CamelBak’s M.U.L.E. (which stands for Medium to Ultra Long Endeavours) has stood the test of time, becoming a mainstay of the brand’s bike pack range. Today’s M.U.L.E. is highly evolved and there are models tailored for everything from commuting through to big days out on e-enduro bikes over demanding terrain. The team at Coach stablemate MBR checked out three variations suited to trail riders of all sorts. Watch the video below to hear what they have to say.
M.U.L.E. 12L
This is the standard pack aimed at trail riders, but don’t take standard to mean run of the mill – it still packs in loads of features. The 12L capacity is plenty for a big day out on the trails and the pack is constructed from recycled materials. Most importantly for the environment, the pack is built to last.
The latest CamelBak three-litre reservoir is included with the pack and it’s equipped with an improved shut-off valve that prevents leaks, even if you pile loads of kit on top of a full bladder in the boot of your car. Plus, the new reservoir cap is easier to open and close than ever. CamelBak says that the new reservoir delivers 20% more water per sip than the older version and Hydroguard technology helps prevent bacterial nasties from growing inside!
CamelBak’s Magnetic Tube Trap keeps unruly delivery tubes in place on the harness which prevents the tube from flapping around and makes it easy to locate without taking your eyes off the trail.
The Air Support back panel, which features on all M.U.L.E. models, maximises air flow and helps to prevent overheating and the dreaded sweaty back.
The storage options are plentiful and well thought out, with integrated tool organisers and a multitude of pockets. There’s also a sternum strap and a removable stability belt to achieve a stable fit.
The M.U.L.E. 12L also comes in a variety of colours, and in versions to suit male and female physiques. It costs £120.
M.U.L.E. Evo 12L
The Evo has all the same features as the standard M.U.L.E., but is aimed at riders who never let the weather get in their way. It adds all-weather protection with its welded construction.
In addition, the Evo is equipped with CamelBak’s Command Centre harness which uses two chest straps to ensure the load is stabilised, doing away with the need for a waist strap.
The Evo comes in one style and costs £140.
M.U.L.E. Pro 14L
If big days out on an e-bike over serious terrain are more your thing then this is your bag.
The extra two-litres of capacity means it can swallow an e-bike battery on top of your regular kit, so you can double your range to reach the most testing terrain.
Whilst you’re there you’ll be glad to know that, as in all of CamelBak’s Pro range, you can slide in an extra back protector.
The Pro also comes with a tool roll to keep everything organised and rattle free, and there is additional storage in the waist strap for small items. If you decide to hop on an uplift there is built-in storage for your helmet.
Like the Evo, the Pro costs £140 and there’s a choice of black or agave green colourways.
For further details head to camelbak.co.uk
