Date: March 26, 2006
paul a cross-country rider from wa writes:

hands free drinking, less time hands off the bars

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottles might be better for roadies, but the low top beam on MTB frames sometimes makes it hell to get bottles out unless you have side loading cages. I've broken a $50 Bontrager XXX Lite cage yanking a bottle out.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak..... obviously holds way more and its light easy carry... water bottle is like the 90s

WINNER: Camelbak

Try to drink water from a bottle cover-up with mud. Got the point?

WINNER: Camelbak

One step better, Check out www.thebeerbelly.com Holds 80oz, is cheaper than Camelbak, and it doubles as a spare tire that serves a stealth beverage at ballgames, movies etc.

I have had a blast with mine and use it WAY more than I thought I would. I got mine for Christmas and use it all the time.

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak

WINNER:

Why even make the comparison...we all know camelback will win.....

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak, Camelbak, Camelbak, need I say it again

WINNER: Camelbak

Why even make the comparison...we all know camelback will win.....

WINNER: Camelbak

Oh stop! leave the the prehistoric water bottle to the roadies!

WINNER: Camelbak

if you ride xc go bottle, if you ride freeride... either get a pack or.. i dunno

WINNER: Water Bottle

I think binary from CO has gone down one to many hills w/o a helmet.
There's no comparison......Hydration Pack

WINNER: Camelbak

imagination and inspiration

WINNER: Water Bottle

camelbak seems ight.

WINNER: Camelbak

My vote goes to hydration pack. You can take it with you on night rides. You need the water bottle holder for the batter (unless you got a compact or non-rechargeable light). Also you may drink more water because it is so easily acessable.

WINNER: Camelbak

CAmelback? OMG, you are a tool if you have one of these. Hey, I want a gallon of water strapped on my back when I ride.. NOT!

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak's rock. They are convenient and last for ever. They provide not only water or a sports drink but also a compartment for your necessary tools and belongings.

WINNER: Camelbak

you guys actually drink from camelbacks?? I use them for growing active cultures for making yogurt and cheese -- anything and everything will grow in a camelback.

Also, Kolbe Stevenson's girlfriend Becky dumped him because he wouldn't shut up about camelbacks.

WINNER: Water Bottle

i belive a camelbak is a lot more efficint for wut i do (cross-country) and holds a lot more water and is easier to carrie

WINNER: Camelbak

Camels got it going on, why shouldnt we? Its easy just like the water in the camelbak!!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak easy. You dont need to stop to drink and it holds more.

WINNER: Camelbak

I see racers with just bottles and stuff tucked in the back of the jersey or just camelbacks or both. It depends upon the duration and trail condition. I will say that the camelback has saved my back many times after endoing and other mishaps. Bottles can't do that!

WINNER: Camelbak

you dont have to stop to have a drink

WINNER: Camelbak

The bottles are nice but I am looking for one with a cover on it so it will not sweat when riding on the motorcycle and will stay cold longer. When riding a Honda Gold Wing its hard to use a camelback

WINNER: Water Bottle

I've toured three continents thus far (North America, Australia, and South America) and wouldn't leave home without the Camelbak. In addition to the foil water bag that comes with the Camelbak, I stuff a dromedary bag into the Cargo pocket (2-gallons capacity total). When I didn't need to carry a bunch of water, I left the bags empty and just filled three water bottles. But when I needed to carry extra water (e.g., Nullabor plain, AU), I'm very glad that I had the ability to store and carry the additional water in those bags. Info: the threads on the Dromedary bag matchs the threading on most water filter pumps - quite convenient.

WINNER: Camelbak

because its more pure.

WINNER: Water Bottle

My unfettered opinion: Packs are ok if you don't know how long you'll be out. The bottle is better during a race because it doesn't heat your back up or over water you during shorter events. Experts doing 20+miles and trekkers should use a pack to stay wet. Most of us should use a bottle in a race and save the pack for adevnturing or day rides.
I'm giving the nod to the pack since it can carry donuts.

WINNER:

camelbaks kick @$$. Period.

WINNER: Camelbak

a backpack and a water bottle is good for me... i ride leisurely at short distances (8-20 miles). dont have $$$ to blow either

WINNER:

camelback = carry water, wallet, keys, phone, tools, tube, fufu, etc

waterbottle = carry water

geez, hard decision here, huh

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak camelbak camelbak....there is no reason to waste time on this topic.

WINNER: Camelbak

camelback is the only way to go..all others are only a thought

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak

WINNER: Camelbak

I am 15 years old. I ride 2-4 hour rides on the weekends. On long rides, theres nothing better than the camelback; you can carry tools, tubes, granola bars, plus another jersey. But for racing, my back swets a lot with the camelback, so for racing situations, I use watter bottles.

WINNER: Camelbak

I wanna make it clear, right here, right now, that I love being Gang Raped in prison. I love it when I get slapped as someone is driving thier love member straight up my bonghole. I get extra special feelings when someone shoots their lovewad on both my ass and face.

WINNER:

camelback,it gives you the option of carring enough drink for the entire race along with tube or air cartrage for repairs and much easier to use in technical sections of a trail

WINNER: Camelbak

I use a camelback for water and a bottle for a sportsdrink. I also switch it and put sports drink in my camelback. I think the camelback gets used more than the bottles!!

WINNER: Camelbak

I have used both, especially Camelbak on longer rides. But I carry bottles too. Some rides require extra water. U can see what I mean at my website: www.geocities.com/bikeviewheaven.geo/ Generally though, for my shorter rides on errands I just use water bottles, and I don't always need them.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Water bottles are pieces of junk. They break, get lost, and dont hold enough water. Camelbaks are not heavy, and hold lots of water in them. I am just a kid but I like Camelbaks. My dad is going to buy me one for my birthday.

WINNER: Camelbak

I have both water bottle and camelbak, sometime i used water bottle and sometime my camelbak. I used water bottle for short rides and my camelbak for long rides.

Winner:..? i think depends on my ride itinerary.

WINNER:

Duh, bottle while your stopped, and a smaller camelbak for while you ride. It works for me

WINNER:

ive got a ca,el back to carry my water and light gear (repair kit, tube, pump) and i used to have just a big ass bag filled with like 6 water bottles, and i haed it. now i use the camel back, and i love it, also, i have a backpack made by burton (snowboarding) and its alot bigger than the camel back but is still nice and slim and narrow, but it holds more water, plus a cd player and my bladder, and it totally stable on my back and more comfortable. this is the best choice if youre a weekend warrior who likes to ride hard, but still needs gear with them, its the best hands down, so camelbak, or more specifically, backcountry snow bags w/ hydration compatiability by burton

WINNER: Camelbak

pffff, camelbak hands down, the water bottle is so annoying, i remember when i would ride ewith a big ass pack on, with like 6 water bottles in it, now that i have a camel bak, im so much happier, water bottles suck

WINNER: Camelbak

More liquid is a plus, 'though more weight.

I have developed a new water-bottle cooling device. So I'll say water bottle. Buy one. Buy my device. It'll be on the market within the year!!!

woohoo

WINNER: Water Bottle

I choose camel back more weight but less mass.

WINNER: Camelbak

camback easier to ride ( wieght in easier place)

WINNER: Camelbak

Small back pack with a water bottle inside, much easier to clean.

WINNER: Water Bottle

i ride for the long haul, six to eight hour rides in the mountains. my camelback holds 100 ounces and sometimes i run out of water. Plus it holds my tools, tube, pump, rain jacket, food, dry socks, everything including the kitchen sink. there is no contest. waterbottles are for stationary cycles.

WINNER: Camelbak

Water what?? I got my Camelbak two years ago and have not used the water bottle since then.

WINNER: Camelbak

My backpack has never dumped its bladder onto a busy city street after popping off a gutter. My water bottle has never left me with a soaked back. Dropping my bottle onto a busy street (or down a hillside, off a bridge, between the train and a platform) is a bigger minus.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback gives us as Pain, water bottle is accident prone.
TABLAHHHH

IT'S A tIE!

WINNER:

Kind of silly.
Go check out my bands website instead.
http://home.gwi.net/~jbernierjr/

WINNER: Camelbak

I mean I personally don't care what someone is using, wearing and so on and so on. Only thing I want to comment on is who in the hell cannot reach down and get their water bottle when riding, unless it is underneath the down tube. I mean who can drink water while doing something technical. There is no better than etc. If you cannot reach down and get a bottle. or ride with one in your hand while resting on the bars up a long fire road climb then you have more to worry about besides hydration. YOU NEED SKILLS. I like both but my only complaint about a hydration pack is how it throws your weight around higher up messing with your center of gravity. If you don't believe what I am saying then take your hydration pack off and do something technical and feel how much more balance you have. The weight being lower on the bike may make the bike not be as light and nimble, but it is hardly noticeable and you have more control up top which is what will keep you from pitching over the bars when climbing over a 2 foot log! just my 2 cents, but seriously if you can't reach down take the bottle out and take a drink, then put it back and continue riding. Then please go out in your yard and practice trackstands!!

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak... unless you are racing and don't really drink much. For regular trail rides, there's no contest. Camelbak lets you drink while you're riding... without having to reach down and deal with a bottle. Oh, and it'll stay cold MUCH longer. NO CONTEST!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak... waterbottles are only good for putting your spare tubes / tools in them.

WINNER: Camelbak

nothing quenches ones thirst like a mud caked water bottle! camelbak to drink from - one water bottle to wash the blood off.

WINNER: Camelbak

I have never tried a camelbak, but think I might buy one

WINNER: Water Bottle

camelbak
itchy
hot
and drips like the sif

WINNER: Water Bottle

I forgot to add: Camelbacks allow me to carry as much or as little water as I want (just because it can carry XXXoz's doesn't mean that I have too.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbacks:
- Hot
- Heavy
- Expensive
+ Huge Water Capacity
+ Ease of Use
+ Storage for tools, parts and snacks
+ Keeps Bike light, agile and rattle free
Water Bottles:
- Must reach for bottle while riding
- Irritating habbit of flying out over rough terrain
+ Cheap
+ Easy to clean

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak.
Huge capacity, storage for stuff, comfy, and it's easy to grab the hose for a quick drink. For casual off-road riding, bottles are a bit of a retro thing and just don't make sense to me.
For the road, I still use bottles. Go figure...

WINNER: Camelbak

because

WINNER: Camelbak

depends on the legnth of the ride...
epic ride: both. need lots of H2O and tools
short track racing, bottels just one. don't need the tools

on a hot day the backpack sucks

but i can take spare parts/tools and food

WINNER: Water Bottle

Who are these people that can't handle a few pounds on their backs and arms? Who are these people that ride such light weight bikes that the weight of the pack throws them off so much (the H2o doesn't count, since it is in the bottles too, along with the tools in the saddle pack)? Who are these people who can ride very long, very steep, technical trails with one-hand in 90 degree heat?

Hydration is critical, more critical than weight! Safety is critical, more critical that proving a point. I am probably a better technical rider than you water bottle supporters, but I refuse to ride technical trails with bottles. The only time water bottles on bikes are smart is when the bike is not moving, or you are on a lifecycle...
I never thought I needed a hydration pack, but when I made the switch (about 8 years ago) I was finishing an entire 70oz bladder on rides that used to take only 32oz. I don't think these guys understand how dehydrated they can get if they only drink 20oz for their 7-8 miles.

WINNER: Camelbak

if you have to reacch for a drink bottle you can lose ride time ortrack of where you are,so the drink bag or hydro unit what ever you whant to call it is the best.drink from your tube you are right for a drink

WINNER: Camelbak

I used water bottles for a few years until I started losing one on every ride. They bounce out!! So for all you water bottle people quite trying to defend it by standing behind the pros or the simple statement that "camelbaks are for nerds". When you're riding hard you lose your bottles. So all you sucking on your bottle like a little baby, put it away and try to catch up!

WINNER: Camelbak

JEEZ such a huge deal bout it all. Just take a water bottle for the first few laps and drink out of the camelback the last few and on the way home when youre really tired. Also store stuff for the ride and drink it on the trail if its so hot you used all youre water bottle. GUYS QUIT ARGUING!!

i choose camelback but USE BOTH

WINNER: Camelbak

For long epic rides a camelbak is obviously better as it allows you to carry a higher volume of fluid in addition to tools etc. BUT.. for pure speed its no comparison to the ol bottle. Weekend warriors wear camelbaks, pros carry bottles.. that should tell you something. No weight on your back, better ventilation, cooler and lighter.. factor in that on multilap courses you only have to carry enough fluid to last 1 lap (as long as you have someone to pass you a fresh bottle each lap) and the clear winner is the WATER BOTTLE.

WINNER: Water Bottle

It took about 30 years before I admitted to and accepted my gay lifestyle. I should have known in that first fight that I got into in 8th grade, I scratched and pulled hair a lot and ended up crying. BTW, getting 'pinned to the wall' in a prison shower is my idea of heaven.

WINNER: Camelbak

no fumbling..more water..ride longer..hmmm

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak, platypus, whatever, they blow water bottles out of the, well water, easier to get at, hold a lot more, though the do weigh alot, you dont really notice after a while, plus, it only gets lighter, but back mounted hydration systems get the win, hands down

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak because a water bottle wont protect you when you eat sh1t. I use my camelback on long burly mountain rides for that extra protection just in case I put the rubber side up.

WINNER: Camelbak

I use both all the time, long amounts of time in the saddle, i use a camelbak, but most of the time I ride 2-3 laps of a 7 mile loop and really don't guzzle the water down, so since I ride almost everyday rain or shine it is easier for me to take water bottles and that way i don't have to worry about cleaning the camelbak all the time, but i will say this, they both have uses and i for one am tired of these debates on who is right and who is wrong, i know this is cliche' but if you want to use a water bottle then use it!! don't follow trends etc. i am also a person who feels if you can't climb the hill you shouldn't deserve to go down it. i love mtbiking. i love climbing and i love bombing the downhill, jumping, doing trials, climbing logs, riding rock gardens all of it and honestly i don't really care what someone is using for hydration. so in closing they both have their uses, but since i use the waterbottle most it gets my vote for it's convience and ease of daily use.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak all the way man!!! I used to use water bottles, and suddenly realized that I was emptying them at an astonishing rate, and still needed more H2O... so went and got a camelbak, and now... problem solved!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak all the way! It keeps water right where you need it all the time. you also dont have to worry about the water bottle falling out of your cage.

WINNER: Camelbak

a camelbak style water system is by far a greater advantage, over bottles, you carry more water, easier access, and you won't lose the camelbak after a big bump like you would with a water bottle.

WINNER: Camelbak

I've always appreciated the ease of use of water bottles. Especially cleaning since I've always enjoyed mixing up a carb concoction for my long rides. For some unknown reason I switched over, maybe because I needed three cages for my two bottles and my battery pack. Two bottles just isn't enough at times, nowadays not enough for me. I can also carry my tools, spares, and cell phone (emergency use only) in my Camelbak. The Camelback is too difficult to clean if you use anything other than H2O though. Life's tough, but I'm sticking with the Camelbak.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbacks all the way. I am personally a guy who needs a lot of water, so i need the extra amount. Water bottles suck, because you can't carry in necessary tools you might need if your bike breaks down. I have a mule and in it I am able to carry 100ozs of water and all the tools required to fix anything on my bike if needed. That option simply is not there with the water bottles.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback is only good for fish on bikes, i aint a fish

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbacks rock. Convient water and a bit of storage. Lots of water when you need it. Water bottles have their place, but it's Camelback for me. Cameltoes are nice, though.

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottles are for leg shaving, gram saving racers. Besides, where are you going to carry spare tubes, a multi-tool, nutrition, or anything else needed for a 30 mile epic?

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbacks are spelled shorter
water bottle is two words

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak water tastes nasty after about six hours
same with water bottle
camelbak carries more water
water bottle doesn't
camelbak is heavier though
bring both
bring 2liter camelbak and a 36 oz water bottle

WINNER: Camelbak

If you are a thirsty fellow and tired of the oh, my water bottle is empty (again) feeling, go for a camelbak, seriously the best sports equipment i have ever bought. I had a 2 litre with just space for water, that was ok, but now i got a 3 litre with space for a little stuff (a sandwich, towel for if i have a swim on the way etc) its sleek enough that i don't notice it and it sits very nicely in the centre of the back- no slopping about from side to side- i forget it's there.... I go on long long rides so i need a little stuff with me and i drink a lot of water in the course of a day!!

WINNER: Camelbak

Keeping hydrated is crucial for better performance and endurance. You need about a liter for evry hour you spend on the trail. There are many variables of course such as how much climbing you will encounter, how high of gears you like to push, and of course how hot it is( i live in so california so it gets pretty hot)..basically for the longer more intense rides i would be a fool to go with a water bottle..The shorter rides, ie the trails behind my house, i go with a water bottle. If looking stupid with a camel back is what your worried about, think of how stupid youll look passing out from heat stroke. In conclusion, i think its all about how long and intense your ride is going to be.

WINNER: Camelbak

I used to use the camelpak and switched to water bottle- i could not stand carring a pack while riding. I still use the camelpak on longer rides though in conjuction with the water bottle.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Unfortunately "Camelbak". I don't like having something heavy on my back, but the weight of a bottle down near your bottom bracket makes the bike sluggish. You want to keep weight as far from that area as possible.

WINNER: Camelbak

You always need water without the hassle of trying to hold on to a bottle when riding you need something that you can do to make it so bot hands are free when you need them to be. I also like to race.

WINNER: Camelbak

All waterbottles are good for is refilling my camelback and rehydrating my dog. Have had a Rocket for the past six months and have use it for snowboarding (insulated hose), hiking, urban assault, and cross country. Best investment I made this year. flush hose, clean spout thing, and stuff bladder with paber towles when done. only use water and your're all set.

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbac is the best because u dont have to reach down and use one hand wile u are tring to go over some gnarley scetion. And they hold tooks and things like a pump that would be uncomfordable in your pocket

WINNER: Camelbak

100oz Camelback. Hands down. Got my first one in 1995, and have not looked back since. I even use it on the road, which is probably considered uncool by traditional roadies. But then again, I am the hydrated one, not them. Why didn't anyone think of these things earlier?

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottles are better, cheaper, don't care about them as much.

Who ever can't ride a bike and drink out of a bottle you shouldn't be riding caus you got no balance or skill so all yall CAMELBUTT users SUCK on the tube still and need more help on balancing!

WINNER: Water Bottle

I was a bit of a skeptic at first but once you spend the money on a camlebak you will like it and it's comfy on your back great for long rides and carrys alot of tools and stuff
I would recomend useing the bladder just for water less maintanance that way

WINNER: Camelbak

you can't drink from the bottle while riding its hard!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbaks are the best invention ever! i love mine. not only can it carry 3 liters, you don't have to go reaching down on your bike to get it. you can just stick a little tube in your mouth and you have your hands free to ride. I also found i stayed much better hydrated when i got my camelbak because it wasn't a hastle to access.

WINNER: Camelbak

i know this is crazy and may not help this argument. I owned a camelback, and a waterbottle/seatbag setup. I will be totally honest, I was never comfortable with either. I never drink tons of water because our trails are only 6 to 10 mile loops and 20 oz of water do me fine, so to carry the 70 oz in the camelback was overkill and not to mention overkill on my comfort level, but I need room for tubes, pumps snacks etc. I like to have fun more than be a serious racer so if I had to stop for a sec and shoot some water it is no biggie. So here is my solution. Walmart sells this amazing hydration pack called the Bell H20. This pack is light padded on the back and most of all for 26.00 it had a pump holder and 3 huge pockets. The bladder flat out sucked compared to the camelbak, so what i did was took the bladder out, and just put my 20oz water bottle on my bikes water carrier and used the now "small lightweight backpack" for all my tools and tubes etc. and it is light and doesn't alter my center of gravity one bit. Today I tried out my new idea and it flat out rocked. I was comfortable and honestly I was killing the technical stuff. I had plenty of water and now I had plenty of room for tools without the discomfort of 70 oz's of water on my back. It works for me, so basically my point is, to argue which is better is bullshit, I found peace using both. I vote Tie.

WINNER:

Depends on were or what I'm riding. I use both. But perfer the Camelbak.

WINNER: Camelbak

Is any one there I need some one to talk to.

WINNER: Camelbak

definatly camelbak,h2o on the go,its easier to take a sip on the go than to fumble round getting a bottle out of its cage.

WINNER: Camelbak

I think the answer is simple. Race: waterbottle (1 or 2, depending on distance or time). Trainning or having fun: camelbak. You don�t know what can happen in a trip, or how much time you will spend, and you don�t want run out of water...

WINNER:

Camelbaks are better by far, especially on my bike. The braze-ons for placing a water bottle are so low on my FS, being beneath the down tube just in front of the BB, that it is impossible to reach while riding, even on the road. The camelbak allows me to ride and drink at the same time. Who wants to get off their bike every time they need quench their thirst? Besides, 70 oz camelbak hold a lot more liquid than a 24 oz or even 32 oz water bottle. Another plus for the camelbak is that its insulation keeps the water colder, longer--more so even than the Polar Bear bottle I had previously. Camelbaks are much better--go get one today if don't already have one!

WINNER: Camelbak

more h2o

WINNER: Camelbak

No doubt: at least three insulated sigg bottles + thermos! Just bring enough of them and bring a backpack to fit them tightly in (and yes,cashew nuts, raisins, oranges and dark chocolate as well; it'll be a while till you get back from that sissy ride!).
When you ride in winter here you use this type of hydration, one can't fill boiling water and blackcurrant concentrahete (or hot chocolate!!:-) in a camelbak and enjoy the scenery.

WINNER: Water Bottle

HELLA YA

WINNER: Camelbak

waterbottle cages are for batteries.

WINNER: Camelbak

As Spunky said: "Living an extremely "outdoor" lifestyle in the desert, one learnes the physiology of hydration early on... or dies!"

Camelbak gives you the option of continual hydrating, without stopping. Plus I love the 100-1200 cu in carrying room.

WINNER: Camelbak

camel backs are easier to carry an access plus they dont fall off on large drops

WINNER: Camelbak

Honestly, I do see the appeal of camel baks, however, they seem such a hastle to maintain. In addition, I'm cheap, so if i can get a water bottle for a buck, which holds appoximately the same amount of fluid as the camel bak, I'm going with that. On the second hand, you can put your tools and spare tubes and what have you in the camel bak, so I might end up switching, but for now, I'm sticking to the bottles, they haven't let me down yet.

WINNER: Water Bottle

water bottle wins. Ihave done many many many 40 or more mile real mountain bike rides with water bottles and didn't have to feel 5 pounds of crap strapped to my back.Once again ,you are all sheep.

WINNER: Water Bottle

To mr ed, a cross-country rider from vancuver:

Water bottles are for sissies that ride small sissy rides!

Seriously, I didn't think I'd like Camelbaks but with my rides becoming longer and longer (I'm not getting slower, I ride more trails) I tried it and now, I would never go back. I only use water bottles on my weekday nights training bike.

WINNER: Camelbak

i use both, but prefer to keep a bottle handy for squirting water at charging dogs. has saved my arse on many occassions.

WINNER:

havent sucked on that silly ass bottle for four years.

WINNER: Camelbak

most of you say the camel back offers more storage? thats what the baggy shorts are for. i do wear my camel back during long rides in the summer and my bottle.

WINNER:

camelback is for nerds

WINNER: Water Bottle

They both have their uses. When I go on short rides, I don't bother with either because I live in the middle of the city. When I go xc, I like my camelback because of all the extra storage space. I know people say that it screws up your center of gravity, but really if 2-4 pounds is enough to screw up your CG, you should be staying safely on city sidewalks. For downhilling the camelback makes a lot of sense also, because on top of the 40lbs of bike and armor, four pounds is a drop in the ocean. I'd rather land on my camelback if I flip than on my armor, even if it costs $15 for a new bladder. Camelback's won't shake loose and fall out during riding, and you don't need extra precautions like bungee cords or straps on your bike.
I don't know about roadies, a water bottle seems like it would make overwhelming sense there, but for almost any other aspect of riding I think the camelback is much better. For anybody who thinks of voting for a water bottle, try a camelback for a week and see what you think. Heck, I only tried it 'cause my bottle cage got destroyed when my bike got hit by a car (My girlfriend was riding it, she's fine).

WINNER: Camelbak

Yea, with a Camlebak you add weight above the center of gravity, but you are able to move and shift the weight as needed. if your water is on your frame, you're stuck. Plus, how much stuff can you fit in a water bottle?

WINNER: Camelbak

Depending on the ride... if its a 1 hour ride after work on a cool october evening, I'll use my bottle. If its an epic day ride in July, Camel back all the way. Personally, I have a "snowdawg", which I use for snowboarding in the winter, but its insulated and somewhat bulky which makes it uncomfortable in the summer heat. So its a close vote, but I'll say camelback cause you do gain on volume and you can also carry some food, maps, cell phone whatever when you're out for a day.

WINNER: Camelbak

Living an extremely "outdoor" lifestyle in the desert, one learnes the physiology of hydration early on... or dies!

Even the 'thirstiest' body can process only a few ounces of H2O at a time. If you drink more than two or three at onces at once, the tendency is for the "excess" fluid to pass "through" to the urinary tract before it can be delivered to your cells. Thus, the best way to drink when active is to "sip" small amonts almost constantly. The nessesity of stopping - or at least slowing - to fiddle with a cumbersome H2O bottle means that most riders will postpone drinking until their thirst borders on discomfort, then chug more than they can process.

A "camelback" type bladder system allows one to sip and sip and sip all 100oz without EVER thinking about it!

Bladder packs all the way!

WINNER: Camelbak

I HAD NO TROUBLE WITH WATER BOTTELS, BUT I'D SWITCH FOR A CAMEL BAK, BECAUSE I HAD NO ROOM FOR MY SEPARE TUBE AND TOOLS, BECAUSE A BROKEN CLIP ON OF MY SEAT BAG (AND NOT JUST ONE, THREE SEAT BAGS) AND MY ONLY ALTERNATIVE WAS A CAMEL BAK, LATER I'D START TO DISCOVER HOW CONVINIENT IS, MORE WATER, EASY TO REACH, PLENY OF ROOM FOR TUBES, TOOLS, (MINI AIR PUMP INCLUDED),ENERGY BARS,EVEN A CELLULAR PHONE,IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, AND AFTER A COUPLE OF DAYS, YOUR DON'T NOTICE SOMETING ON YOUR BACK.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback all the way! much more water and keeps your back cool. I love mine

WINNER: Camelbak

i dont like having things on my back so i usually have a waterbottle. any extra weight you ad to the bike is better the lower you put it, hence the bottle. camelbacks or anythgin else on my back put the extra weight up hioeght and can throw my balance of. on really long rides or very hot i'll take both and just deal with it.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak saves me from crashing by taking my eyes of the mountin and onto my water bottle. all i have to do is turn my head. although if im only going out for an hour or less i will take a bottle.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak for weekend rides or if I go solo(tools,food,spare parts,etc)
Water bottle on race day(limited stuff in jersey pockets)

WINNER:

I really don't like having stuff on my back while I ride. Water bottles do the job, assuming tank stops are close enough. For long rides, I historically have carried more bottles in a pack, but I just got a Platypus. I've used it once. Don't like the hassle, but it saved me on a long hot climb.

WINNER: Water Bottle

"Water bottle" cage to hold my Night Rider battery.Camelback HAWG to carry my 100oz of H20 and other goodies.I may take a waterbottle along if I an running the dog,otherwise I take my ride serious and use a camelback.Get with the times!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback, or whichever model of bladder pack you have, is the better choice.
These packs packs fill several needs: carry a useful volume of water, carry stuff (food, tubes, tools, pump, keys, walet, phone, bong), have extra space to pack picked up stuff on the ride.

WINNER: Camelbak

Local area is semi arid (i.e., desert) which means you need to drink a lot of water if you're going to be riding for a while (3 hours ++). I use a bladder (3 litre Platypus), start with it about half full (depending on how far I'm going to ride), and carry another 2 litres in separate plastic bottles with screw-on caps. This means that if you crash and rupture the bladder you still have some reserve water to get yourself back home. Being two hours out with no water is not a good thing.

WINNER: Camelbak

I use one or the other depending on application, but Camelbak is easier to access quickly on the trail and the nozzle doesn't get coated with mud/dirt/offal as easily as a water bottle.

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak is really gay

WINNER: Water Bottle

Sometimes gravity seems a little light, so this fact would tend to make me say "Camelbak". But I do have a cage on my bike, and it sort of looks lonely when it doesn't have a bottle in it.

WINNER: Brick

WINNER:

I like water bottle and take alonge a back pack with all my tools,extra tube,food,magazine's and just about anything you can think of works for me

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak's are great for holding tubes, tools, water etc...water bottle cages are only good as battery holders and are not too cool for water...have you ever run over dog shit???

WINNER: Camelbak

Your kidding right. Its hot, humid and you have 20 miles to go.......Where did I put that 5th water bottle?

WINNER: Camelbak

I will admit to it, I drink a ton of water. I'm not overweight or anything, I just seem to drink a lot more than others, so the CamelBak is a logical choice for me. I can carry all the tools, food, and tubes that I'll need for a ride. If I'm just going for a little cruise, or if I'm riding the road, I'll take a bottle, but generally if I'm trail riding at all, I'll take the MULE.

Another thing, about the dude who said you never see pro racers with camelbaks...Its because they've got people handing them bottles every so often. It would be nice to have people at my races giving me a bottle every lap or so...But not many of us are that special, now are we?

WINNER: Camelbak

I think it depends on how difficult and long your ride is, so used both accordingly.

BOTH WINS but since I have to choose one let's take Camelbak.

WINNER: Camelbak

Deuter 3.0 for me:) much better than a camelback hehehe
has more engineering to the pack than to the bladder

WINNER: Camelbak

I think the choice is dependent on how much riding you are going to do. If u are only gonna be out on the trail for a short time a water bottle or 2 is enough, but if the traill is really technical or long i think a camelbak is the only option to carry food and everything elese

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak i think is the best for carring water supplies, becouse you get confortable when you use one.

WINNER: Camelbak

WATER BOTTLE BY FAR, camel backs are for lazy people who have to suck out of a mini straw, water bottle, you actually have to reach down, pull it open, and sqqueez, so the water bottle has more steps, not bite and suck

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelback most definetly. I drink more because of ease of access. Staying hydrated is the key to a better performance.

WINNER: Camelbak

my one on one verdict is when i'm with PAUL RICHARD CALLE!!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

camelback all the way water botles get in the way on downhill frames besides the only place for a bottle on my enduro is where the frame fender goes

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottles are damn crap man!! Try drinking from them when they are covered in mud and slime from the trail!! They also add weight to your bike, slowing u down, dude!!!

Get a camelbak- fill her up with water from the fridge and u'll have cool water to drink for the next 2-3 hrs- plus u can carry up to 3 liters of water- u'll need 1 liter of water for every hour of physical activity. Drink as u ride, no need to stop, no need to wipe off any mud or slime...;-P

WINNER: Camelbak

Jebe� bo�ice. Camelback je zakon.
P.S. POZDRAV SVIM HRVATIMA!!!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

Gotta drink from the Camel. There's less mud on the mouthpiece after a ride and the Camel is multifunctional. Try putting your spare, keys, cell phone, patch kit, etc into your water bottle. Oh yeah, the Camel provides great protection on crashes!

WINNER: Camelbak

I use both...all the time. I guess on a long ride I'd go with the Camelbak, short ride the waterbottle. Most of the time I go with both half full.....the waterbottle with frozen water for the ride back.

Personal preference...

WINNER: Camelbak

I would have to go with the Camelbak and waterbootle. I own and like a Camelbak because they store a lot of water and other stuff, and they are great out on the trail and on long rides. On shorter rides I use a water bottle. I like both and use both a lot. BOTH WIN.

WINNER:

This is definitly a no win contest, being as both have certain applications that serve the type of ride. Many important attributes for both have been pointed out here for different situations and thats all there is to it.
The real question is, are you hydrating enough for your particular ride. Of course for commuting and joy riding around town, a water bottle is suffice and is less cumbersome. I can't agree with drinking city water from fountains and other public sources as they have hundreds of chemicals like flouride and chlorine, just check in with your local water purifaction facilities to see what they do to the drinking water.I suggest filtered and spring water since your body is deeply absorbing any water you drink on any particular ride. Plus, who wants to drink chlorine anyway, you wouldn't drink water from a swimming pool and its essentially the same thing. For trail or mountain biking I always bring both. The camelbak for two liters of clean filtered water and all the storage capabilities plus the water bottle for an energy drink consisting of: 1 to 3 tsps of apple cider vinager, 1/4 tsps or 1000 mg of powdered vitamin C and then fill with filtered water. Try it, you get an extra umph! when you need it and you'll feel energized the whole ride.
Hydration is the ultimate goal when choosing, so if the ride has you sweating considerably, it's a red flag for you to hydrate accordingly.
BOTH - no contest

WINNER:

Race and road its bottles. Nothing on the boby for these 2 activties.
Hydration packs for everything else. Since most of my mtn. rides are long and remote, bottles don't have enough capacity. In the old days (HA-HA) I once had 2 bottles in cages and 2 bottles in jersey pockets (ugly) but still ran out and drank from a stream (followed by giardia medicine).

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak:Expensive
Waterbottle:Free

WINNER: Water Bottle

After spending a bunch of money to make my bike a few grams lighter here and there, there is no way I am not going to add a pound or two of water when riding. One water bottle for emergency, then tough it out to the trailhead where icy cold coke waits in the trunk of my car!

WINNER: Water Bottle

I do not race. Therefore, I do not mind if I have to slow up to take a drink from a bottle or -God help me- even stop for a few moments. Especially offroad. A chance to take in the scenery.
WINNER: Water Bottle

I ride urban paved trails for 30-60 mile aerobic rides with water fountains everywhere. Stopping to refill a bottle or pour some powdered gatorade into the same bottle is easy and quick. Even supported road races/rides have water or powerade every 10 miles or so.
WINNER: Water Bottle

The dry hardpack trails I ride are no more than an 8 mile loop or so from water so a single bottle will suffice. Worse case 2 bottles. I do not ride in mud so the water bottles stay pretty clean. The tall polar bottles and bike frame/cages do a very good job of keeping the bottles in place.
WINNER: Water Bottle

I can carry a spare tube, tool, CO2, wallet, phone, powdered gatorade and even a clif bar or two in a seat bag.
WINNER: Water Bottle

The water bottle/seat bag set up keeps a 10-12 pound pack off my back which I have found to be much cooler (I have tried both this summer in 100+ degree heat for up to 4 hour rides). I like my center of gravity a bit lower as well especially offroad.
WINNER: Water Bottle

I concede that a long offroad trek with water nowhere to be found and/or the need to carry extra clothing items and food make the Camelbak an attractive choice. Just not for my urban lifestyle. In fact, I am finding the Camelbak more useful for other non-cycling events.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Where are you going to stash your weed if you don't have a camelbak?

WINNER:

Comparision?!?! What comparision? The ONLY way to survive in the desert is to hydrate, how many water bottles can you pack on you? Camelback rules!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

I hate water bottles for several reasons:
1. They fall out of their cages, requiring a U-Turn and a dismount to retrieve them.
2. The tops of the bottles get dirtier than a CamelBak tube, and that dirt ends up in the water when you pull the nozzle open with your teeth.
3. It is a bigger pain in the ass to drink out of the bottle while moving. Especially when the nozzle is sticky.

WINNER: Camelbak

no contest

WINNER: Camelbak

ever used a camelbak or hyrdopak (much better bang for buck)? if not STFU.

WINNER: Camelbak

well lets compare a bottle on my bike rattles and falls out leaving me on the trail with no watter . my camelback fits snuggly on my back carries my water way more than a bottle could a tube, pump, tool , tire levers and my kesy wallet and celly (just incase). i can also drink hands free and it is nothing to add to my bike or rattle around and my bike looks way better without a dumb bottle cage on it .

WINNER: Camelbak

O.K., let me think for a moment.......I can put water in a bottle and I can put sports drinks in a bottle. Yup, that 'bout covers that. Now in a camelbak I can carry water, sports drinks, tools, tubes, spare tire, food, more food, spare parts, dry clothes........ did I mention food. Mountain biking isn't the Tour de France. If you break down the team car isn't going to show with a new bike. Either you fix it or you carry it. Camelbak and the other guys who produce and market hydration pack get it. Everyone else should too!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback all the way. Gotta love the hands free system!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak all the way... more water, easier to drink, and storage space! A bit of weight on your back... so what you get use to it very quickly. Camelbaks also work on all types of bikes (unlike waterbottles that won't work on many types of bikes unless you put them on the seatpost, and that sucks because the adapters are expensive and you can't lower your seat all the way when you need to). GO FOR CAMELBAKS!

WINNER: Camelbak

On longer rides I ride with both a Camelbak filled with water and necessary gear and a waterbottle filled with accelerade. On medium rides, just the camelbak. On short rides, just a waterbottle full of water. I think there are obvious benefits/disadvantages to both.

WINNER:

I found it nearly impossible to get a sip of water during race if you ride with a bottle. Recently I switched to camelback... I really didn't know how much convenience I was missing since camelbacks came. More water, easy to drink. I'll never ride with bottle again. Plus extra added weight to my body gives me better push on pedals.

WINNER: Camelbak

Everyone loves the camelbak and as a former camelbak user I have to say there are some definite advantages, but with that there are also disadvantages. I'll list the pros and cons of both types, then you can decide for yourself what's more your cup of tea.

Camelbak
Pros: Storage room, large capacity, easy accessibility
Cons: Filling the reservoir (public places like a McDonalds), Cleaning the reservoir, heat/sweat/odor buildup on back, heat transfers to drink from body, higher CG and added weight to back and arms.

Water Bottles:
Pros: Easy to clean, rugged, easy to refill, lightweight, does not add weight to body
Cons: More troublesome to use than camelbaks, smaller capacity, dirt accumulates on nozzle

Many people would rather strap the weight of 100oz of water to their backs than strap it onto their bikes, this puzzles me. For shorter rec. rides I concede the advantages that hydration packs offer more features, however on longer cross country rides they prove to be somewhat of a hinderance. It's simple to realize that having the extra weight of 100oz of water on your back is not a good idea, especially for long stretches of time (8hrs+). Not to mention that in 100 degree heat, it is much cooler to not strap anything onto your back that would prevent perspiration from carrying away excess body heat. Also it is important to note the pretty disgusting odor of all the sweat that becomes impregnated into the pack by the end of the ride. Unless you can go to the laundromat and get that sucker cleaned, the next day it's like strapping a pair of old gym socks to your back. Yes I know that riding with bottles seem old fashioned but it works well once you get the hang of it. Invest in bottles that do not require you unlock the cap with you hands, I know Nike makes some nice ones that you just squeeze and the valve automatically opens and shuts. Also try to practice using the water bottle while the bicycle is in motion. It takes a bit more skill than sucking on a long straw but there is no good reason why any cyclist worth that salt should have to stop their bicycle to take a drink.

WINNER: Water Bottle

camelbaks allow you to drink on the ride and give a good place to store energy bars, tool kits, and spare tubes. camelbaks all the way!

WINNER: Camelbak

Are you serious....Camelbaks rule.

WINNER: Camelbak

the use by camelbak very light and very clevering
and the water bottle very slow and stop by stop .

WINNER: Camelbak

I think camelbacks are way better cause u can drink well u are riding and i tend to drink more because to drink a water bottle u have to stop and take it out of the holder open it close it put it away and with the camel back it hangs over ur shoulder so u can just get it with your mouth drink then spit the nozzle out!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback all the way! I wont be caught dead riding without one. They are fantastic things. I also think that a waterbottle cant hurt.

WINNER: Camelbak

Well, I actually like both. I put water in my camelback and Cytomax in the watrebottle.

I will score the win for the camelbak because of versatility (storeage) and capacity. I'm hanging on to my bottle, though!

WINNER: Camelbak

there is no choice here really is there??!

WINNER: Camelbak

They carry a lot more water and you dont have any weight on your bike.

WINNER: Camelbak

The camelbak is a clever idea and holds more water. It is easy to carry and has good potential. the water bottle stinks of algie and you can barely put the lid on.it's pants.

WINNER: Camelbak

The 2-4 pounds placed low (water bottle) vs way high (camelback) makes a very real handling difference- it changes your center of gravity an inch or more. You can easily feel this if you try a course both ways. Ever notice you can descend better if you lower your seat a little? Lose the camelback for bottles and you'll see the same effect, only you won't compromise pedaling efficiency. Oh, and there's no counterpoint advantage to a higher CG that I can think of whatsoever. I like bottles for this reason, plus the fact that my back and arm muscles don't have to do the extra work of managing the camelback's weight on every hit, however little that might be. Finally, I hate cleaning the camelback, especially when it has been full of Cytomax.
One downside of bottles is the possibility of them rattling out on a big hit downhill- I eliminate this problem by having little bungee loops that go from the top of the cage around the bottle's nipple.

Anybody want to buy an old camelback?

WINNER: Water Bottle

I use the original Tippy Cup, sometimes it can be hard to steer around sharp corners with one hand but I never spill. It holds about 8 ozs. and last me from the car to the trailhead.

[Scooby Doo Tippy Cups RULE]

WINNER:

Hydrations packs yea!!! Lots of water and if you set it right,you can take a nice shower out in public.
Water bottles just pick up all kinds of bugs and dirt and you'll be doing the hershey squirts on cacti instead of enjoying nature the nice way.
Water bottles are good to dress up that old mountain bike.

WINNER: Camelbak

The camelbak is better because yuo can ride with bot hands and if you carry bottle you need at one hand and that is the same that you comaback at home without thoots.

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottles for 2 miles or less. Camelbaks for everything else.

WINNER: Camelbak

I feel camel back all the way. I love replacing bottles every few rides b/c it couldn't take the cruise. Hands free anytime riding. I am not worried about the extra weight, I just ride faster =) plus, you can hold a towel, tools, tubes, lunch, etc... for those longer than avg. rides, plus i use it snowboarding too. I took my cage off my board years ago

WINNER: Camelbak

come on, why would i want to let go of the handle bars to get a drink from a water bottle when i can tilt my head and get a drink from my dear sweet HAWG?

WINNER: Camelbak

Water Bottles are for fast riders.
Camelbak's are for slow riders.
-Have you ever seen a single person in a pro-race with a freakin' bag of water strapped to his back? If you want a nipple to drink from, go find your mama.

WINNER: Water Bottle

I used Bottles for 10 years, and reciently used and bought a camelback. If you are a serious rider, and you go out in the heat for a minimum of 15 miles of extreme single track, you will need equivialt of 3 Bottles just durring the ride. I also have better control when I want to take a drink while I ride. However Water Bottle is the way to go for small rides in the park.

WINNER: Camelbak

I hear everyone complaining about weight and cost then you all go and vote for the camelback. They cost a fortune and add back all the weight you've just spent thousand on eliminating. Are you riding or breast feeding?

WINNER: Water Bottle

Waterbottle? What's that? Untill they make a waterbottle that can hold 100 oz of water, a toolkit, spare tube and a pump I'll stick to my Camelback. Hey, wait, they do make a waterbottle that can do that, it's called a Camelback.

WINNER: Camelbak

i enjoy the supple taste of h2o from my very own platypus.

WINNER:

There are people who still use water bottles?

WINNER: Camelbak

Bit of a no brainer this one, Camel back or equivalent rules the roost here. Get one that can carry a decent amount of kit and you have a pack for all occasions, and how often have you seen a camelback lauch itself into a cow pat on a rough descent ?

WINNER: Camelbak

neither- Research shows that in a 1 1/2 hour race you don't need to re-hydrate so get hydrated before (accelerade is cheap at all3sports.com) and ditch the extra weight and effort- rehydrate immediatly after

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback for traing and riding, bottles for racing. Works better if you have someone handing them out during laps.

WINNER: Camelbak

I am a staunch believer in the Camelbak. My story - I had an extra large water bottle in my downtube cage. I was crossing a dried out creek going fairly fast and bottomed out my front suspension on the way up the opposite side of the creek. My water bottle got caught in between the tire and the downtube and stopped my bike on a dime. I proceeded to fly over the handlebars. My camelbak is saftly positioned on my bak to prevent suck disasters. Water also stays cool in the camelbak on hot sunny days when you want to ride forever.

WINNER: Camelbak

i just got a camel back and i kick myself for not getting one earlier, its so much more convenient and you can get rid of that pack under your seat if you get one with some pockets =)

WINNER: Camelbak

tasting plastic is something I can get used to. tasting dirt and asphalt is another story. I HATE YOU WATER BOTTLE!

WINNER: Camelbak

the water gets too warm and yucky in water bottles and you have to wait till you get to a smooth section on the trails to drink unless you feel like flying over the handlebars. camelbak's kick ass and keep water cold forever when you use ice. The sweaty back is better than drinking hot nasty water in the summer

WINNER: Camelbak

the water gets too warm and yucky in water bottles and you have to wait till you get to a smooth section on the trails to drink unless you feel like flying over the handlebars. camelbak's kick ass and keep water cold forever when you use ice. The sweaty back is better than drinking hot nasty water in the summer

WINNER: Camelbak

dave is strange

WINNER: Camelbak

Only use a Camelback when you need huge amounts of water. 80+ degrees for 3+ hours is when you need a camelback. Otherwise, just get one or two big water bottles and a little seat pack. Also, lower center of gravity and less weight.

WINNER: Water Bottle

camlebaks are much better they hold more stuff like a cell so i can call my girlfriend becky. i love you!

WINNER: Camelbak

camlebaks are better by far they hold more stuff like a cell so i can call becky my girl friend i love her!

WINNER: Camelbak

i love becky

WINNER: Camelbak

Just the thought of hitting that pile of HORSE dung on the way down and then to grab for that water bottle on the next climb!???? Hope you packed your FLOSS!!!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

I didn't feel like spending the 40/50 dollars on a camelbak because water bottles were just fine. Then I got a flat in the middle of Robert E. Lee park (for those of you who know the place it ain't that hard to get Princeton or Joe's), and although I made it to the nearby bike shop, I screwed up my wheel. So, I decided to ALSO get a camelbak so I could hold levers tubes and a pump.

WINNER: Camelbak

I didn't feel like spending the 40/50 dollars on a camelbak because water bottles were just fine. Then I got a flat in the middle of Robert E. Lee park (for those of you who know the place it ain't that hard to get Princeton or Joe's), and although I made it to the nearby bike shop, I screwed up my wheel. So, I decided to ALSO get a camelbak so I could hold levers tubes and a pump.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback all the way. They hold much more water, fill it full of ice cubes and not only will that keep your water cold all day, but it will also keep your back cool as well. It also holds my gps,bike pump, spare tubes, tools, cell phone and more. Lets see a waterbottle do that!

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottle are better because my shoulder hurts carrying a camelbak and its very warm.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Water bottles are hard to get to, do not hold enough water, you have to take your eyes off the trail to take a drink. You still have to have a pack for your stuff.

WINNER: Camelbak

Water bottle low maintenance, fill and go, leave in the carrier half full and your ready to go a week or two later. Can't do that with a camel on your back or even a water buffalo for that matter. Also, those camels stink and spit at ya and needs lots of attention. Leae em at the zoo.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak never lose that plastic taste. The taste of the thing makes me sick before I have even gone 5 miles.

WINNER: Water Bottle

it was better

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camel back everytime, no more mouthfulls of dust or mud. Rattles less than a seatbag, carries all you need for a day on the trails

WINNER: Camelbak

While waterbottles are classic and clean, camelbaks are easy and handy on long rides, it's hard to clean them out when you're tired after along hard ride and just want to sit down and drink a coke, not spend 30 min. cleaning out a pack. With waterbottles you can just dump them out hand toss um' in the sink. Cleaning and filling watterbottles is definately faster and easier than camelbaks. But camelbaks are faster and easier on the trail. Waterbottles are a 'reason fo a rest' but camelbaks don't make you stop if you don't want to. Waterbottles are alot cheaper than camelbak (the cheapist camelbak I've ever see was 50$). Camelbaks carry more water. For a broke teen on a bike I'll give to my moldy, dirty CAMELBAK!!! BUT I STILL LOVE AND USE THE WATERBOTTLES EVERY NIGHT!!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

I fill my mule with ice cubes and water and it lasts for 2-3 hrs. It keeps my back cool too. I ride in the summer and always have cool water. Tried using bottles but I don't like drinking warm water. Did I mention I keep my car keys, pump, two spare tubes, and tools etc in the mule.

WINNER: Camelbak

Water Bottles! yay! From my point of view water bottles are better than anything else! Camalbaks are strange and weird. that is all i have to say. peace out

WINNER: Water Bottle

Water bottles are much better. They are easier to use. I think that my observation is a good one.
WATER BOTTLES RULE! WATER BOTTLES RULE!

WINNER: Water Bottle

I love the nice soft landing the camelbak gives in a crash. Now I'm thinking, I didn't crash near as much before...I know they say It doesn't affect balance, but before I shell out for another $30 replacement bladder, I'm going back to bottles for a while. I'll gather crash data for while and let you know.

WINNER: Camelbak

i use it as a portable keg apperatis eh its so cool

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak and water bottle. The first for lotsa water on long rides, and the second for a sports drink. But, you can't carry a shell, tools, cell phone, etc in a water bottle.

WINNER: Camelbak

I have three bikes I ride regularly and hate switching tools from bike to bike, so I put everything I need in my HAWG and acrry it on my back. For true epics, I can carry 2x100oz bladders and still have room for tools, tubes and extra clothes. How many water bottles is that?

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbaks are awesome

WINNER: Camelbak

Since I don't sweat much I don't need a Camelbak, but I could see it's utility if you do sweat a lot. Two water bottles are more than enough for a 15-20 mile ride in 95+ degree heat for me, plus I don't get my back all sweaty and roasting hot. I just use a butt-pack for my tools, maps, keys, wallet, etc - much smaller "sweaty" area.

WINNER: Water Bottle

CB is a must on epic rides. It holds tools and all. Keep your bike light and ride harder.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak, more hydration, especially in the African heat.

WINNER: Camelbak

I also use the CB when doing yard work.

WINNER: Camelbak

The Camelback is much more comfortable than the water bottle - it not only offers hands-free operation but also allows you to safely store necessary items.

WINNER: Camelbak

I LOVE FAST SPEED AND YOU WILL NEED THIS WATER TO KEEP UP WITH ME, FOOL!

WINNER: Water Bottle

water bottle easier to ride with

WINNER: Water Bottle

no contest

WINNER:

I use a Camelbak (or a Zefal) rehydration unit to carry plain water and also have a water bottle to carry GatorAid or any rehydration drink. Both work for me really well. So for me it would be a tie though for short or tune-up rides, I carry a bottle.

WINNER: Camelbak

definately camelbak

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak all the way.....more capacity, no slowing down. The cost is less when you factor in it's usefulness when skiing, kayaking, rockclimbing etc.....

WINNER: Camelbak

BOTH OF THESE HAVE THEIR OWN PURPOSES - THEY ARE NOT TO BE COMPARED!
Obviously, you do not take a water bottle on an epic, and obviosly you do not take a camelback on a one-to-two hour ride. DUH!!!

WINNER:

I've never seen a camelbak on the trail that someone lost over a bump, have you?

WINNER: Camelbak

wow

WINNER: Camelbak

this is not a one on one it is yust one!!!

WINNER: Camelbak

A reeeaal Camel hump strapped to your back! (kinda messy)

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak all the way!!

WINNER: Camelbak

CamelBak defenitly. Keep weigth off MTB and rule on the trails and climbs. Another adv is that it keep your back protected if falling

WINNER: Camelbak

steve olson a racer from oregon, USA has obviously never ridden longer than a couple of hours. Maybe that dehydration has gone to the brain

WINNER: Camelbak

There is no other choice than a Camelbak

WINNER: Camelbak

Every time I ride with my Camelback, I always get to enjoy watching my friends suffer to bend down to put that stupid water bottle out of those water bottle holders. All I have to do is just suck in water when ever I need it. Camelbacks are by far the best way to get water while biking.

WINNER: Camelbak

what are you doing riding if you need to hydrate DURING the trip. sheesh. drink up before, and ride like a man.

WINNER:

Have used both and still use both on all day epic rides.I will grab my camelback first,along with hauling extra water and gear it's protection for your back! I find the camel back works great for canoe and kayak racing also.

WINNER: Camelbak

Honestly, this topic is really silly, these are both purpose devices. Of course you aren't going to just take one water bottle on some epic ride, and of course you don't need a 3 liter camelback loaded to the teeth with gear for a 1hr jolt around your local. There's plenty of rides I go on that don't require the large size of a camelback making my back hot on a short ride, but there are also plenty of times I go on epic day long rides where I've got both. (also because you can't tell how much is left in your camelback as you drink out of it, so I like having a water bottle as well, sort of like an emergency reserve)

TIE:
But hey, that's just my 2cents.

WINNER:

camelbak's take a huge amount of wieght off your bike and stick it on your back where it can be usefull.

WINNER: Camelbak

more convienient

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak. The waterbottle is a dirt/muck magnet that I bring along for folks that mooch water. Hey, I'm in Texas and riding in 100 degree plus weather with a water bottle just doesn't cut it.

WINNER: Camelbak

camel back all the way. it keeps your drink cold or warm the whole ride, you can drink even in the most technical section while riding and you can carry more water than a water bottle

WINNER: Camelbak

i think this because it helps u be confident and in better shape,and and it releves stress!

WINNER: Water Bottle

camelback holds more water cant drop it on the trails hands stay on the bars in technical parts. keeps the weight the bike making it more agile. they come in many different styles and sizes. leaves roon for waterbottle battery pack and lets you remove water bottle holder on small frames making it easier to carry your bike over your shoulder when you need to.

WINNER: Camelbak

For XC racing a water bottle
For all others Camelbak/Hydration pack

WINNER: Camelbak

Before Camelbaks came around everybody used watterbottles....
Time moves on, things do improve! A waterbottle is a piece of obsolete nostalgy.
- I use my Camelbak for Biking.
- I use my Camelbak for long Car rides
- Camelbaks keeps drinks cool for a long time
- Camelbaks keeps drinks warm
- Camelbaks have the proper storage space for your tools
- Camelbaks are also handy for normal day use, ie. man don't carry purses, like women.
- There is such a variety in models and brands to choose from
- When one works out, your back get sweaty anyway
- Camelbak does protect your back from unwanted contact with mother Earth
- They are versatile and can be used for a broad array of different sports
- A Camelbak is safer to use because you don't have to crouch to drink but just get the Bite piece in your mouth
- I love my Camelbak

WINNER: Camelbak

Camel back hands down. They don't freeze up in cold, don't get muddy in wet, and hold more water than a bottle when it's hot. What else could you want (dehydrated water?).

WINNER: Camelbak

Camel back would be best for riding and also going out of town.

WINNER: Camelbak

i think the competion racers need to find the strapes that will help them stay in the race instead of trying to make it harder to compete
im not saying that way is wrong but you can shock the hell out of
children and kill them in the progress that dosen't help them compete in the race it only makes them weaker .teach them to love the sport instead then they always have it.

WINNER:

I've raced with both water bottles and a camel bak. While the camel back may eliminate your need for a saddle bag for spare parts, they are quite annoying once you have emptied them. Not to mention very hot and a lot of extra weight. Give me the water bottles that I can pitch and replace each lap.

WINNER: Water Bottle

i spent too much time in the army with camelbacks and israeli water bags. gimmie a water bottle.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Camelbak bottles are for portable bongs when you don't want your glass pipe to break.

WINNER: Camelbak

HELLO!!!
Can a water bottle carry my wallet and car keys, extra set of gloves, the amount of water (thats were all the weight is for you gram counting freaks)
For those who also need a sports drink, buy another bladder
There is a reason why the military uses it - BECAUSE IT WORKS!!
You dont have to fiddle around to reach for the bottle and to put it back - this allows to to concentrate on the path

WINNER: Camelbak

The camelbak is really hot. I cannot peform as well in scorching heat. Camelbak on cool days, water bottle on scorchin days.

WINNER: Water Bottle

camelback. i carry both. 4 bottles and 2 100 oz hydrapack bladders. it is really hot here

WINNER: Camelbak

If you drink mucho water the day before and that day, you only need a water bottle to keep hydrated. 20 mile rides. I use both, seperate times.

WINNER: Water Bottle

i think their awesome...

WINNER: Camelbak

100 degrees....My Camelbak keeps me going when all the others are watching football. Keeps water coooooool!

WINNER: Camelbak

100 degrees....My Camelbak keeps me going when all the others are watching football. Keeps water coooooool!

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback! nuf sed. Bottles are for beer and babies.

WINNER: Camelbak

Hey, where is the "tie" option on this vote? I always use the Camelback for the ice water and the water bottle for my sport drink.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbaks are easier to drink out of , hold more water, hold all your junk and keep mud off your back.

The only disadvantage is the weight, and unless you're a complete weight weenie, you can afford an extra pount or two.

WINNER: Camelbak

HUH????????????

IS THERE A QUESTION HERE????????

DA BOBO........

WINNER: Camelbak

I like to explore and build new trails. I'm gone all day and I kill at least a liter an hour. I got the fat a$$ 3 liter camelbak! I wish there was one more choice though... I like to park my truck close by with a huge igloo cooler... so like igloo really wins, but that is not a choice.

WINNER: Camelbak

CAmelback all the way dude! Dayyam bottle is on the way for my frame bags and besides, have you ever seen a watter bottle stayed on its place on really nice and lovely downhill?

WINNER: Camelbak

Drinking one bottle of water on a ride is like bringing only one gallon of gas in your car/truck. If you are realy going some where you need supplies. Plus a properly fitting camelbak does not mess with balance gosh come to think of if you spend 70.00 you get to carry 3 liters of water, 3 extra storage pockets, conveint consume on the fly water spout, an inline hydrate anywhere water filter, and some protection from the earth's surface upon contact. A water bottle you get another place to put someone else's logo on your 1,200 dollar billboard. You decide.

WINNER: Camelbak

For short and easy rides in cool weather, nothing beats a 100 oz Camelback with room for your wheel dish gauge and truing stand.

For those 4 hour summer rides in hot weather where there's no place to refill, a waterbottle does just fine.

WINNER:

Camel Backs rock. they
-carry more water
-hold stuff
-allow you to drink little allthe time which is better to keep you hydrated
-dont get the mouth peice clogged with mud
-let you carry ice cubes
-make you look like a pro

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak all the way. It's the only way I can hold enough water for long rides in high heat.

I just got a Camelbak Rocket and it is the most comfortable so far and holds enough tools and food for the day.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback by far. Just how many water bottles would you have to carry to bring in 100oz of water? Way too many. Not to mention you can carry all your tools and food in the camelback.

WINNER: Camelbak

who cares both are great and give you water

WINNER:

Long rides (over two hours) Cambelback wins. Short rides (two hours and under) bottles win. Who wants all that crap on your back unless you need it.

WINNER: Water Bottle

Sorry Gang, but I'm not really a serious rider. I am a former Bike Officer with my Police Department. Camelbak is the way to go! I use it in all of my training. Never leave home without it. The taste varies at times. I have found that keeping the sucker clean and letting it dry is the ticket.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelback is my preferred hydration system, although I normally use both.

A bottle of Isostar or some other isotonic stuff (mixed thicker then usual), and a Camelback full of regular water, preferably cooled and with a bunch of icecubes for 4h+ rides.

WINNER: Camelbak

camelback catches on those low branches and the water liner gets nasty. bottles are lighter and my favorite person is ok handing me waterbottles at feedzones.

WINNER: Water Bottle

I use both, long rides Camelback "Blowfish" short rides Bottles (2).

WINNER: Camelbak

cheaper

WINNER: Water Bottle

This shouldn't even be debated it's so lopsided. The Camelbak is the single greatest purchase (in terms of my post-sale happiness with the product) of my life. I love it and use it everytime I ride.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbaks are very convenient. There are probably different models to choose from, but I unfortunately got one that has the LDPE plastic liner that makes the water taste awful. After some research I found that the chemicals that the plastic liner leach into the water are actually xenoestrogens which can cause hormonal problems and possibly breast cancer. Thanks, but no thanks!

WINNER: Water Bottle

i wonder what type of frame does these "downhiller" guys using? water bottle cage on a downhill frame? i can't imagine where to put it.. the center triangle of most DH frames where consume with suspension hardwares (pivots and shock).. just a thought..

camelbak anytime, anywhere..

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak or hydration back pack is the only way to go!! camelbak mule or the likes! no arguments needed. yes water taste like crap during first 3-5 use but eventually the taste is gone. now i can bring my cellfone,keys,wallet,extra foods,pumps,extra tube,patchkits,tools, and etc. i can drink water anytime, anywhere. no more dirt,animal sh!t contamination.. i can't believe that someone here says its hot. i don't even notice that i had it on my back.

WINNER: Camelbak

i prefer to use camelback because aside from water you can put tools and stuff inside. Aside from that water botles can only acomodate less wter thyan camelbak.

WINNER: Camelbak

While a clunky camelback isn't my idea of comfort it sure beats having to slow down and reach for a bottle. Plus I find it's easier to get the water out with a camelback.

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak is really convienient. water bottles require 1 hand the whole time you are drinking camel baks require none if ur good and only one for a sec if ur not. i prefer control over the bike

WINNER: Camelbak

camelbak, cus when your looking for your water bottle you hit a no parking sing, or just me.

WINNER: Camelbak

Camelbak is the winner becaus