So I’m doing the xterra in Iowa this August and I was thinking of getting a camelback. You need your hands at all times on the bike.
I’ll be doing my training in the summer heat and the muggy forest so what would you recommend for size and model for a 6 mile trail run and 15-20 mile rides?
Are there some packs that are better for running then others? Any other options for water when you are on a technical course and need to keep your hand on the bars?
Looking to keep things under $75.
Thanks.
Anything in the Octane line will work great.
I use the Osprey Talon 5.5. It comes in a Small/Medium and Med/Large. I’m 5’6" 160lbs and I liked the small/med because it’s a little more snug when I use it running to work.
It has the ability to put a camelback in it. I use a 32oz camelback so I don’t carry too much water, it can hold a bigger camelback insert (does not come with it). The way I run/mtn bike with the camelback straw under my right arm, and thru one of the loops on the chest straps, it holds it just inches from my face which makes it easy to reach my head down for a drink while keeping on the trails.
It doesn’t have a lot of extra room for storage as a backpack, but that wasn’t what I looking for, I was trying to go as small and practicle as possible.
It also has a couple spots on the chest straps that I use for gels or shotblocks.
http://www.ospreypacks.com/Packs/TalonSeriesMultiUse/Talon55/
I’ve also got caught out in a heavy down pour while riding and everything stayed pretty dry.
It has the air flow space so it doesn’t lay flat on you back. I still sweat pretty bad while riding
$69 at eastern mountain sports
9 or 10 stars…
I’m using my for Xterra Maryland in a month. Good Luck.
Any other options for water when you are on a technical course and need to keep your hand on the bars?
Just wait until you get to a section that isn’t so technical and you can grab a water bottle? I really don’t believe you need a Camelbak for an XTERRA race. Get a larger Camelbak to carry water, pumps, tubes, tools, eats and whatever for regular mtb riding.
Your joking? I’ve done an Xterra NZ twice. First time with bottles, it was impossible to get chance to drink most of the time and that meant I didn’t drink enough. Also, there were bottles all over the course that had dropped of people’s bikes. This year I did it with a basaic Camelbak with no issues.