TRUCKEE, Calif. (BRAIN) — If there were any doubt as to QBP's commitment to the growth of the bike packing market, then its new Salsa EXP Series should dispel that thought.
The line includes what it calls an Anything Cradle, the key component in attaching a dry bag plus a small pouch to a handlebar. The injection-molded cradle includes forged aluminum arms that clamp to the handlebar.
With the Cradle in place, bike packers can attach a dry bag and an easily accessed pouch. The complete system is priced at $149.99. The Cradle with the dry bag will retail for $99.99.
Adding to the line is the EXP Series TopTube Bag. While it's not waterproof, the bag can be bolted to a variety of Salsa's 2017 line of bikes. Those bikes come outfitted with what is essentially a water-bottle mount molded into the top tube. The TopTube pack also comes with straps for a universal fit with other bikes. It will retail for $49.99.
Perhaps one of the most important packs for multi-day bike packers is the EXP Cutthroat frame pack. At $119.99 the pack is weather resistant with welded water-resistant zippers. There is an internal divider using a Velcro-like material that can separate gear. It also includes a D-ring that can keep a water bladder from sliding and compressing into the bottom of the bag. The frame pack also has a non-driveside pocket to store maps, tools, phones and other small items.
Completing the line is the EXP seat pack. It uses a roll-type closure system — commonly found in dry bags — that makes it easier to manage the amount of gear stuffed inside. A crisscross bungee cord across the top of the pack boosts the storage capability. The pack, with mounting tabs for a blinking light, retails for $119.99.
