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Submitted by
OMJustice
a Weekend Warrior
from Florence, KY, USA
Date Reviewed: October 18, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Idlewild Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Online Components | | Strengths: | Not too bulky and has ample storage. Seems very rugged, and well built. | | Weaknesses: | The sternum clasp is almost not long enough. I'm 190 lbs and it just barely reaches when extended all the way out. | | Similar Products Used: | 15 year old Platupus pack. | | Bike Setup: | 2009 Specialized Enduro | | Bottom Line: | Good price, and perfect size for my 2-3 hour rides. With 2 zippered pockets and a mesh pocket behind the lower one, it can carry all the essentials: pump, repair kit, tube, multi tool, small first aid kit, and some food. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fred
a Weekend Warrior
from Tappan, NY
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Chimney Rock, NJ, RingWood NJ | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$52.00 | | Purchased At: | campmor | | Strengths: | Easy to fill, very stable, well made, lasts, Holds necessities for trip (tube, tools, phone, energy bars and yes, more than enough water | | Similar Products Used: | Mule -- harder to fill, do not need extra room on 3 hour ride. If I have longer ride or need to carry more I use the M.U.L.E | | Bike Setup: | Intense with XT components and fox fork | | Bottom Line: | The right size, great quality, long lasting (previous one was 3 years old and lost it, otherwise I would still be using that one), holds what I need, comfortable. What else can you ask for?? If you need more room, get a M.U.L.E.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dobber2057
a Weekend Warrior
from St Albans, Herts, UK
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | South Downs | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Purchased At: | cant remember | | Strengths: | Very Very Very durable, this pack has saved my back on a couple of occassions and seen some pretty bad weather! strong connectors, very comfortable | | Weaknesses: | could have more / larger cake & kit space | | Similar Products Used: | various other Camelbaks | | Bike Setup: | Trek Fuel frame and alot of upgrade over the years, beloved Fox Float RC at the back and Rockshox Pike U-turn at the front | | Bottom Line: | But it for a weekend aventure, wouldnt recommend if you are planning on carrying alot of spare kit like clothes, mush food etc | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
bwanapatto
a Weekend Warrior
from State College, PA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bicycle Shop, In | | Strengths: | External fill.
Compact pack for a pack that fits 100 oz or 3 liters. The pack has two zippered pockets, each with mesh dividers to keep your stuff organized. In addition, there's a large open pocket, partially mesh (on the sides), with a pump pocket on one side. The straps are very well made; the waist straps are removable, and the back straps have velcro bits on them to aid in corralling the section of the strap you're not using. There's a gel pocket on the left strap. The bite valve is well designed and sturdy. | | Weaknesses: | Water tastes a bit like rubber, but I've only filled it three or so times. Hopefully it'll go away soon. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Trek 4500 | | Bottom Line: | 70 dollars is a bit much for this pack unless you really need the 3 liter capacity. This pack has a surprising amount of room; you can easily fit your keys, wallet, a bunch of energy bars, a spare tube, and probably even an extra shirt in the pack for those chillier downhill rides. I thought that the pack would be really heavy when full of water, but it really isn't noticeable. The straps do a good job of distributing the weight, and are well-ventilated as a bonus. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
preludedriven
a Cross Country Rider
from Orange County, Ca, USA
Date Reviewed: March 18, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Fullerton Loop | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$43.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance Bike | | Strengths: | This pack looks awesome with it's futuristic design and great use of materials. Bottom pocket has a mud guard to protect whatever is in it. External fill makes filling and refilling easy. Plenty of small pockets to hold all of the essentials. Sternum and Waist Straps, plus Air Director back panel works pretty well. | | Weaknesses: | Pump holder is so small, I doubt 90% of mini pumps would fit in it. | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Classic '08 (70oz, but just one small pocket)
Almost got the MULE, but it doesn't have the external fill, and didn't really need that much storage. | | Bike Setup: | 2007 Iron Horse | | Bottom Line: | If you're looking for a lightweight, compact pack, the Lobo is for you. It will hold enough water for 2 to 3 hour rides, and pack the essentials just fine. I carry the following: Keys, Phone, Wallet, Mini Tool, Mini Pump, First Aid Kit and Power Bar. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
_Lac_Man_
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: January 17, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | SoMo - McDwll Mtn. | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Light, large capacity reservoir, good storage for it's size. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. | | Similar Products Used: | Other Camelbacks | | Bottom Line: | I really like this pack for trips on easy terrain, where I don't need lots of parts/gear. For journies where I need spare tubes and tools and such, I grab my larger bag, but this thing is great if I want to keep it light and jst bring one tube, a multi-tool and tons of water.
This is great for anyone, but anyone who doesn't bring lots of gear, this is perfect. Otherwise it's a great short-trip bag. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hooked
a Weekend Warrior
from Sterling Heights MI USA
Date Reviewed: September 28, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Poto | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$25.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Carries a good amount of water. (I have the 3 liter bladder) It also seems fairly durable as I've endoed and landed right on it with no problems afterwards. | | Weaknesses: | Some might say lack of cargo space, but I didn't see this as an issue. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Trek 4500 | | Bottom Line: | I really like this product. It's great for all the 2-3 hour romps in the woods. I don't pack a ton of gear with me, so I don't have any issues with how much it holds. I rode for over 3 hours this weekend and still had water left when I finished. I would highly suggest this bag to anyone. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
belljr13
a Weekend Warrior
from Mountain View, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | Mike's Bikes | | Strengths: | Fits well, Easy to fill, Light | | Weaknesses: | Not a true 3 litre reservoir | | Similar Products Used: | M.U.L.E. Dakine Drafter | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Enduro Expert, 2.3 Kenda front 2.25 Motorapter rear, LP composites bar ends, Speedball seatpost | | Bottom Line: | I like having lots of water and search for 3l when buying a new pack. I can get 2l with res in pack and 2.75 when res is out of pack. Shame on you Camelback. Back to Dakine for me. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
ryano2005
a Weekend Warrior
from Rowlett, Texas, USA
Date Reviewed: June 25, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | RCR | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$25.00 | | Purchased At: | online | | Strengths: | Great flow and storage. Great thermals as well | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Bell hydra pack | | Bike Setup: | Hardtail downhill. | | Bottom Line: | Great pack. Not enough for an all day outing, but carrying that much water would be heavy. I'm very happy with this! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ulf
a Cross Country Rider
from Swden
Date Reviewed: February 24, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Beachtrail, Aahus | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$52.00 | | Purchased At: | camelbak-deals.com | | Strengths: | Amount of fluid, harness, weight | | Weaknesses: | Hard to fill up. | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Sugar 1 -02. | | Bottom Line: | I'm using the Lobo -08 with the 100 oz (3 litre) bag. Overall this is a great carrier. Enough fluid to last 2 to 3 hours on the trail and enough extra space for bars, tools, a tire and a pump. Although you're carrying quite a few pounds on your back you're hardly notice the carrier at all. It is easy to drink from, with the Camelbak Big Bite valve and good flow. The only backset I've found is that it is hard to top-fill the water bag when it is in the carrier. I prefer to take the bag out of the carrier to get maximum amount of water in the bag.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roy
a Weekend Warrior
from Elk Grove, CA
Date Reviewed: June 24, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Granite Bay | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Mike's Bikes Sacramento | | Strengths: | 100 oz reservoir and 200 cu. in. gear capacity. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Bike Setup: | 2007 Gary Fisher Piranha | | Bottom Line: | Carry enough water for those long bike ride. Gear capacity can carry your spare tube, wallet, cell phone, towel, car keys and power bars. If you need more gear capacity I recommend the Camelbak M.U.L.E. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BT
a Weekend Warrior
from Fort Collins, CO
Date Reviewed: May 21, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance | | Strengths: | easy to use, works great, no problems | | Weaknesses: | hard to clean, small reservoir for long rides, not much storage | | Bottom Line: | great product, but pricy, if I had more money, I should have gone for a MULE or HAWG, but overall great for a small pack | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Tewksbury, NJ
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Hobby Park | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay! | | Strengths: | Just the right size for 1-3 hour rides. Carries what I need: car keys, mini tool, cell phone, inhaler. There is plenty of room for a tube and a mini pump, but where I ride it is easier to call it a day than start ripping a wheel apart to replace a tube. Also, I have the bladder with the large mouth and that makes it much easier to maintain than my other Camelbak I had when I was a second class scout. | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Classic- only good for water | | Bike Setup: | Trek 4300 Frame, Tora 318, Some XT, BB5s | | Bottom Line: | I love this product. It does exactly want it is intended. I wouldn't ride with this all day though, I suck a lot of water down and would probably need more if I wanted to ride all day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
howard mitchell
a
from pittsburgh, pa, usa
Date Reviewed: March 31, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Roaring Run | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$64.00 | | Purchased At: | biketek | | Strengths: | holds 3 liters of fluids, compact design, bite valve, easy cleaning | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | hydrapak | | Bike Setup: | jamis xlt | | Bottom Line: | I've only use this product for less than one month. This is my first camelback product (I received it as a gift). Camelback products are well designed and well made. The selling point was that this product can hold 3 liters of fluid in a compact design. There is enough storage room for tools, tube, pump and food. I don't think there is enough room for extra clothing (jacket, etc.). I plan to use this pack during the hot summer days (no extra clothing needed). So far I like the design and features of this product. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Chien
a Weekend Warrior
from Reno,NV,USA
Date Reviewed: October 23, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Tyrolean Downhill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$55.00 | | Purchased At: | REI | | Strengths: | Great airflow on your back, Camelbak bladder is the best, very durable, holds enough equipment and water for 1-3 hour xc rides. | | Weaknesses: | NOT for anything more than XC, does not hold enough gear for a freeride or epic trip, cinch is kindof small | | Similar Products Used: | North Face Thresher | | Bike Setup: | Mongoose Teocali w/ Manitou Minute 3(instead of FOX) | | Bottom Line: | A great pack, if you dont need to carry much, or are mostly an XC rider. If you freeride, get something that carries more gear, like the havoc or hawg or something. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross Country Rider
from West Texas
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | XC | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | Local sporting goods. | | Strengths: | Well built. Easy to fill. NO leaks. Comfortable. Decent storage. Stays put on your back. Very good bite valve. | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Knock offs. | | Bike Setup: | NRS. | | Bottom Line: | Pricy compared to competition, but worth it. NEVER leaks, even when tossed in the trunk and lugged across the state.
Large filler cap makes filing and adding ice a snap. Absorbs the fall of a 210 lb. rider without complaint or damage. Two other knock offs I have owned do not come close in the comfort and quality departments. Now, if Camelbak would only build cars.... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from So Cal
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Aliso Woods Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Sport Chalet | | Strengths: | Extremely comfortable, holds just enough water & equipment for a 3-4 hour ride. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Kona Dawg | | Bottom Line: | Great product! It's so comfortable you forget it's on your back. Expensive but worth it. Could use a little more storage space, but for me it's fine. If you go on longer rides (7-8 hr) get the mule. Great job Camelbak! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich
a Cross Country Rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: January 8, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Is there a bad one? | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$36.00 | | Purchased At: | EMS | | Strengths: | Typical of all Camelbaks, well made, great bladder design, comfortable fit. | | Weaknesses: | Pump holder won't hold larger pumps and it is not secure for any pump. Not enough storage space to eliminate a saddle wedge | | Similar Products Used: | Mule and HAWG | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale Scalpel, Upgraded Cannondale F500, Jamis Dakar XLT | | Bottom Line: | When I go out carry a decent amout of first aid gear. I've seen people get hurt 10 miles from nowhere with not even a bandaid available. The stoarge pouch is just big enough to hold the basics and a few tools. The pump holder is a great idea, but not big enough to hold a larger pump or hold any pump securely. This is probably a great pack for road riding or for my friends who know I'm paranoid enough to carry extra equipment on my back. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from So. Cal
Date Reviewed: January 4, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$30.00 | | Purchased At: | REI | | Strengths: | Compact, reservoir is awesome, nice looking | | Weaknesses: | Too small, pump holder sucks | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Rocket, mule, Extreme brand backpack | | Bike Setup: | Sugar 3 | | Bottom Line: | This is a smallest pack I try to keep with my line up of Mule and Rocket, but I was dispointed by the pump holder big time. It is not designed to hold a normal size pump well, the pump will stay, but not in a secure way. The fit, look, and make are top notch, but I would definately recommend Rocket over this model for a better pump holder and larger space available (with the similar compact feel). | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wes
a Cross Country Rider
from White Marsh, MD
Date Reviewed: December 11, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | NCR, Seminary | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Holds enough for long rides. Has enough storage for essentials but not enough to be too bulky or heavy. Seems well made. | | Weaknesses: | Well, none really, but the color choices are limited (some Hi-Viz options would be nice) | | Similar Products Used: | Camelback Wave (50 oz. with little storage) | | Bike Setup: | Trek 4300 | | Bottom Line: | This is a nice pack. Not too big, not too small. Fairly comfortable. I have no real fault with this product, but I find I like the water bottles, and seat wedge better. Just can't get used to having something on my back. It's a bit awkward when climbing out of the saddle. Helpful hint : put the bladder in the freezer when not using, and it will stay mildew free!) I never use drink mixes in it due to cleaning which is a pain. If you load the bladder up with ice before adding water, it will help keep your back cool. Although I don't use it too much, there are times when you just need the extra water capacity and these things fill the bill quite nicely. They are not cheap, but they go on sale. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rabbiwats
a Weekend Warrior
from birmingham, al
Date Reviewed: October 20, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | online | | Strengths: | Great storage capacity. Comfortable to wear. Durability | | Weaknesses: | Chest strap slides up and down during rides | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Rogue | | Bike Setup: | Specialized Stumpjumper FSR; stock except for Avid Juicy 7 brakes | | Bottom Line: | Great Hydration system for the money. Has plenty of storage for the essentials (pump, tube, multi-tool, keys). Back padding is very comfortable. My only complaint was that the chest strap slides up and down for adjustability. The only problem is that the chest strap would gradually slide up until it was choking me. I remedied by putting a couple of zip ties around the shoulder straps to keep the chest strap in place. Works fine now. Would recommend to anyone who is looking for a hydration pack with some storage. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Trail 100, Desert Classic | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Pricepoint.com | | Strengths: | Light weight, quality construction | | Weaknesses: | Limited storage space | | Bottom Line: | This is a really good water pack. It holds seventy-two ounces of water - just enough for a long ride. The design keeps excess weight to a minimum and it is comfortable to wear. I would buy the lobo again. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex G.
a
from Greensboro, N.C USA
Date Reviewed: October 6, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Owls Roost | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay.com | | Strengths: | Great for storing little things for trail riding, size isnt too big but not too small either | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | 2005 Raleigh M80 Disk, cane creek LT 3G seatpost, Specialized V-Groove seat, hayes disk brakes, manitou front fork, WTB Weirwolf tires, lx rear derailer | | Bottom Line: | This is a great product. It is not too big which makes it harder to pack more stuff but it reduces weight so u choose. Great value for 50.00 with shipping! Great pack overall and I highly reccomend it to anybody who mountain bikes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
PaulM
a Weekend Warrior
from Fremont
Date Reviewed: September 30, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Universal Cycles | | Strengths: | light weight, convenience, comfort | | Weaknesses: | Storage is a little tight but that's why they make bigger packs. | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Rogue, Rocket, and Rev | | Bike Setup: | TST Ti Hardtail, Thomson seatpost, Race Face cranks, stem, and headset, Skareb fork | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to an earlier review I submitted where I slammmed the new chest strap design for creaking sounds.
As time has passed this has become a non-issue, the pack has been great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron
a Weekend Warrior
from Hatboro, PA
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$38.00 | | Purchased At: | REI | | Strengths: | Extremely Comfortable, Great flow | | Weaknesses: | Pump port too small | | Bottom Line: | I'd love to give this four flamin chili's - but whomever designed the "pump port" on this pack wasn't thinking. You have to have a REALLY Small, straight pump to fit in this pack - I doubt most pumps on the market fit in the port - mine certainly doesn't.
Other then that, the valve flow/hydration portion of the pack itself is great - easy to fill, bite valve works a heck of a lot better then I thought, and 70oz of water is great for most trips.
This pack is EXTREMELY comfortable, I forget I'm wearing it until I need it - great moisture wicking fabric and the straps on the 04 model at least are wonderful
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Deines
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, Colorado
Date Reviewed: July 11, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | GuitarFreak664@aim.com | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$20.00 | | Purchased At: | Some local store's Going out of business sale | | Strengths: | Holds enough water for all but the longest rides. Has enough space for all the essentials, (patch kit, alien, pump,cell phone, cash). Doesn't taste like rubber (like most other brands) | | Similar Products Used: | wanna-be camelbak knock off | | Bottom Line: | much better than crappy, broken water bottles. Has room for all the essentials and still carries enough water for fairly long trips. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Downhiller
from Colchester, Essex, UK
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Chicksands | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$30.00 | | Purchased At: | Halfords | | Strengths: | Water and cargo capactiy, stability when on your back. | | Weaknesses: | Price (its in UK £ above) | | Similar Products Used: | bag and water bottle | | Bottom Line: | This bag has pure quality only had it today but been on a long ride to test it on the hottest day of the year. My friend bought another hydration system today aswell not a camelbak but a cheaper imitation, and the water tasted like rubber and the bag broke. In one day. But my camelbak ruled.
Get one now! Pick up an 04 cheaper now if you can | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas, Tx
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Rowllet Creek, Northshore | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | RBM | | Strengths: | If chicks dug Camelbaks, it would be like driving a Ferrari.
Its really the best combination of storage and fluid capacity you can find in the entire Camelbak line. Its just really niffty the way everything is setup. It has a lot of cool little features like the key clip, mini-pump holder and the chest strap tubes.
Its well balanced and very comfortable to use, all the weight of the pack is in just the right places. | | Weaknesses: | I would have liked more water storage. Its the middle of May and the temperature is already in the mid to uppper 90's. I might end up having to keep my water bottle handy as a backup as the summer drags on. | | Similar Products Used: | None. | | Bike Setup: | Specialized Hardrock Sport. Mostly stock. | | Bottom Line: | I really, really like this pack. I dont know how I did without one for so long. It is IMO the best pack in the entire Camelbak lineup. It carries the right amount of water for most rides and it looks and feels great.
If you must have more water storage then you might want to consider the MULE. But if 70oz is all you need, you wont find a better equiped pack for the money then the LOBO.
Flamin' Chilis all around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Logan
a Cross Country Rider
from Denton, TX
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | IDB, Northshore | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Purchased At: | nashbar | | Strengths: | best hydration pak for mtbers. perfect size, good pouches, light, fits well, shut-off valve, key clip, keeps water really cold. | | Weaknesses: | too many straps. I hate cleaning it out after every ride but what are you gonna do? | | Similar Products Used: | off brand hydration pak | | Bike Setup: | giant NRS 3 | | Bottom Line: | best buy of the season. MUEL is too big in my opinion. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Niall
a Racer
from Dublin, Ireland
Date Reviewed: March 9, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Nice size, good storage capacity, light. | | Weaknesses: | None really... | | Bottom Line: | Holds 2L -- enough for a decent spin. It has two storage compartments, a pump holder, and enough ties and straps to hold onto a U-lock if you need to carry one. Nice design, recommended. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
PaulM
a Weekend Warrior
from Fremont, CA USA
Date Reviewed: February 17, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Universal Cycles | | Strengths: | light weight,good storage capacity, comfort | | Weaknesses: | new chest strap adjustment design a step backward | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Rogue, Rocket, and Rev | | Bike Setup: | TST Ti Hardtail, Thomson seatpost, Race Face cranks, stem, and headset, Mars fork | | Bottom Line: | This review is for the 2005 version. It is a good hydration pack that offers enough storage and water for short to medium duration rides. Camelbak has changed the chest strap position adjustment this year. Formerly they used small straps and plastic buckles mounted on the main straps, now they use plastic piping inside the main straps as rails and small clamps that hold the rail to allow for sliding the strap up or down. This new method works well but the piping inside the strap creaks incessantly with even the slightest movement. I never thought I'd be complaining about noises from a hydration pack but it can be annoying. The old chest strap system worked fine, I wish they would have stayed with it for '05. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron seale
a Cross Country Rider
from Hudson, NH, USA
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Strengths: | Several handy compartments, high quality. | | Weaknesses: | Bend at bite valve (personal preference). | | Bottom Line: | This is a quality product that will hold a pump (has a specific port for pump that works very well), tools, inner tube, food, and afew other small things. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a Weekend Warrior
from Eldersburg, MD, USA
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Switchback | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Sports Authority | | Strengths: | Quality, Size (holds the perfect amount of fluid and gear for the rides that I do), Comfortable, easily managable product, customer service (answered questions about the product), good web-site, reduced bike weight | | Weaknesses: | Although it reduced bike weight by removing saddle bag, pump, water bottles w/cages, it added 7 pounds to my already overweight body. | | Similar Products Used: | Mud-crusted water bottles (going to miss that crunch) | | Bike Setup: | Klein Attitude w/ Marzocchi fork and a few more upgrades | | Bottom Line: | After reading the previous reviews, I agree that it was foolish to wait so long to get a hydration pack. I was not convinced that this was going to be confortable. WRONG! The Lobo is very comfortable on my back and I am looking very forward to doing longer rides without worrying about running out of fluids. The product is made very well and I won't go back to the bottle (of water that is).
Highly rated - Flames all around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jinden Badesha
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol, UK
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Aston Court | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Bristol | | Strengths: | - Holds all the essentials
- Light
- Comfortable
- Stays firmly attached to your back
- Top Quality | | Weaknesses: | - Expensive but worth it
- Can get a little bit hot on your back especially in summer
| | Similar Products Used: | - Camelbak Rocket | | Bike Setup: | merlin malt 2 raceface, xt , easton etc | | Bottom Line: | BUY ONE!! once you have ridden with this you wonder how you ever lived without it. Carries all essentials : pump, new inner tube, munch, mini-tool. I tried the Camelbak rocket in the shop to compare , it was awful in comparision no storage and felt strange on your back. Overall top product, top quality. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Escondido, CA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Daley Ranch | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | At 70oz, it holds the perfect amount of water for a 2 hour ride. It has mesh pockets inside the bottom pouch that hold the cell phone, multi-tool, tire irons, along with a spare inner tube. The flap pocket holds the wallet, keys, and a power bar and gel. The Lobo also has a "pump port" for your tire pump, very handy! It fits well and becomes part of you when you ride. Sometimes you forget you have it on! There also is a small piece of reflective material on the back bottom for those times you don't time your ride right and have to ride in the dark. | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Platypus bladder in a ruck sack. | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Gary Fisher HooKooEKoo | | Bottom Line: | Like the Camelbak saying, "hydrate, or die". Water bottles are a hassle, and taste funny. The Lobo is neither. Just make sure to get the bubbles out of the bladder, or the water will slosh around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from SF Bay Area
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Great size, enough to carry a radio, some supplies, & a multitool. | | Bottom Line: | Just the right size for the typical weekend or daily trail ride. Small enough that I really don't notice it's on my back, yet big enough for the aforementioned supplies and 70oz is plenty of water.
I'm impressed by the product, after hesitating on buying one of these water carriers for years. Thought they'd be too hot and restricting, but as it turns out, I'd never go back to water bottles. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Murrieta, CA
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any screamin' singletrack... | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$55.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Looks, storage space, comfort | | Weaknesses: | 'New rubber' taste when new. Other than that, none. | | Similar Products Used: | Camelback Classic, water bottles | | Bike Setup: | '02 Specialized FSR XC with a few upgrades (not that it really matters. We're talking water carriers here!) | | Bottom Line: | A great Camelback for the money. Great looks too! I have the crimson colored one.
Ample storage space for tubes, tools, tire pump, GU, etc. Even has an internal key loop so you don't lose your keys when on the trail. It's not big and bulky like the Mule or Blowfish.
The Omega bladder is a great improvement over the old type. Now you can easily put in ice for those brutally hot dayz riding. Also has a flow adjustment on the bite valve, but I have yet to use it.
The sternum strap is a plus. It keeps the shoulder straps from wandering when you are on tricky technical sections and downhills.
Carries adequate water supply (70 oz.). For epic rides, I would suggest bringing an extra water bottle just in case.
Overall, a Camelback that I highly recommend. I will give it 4 chilis for value. There are lots of less expensive water carriers on the market these days. Overall rating of 5 chilis because Camelback is simply the best made as far as I'm concerned. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Murrieta, CA
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Any screaming singletrack.... | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$55.00 | | Purchased At: | eBay | | Strengths: | Good storage space for tubes, tools, pump, etc.; adequate water capacity; sternum belt a plus. | | Weaknesses: | Other than the initial 'new rubber' taste when new, none. | | Similar Products Used: | Camelback Classic, water bottles | | Bike Setup: | '02 Specialized FSR XC with a few upgrades | | Bottom Line: | A very good choice for riding/racing. Adequate water capacity (70oz.). Easy to load ice in for those hot dayz (Omega bladder). If you're going to do an epic, you may want to bring an extra water bottle just in case.
This thing is not only good looking, it is very functional. It has more than adequate space for keeping your extra tubes, tools, tire pump, GU, first aid items, etc. It even has a loop to hook your keys on.
The sternum strap is a plus. You don't have to worry about the straps falling off your shoulders during technical sections and downhills. This thing is about as comfortable as it gets without being extremely big and bulky.
A great water carrier.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Cross Country Rider
from concord
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | devils elbow | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$30.00 | | Purchased At: | big 5 | | Strengths: | light durable brand name. holds tools and tubes and pumps. just bite on the top to get water | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | water bottle | | Bottom Line: | great product | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Douglas Tomlinson
a Weekend Warrior
from Pontefract, England
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Nidderdale Loop | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Halfords | | Strengths: | 2002 model has adequate capacity, sternum strap, bungee straps and suprisingly capacious pockets | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak siren and water bottles. | | Bike Setup: | Specialixed Rockhopper Comp. FS | | Bottom Line: | I do not subscibe to the "drink a litre an hour" scool of thought. This pack allows me to carry 2 litres of fluid - entirely adequate. Extremely comfortable and secure. In my view, any pack with a larger capacity is just too heavy when stuffed full. Pack heavy tools/spares in a bag under the seat and the rest of your gear in this and you're sorted! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Benjamin Elton
a Weekend Warrior
from Knoxville, TN
Date Reviewed: April 18, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Earth Traverse | | Strengths: | The 70ox bag easily swiched to the 100oz bag, no worries. Very light weight, holds pump, granola bar(s) and spare tube, keys, liscence....ect. Very stable. | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak HAWG | | Bike Setup: | Trek 4500, M'zocchi bomber shock, | | Bottom Line: | This is the best value if you need lots of water and just enough room for tools and such. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from Marlborough MA , USA
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | REI | | Strengths: | Lightweight on your back, holds a ton of water. | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Water botles, although my water bottles tasted like plastic crap, so i guess they aren't similar. | | Bottom Line: | Ok, I dont have the 2002 version, but mine works great, as long as you clean it every once in a while it will be fine and it will last you. My only suggestion is to buy a sternum strap for the middle of the sholder straps, it will hold the pack closer to your body so that it doenst shake around when you sprint or climb. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Flyer
a Racer
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: February 13, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$49.00 | | Strengths: | For the 2002 model. Well made, redesign is better than models prior to this with omega bladder. Pockets and pumps storage are nicely laid out. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Other Camelbaks | | Bike Setup: | 2002's Giant xtc se2 HT with lots of upgrades, and NRS AIR. | | Bottom Line: | I usually use a HAWG for trail rides, day out trips etc. I bought the Lobo for racing...and for that, it is exactly what I need. Enough room for 70 oz of water, and enough storage space for race necessities like a tube, co2 cartridges, and a pump if you want to haul it along. Not bulky and fits nicely.
I wouldn't use this for a trail system for much more than very casual riding, as it does not have enough storage space for things like a first aid kit, and other things I carry. Perfect for what I bought it for. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: December 4, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$35.00 | | Purchased At: | Colorado Cyclist | | Strengths: | Carries the right amount of water and stuff. Comfortable to wear. | | Weaknesses: | Doesn't clean itself. | | Similar Products Used: | Gimme water bottles | | Bottom Line: | This was definitely the right water system for me. It carries everything I need for 2 hours in the woods (or, eventually, on the road); More than enough water (although we'll see if that's true once next summer), all the emergency tools, trail food, and other gew-gaws I need when I'm out riding.
I don't even notice it when I'm riding; It's a comfortable weight, and the fit is very comfortable. The chest strap seems to keep it from shifting around, but I can't really say I've paid too much attention to it. Once I'm riding, I forget all about it until I need a drink. Or a Fig Newton... I couldn't ask for much more than that!
The icing on the cake is that I ordered a 2001 Lobo at the close-out price of $35, and I was shipped a brand-spankin' new 2002! Woo-hoo! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Mississippi
Date Reviewed: November 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Couch-Badlands loop | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$58.00 | | Purchased At: | The Wheel House | | Strengths: | Just the right size, in water capacity (70 oz) and in cargo room. Bungie tie-down for excess clothes. Really easy to get bladder in. | | Weaknesses: | Needs a mesh stuff pouch, and could use some D-ring attachment points. | | Similar Products Used: | Packster over old-style basic Camelbak | | Bike Setup: | STP 200 w/SRAM 9.0 | | Bottom Line: | Big enough for winter epic rides, small enough for races, it's the right size for almost anything. Just enough room for tools, spare tube, keys, and some trail food in the pouch. The bungie is much appreciated and used, it's the best way to carry jackets, tights, etc as the day warms and they're no longer needed. The only weak point is a lack of expandability. Add some attachment points for gear (maybe a D-ring on one side near the top and bottom for long, awkward gear) and a top mesh pouch for trash (like on the old Pakster) and it'd be perfect. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Mexico City, MX
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Holds lots of water and has a bag big enough to hold compact tools, spare tube, pump, patch kit, wallet, keys and other small stuff. It keeps the water and the valve clean. The elastic string is enough to take a jacket and some extra clothes. | | Weaknesses: | As all backpacks, it makes you sweat a lot and you will not be able to get water from shallow puddles and throw in a purifying tablet but you will probably need a bigger Camel if you usually need to do that in your trips. The bladder is a little bit difficult to clean. It's kind of difficult to share water unless you unscrew the lid and pour | | Similar Products Used: | Water bottles | | Bottom Line: | Some people say racers don't use Camels and they are right but not everyone is a racer. For those who ride just for fun, this is the bag for you. If you spend the whole day out and need space to take some extra food, get something larger. Remove one chili from value because it was a little bit too expensive for me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
robert
a Weekend Warrior
from memphis
Date Reviewed: August 9, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | tour d wolf | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | peddler | | Strengths: | holds plenty of water + wallet, keys and a few tools. After wiping the mud off of my water bottles one time too many i decided to try on of these things. | | Weaknesses: | Could use some extra storage or some pocket attachment points like most backpack companys use. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | martin bobcat trail | | Bottom Line: | This thing is so great my fiance took it to use in her running training | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DogBoy
a Weekend Warrior
from London, UK
Date Reviewed: July 23, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Epping Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | Cycle Surgery | | Strengths: | Compact but with enough space to hold a few essential tools, Spare tube, Pump etc. Comfortable to wear. Bite valve works very well with superb liquid flow. | | Weaknesses: | The bladder that came with my Lobo is a little longer than the bag. Does feel a little bulky when bladder is full making it a bit awkward on your back when you first put it on. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Aeon Isis | | Bottom Line: | I wasn't sure initially if it was worth spending £50 on a back pack that holds some water & a few tools but after the first time I used it I realised I couldn't have done without it. Probably the most essential peice of kit I've bought since I've been riding.
The pack feels very stable on your back even when your canning it over drops, rough ground & downhills Plus after a short while you hardly know your wearing it because it's comfortable & compact.
The storage pouch on the Lobo is perfect for all the tools & spare's I need to take out on rides & there's a handy opening on the side of the pouch for storing a small trail pump. The bungee cord is a good way of carrying an extra layer of clothing or waterproof top in the winter. The whole bag is an almost perfect size for all day rides (although you will need to top up the bladder if you are out all day)
An essential peice of kit that I couldn't be without. Much, Much better than having a water bottle & one of those silly pouches for tools that hang of your seat post. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
shifterboy
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Wrandees | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Holds lots of water, never tastes bad even when I forget to clean it, cool max back pannel keeps things nice and cool. | | Weaknesses: | Stupid bend in the Tube gets hooked on my handle bar when climbing out of the seat, could use more cargo space. | | Similar Products Used: | Blackburn Eddie, amizon | | Bike Setup: | '99 mongoose NX 7.3, Judy Race(100 mm), rhyno lites, LX 8 Speed | | Bottom Line: | Great pack for the price, though I also think that it could use some compresion straps to keep it from bouncing around, and that whole bendy tube thing gets annoying some times but has never put me in a dangerous situation (as in going down that realy steep desent and realizing that you cant get behind the seat far enouth nad landing in a pile of crap at the bottom (true story, not the Lobo's fault though)). All in all a good pack for the person who needs a all around way to carry water without the pack being to bulky. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Ada
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Cannonsburg State Game Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Village Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Holds enough water for anything. Most of the time I don't even drink it all. Has storage for anything you may need/want. Extremely Durable, I take some real nasty falls and it's fine. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | HydraPak | | Bike Setup: | Kona Cinder Cone- Fork completey loose. Specialized sport seat. Inch off each end of handlebar. That's about it. | | Bottom Line: | Awesome hydration pack for anyone who bikes from one to fours hours. Which is a long time. It's just great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Prairie, Tx, USA
Date Reviewed: April 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Cedar Hill State Park Expert loop | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$70.00 | | Purchased At: | R.E.I. | | Strengths: | This pack is big enough to hold everything I need and nothing I don't. It holds a pump, bike tool, spare tubes, cash and keys. Oh and this thing is indestructable, I have had some killer wipe outs with this thing on and all it has to show for it is a little dust for me to shake off | | Weaknesses: | none at all | | Similar Products Used: | Camel back classic - good but no room for the things I need | | Bike Setup: | A killer Cannondale Super V | | Bottom Line: | Depending on what you feel you need this thing rocks. Me, all I take is a couple of spares, bike tool(Alien), pump, keys, cash, and cell phone( yeah I know). I don't take the everything some people seem to be taking.(those who need back packs and such) this pack is perfect, I can't think of what could be done to better it | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
michael miller
a Weekend Warrior
from new braunfels
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | 700 Acres, SA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$40.00 | | Purchased At: | Oshman's | | Strengths: | Durability, slim design, comfort. | | Weaknesses: | none yet | | Similar Products Used: | camelbak classic | | Bike Setup: | diamondback response w/ Manitou Shock | | Bottom Line: | Excellent product. Got it for a killer price at Oshman's (imagine that). Didn't have a strap, so I called up Camelbak directly and they mailed me one for free within 3 days. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Charles Phares
a Weekend Warrior
from Tacoma, WA
Date Reviewed: November 18, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Victor Falls | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | REI - Federal Way Store | | Strengths: | Good quality. Extremely tough water bladder, and great storage space for a small backpack. | | Weaknesses: | Red color, and no chest strap. | | Bottom Line: | The Lobo for me was the best Camelbak water carrier, due to it's small size and great storage pocket. This pack is great for someone who likes to go on 2 hour rides in the summer, and needs a place to stick their wallet and car keys, but doesn't want to take along a big backpack. The extra large bite valve has great flow, and doesn't leak at all. Very nice quality construction, and mud washes off of the fabric easily. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
RAE
a Weekend Warrior
from Brookline, MA USA
Date Reviewed: September 25, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Bow Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Affordable
Fits tight to body
Decent Storage
Good H20 Capacity | | Weaknesses: | Pump pass through is a little too tight for some pumps (Blackburn) | | Bike Setup: | Kona Hei Hei | | Bottom Line: | Has adequate storage space. I store a pump, spare tube, patches, alien and my keys and it is pretty much full. My suggestion to anyone considering a hydration pack is figure out what you NEED to carry and how much H2O you need during a typical ride and then look at packs. Too often I see people with these 100 oz. internal frame overnight packs for a 30 minute spin through the woods. In some cases, less is more. There's nothing worse then trying to ride under a branch and have your pack catch on it.
70 oz and the essentials ... works for me | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darrin Erwin
a Weekend Warrior
from Wappingers Falls,NY USA
Date Reviewed: September 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Stewart MTA (Lake Minnewaska) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheel & Heel Fishkill,NY | | Strengths: | Holds seventy ounces of water. Screw on top. It doesn't leak and it feels like you have nothing on your back. Plus, you can carry your keys, wallet, and tools. | | Weaknesses: | It takes time to properly clean the bladder. You must get all the old water out to prevent bacteria from growing! | | Similar Products Used: | Water bottles: They just don't hold enought water. | | Bike Setup: | 2000 Trek 6000 (stock) | | Bottom Line: | The camelback lobo beats using water bottles. You don't even notice that it is strapped to your back! You can also use it for hiking, or all day outdoor concerts! The best single piece of equipment that you can buy. Go out and get one! You won't be disappointed! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chip
a Cross Country Rider
from Orange County, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | Bladder works well
Light weight
Comfortable | | Weaknesses: | Minimal storage
Hard to keep clean | | Similar Products Used: | Older Camelbak models | | Bike Setup: | Who cares | | Bottom Line: | Get a bigger pack! 70 ounces goes fast on a hot day, and you'll need more storage space than the one little pocket this pack has. I put in my Alien, some patches, a pump, and a car keys and it's full! Get the MULE instead. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
pathar
a Cross Country Rider
from Farmington Hills, MI
Date Reviewed: July 31, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Highland | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Inexpensive, carry just the right amount of gear and fluid. | | Weaknesses: | A little hot on my back but never had a problem with it riding up. | | Similar Products Used: | water bottle (no comparison) | | Bike Setup: | Klein Mantra Comp, clipless, Mars fork, Fox Float R | | Bottom Line: | Hydration when you need it (which is always). Easy access even during a race (and I don't b1tch when my bottle flies out over a log jump). Why mess with dirt encrusted mildewed bottles?
Have wrecked in this an untold # of times and all it gets is a little dirty. Holds my Alien, patches, pump and a coupla Clif bars with room for deet and some dough. Tie a hankie in the bungie (for wiping off steamed glasses) or bind up a light rain jacket for those autumn showers.
Don't forget to dry the bladder out thoroughly. Just bend up a clothes hanger (not steel) and let it dangle overnight.
Five rotting possums! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Croteau
a Cross Country Rider
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Mahlon Dick. | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Perfect size, fit.
material on back reflects away heat, sweat
Camelbak reputation for quality, durability
insulating properties
| | Weaknesses: | no sternum strap, sometimes flops around if not tightened down enough. | | Similar Products Used: | bottles | | Bike Setup: | Hardtail - Specialized / Manitou , for now.... | | Bottom Line: | I wonder how I could have been riding without one for the last 6 years. My first race this month helped me make the decision to get it. It makes my bike lighter by taking the place of a seat pack, two waterbottle cages and some baggy cargo shorts. Got mine at Campmoor for $49.99 plus tax.
I'm as ecstatic about this upgrade as I was when I got my fork and clipless pedals. Excellent product so far. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paco Levy
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Doesn't matter | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | The bag does what it's supposed to do. I like the CoolMax-type material on the back that helps to keep the sweat off me. The big gulp valve is an improvement over previous models. | | Weaknesses: | This bag fall apart!! The straps tore away from mine twice. I had to have it repaired at a shoe shop. Not cool. The straps are weak & I had to put a "reinforcer" piece on the bag to keep it together. | | Similar Products Used: | Other, older Camelbacks. | | Bike Setup: | Sweet Cannondale | | Bottom Line: | Sew some reinforcement onto your bag's straps before taking it out on the town. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett
a Weekend Warrior
from Cherry Hill, NJ
Date Reviewed: April 13, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Wissahickon | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | weight, durability, has nice colors, perfect amount of storage. | | Weaknesses: | um.....it needs a belt | | Similar Products Used: | bottle | | Bike Setup: | Schwinn moab 1 disc | | Bottom Line: | the bottom line is that this a good hydration pack for the money and holds a good amount of storage and water. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Racin Rob
a Racer
from State College, PA, USA
Date Reviewed: March 29, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | shingletown gap Rothrock PA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | -Plenty of water storage
-Sits well on your back
-Just the right amount of storage for racing needs with quick access when needed. | | Weaknesses: | -bounces on tech trails,.. I just made a strap that goes around my waist to stop this, cheap to do too! | | Similar Products Used: | -Performance HydroPak | | Bike Setup: | Schwinn Carbon Sweetspot, Judy XL triple-clamp (100mm),
XT components with Sun/Ringle RPM Wheels
| | Bottom Line: | This is one of the best packs on the market for those who need just enough space for tools, tube, fuel, and an adequate water supply. The bite valve is nice to use and stays out of the way. Racers would love it. For rec riders, you might want to check out the MULE, has more space, but remember, more space, more weight. CamelBak makes great products that are durable and keep things in place while you ride. The badder compartment keeps the water cool for long periods of time,.. or warm in the winter! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rui
a Cross Country Rider
from Lisboa
Date Reviewed: March 29, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Takes everything I need: lots of water, basic tools, pump, or even a small mobile phone | | Weaknesses: | Lack of upper-torso stability mainly when fully loaded with water | | Similar Products Used: | Cage bottle | | Bike Setup: | It doesn´t matter | | Bottom Line: | I think Camelbak hydration packs are all almost the same good quality. The size depends on the type of riding and on the individual needs of every rider. This model is undoubtly the more appropriate for me. Now I am quite happy with it after I have purchased the PowerBelt, a sternum strap sold separately to add upper-torso stability. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Simon
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Good size, light, pocket size great for essentials | | Weaknesses: | Sometimes moves around when full of water – as you get further into the ride it stabilises– not a huge problem though | | Similar Products Used: | Water bottels | | Bike Setup: | Giant ATX 840 2000 | | Bottom Line: | Carries enough water for all but the long trips, excellent pocket to fit all the essentials (tools, phone, tube, some food)nice tool divider - If your are not thinking of taking your home on your back then this is the pack for you.
Any pack hydration system is great – just find the one that meets your carrying needs – the Lobo is the one for me | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ben Olsen
a Cross Country Rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Holds enough water
enough carrying capacity
can stick a pump in with the bladder
bite falve works well | | Weaknesses: | no abdomen strap->flops around a little, not too annoying.
can't hold TONS of water, some rides you might need a bottle | | Bike Setup: | litespeed, XT grouppo, Sid | | Bottom Line: | A very nice pack, great for longish rides/races. It's pretty comfortable sitting on your back, but if you jump or go through a really jarring rough section at speed, it'll move up on your back, which feels a little odd. you could just straighten out so it slides back- not a big problem. You could always improvise a strap through the little loop at the bottom of the pack, also not a big problem. Nothing big wrong with this pack. 5 ebola viruses for da lobo. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Victor
a Weekend Warrior
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Mission Trails | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Extra storage space, lots of water | | Weaknesses: | none | | Similar Products Used: | Camelbak Classic | | Bike Setup: | Trek VRX 300 | | Bottom Line: | Must have. I have been giving Camelbaks as gifts to my friends who I ride with, and everyone of them has been skeptical....until the first time they ride with it. Then it's always, 'How did I live without this before?'
I bought the Lobo after 3 years on a Camelbak Classic which still has the original bladder and has never leaked a drop. I liked this one because it had just enough storage space, and a place for my pump. I felt the MULE had just too much space. I don't care what you pay for this, it is totally worth it. I'm sure any of the hydration systems, no matter what brand is better than the bottles. So if all you've used is water bottles get to the store quick and buy some form of a hydration system. You won't regret it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kleinstein
a Weekend Warrior
from jacksonville
Date Reviewed: October 14, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Tsali | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Solid, quality construction with special attention to details | | Weaknesses: |
I can't stand bite valves | | Similar Products Used: |
blackburn hydropack | | Bike Setup: |
n/a | | Bottom Line: | I received this pack about a week ago. I bought it to replace the Blackburn Piece of @##$ that I have had for only 6 mos. The only part I cared for off of the hydropack was the gulp valve. I switched the two and presto, the perfect pack! The Lobo has just enough storage, and water space to fit those weekend jaunts that I dream about Monday through Friday. Buy this pack from Mud Sweat and Gears, they have it for $46.99, which is about $10 less than MSRP. Performance matched their price (I called them because M.S.A.G. was closed at the time of order). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JimK
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston
Date Reviewed: August 13, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Any trail | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Great for rides more than an hour long.
Keeps water cooler than bottles.
Storage for tube, tool pack, cell phone, and pump. | | Weaknesses: |
Could use slightly more storage.
Not easy to clean,
Don't stop as oftem to hydrate, and enjoy the scenery, as I did when using water bottles. | | Similar Products Used: |
Water bottles - don't even compare. | | Bike Setup: |
none | | Bottom Line: | I've been using water bottles since I started riding 3 years ago. They were fine, however if I rode for more than an hour, a bottle was not enough. The Camelbak sovlde this problem and a whole lot more. The Lobo can carry enough water for a ride that is several hours long and it will keep the water cooler than if you were using bottles. There is just enough storage for tools, tube, and a cell phone in the storage compartment, however if you need more storage, look at another Camelbak model. I wish I had not waited so long to buy one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
-BeeZ-
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, CANADA
Date Reviewed: August 10, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
places in banff | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
everything (almost) | | Weaknesses: |
need a strap, ya know the kind that wraps round your waist?
bit more storage space | | Similar Products Used: |
stuff | | Bike Setup: |
huh! | | Bottom Line: | I LIKE IT i LIKE IT i LIKE ITknow why? cause it's cool, useful, and a INGEIOUS INVETION!
Hey, i'm 14, luv to bike and biking is a vigorous sport == h2O so if ya have a kamel bakGooD 4 YOU! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jacek
a Cross-Country Rider
from Oshawa
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Weaknesses: |
none found yet | | Similar Products Used: |
none- only water bottles -they don't eaven compare. | | Bike Setup: |
It has nothing to do with your bike setup. | | Bottom Line: | I would like to say that i was surprised that I never got it till now. It's one of the best products you can buy to make mountain biking more pleasurable experiance. It takes the weight of water of your bike, and if you carry tools or a pump on rides, it has enough space for that and more. It keeps the water quite cold, and i really like the ability to drink in very technical sections where you normally would have to stop to get a drink from your water bottle. it keeps you well hydrated. I found myself drinking about 40% more water with camelback than with a regular waterbottle on a same lenght ride. I accually felt better, and on long climbs it's great to have the water flowing to your body with out taking your hands off the handlebar. I would recomend this product to anybody that rides for more than 1 hour. Great product - something you can't live without once you try it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hylton Early
a Racer
from Jacksonville, FL
Date Reviewed: June 6, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
-Enough space to hold xtra tubes and pump, powerbars, tools....etc.-70 oz. bladder hold plenty of water-New Increased flow bitevalve-A holder for rear LED lights
| | Weaknesses: |
-A bottom strap would be nice, because on technical trails it is often bouncing around. -Would be nice if multiple colors were available (this is new model and they may issue more colors) | | Similar Products Used: |
-Camelbak
-Mule
-Rouge | | Bottom Line: | This is an exellent model which I'm glad that Camelbak came out with. Originally I couldn't chose between the rouge (which didn't have enough storage space) and the Mule (which had to much space). This was the perfect comprimise which gives enough space to carry tools and other equipment for races or trips. If you are a racer or a weekend warrior this is a perfect model which I would strongly reccommend if it fits your uses. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jerome
a Weekend Warrior
from Quebec City
Date Reviewed: April 26, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Confortable - no strap restricting movement or breathingNew big bite valve gives better flowStorage for snack bars, tools, money, pumpNice color (fits with my FSR Elite) | | Weaknesses: |
The water flow could still be increased | | Similar Products Used: |
Camelback Original | | Bottom Line: | The first and ultimate difference between using a (99/big bite valve) Camelback and a bottle is that you are constantly hydrated. It translates by a better assimilation of the glucose/carbos, hence by more power, more endurance, better recovery,etc. After two rides on the same trails (in the same week), one with a bottle, one with my Camelback Lobo, I can honestly say that Camelback gives you and edge. I felt a lot more in shape and strong. Plus (you know what I'm talking about if you own a Specialized FSR) you don't need to reach the bottom of your frame and risk your life to get your bottle anymore... Finally : after a 1st - disappointing - experience with a 1st generation system, I can say that Camelback has really listened to customers needs. It shows.Not perfect, but what is ?
| | Overall Rating: |
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