XLAB

I got this bottle to reduce downtube drag on race day. I lost 4-6 ounces in volume, gained a few grams in weight, but flew down the hills. I have a 54cm S-3 Cervelo and this bottle wouldn't work without adjustment bar. The Wolf Tooth Components B-RAD Mounting Base worked for me. The XLAB Aero Cage Optimizer Versatile Mount was too big for the tight space and weighed twice as much. I got the white one to be able to monitor inside cleanliness. This bottle is expensive, but worth it if you want to reduce downtube water bottle drag.

I have only used this bottle cage a couple of times but it seems to hold my bottles pretty securely.

My bike frame is size Small and I use a 20 or 24 oz bottle so having the side release is helpful.

SIZE: Just right. I can fit 3 CO2 canisters, a tire lever, the CO2 head, and, most importantly a 25mm 700c tube. It's a snug fit, but, all these things fit. And, I can cinch it up very tight under the saddle using the 3 velcro straps. My prior bag (Topeak Aero Wedge Pack - Strap MediumO which BTD recommended, was big enough for everything, but, was too big and too wide and ended up rubbing a hole in a pair of my bib tights (inner thigh).

DURABILITY:

This is my 4th or 5th or maybe 6th saddle bag. Is it waterproof? Nope. Your stuff will get wet. But, I had "waterproof" bags in the past. They aren't. The zipper on the "waterproof" bag was incredibly finicky and I almost always had to take the bag off just to open the zipper, at least until the zipper failed entirely after only one season of very light use and relatively minimal wet days (here in CA). So, I'm trading waterproof for what appears to be a much more durable zipper.

FIT: 3 velcro straps which you'll likely have to cut (they're extra long to allow for fit) after install. I can cinch this bag up very high and tight under my saddle. It's out of the way, and doesn't;t rub against my legs.

First of all, this is an awesome bottle system, and should really get a 4.5/5. I enjoy using it and not having to juggle ridding and grabbing a bottle when I'm thirsty. The only downside, which really any bottle system has is that it heats up on hot days so you end up with warm water. The bottle system is easy to install with just Velcro tightening and stays snug on my aero bars. The straw is also adjustable so it can be easily accessible when you need it. Overall, I'm satisfied with it after riding with it over the summer.