For those who find the additional weight of a spare battery of at least 2.5 kg in their backpack is too much, we looked for alternative solutions and found a frame bag from Topeak and a saddlebag from ORTLIEB. However, both systems are only partially suitable for trail use and quickly reach their limits with many batteries.
Topeak MidLoader 3L frame bag
Only a few bikes have enough space in the front triangle to accommodate a frame bag – hardtails are most suitable. The Topeak MidLoader 3L is made of light, water-repellent, and robust material and attaches with Velcro straps. We successfully mounted it on a Trek Powerfly 9 LT. Naturally, the approximately 3 kg of additional weight on the top tube changes the centre of gravity of the bike and noticeably affects the handling. The bike feels less planted, especially in corners.
Take note of the space requirements of the MidLoader 3L. Along the top tube, you’ll need approximately 37.5 cm; the bag is 12 cm tall, and it measures 28 cm along the bottom. The Shimano STEPS battery BT-E8010 easily fits into the bag, but the Bosch PowerPack takes a little manoeuvring to fit in. The frame bag doesn’t have enough space for other types of batteries. On gravel roads, the Topeak MidLoader 3L is a very inexpensive alternative to a battery backpack. On rough trails, however, we wouldn’t recommend using the frame bag.
Strengths
– less weight on your back
– low-cost alternative
Weaknesses
– almost exclusively suitable for hardtails
– changes the bike’s riding characteristics
Price: € 39.95
Weight: 250 g
Volume: 3 l
Info: topeak.com
ORTLIEB Seat-Pack M
Designed for bikepacking adventures, the ORTLIEB Seat-Pack M offers 11 litres of volume and can also be used to transport spare batteries. Installation is uncomplicated and can be completed within a minute. When packing, however, you must ensure that the battery isn’t loose in the saddlebag. Therefore it is best to wrap it in a spare jersey to fill the bag’s width and height. Then close the bag with the roll-top closure, squeeze out the air through the valve, and then tighten it again. You should make sure that the battery is as close as possible to the bike to minimise leverage. We would also advise against putting the longer InTube batteries in a saddlebag.
Furthermore, we would not attach the bag to a dropper seatposts, as your post might get scratched. If you use the full volume of the ORTLIEB Seat-Pack M and load the bag heavily, you will notice that the centre of gravity of the bike is moved backwards. On very steep climbs you will have to put noticeably more weight on the front wheel. However, if you only want to take your battery, some clothes, and a few small things with you for a tour on service roads, you’ll hardly feel any negative influences on the handling. For trail use, however, we can’t recommend the bag, as lowering the saddle is limited and slight lateral movement of the bag can’t be prevented, no matter how tight you pull the straps.
Strengths
– less weight on your back
– doubles as a mudguard for the rear wheel
– absolutely waterproof
Weaknesses
– not suitable for dropper seatposts
– expensive
– changes the bike’s handling
Price € 129.99
Weight: 336 g
Volume: 11 l
Info: ortlieb.com
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