I've been using the Palos for the last year or so, and haven't reached for a pack more than three times in that period.
Small child keeps rides under 3hrs, and my weedy cyclist shoulders appreciate the freedom. I'm the guy who always carried too much crap just-in-case, so having a smaller bag forces me to only carry the basics.
Tools (a little roll of proper allen keys, both pumps, chain breaker, t25, spare hanger...) tube, snacks, keys, and the full bladder packs it out, but as above following the instructions re: straps keeps it steady. A rolled windshell fits in the overflow storage, and just like that - I'm at capacity without the extraneous stuff.
A decent climb + hot weather sees me empty the water inside 3hrs, but the only bottle mount on my frame is in the front wheel spray position, so I don't use it.
It'll be interesting to see how far I can push it once the kids are bigger and time for longer rides reappears, but so far I'm totally sold vs a pack.
June 17, 2017, 6:23 p.m. - Velocipedestrian
I've been using the Palos for the last year or so, and haven't reached for a pack more than three times in that period. Small child keeps rides under 3hrs, and my weedy cyclist shoulders appreciate the freedom. I'm the guy who always carried too much crap just-in-case, so having a smaller bag forces me to only carry the basics. Tools (a little roll of proper allen keys, both pumps, chain breaker, t25, spare hanger...) tube, snacks, keys, and the full bladder packs it out, but as above following the instructions re: straps keeps it steady. A rolled windshell fits in the overflow storage, and just like that - I'm at capacity without the extraneous stuff. A decent climb + hot weather sees me empty the water inside 3hrs, but the only bottle mount on my frame is in the front wheel spray position, so I don't use it. It'll be interesting to see how far I can push it once the kids are bigger and time for longer rides reappears, but so far I'm totally sold vs a pack.