Comments on: “Ultralight” Setup

By: fully loaded touring

fully loaded touring — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:57:05 +0000

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By: arlen

arlen — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 21:03:37 +0000

like your set up….
i have something like what you use….
comfort for me is big…
and the older you are …
comfort is very important…
drop me a note and i will send you a picture of my set up

By: cstandley

cstandley — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:24:49 +0000

Steve,
This looks like an example of parallel evolution. I’ve emailed Carradice about wanting an updated Nelson Longflap. They are considering adding some D-rings for a shoulder strap, but not a lightweight nylon version. I really think that Carradice needs to do something with their designs to distinguish themselves and use their name brand recognition as there’s a lot of competition appearing. Lightweight versions of the Longflap would be good. I was impressed by the waterproof 100D Nylon material of the Sea to Summit compression sacks and think that might make a good bag……I’d love to see some new handlebar bags too.

My handlebar bag is from Rivendell and should be waterproof as it’s made from waxed cotton. I chose it because it is a good size at 7.5L and the simple design makes it light at 13oz, but again I’m thinking that the design would work brilliantly in 100D waterproof nylon and given that a 10L Sea to Summit compression sack weighs 4.5oz a handlebar bag with traditional features and modern materials should be possible at around 4oz. I may be talking to a custom bag maker soon………

By: Steve Pells

Steve Pells — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:03:13 +0000

Hello Clive-

I’ve not actually done the experiment with the stuffsacks / frame bags, as you have, but I reached the same conclusions re. saddlebag v. ultralight bags. My setup is here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/sentiententity/4110782410/

Almost the same as yours , except that I have my thermarest riding in a bottle cage and the shelter (Hennessey hammock, not tent) in the saddlebag along with everything else. I’ve a newer handlebar bag which is properly waterproof but only a single layer, so lighter than I had previously. Maybe it’s because I live in Scotland, but waterproof is a dealbreaker for me-not merely nice to have, but absolutely essential. Especially if touring ultralight, there’s nothing worse than finishing a pass drenched to the skin, only to find that your spare kit is soaked as well!

I agree with you about the Carradice Longflap design. It’s a fantastic design, but I really wish they’d update it, using quick-release straps and waterproof nylon. Then it would be absolutely perfect.

I use the “SQR” quick release system for my saddlebag. Much more convenient than the traditional straps, even though is obviously weighs more. I should check and see how the SQR system compares to the “bagman” style racks.

It’s not just about the weight!

By: cstandley

cstandley — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 05:20:51 +0000

Thanks, I’ll post a video soon showing how I pack the new setup.

By: Chris

Chris — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 03:04:13 +0000

Mighty helpful. Thank you. I think my S24O gear weighs more than this. I will observe and learn.

By: cstandley

cstandley — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:40:32 +0000

Hi Chris,
I just posted a gear list.

By: cstandley

cstandley — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:45:18 +0000

Thanks for taking an interest in my site and setup. I’ll add something to the post you commented on and post a spreadsheet of my gear list.

By: Chris

Chris — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:00:27 +0000

I have become very interested in a lighter weight/more minimalist approach to covering ground. Could you elaborate on bags, contents, attachment to the bike, etc.?

By: mike

mike — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:26:14 +0000

nice. been making similar moves, but with custom bags:
http://littlecirclesvt.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/IMG_9412.JPG

looking forward to spring, summer, and fall.