Apidura

I previously had a small Apidura Expedition TT pack for my XS Cervelo Aspero frame that strapped on and it was the perfect size which still allowed me to occasionally rest my bottom on the top tube. Over time the straps began leaving marks on the paint, and since the Aspero already has bolt on mounts for a TT bag I looked for a bolt-on version and came across this. It is only slightly longer than the previous bag and attaches and fits perfectly. My only gripe is the same as with the previous bag: the zipper pull loop has sharp edges, and it's a bit of a bear to cinch and uncinch it from the fully closed position, which is necessary for full waterproofing.

This is the most expensive top tube I've ever bought, but it's definitely worth it in my opinion. After checking out several youtube reviews on this, I decided to give it a try. It does cramp a lot more food and gels more than any other bags, and yet slim enough not to get in my legs way. The build quality is top notch, and I can confirm it's waterproof after riding through a downpour. I can't say if its aero or not, but it does look cool as it blends the space from stem to the bag making it look streamlined.

One small issue but was something I expected; if I stand with the bike between my legs, it would sit slightly on my crouch since I don't have tall enough legs. On their website there is a printout PDF which you can print out a real size diagram so you can measure against your bike frame, to see how they fit before buying. I did know that it would come close to my crotch but overall its something I can deal with.

This bag is not cheap, that has to be said. I have this on a Aspero which already comes with a sweet top bag. So I had high hopes when I strapped this on and it lived up to the hype. I love the length, for racing and lond rides it holds lots of gels and goodies. Its nice and aero which doesn't hurt. I really have never gotten anything from Apidura that isn't top level quality. I ask myself, can I live without this bag and does it make life on the bike better? It 100% makes life on rides better and after trying other bags, I now can't live without it. If they discontinued these tomorrow, I would buy 2 more at full price just to have them, they are that good.

The 1.5L works really, really well if you have a large frame bag with a hydration port. The hose is a littel tough to dry out but the bladder itself is easy to flip inside out to dry or to clean it. Hydration bite valve is just okay, it was recommended to swap it with a Camelbak one, which I might do when this one is worn out.

Don't overfill it, it's very difficult to velcro closed, but solid once the opening is fully folded down. Perfect for refilling a bottle (remove the bite valve entirely and siphon the water into the bottle) or sipping on a longer ride. The clip that attaches to your bars or a front bag webbing is so-so and you might need to coil the hose a certain way. Might get one of the Camelback magnetic catch adapters.