It seems like it was only a matter of time before Camelbak brought their bag expertise to the world of bikepacking & long-distance gravel. That’s exactly what they brought to Eurobike in their new M.U.L.E. On Bike bag range. However, it was the metal podium bottle on the wall behind the bags that first attracted our attention.
For those who prefer a metal bottle to plastic, Camelbak will soon offer their Podium bottle design in Stainless Steel and Titanium. While Camelbak already offered stainless steel bottles in their Everyday collection, this is their first use in the Podium series.
The bottles use a dual-wall insulated construction that is said to keep drinks cold for 14-18h. Inside is a flexible straw, however, the straw is the vent, not something you drink out of. If you turn the bottle upside down, water will simply flow out of the valve without needing to suck.
Stainless steel podium bottles will be offered in two sizes, 18 ($35) and 22oz ($40), while Titanium will only be offered in the 18oz size for $100. Yes, a $100 bottle. It is titanium though.
M.U.L.E. On Bike Bags
The new M.U.L.E. On Bike Bag line is a five-piece collection that covers the bases for most bikepacking & long-distance gravel rides. The standout for us is the M.U.L.E. Frame Pack with Hydration, which includes the new 2L Quick Stow bladder with a QuickStow Cap on the other end with an on/off valve for easy water dispensing at camp. It’s also compatible with the Lifestraw filters, so you can filter the water at camp directly into the bladder.
The bag itself has two sizes and multiple attachment points along three sides so you can place the velcro straps where you need them. Built with a water-repellent fabric and waterproof zippers, the water compartment has two zippers to make it easy to load the bladder, and the other side has a separate pocket for other goods.
There are also two sizes of saddle packs with the M.U.L.E. 1 and M.U.L.E. 9, the 9 being the 9L bikepacking variant.
Up front, the M.U.L.E. 12 Handlebar Pack is a cavernous bag to run on your bars. There’s also a M.U.L.E. stem bag with the option to run an additional bottle or have quick access to food or gear. Expect to see these for sale around March 2024, with pricing below.
M.U.L.E. On Bike Pricing:
M.U.L.E. Frame Pack with Hydration 70oz LG – $150
M.U.L.E. Frame Pack with Hydration 70oz MD – $140
M.U.L.E. 12 Handlebar Pack – $100
M.U.L.E. Stem Bag – $30
M.U.L.E. 9 Saddle Pack – $90
M.U.L.E. 1 Saddle Pack – $40
Quick Stow 2L Reservoir – $50
New Chase Vests + Podium Flow 2
If that wasn’t enough, Camelbak also has two new Chase hydration vests and a new hip belt as well. The New Chase Race 4 ($115) includes a 1.5L hydration bladder and is meant for racing. The Chase Adventure 8 ($130) has a 2L reservoir and a lot more storage for adventure riding where less than a full hydration pack is still desired.
Finally, the Podium Flow 2 Belt gets the same revised middle bottle position as the recently revamped Podium Flow 4 Belt. The new positioning makes it easier to get the bottles in and out, and the Flow 2 will sell for $55.
