Hydration pack

[Cataboo]

I tend to always use a hydration pack. I'm coordinated enough to drink through a tube, I'm not so sure about bottles on the bike, I use a frame pump, so having 2 bottle cages isn't possible, adn I definitely use more than 1 bottle on some rides.

I;ve got the Deuter Race X Air I with 3 Liter Hydration Pack:
http://www.altrec.com/deuter/race-x-...hydration-pack

No, I don't always fill it with 3 liters, it depends on how long I plan on riding - all day, yeah, I'll fill it up. halfway or less if it's just a short ride.

The nice thing about this one is that the frame of the pack arches the pack away from your back and there's kind of a mesh area that goes directly against your back - so you get airflow back there & no sweat.

I also don't really have handy friends that live near by that I can call and say, hey, come rescue me... So I do tend to keep it packed with whatever I think I might need worst case scenario. Cooler weather it'll have an extra wool layer, it always has a light windbreaker/rain shell, arm & leg warmers if that's necessary, some cliff shot blocks, cliff bars, spare innertube, some first aid stuff, lights, and tools.

[Cataboo]

As for chafing - I've never had a problem with it, but I tend to leave the shoulder straps loose - and buckle the waist belt so that it's sitting on my hips - so the majority of the weight is on my hips and not my shoulders.

[smilingcat]

I don't know of any lycra clad riders making fun of riders with hydration pack. Good for them for being out door and riding.

[Kiwi Stoker]

I have balance issues so ride with a camelbak. I have sometimes ridden with a bottle and no camelbak (but stop to drink) and find I don't get anymore cooler or hotter when I have one on or not!

I am eagerly waiting to get my hands on the Camelbak Racerbak, a 2.1L bladder that sits in an undershirt and your cycle top goes over it. They are really pushing it for TTs but I would love to have one so people can see that back of the shirts and to not get the little napping the straps of the camelbak does.

In regards to buying, not all are created equal and I have heard of some brands bladders leaking etc. I think you get what you pay for. So even if you don't want to pay Camelbak prices consider at least buying the bladder and putting it into anothers bag (if it can fit of course!)

[OakLeaf]

I really prefer the Platypus bladders, because of the large ziploc opening. MUCH easier to clean and dry (and put ice in, if you like ice). Unfortunately they no longer make a carry pack, but most third party hydration packs will fit one of their sizes.

If you run, I can't say enough good things about the Nathan Intensity pack. But I don't know how well it would work for cycling - my instinct is that one of my Platypus packs would be better.

[Brandy]

I have been using one when I'm mountain biking. The Nathan Sports Zone 2.0 just arrived tonight, for me to try out. It's women's specific and from what I can tell so far...very comfy!

Zone 2.0 Hydration Pack Description:
Whether hiking, biking, trail running, or adventure racing, when your adventure demands that you carry more than just fluids, the Zone is ideal. The women's specific shoulder straps and 3-way Propulsion Harness eliminate pressure points, while the Air Scoop backpanel and breathable honeycomb mesh dissipate heat - so it can be worn all day in all conditions.

* Women's specific shoulder straps and torso length
* 3-way Propulsion Harness
* 2 liter hydration bladder with filter-compatible screw-top closure and bite valve
* Vertically adjustable sternum strap with drink tube clip
* Air scoop with ventilation channels
* Rapid Access bladder compartment
* Large zippered pockets with Power Stretch Mesh stash pockets on each shoulder strap
* Power Stretch Mesh pocket with accessory shock cord
* External zippered organizer pocket with key clip
* 500 cubic inch capacity
* Weight: 13 oz