcrossings. Plus, adding weight to your bike that you paid an arm and a leg to make light just doesn't make sense.There are only two solutions to this problem:
1)Go for a ride with no water and DIE, or
2)Get a Camelbak.Solution 1) What!? No water equals no ride!
Solution 2) Get a Camelbak and ride around with more water than I could ever carry on my bike. The Camelbak is just an all around great product. You can buy those cool covers: cow, forest and desert camo, safety orange, and even upgrade and carry more stuff with the Integrator fanny pack/waist belt and the Pakster.
HYDRATE OR DIE! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Cohen
a weekend warrior
from Baltimore, MD
Date Reviewed: January 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I love my camel back! I have had it one season without any problems. It is
comfortable to wear and I don't eat mud when I drink water like
I did with water bottles.TIP: After using the camel back, store the bladder in your fridge to prevent
bacteria from growing inside and making you sick | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gordo
a weekend warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: December 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Camelback's products are similar to Nightsun's - great when they first came out but blown away by far superior designs from competitors; in addition, their customer support staff must have trained at either the DMV or a Russian retasiler prior to the fall of communism. Specifically, the blader has spontaneously delaminated, the nipple has fallen off with the retaining ring that was improperly glued, strapos have broken, and all materials have frayed. Last Spring I bought Gregory's new system, and the quality, fit, and storage space are all excellent. It costs slightly more, but in thi sport, you really do et what you pay for. With so many other products now available that offer better construction, why bother buying a Camelback? | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Pound
a cross-country rider
from Portsmouth, UK
Date Reviewed: November 29, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought my Camelback at the start of the summer second hand for £10 (£39 r.r.p). I had to buy some milton to clean it out as it had be sitting around unused for some time, but the general condition of it was good. It took a while to get used to having something I my back whelkn I rode but after that it was fine. I found it most usefull during races when I could drink more with out having to take my eyes off of the track and my hands off the bars. I only use water in mine so I don't have any problems with cleaning it out. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
scott
a cross-country rider
from Virginia
Date Reviewed: November 28, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently upgraded my Pakster to a M.U.L.E. and this is by far the best upgrade one can make. During long cross countries you are never without drink. There is also plenty of storage. Last week on a night ride I got overheated and took off a whole layer and easily found room in the Mule to store it. Great product. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Barron
a racer
from Madison, WI
Date Reviewed: November 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I don't know how I ever lived without this thing! I can stay hydrated during a race without even missing a beat. It also has saved my back numerous times during crashes. The only problem I have ever encountered is during steep descents. The camelback tends to ride up on my shoulders, pushing the back of my helmet up and the front of my helmet down, thus inhibiting my vision. I think there's some kind of strap made by camelback that might alleviate this problem. I have yet to try it though. This is a great product and would highly recommend it to other bikers. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rumphumper
a weekend warrior
from
Date Reviewed: November 26, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Old granny douche bag would be the same! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
andrew Were
a racer
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: November 22, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
One of the best products ever devised. Simple and easy to use. I've been using Camel Baks since 1991. Now have a Narrow gauge and a packster excellent. Hands free means total control and hydration is not a problem. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Luther Solomon
a cross-country rider
from Kansas City, MO
Date Reviewed: November 21, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I picked the Camelbak up for $25 bucks on line. The concept is Good. There were a few problems with it. First was the problem of leaking. Without expelling all the water out of the tube, it just ran down the arm. The other was the mouthpiece. More air that water was sucked in because the seal was not good. This was Cleared up with a Strip of Duct Tape. Now, I think the product is worth $25 but no more. I do recommend this, though. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a cross-country rider
from Vancouver Canada
Date Reviewed: November 15, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This is the quickest and best upgrade for yourself. Trust me you'll ride better and farther when you are properly hydrated. Before I got this thing I had one water bottle which would last me maybe thirty minutes and that not nearly enough for 3-4 hour rides. Once I went riding without enough water in the summer and I started making stupid mistakes like missing a turn jumping too early before a log and finally absolute fatigue sets in.Do yourself a favor get it and ride! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenneth Anderson
a cross-country rider
from South Carolina
Date Reviewed: November 15, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I absolutely could not live without it! I don't know what I would do with a water bottle again. There is no reason why everyone out there shouldn't own one of these. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
CoryG
a cross-country rider
from
Date Reviewed: November 15, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Camelback hydration systems are a must have for any long ride on a hot day. You can't carry enough water any other way. Also the valve stay nice and clean so that you don't have to drink out of something that is cover with mud. I have gone through one bladder, which split down the seems after two and a half years of abuse. A new bladder only cost $12 mail order. Also, you don't have to worry about bottle flying out of cages. A good camel back accesory is the packster which allows you to carry all the tools you need and even so extra space for other things, also has a shock cord for a jacket or other clothing. Only down side to the camel back is that it can get hot having that water against your back. But you could get an ice back then.If I was buying one now, I would go for the M.U.L.E. because it has everything that a regular camelback + a packster and an exrta 20 oz. of water. What a deal. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank
a racer
from Altus, Oklahoma
Date Reviewed: November 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Hands free hydration, what more could you ask for? This product works great! Who knows, from what i've read, it may even save your life. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
EAST RIDER
a cross-country rider
from SINGAPORE
Date Reviewed: October 17, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
GREAT Ideal, can't feel the weight even with a full load but its bladder bounces when going on serious off road riding. Ratings: ITs' a worth buy for all the camels out there. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andy Miller
a cross-country rider
from Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Date Reviewed: October 3, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The Camelback is the best $40 you can spend on cycling accessories. It holds 70 ounces of water, which means that you can ride forever without running out of water, and is extremely convenient. The convenience factor especially comes into play when riding in muddy conditions and while treking up hills, because it stays clean, and once the tube is in your mouth, it's a hands off procedure. Also, as an added bonus, it doubles as padding on crashes and while sitting a little too high when riding under downed trees. The only drawback is that it traps heat and sweat on your back under hot conditions, so it is somewhat uncomfortable under very hot and humid conditions. Otherwise, it has no faults. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Chu
a weekend warrior
from Honolulu, HI
Date Reviewed: July 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This thing beats waterbottles hands down! Not only is it easier to get
hydrated, but you can keep your water cold. My only regret is that I
didn't get the camelback mule which has padded shoulder straps and extra
pouches on the back. One minor problem is that the water in the hose gets
to luke warm temp if you don't drink constantly. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Su
a weekend warrior
from Ithaca, NY
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Camelbacks are great products. I have a bad tendency to let myself get
dehydrated, because I just don't think to stop, get my water bottle, drink, put
the bottle away, etc. With the Camelback, since the water tube is right there
in my face, it is second nature to sip on it constantly, without having to stop.
I also used to have a lot of problems with water bottles falling out of my
cages, but the Camelback solves that problem. You can also carry a lot of
water less noticeably - 70 ounces, that's three and a half small bottles. You
can also use the Camelback for hiking as well, not just biking. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thomas Canaday
a cross-country rider
from Aurora, Co USA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
These thing seem to be popping up on peoples back lately and my
opinion is that they are all right. The draw backs are that they
are not the simplest thing to clean and dry, the water tastes pretty
bad coming out of the rubber bladder, it is diificult to really quench a
thirst when you have to suck on it to get an appreciable stream of
water on a hot day, and finally the black carrier does not aid in
keeping water cool. Which by the way is probably way they offer a
Mylar cover. Other than that it is a damn fine thing. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Walker
a weekend warrior
from Ottawa
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I own two camelbacks. The first, which I have patched since
puncturing it myself accidentally, gave me a very cushy landing after a
beautiful triple gainer with a half twist (aka - front wheel in log).
My new one is the'96 version which is a great improvement with
the padded straps, bigger flow tube, and free clip. No mud in my cold juice. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Will Cannell
a cross-country rider
from Mill Valley, Ca
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Forces you to drink water not to mention weight savings by not carrying bottles and cages on your bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan K.
a
from california
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
it's great for really, really long rides, but for anything shorter than 2.5 hours I find it to be a lot of weight on the back.
it's rather comfy too. But I found the plastic around the opening to be very weak and it rips if you hold it by the lid when filling it with a lot of water.
i guess the smart thing to do is not hold it there. For really long journeys they can't be beat. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steven Hughes
a cross-country rider
from Waltham,MA USA
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This has to be one of the best mountain bike inventions of all-time(probably the best upgrade for my bike last year!). It keeps your fluid relatively
cool, easy to get to, holds 70 oz., comfortable too wear,and can also be used in other sports, hiking,horseback riding, skiing(but may tend the line may tend to freeze)
and other activities I can't think of. The new 96 models now include Monster Flo tubing for 50% more flow,
padded shoulders and a clip to hold the line so it isn't always hanging down and
bumping against your knees. It is so comfortable you won't even know its there
and you won't realize how much fluid you do intake unit it is all consumed.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Wilson
a weekend warrior
from Boston
Date Reviewed: June 18, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got the standard Camelbak and I agree with all the other reviewers.
It is comfortable, keep the water cool and convenient and all that but trying to
suck the water out when I'm breathing hard is difficult. My sinuses inevitably
get blocked when I'm huffing and puffing so I have to go for a few seconds
without breathing to drink. Hopefully I'll get used to it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lloyd
a cross-country rider
from Livermore, CA
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The half pak is good only for shorter ride, or long rides with two big water
bottles. For the price, I feel that I should have spent the extra 5 bucks
and gotten the regular pak. Secondly I've had to replace the bladder twice
for leaks, and I've I always have a problem with the nipple thing leaking.
I know it takes proper positioning, but with you constantly having to fix it
while you ride, it gets annoying.
The good points include, the fact that it IS a Camel back, and when it works,
it works!!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Owens
a Chris Owens
from Lompoc, Ca.
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had a Camelback for about two years now and it works great! It looks like it would be a burden on your shoulders, but it's not. It's easy to get a drink of water while still maintaining control of your bike. The only problem that I have had with it is it started to leak around the opening the day before a race. I had to zip tie the opening shut and put a trash bag around it to keep from getting wet. I bought a whole new Camelback and it is a lot nicer then the old one. It has a bigger tube on it so you can get a lot more water, faster. It also has pads over the straps so it is even more comfortable to wear. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee
a weekend warrior
from California, USA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Camelbak Fullbak, bought in 1995.
Good:
Easy to drink from; ease of drinking is especially noticeable during
more technical riding.
Large water capacity.
Insulated backpack keeps water somewhat cool (but water in the drink
line outside of the backpack gets warm.
Bad:
Hard to clean and dry. Not a problem for usage intervals which allow
drying out, but may be a problem if the usage interval is not long
enough to dry out.
It's a backpack, and I don't like backpacks in general while cycling.
But at least it is smaller and doesn't shift around as much as a
regular backpack.
Other:
I've seen white ones, but not in stores (the stores seem to carry
the black ones only).
The bladder is available separately, so if you already have a backpack
to put it in, you can save some money. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nick
a cross-country rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The camel back makes a nice change to only getting a drink after the off road. It is easy to be drinking water even through technical sections. And an added bonus is that it provides protection when you fall on your back. A must have. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a downhiller
from tulsa,ok
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Enjoy hands-free drinking while riding your bike,
70oz alot of drink and no bottle can hold near that
much. great buy | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nanci Pass
a weekend warrior
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Look at your water bottle after one good mud ride or a jaunt through a cow field
and you've justified the purchase and use of a Camelback. It's nice to take
a drink of cold water from a clean spigot. I've been out for 4-5 hours in 80
degree weather and still had cool water to drink at the top of the hill. A
little sweat on your back while you're riding is a small price to pay for less
weight on the bike. Also the packster addition makes the behind the seat,
rattling tool bag unnecessary. I've also heard of them saving a few riders' backs
from major injuries during endo falls in nasty situations. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff Michel
a cross-country rider
from Oakland, Ca.
Date Reviewed: June 10, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
If you own a Y bike, you gotta have it. This is probably the best investment for biking I've made to date. A great concept (why didn't I think of it?)
My only complant is that the black cover absorbs too much solar and you know the result. I'm gonna get the packster next. I consume much more water with this device
than with bottles. Also I don't have spit out the mud with the first mouth full.I also found that by leaving it my mouth it's kinda like drip irrigation.
I get a little at a time so unless I'm really kranking my mouth dosen't have to do the sahara thing. You know what they say hydrate or die (or is it hydrate then die?).
Great product! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Karnes
a racer
from Powell, Tn
Date Reviewed: June 7, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
This has to be one of the best mountain bike inventions of all-time. It keeps
your fluid relatively cool, easy to get to, holds 70 oz., comfortable too wear,
and offers decent spinal protection in case of a crash. The only drawback is
it's hard to suck on the valve if you're gasping for breath during a race.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darren Yung
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, B.C.
Date Reviewed: June 6, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The Camel Bak is the best thing you can get for yourself. You can use it for
more than just biking. I use it to drink from when I go play sports, or when I drive
long distances. It's great! Hands free drinking, and lots of it. But back to the
biking aspect of it. It definetly has increased my riding distance and strength.
Before I got my Camel Bak I would get cramps in my calfs after a long or hard
ride. Since I've had my Camel Bak, I haven't had any cramps yet, and I'm
never thirsty on a ride! The new Thermobak has an insulating pouch for the
bladder and the new 'monster flow' tube. The original Camel Bak doesn't. But
in any case, the Camel Bak is a worth while investment. Only down side is that
I have had one bladder go bad on me. The top opening spout split from the bladder and there was NO way for me to seal it. It looses 1 star here! =( Lucky for me I took it back to where I got it, and they replaced the bladder for free!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a cross-country rider
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: June 4, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I got my Camelbak more on a whim than anything else. Well, I grew to love the
Unbottle system so touted by the manufacturers. Number one, you don't have
to fiddle with waterbottles while bumping around the trails, and the shaved weight
from the bike sorta improves the bikes' flying capabilities. Number two, the
'bak keeps the fluids cool, and the valve clean and free from mud and grime from
the trail floor. Number three, you can drink more from a 'bak than you can with
a bottle in the same amount of time, unless you take perverse pleasure in
squashing bottles flat every time you drink. Number four, 'baks double up as
very comfy pillows when you're out in the wild and need a snooze. Enough said.
Go get one today and lose the bottles!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Khanh Dinh
a cross-country rider
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: June 3, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Camelbak, water bottle; camelbak, water bottle? Gotta go with the camelbak! Man, this thing is wonderful, especially in the hot summer sun. This think keeps the water cold! For instance, if the ambient temp. is 70 degrees F, it will keep your water cold for a couple of hours if you fill it with ice. I got brain freeze once! the only thing i don't like about the camelbak is that the old bladder was prone to developing leaks if you manhandle it and that it doesn't flow much water. The new bladder addresses those problems but is a pain to get back into the insulator! Once you go camelbak, you'll never go back to water bottles! I gave all my water bottles away!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a cross-country rider
from Mississippi
Date Reviewed: May 29, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Misses: It's a sweaty 5 lb. monkey on your back, screwing with your balance. $$$.
Hits: Keeps water cool and available. May save your life.
About all I use bottles for these days is a neighborhood spin; anything more
and I use my Camelbak. Works great on-road too (ever fool with a bottle while
on aero bars?). Recent improvements (fat hose, shoulder strap pads) make a
good thing even better. Despite the weight, it's surprisingly comfortable and
non-binding.
Now go check out the packster reviews.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joel
a cross-country rider
from Malaysia
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Great invention.Real useful.You don't have to reach for your bottle anymore
if you have the camelbak. Just bike the mouthpiece and suck for water.I
would not recommend this for races though, I find it quite irritating
carrying extra weight (especially when is full) during races. If you are
going to buy the Camelbak buy the full bak (about 2 litres) instead of the
half bak (about 800ml).
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris yip
a weekend warrior
from california
Date Reviewed: April 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I think the camalbak is great. It holds lots of water and it is easy to use.
when your in a race or doin a downhill its easy to drink water. The only
bad thing is the mouth piece comes off sometimes.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Francis
a Norba racer
from Campbell, CA
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
The camelback concept is INCREDIBLE. You get a ton of water that's
easy to drink, while on singletrack, while climbing. The water valve
stays clean and the water stays cooler longer. I've even seen it cushion
peoples backs during hard crashes.
The overall design is good. A couple of small things however, I've gone through
2 bladders and they both started leaking after a few months. Also the bite
valve starts leaking too and is not cheap to replace considering it's a 10 cent
piece of rubber.
| | Overall Rating: |
| |
|
Photo Caption Contest
(sponsored by Maxxis)
|
Enter here
|
|
|
$ 39.00
