Whether it's bikepacking, gravel racing, or mountain bike stage racing: adventures today are easier to come by than a dentist's appointment. Last year, during my visit to several events, I gained a little overview of the rapidly growing scene in and around Austria, and one must say: The adventure segment is booming massively. Rightly so, in my opinion! But does it always have to be a weekend full of torture?
Finding adventure is one thing; much more exciting is when adventure finds you. Completely unexpected. Just like that time, for instance, when I actually just wanted to quickly go to the bakery to get rolls for breakfast (the most important meal, hence substantial), but didn't have a cargo bike at hand.
On Sunday, the selection of open bakeries is quite sparse, meaning: On foot, you don't stand a chance, so get on your gravel bike, pack the essentials, and off you go.
The next bread pickup point is in Langenzersdorf, for Vienna city folks like me "Terra Incognita". No idea what awaits me there.
My everyday adventure leads me across the legendary Marchfeld Canal to the furthest corners of civilization; I battle through the underbrush, climb over fallen trees, and flee from ancient tribes before I reach my destination - the El Dorado, a convenience store open on Sunday.
All's well that ends well? One might think so... but how do I now safely get this stuff home?
Camelback Chase 4
Hydration packs may be an absolute faux pas in terms of style, but marketing offices have apparently decided that they have become almost a must for gravel biking. Plus, they are really practical too!
I can easily fit a multitool, a lock, my mini floor pump (to save weight!), a gilet, and about 85 Kuna in cash. Additionally, the Story of Philosophy Volume IX, 1, which I never leave the house without, fits wonderfully into the middle main compartment of the Camelbak Chase 4.
Chase Bike 4L
Colors | Black, Army Green, Fired Brick |
Capacity | 2.5 Liters |
Hydration Bladder | 1.5-Liter CRUX™ Reservoir |
Weight | 285 Grams |
Adjustment Range | 71-116 cm |
Features | Lightweight hydration backpack, shoulder straps with tool compartment and small pocket, breathable 3D Vent Mesh materials and straps, large chest pocket for quick access to important accessories, height and width adjustable, double chest straps for even more stability, large front slip pocket. Rubber loop for pump, helmet mount, stretchable Overflow pocket, easily accessible main compartment, Magnetic Tube Trap hydration hose holder, LED mount, sits above the jersey pockets, reflective design elements, hydration system with QuickLink system |
Price | € 104.99 |
Inside there is also a handy plastic bladder with a 1.5L capacity*, where you can store your belongings waterproof (!) **. There's also a ventilation snorkel***. What this is intended for, I haven't quite figured out yet. Maybe you can also transport hamsters with it?**** (Hints welcome!)
* Disclaimer 1: This is a hydration bladder.
** Disclaimer 2: That's not true, it's a hydration bladder not suitable for transporting valuables.
*** Disclaimer 3: This refers to a drinking tube.
**** Disclaimer 4: That's not true, please do not transport living animals in the hydration bladder, as the drinking tube is not suitable for oxygen supply. Please also do not transport dead animals in the hydration bladder, as it serves no purpose.
Conclusion
Camelback Chase 4 | |
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Model Year: | 2023 |
+ | Perfect fit |
+ | Jersey pockets still accessible |
+ | Pockets on the shoulder strap |
+ | Mesh material for cooling |
o | Sufficient storage space despite compact size |
- | Filling the bladder is somewhat fiddly, better to remove it for this purpose |
Even when fully loaded, the backpack is extremely comfortable to carry, the straps made of mesh material are very inconspicuous and barely noticeable even after days of touring. In front over the chest, said straps can additionally be secured twice with straps - safer than a parachute, I would say, the small but practical companion then sits on the back. For keys, harmonica, or cigarettes, there are easily accessible pockets on the straps.
The little space miracle does not offer much storage space, but with 2.5 liters you usually get along quite well. Why is the backpack called Chase 4? The hydration bladder holds 1.5L - hence the calculation adds up. Weight? A laughable 285 grams!
Shimano RX8R
In truly tough adventures, it happens that one can no longer ride, but often has to push, I've been told. For this, the right footwear is essential. Some take a second pair of shoes with them, but real adventurers know no transition zone. We are not at a triathlon here!
Anyone who now comes to me with SPD sandals or similar fun stuff... No! Cycling shoes need a carbon sole and at least one BOA closure, it's already written in the constitution.
Thus, the RX8R meets all the criteria, and with a snazzy finish in Fade Bronze brushed, it also hits the mark visually. Technically speaking, there are not many differences between the RX8 model, apart from the integrated sock, the two are identical.
Anyone who has ever ridden Shimano shoes knows how to appreciate them. The workmanship is wonderful, the quality uniquely good.
Conclusion
Shimano RX8R | |
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Model Year: | 2023 |
Price: | € 279.95 RRP |
+ | Cool design |
+ | Quality |
+ | Secure fit despite stiff carbon sole |
+ | 290 grams (Size 42) |
o | Sock can cause problems |
- | The Velcro strap must go |
The Shimano RX8R promises excellent wearing comfort without compromising on performance, and I can certainly relate to the performance aspect. I would also readily agree with the comfort part, if it weren't for a small design flaw: Maybe I have an unusual instep, but in any case, the top strap cuts into the skin above my ankle bone, and the integrated "sock" simply lacks a few millimeters of space. And that leads to problems on longer rides. Interestingly, even on the manufacturer's website, you can see this "sock crease" in photos, so maybe it's just very subjective.
The "sock" is actually supposed to prevent stones from getting into the shoe on gravel path excursions. I find it much more practical that I can always hide some emergency cash there, in case I need to bribe an officer at the border crossing from Croatia to Italy again or want to buy an ice cream.