Tailfin introduced its Rack system and the AeroPack as well as the removable AP18 version in 2018.
Now after 6 years and a lot of small improvements the British brand introduces a new version with 3 litres extra storage. The side pockets with a flexible mesh are expandable and can be accessed easily even if the bags are closed.
When I tested the original AeroPack I knew it was something special. A lot of volume (in fact maybe too much for my normal liking) super sturdily attached to a Thru Axle with mounts and your seatpost. The ride feeling was amazing.
Obviously the bike gets more passive and doesn't move as agile the more weight you have, but still no swaying, no getting out of shape and rubbing on my tire, the Tailfin AeroPack system has become a companion for trips that are either very long and require lots of gear, or just if I need some space for laptop and other gear to bring along.
The two things I would want different are the many proprietary parts that stress my brain for the moment it would fail. That hasn't happened but still it is something I can't really get out of my head.
And that I am hesitating to put anything i might need urgently INTO the AeroPack as i don't want to repack it.
Tailfin are famous for their R&D Division and obviously it's not only marketing. The brand listens to feedback of their riders and we were able to see prototypes of white R&D bags with side pockets and other features since a long time!
I was able to take a look at the new bags at Cyclingworld Europe and can't wait to get my own version. Here's the details:
- 18 litres in the main body +3 litres of easy-access storage.
- Fully compatible with existing systems.
- Based on the current AeroPack/AP18 footprint. Can be set up as an AeroPack or Rack Top Bag.
- Expandable cargo pockets. Perfect for stowing regularly needed kit.
- Single-buckle access to the main body of the bag.
- Adjustable compression strap adds even more storage options.
- Light coloured internal base for visibility.
- Signature Tailfin Hypalon, Diamond Ripstop & Stretch Nylon fabrics chosen for durability and flexibility. 6061-T6 internal aluminium frame.
- Welded construction = 100% waterproof.
- Additional mounting points for water bottle/cargo cage.
A progression rather than a revolution
The new cargo version seems like a great update and taking in requested features and improvement.
We have first seen the expandable pockets on the Bar Bag System. We did write about this and the known stability and ease of attaching and detaching the bag as well as the pleasantly available storage made this a favorite for us last season.
The new cargo version of the Rack Top bags give us more of the same! What remains is a bigger effort to set up your bags in the first place. You will need some tools, time and maybe a test ride to get it 100% perfect. Tailfin provide simple and detailed instructions and the focus on having only one size of Torx screws shows someone really thought about making your life easy and finding solutions to make installation of a complex product as simple as possible. ...with the small headache of some proprietary parts you can't fix with your trusty Voilé strap.
Other notable updates and improvements include that the closure system of the bag is now a single buckle system, which makes it easier to open and close without your saddle being in the way.
A single compression strap also makes the final adjustment quicker and easier. To combat issues with the bag retaining it's shape three carbon battens have been added so bulky items don't bulge out and you can pack with a nice and even shape.
A nice improvement is the inclusion of more reflective details! Black items and night riding don't mix well. The lower accessory mounts also give more space now for cargo cages or bottle cages and you fit adjustable light mounts to mimic a seatpost and mount up to two lights. Something i have been waiting for!
Lastly the new bag version features and Air Valve for better compression.
Not lightweight, but practical and competitive
Talking about downsides the Rack Top Bags will not be the most lightweight solution. The AP18 Cargo removable rack top bags including hardware weighs 682g, the AeroPack Cargo Carbon without pannier mounts on the arch comes in at 922g and the alloy version with pannier mounts comes in at 1230g.
That being said for what it delivers I think in most cases you will gladly take the weight penalty for improved ride performance and easy packing and volume on your bike.
It is also worth pointing out that Tailfin offer other storage options that are indeed more lightweight with less storage. Horses for courses.
Thinking that this larger, more practical version would be aimed squarely at the casual or touring rider, we were pleasantly surprised that the racers in the R&D Division couldn’t get enough of the practicality, ease of use and, more importantly, the rapidity of being able to securely stow and access kit on the go.
The new cargo versions are backwards compatible!
A really nice touch is that the AeroPack Cargo/AP18 Cargo is actually fully reverse-compatible with existing systems. Meaning you can buy the bags stand alone without the arch and upgrade it yourself with just a few screws.
This falls in line with Tailfin's generous 5 year warranty. A good sign the company trusts their own products and a welcome effort for consumers to use and repair their bags for longer.
Premium product, premium price!
You might have already guessed it. Tailfin products read, look and feel premium. Carbon Arc and battens, ripstop nylon, tons of features and accessories, ...
You can find way cheaper options for rear storage on your bike, still Tailfin has established itself as a key player in bikepacking. And that for a reason. The products solve real problems with highly engineered solutions.
Still, the price is a steeper investment:
- AP18 Cargo £190 / $260 / €240
- AeroPack Carbon Cargo with pannier mounts £430 / $590 / €540 (upgrade from regular AeroPack £30 / $40 / €40)
Tailfin are entering another year of big product launches. This is a very welcome update and shows the innovative spirit of the brand. We can't wait for more new products to come.
What are your thoughts? Are you intrigued and willing to pay the price? Or do you prefer a traditional bag to strap on your seatpost?
Also... did you notice the new branding?
