Bikepacking Gear Review: Topeak Backloader 10L Saddle Bag

[@radbikeadventure]

What other bikepacking or bike touring gear would you like to see us review??

[@whatever4065]

Anything for the front (rando bags, low riders...) thanks, lots of love!

[@joanfos4890]

Yes , what you can put on the front

[@shelleyshell1150]

If possible, could you do a review about a water filtration system if you use one? I always wonder about how good they are and also how do you know if there’s a type of water that you shouldn’t try to filter?

[@martinkennedy3696]

PUMPS

[@JoshKablack]

Personally, I'm working with more of a Roswheel budget, but I do appreciate knowing which bags from the premium brands are worthwhile.

[@k-mac5511]

Great review. Helped me in my decision to purchase. Went with the 15L. Worked great for riding the 243 miles on the Katy Trail in 6 days. Held my clothes and sandals just fine. Love, love, love the air release valve on the inner dry bag. The outer bag is water resistant. Even so I sprayed it with camping water repellent spray for extra protection. With the rain shower and misting we encountered, it worked great, water beaded up on the bag and everything was dry inside. Having the extra space in the larger bag was appreciated when I needed to pack my tights and jacket after it warmed up. When not full, I rolled it tight and cinched it down. No problems either way (full or not). Highly recommend. Get one. I think you’ll love it too!

[@whatever4065]

Topeak are unbeatable when it comes to bang for buck; thanks for highlighting them

[@radbikeadventure]

Agreed! The price was definitely a big reason I got the bag! Pleasantly surprised with the great quality and function

[@810marcel]

Thanks for the video. The 1st thing that crossed my mind was the fact that this bag also kinda serves the purpose of a mudguard so I can imagine how dirty it will get overtime during long hauls. Happy to see that there is an inner compression bag provided. 👍

[@radbikeadventure]

Yes and that's probably why they also put another protective strip underneath. Time will tell!

[@veroniquediallo6055]

I have the 6L and surprised at how much I can stuff into it. Right now I'm considering the front loader! Thanks for the vid.

[@grobbosixtyone]

I have the 6L as well as I have a XS frame with minimal tyre clearance. I bought the Front Loader as well and that also is a brilliant piece of kit

[@tonypowers123]

Great, helpful review! Love how clear and with details the description of the bag is, and presented in real life use.

[@radbikeadventure]

Thanks!!

[@PolyglotBikepacker]

Love your dynamic, I dunno who the heck gave a thumbs down for this

[@stephenimsong3462]

Great review and tips on how to roll your bag never would have thought of the rain trick

[@bruin4937]

LOL! I TWICE ordered the 10L version from Amazon and TWICE received the 6L! After THAT, I contacted the seller and said just reimburse me the difference in price. I use the 6L when I don't need to use my large 16.5L Ortlieb seat-pack. The 6L, unless it's been updated, doesn't come with the waterproof liner like your 10L. Have a good weekend. Cheers!

[@alexandrafasciano9501]

Really happy to find this TopPeak Backloader. Its so much more affordable than the Apidura and with the dry bag, the Backloader can stay on your bike and you can separately pull out and pack the dry bag... good stuff!

[@radbikeadventure]

Yes, it's a great piece of kit! Still loving mine and performed great on a weekend trip we just did

[@tfuka4811]

This is a super informative review. about options, size, stability, material, how to use, attachments, tips and so on. just amazing! thanks!

[@radbikeadventure]

Glad it was helpful!!

[@KOL630]

I’ve got one and fitted it tonight and it wobbles a lot so I think it’s only suited to really light stuff like down jackets etc

[@radbikeadventure]

Hmm maybe you don’t have it tightened down enough (you really have to batten down the straps!) . I had a lot of clothes in there and it was pretty heavy.

[@robonkenhout7965]

Thanks for the review! I was looking at Ortlieb, but couldn't swallow the cost for the frequency I would use it. I do have a pair of Ortlieb panniers on my other bike which I absolutely love however.

[@markstevens5333]

I’ve used Topeak gear for years. Good quality but also readily available here in Australia. My only gripe is that their stuff seems to fade easier than other brands like Ortlieb. 🤷‍♂️

[@TenFalconsMusic]

. Luv it!!! I swapped from a pannier rack & bags to saddle mounted and honestly... I'll never go back to the rack.

[@johnwelch557]

Well planned design. Much better since it is attached to the Brooks of course! Thanks!!

[@tourisew7513]

I am just thinking about getting a 15L saddle bag, this video is really influential, thank you!

[@outbackwack368]

Excellent review! I'm going to get one just because of your review! I either use a small piece of Velcro to secure those long loose ends or a cut off piece of old inner tube slipped over the buckle end, which I prefer. That way, I always have a spare "rubber band" if needed. Bonus is that those old inner tube bands NEVER wear out, and I live in Phoenix where they are constantly exposed to sun and heat. Stay safe and healthy!

[@radbikeadventure]

Awesome and thanks!! Yes I LOVE having an old piece of inner tube on hand. Darin actually used that instead of bungee cord to secure her rear bag to rack on our trip!

[@stephenimsong3462]

Old inner tubes are the best! I’ve used those countless time on motorcycle and backpacking trips

[@RamonBalthazar]

This was such an incredible review. Thanks for sharing!

[@radbikeadventure]

Glad it was helpful Ramon!

[@The_G]

Great review - thanks for that - looking at various bags and wanted a 'real-life' review of the Topeak, and that is exactly what you have provided - many thanks. 👏

[@solitaryrefinement6787]

07:35 What I do with bags like that is I stuff the bag "into" the bag itself then use a bungee to cinch it down around horizontally. Don't know if it's possible with that Backloader, but it might be worth a try if someone leaves their gear at a campsite and decides to go riding around.

[@radbikeadventure]

Nice good tip! I find just popping in my lightweight rain gear usually works too

[@duraath]

had this for years now. best saddle pack ever own. 👌

[@radbikeadventure]

Great to hear that. Look forward to many trips with mine

[@jaydavee]

I'm still thinking about buying that. I have the Midloader and Frontloader. We have to be sure to get the version we want with Topeak bags. They change designs without changing product names.

[@radbikeadventure]

Ah interesting. Me thinks this one is a winner!

[@ericaspiegel5245]

Thanks. Great tutorial on how to use this bag.

[@jj2138]

Really clear and helpful review! Thanks. I just need a bag for a few items for an overnight (hotel) trip for my wife and me. I think the 6L should work.

[@r.davies2702]

Just curious to know if you're still using this and how it's stood up to the abuse (wear and tear) of the many tours you'll have done by now 😊

[@ebigarella]

I wish all reviews were like this!

[@aaronmoroney2066]

Excellent review, thank you very much! also, love the brooks saddle with brown wall tyre ;)

[@Ross.Bagatski]

Great review! If I used this bag (still prefer panniers), I would attach small velcros to the ends of the straps to save some time by simply rolling and fixing them instead on trying to tuck under other straps. I use such velcros on by hiking backpack.

[@tomslade1849]

really sick review!!! needed this! thank you

[@towtowstrailtalk6853]

As usual another review that is good And a review that I can trust, thank RAD

[@nicolarusso]

Always informative fun videos. Really enjoy them!

[@willowwatts]

Impressive review.. planning my first bike packing trip.. looking to buy this bag..

[@radbikeadventure]

Still doing a great job! Recommend : )

[@erikjohnson6484]

Love the aesthetics of these type of saddle bags. The reality for me is you can always feel them bouncing no matter how tight you cinch them down. Maybe because I'm a heavier rider? I dunno. Ended up putting a rack on with peace of mind knowing the extra weight is right on the axle. And not with me on a probably already strained 27.2 seat post. Looks less cool but load wiggles no more.

[@radbikeadventure]

On bumpy trails I didn’t notice it much but yea, both kinds of systems work. It was nice being bit more narrow on the trail but might try micro pannier setup in the future, especially if we need to haul more water/gear

[@gravelyc10]

Great info about this bag and tips on how to use it. I’m looking for tips on partial frame bags.

[@radbikeadventure]

Glad you enjoyed it. I can definitely do a video about my partial frame bag.

[@gravelyc10]

That would be great!

[@TheLivingstons]

I just got the revelate designs terrapin 14l. Amazing pack. Almost bought the Topeak. Would have had I seen this first! Great review.

[@radbikeadventure]

No doubt a great bag as well! Thanks :)

[@username6265]

Great review! Thanks

[@conhakan]

Thanks my friend 😊

[@greggr1591]

This bag keeps the Brooks clean underneath, too (a bonus); very nice review. Got any handlebar bag reviews coming? (Darin should get credit as your videographer 🤘🏻)

[@radbikeadventure]

Yes true! Haha yea I should mention that she's filming and give her credit! And yes to the bag reviews. Coming soon :)

[@rickfranklin1471]

Nice saddle. Thanks for the info.

[@michaeltattershall7566]

Reviews on frame and handle bar bags would be cool

[@ryand141]

Where is your tent and sleeping bag? Would've been informative to see how you packed your gear. Thx.

[@Daventhemermaid]

Been using mine for a few years now. Great bags. I also use their front loader. Maybe do a review on this one as well?

[@umechanmink]

Thanks for the review! Will you be making a video on the Wayward Riders one as well?

[@radbikeadventure]

Yes! We were just discussing some upcoming reviews we need to film. It's on the list!

[@roryparlin2414]

Love the bag. Looks awesome 😎

[@radbikeadventure]

Ya, I'm still digging it! Needs to go on more adventures tho 😉

[@jpvillarosa4196]

Helpful video since i wasn't sure if it will conform with a brooks saddle.👍

[@radbikeadventure]

Glad it was helpful JP!

[@pablolopez6607]

I have the Topeak 10L backloader and it is the best thing for that size that you can find nowadays available. @Rad Bike Adv. Could you please share which frame bag you were using in this video? It looks it fits perfectly with two normal size bottles. Thanks!

[@radbikeadventure]

Hi Pablo! The frame bag in this video is actually being used backwards but it did work pretty well that way! It's the Jaand frame bag: www.jandd.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=FFP

[@LewiBlake]

Great review. What are those bottle bags on the handlebars. Would love to see a review on them

[@radbikeadventure]

They are feedsacks by Rockgeist. Yes, a review will be coming in the future!

[@Draculapin]

Great review. I think I’m gonna get myself one for 2/3 days trips

[@georgex5959]

I really enjoyed this review. It would have been helpful (for us beginners) to know what (how much) you have in the bag

[@radbikeadventure]

Good point George. I will be sure to make a follow up video showing everything I can fit in there (including weight!). From memory, I had a full change of clothes, a puffy jacket and my rain gear. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@georgex5959]

@@radbikeadventure Brilliant

[@phillipsly]

Really good review, I thanks for sharing!

[@aldunne2001]

Nice review. I have the very same bag and I concur with your assessment. Solid piece of gear at a decent price point. I also have a 2016 Kona Sutra, before they switched to thru axel. Mine has the black leather Brooks B17 and black handlebar tape. I like to retro look of the brown saddle and tape that you are using. Keep up the great work and valuable content.

[@radbikeadventure]

Nice, we've got somewhat of a matching setup then! Thanks Alan

[@Alex_564]

This looks perfect, thank you!

[@Condom7654]

I was just about to buy new panniers but this has persuaded me to go the "rocket bag" route, great name btw. We look to have the same bike too, I love my Kona Sutra, didn't get on with the Brooks saddle though, persevered for 1500 painful kilometers before ditching. What handlebar tape do you have, my original Kona tape is almost dead but I want something that feels as comfortable to replace, any ideas?

[@radbikeadventure]

Re: bar tape: Lizard skins are a popular option but I used Newbaums cloth tape over the torn up tape I already had on there (to add a little extra padding). You can also shallac it. It’s not to everyone’s liking but I dig it! I’d pop into a local bike shop and see what they have and what you like.

[@paul2841889]

Thanks for sharing , was wondering to buy this one or not . now i definitely gonna get one ^^

[@radbikeadventure]

Glad I could help!

[@Out2pedal]

Hi!!Is it comptible with the wolftooth valais? Im using dropper post and valais is essential to me. Any idea? Cheers!!

[@mdags1978]

Great review. Thank you.

[@veyrethomas3934]

Thanks for the review. One question : do you feel any rubbing against the back of your thigh when you're pedaling? I do with my current saddlebag (Rapha), which is quite unpleasant.

[@shelleyshell1150]

Great review and information!

[@radbikeadventure]

Thanks so much Shelley!

[@SimonFaeDenny]

Cheers, exactly the info I wanted to know 👍

[@niceup1177]

Perfect review!

[@radbikeadventure]

Thanks glad you found it helpful!

[@madiantin]

What a great bag!

[@gegeharsyah9873]

Anyway, can fold it into smaller package for daily riding? I like this the bag, but sometimes I don't bring many for daily riding.

[@radbikeadventure]

A little bit smaller but it will still hang (like I showed) . But if you buy the smaller sized one I bet that would work better for day rides

[@richardjaques4452]

Did you review the triangle or your snack/drink holders in a previous video?

[@radbikeadventure]

Not yet. We will have those reviews soon!

[@alfred1925]

Fitted mine and it was on the back wheel! I think mt saddle was a bit low anyway. Got about an inch of clearance now. Toppeak say 3.5" in minimum but that seems unnecessary. Will an inch be OK? I'm not doing any serious off read stuff. Don't have rear suspension.

[@radbikeadventure]

An inch isn't much but if you're not going off road I think you'll be fine. You'll find out soon enough! I noticed mine would hit the tire if I went off a bigger drop on the trail.

[@alfred1925]

@@radbikeadventure Thanks. I discovered eyelets above the axle and found out you can get a seat collar with eyelets so I’m moving to try out one of their racks.

[@lundoftheeast219]

How is the side to side sway (pendulum action)?

[@radbikeadventure]

Gotta strap it down tightly and i've been good, but as with all bags of this kind, there is some sway.

[@accestos]

EXCELLENT PRODUCT!!

[@beardedman447]

Hi! I am tall 6,4 and while pedaling, I lightly touch the bag with my thighs. I wonder if this is normal? Do you have the same issue?

[@mitch6221]

Have the same backloader/bag liner...,(used it for 6 days on the Oregon coast in February(rain/snow),"no issues with it.😊🚴☕🍩🌅🌅🌅🌅🌅

[@radbikeadventure]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing Mitch!

[@fabiomachado3617]

Heyy thanks! I will get one :)

[@nicholasjeffway5703]

Thanks !!

[@massimilianoangeloni3189]

Can I fit a 50cm long tent in the 15L version?

[@massimilianoangeloni3189]

Love the review btw

[@shramo2011]

I can't figure out if such a 15 liter topeak saddle bag would be too loose? Does anyone have experience here?

[@radbikeadventure]

The 10 doesn't have much movement at all and I think another 5 litres would be ok. Haven't tried the 15L, but if you tighten this thing SNUG, it's very stable.

[@martinkennedy3696]

Topeak make good stuff!

[@sheilastallard]

Thinking of buying my hubby a bag like this..........Must ask for a "Butt" bag!!!! Keep Safe!!

[@danstenis660]

It doesn't matter if the bag flops around when empty because the swing weight of an empty pack is minimal.

[@OverTheHillPhil]

I've had Topeak for some years. Well made but not waterproof which is a pain in the butt.

[@radbikeadventure]

I’ll have to test the waterproofing on this one! Says it is. But glad to have the dry bag inside too

[@tshen2476]

@@radbikeadventure mfg site says “waterproof rating 10,000 mm (waterproof inner bag)”

[@MrMarcipans]

is the 10L size big enough for You?

[@radbikeadventure]

So far yes, it has been plenty big. We've been going on 1-2 night trips but even with a longer trip I don't suspect I'd take more clothing which is what I'm carrying there (with room to spare).

[@rachelenglish1032]

I LOVE PANNIERS easy breezy. why change all of this?? its too expejs9ve, we have jannd gear it works great!

[@radbikeadventure]

Jaand is great! Panniers are great too just not so great on narrow and bumpy trails, plus you have a tendency to pack more stuff with them. We had panniers while bikepacking in NZ and these bags make it a lot easier to bomb bumpy terrain and swiftly move through tight single track. Will def be keeping the panniers for road touring and grocery runs!

[@rourkey3o353]

Hey!! If you are gonna start a kick ass bike channel and make cool touring videos you need to give notice... Now I gotta ring work... Tell them I'm sick... Lot of watching to do

[@markroy5555]

Great review,...bitchin' bag. Well, there goes more money out of the checking account.

[@Galactico42]

Robust! (downs a shot)

[@radbikeadventure]

😂 If Ryan hasn't said "robust" at least once in a review then the gear isn't legit lol

[@Galactico42]

@@radbikeadventure you should make stickers.