Good hydration pack and gloves for mountain biking.?

Question

I have been mountain biking for quite a while and it is a big hobby of mine. I had a great hydration pack (don't remember the make or type), but it was stolen. I've never really had a good pair of gloves. Does anyone have any ideas on the best type of pack and gloves to get. For the gloves, warmth isn't a big deal because I mainly ride in the summer. FOr the pack, however, I need to be able to fit a reasonably large resavior in there for long rides as well as the essentials (e.g. tubes, multi-tool, levers, mini-pump, energy bars, rain-layer, first aid kit, light system, and a strobe light). Thanks

Answer 1

Camelbak makes awesome hydration packs with lots of storage options. Check out their website for the style types and capacities. We all ride with them, they even makes one just for women ( =

http://www.camelbak.com/index.cfm

As for gloves, find a pair that fit your well and are comfortable. Go to your local bike shop, they will have a large selection you can look at, try one, compare, etc. I wear Fox gloves, girls Reflex gel. The thing I looked for in gloves was a breathable, mesh back and leather covered padding so they will be lightweight but tough. Also, pay attention to where they hit on your wrist, some people prefer a higher or lower glove.

A good online site for all your bike needs is www.speedgoat.com

Good luck!

Answer 2

I'm a mtn biker also.

HYDRATION PACK:
Camelbak seems to be the standard, although they are quite expensive. Make sure you look for a 100oz reservoir, and you want the smallest footprint on your back so you don't overheat.

If price wasn't an issue I would recommend the Camelbak M.U.L.E. as it has the large capacity reservoir, stores lots of stuff, and doesn't cover your entire back.
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=23534&subcategory_ID=4340

I own the Camelbak Rocket, which I believe is renamed to be the Cadence or Velocity (72oz was too small, not enough storage). Also have the Cemelbak Ventoux (Full sized backpack, heavy, and didn't allow my back to breathe). I finally settled on the Camelbak MULE as my everyday pack.


GLOVES:
They are very much a personal preference. Your best bet is to go try out every pair of gloves in the bike store and see which fits you best. Make sure it has a little padding in the palms to keep your hands from going numb. I like the fingerless gloves for summer and have been using the same Pearl Izumi White Line gloves for 5 years now and they are still in great shape. You don't have to pay a lot for a good set of gloves.
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=18103&subcategory_ID=1140

Answer 3

I use a camelback pouch inside a Jannd back pack it's designed specifically to hold the camelback pouch.

As for gloves I use Gary Fisher and Pearl Izumi they have gel pads in the palm so it helps absorb the road shock.

Answer 4

Camelbak is the best you will get,a variety of sizes with great storage,as far as gloves,get yourself a set of body builder gloves,they tend to be more durable than cycling gloves

Answer 5

I use a Camelbak backpack with a 3 L reservoir. The backpack is not very big but it's enough for a long ride (half a day or whole day). I usually carry tools, maps, food, ...

Also check this: http://www.sport-gadgets.com/article-on-hydration-devices-by-the-final-sprint/

Answer 6

i use the camel bak mule. it has a 100oz res but it depends on how much you drink. it has tons of room for snacks, pumps, tubes ets...about 50 bucks on ebay. gloves depend on you. i love cannondales gel bike gloves. there like a catchers mit. tons of padding in the palm.. i ried on every glove at the local bike shop before i found these. good luck

Answer 7

The trek 4300. Although the msrp is 300, they'be been going for less. If that is still to expensive, look at the 3900 or the 3700. On the website, click on the "4 series" or the "3 series."