Tailfin are a brand that is still fairly new to the market of bikepacking, gravel and cycling in general, but if you are into those things it is very unlikely you haven't heard of them.
Their rack system has managed to make racks sexy, aero and lightweight, bringing them back to races like Silkroad Mountainrace or Atlas Mountainrace with much success not only from top athletes. I am testing their AeroPack since December of last year and while I still need to wrap this review up in general I have to say I am impressed.
Not because its light and aero, no because of the level in detail and engineering that went into it. They look neat and minimal with a desirable design, you can clearly see that someone put a lot of thought and effort into a great amount of details. And it seems to pay off.
I asked myself one question though: Is this the door opener for the return of Panniers?!?
Tailfin gives us their modern take on panniers
What steered modern bikepacking equipment away from racks is the need for a rack which takes time to mount and the weight and bulkiness of panniers. Tailfin laid the foundation with their universal Thru-Axles and lightweight rack solution and now they deliver panniers that are light and lock in secure and easy. Their unique clamp system makes mounting easy and locks the bags tightly in position to make sure your gear is safe even on rough off-road paths.
The bikepacking rack and bag brand did already launch 5L, 10L and22L panniers, however with their new 16-litre panniers they want to deliver the perfect size for commuters and every day tasks, as well as your bikepacking adventure. Just spacious enough to fita 14-inch laptop or your bivvy setup for the next overnighter.
The laptop holster that Tailfin sell separately for 25€ looks like a nice addition to the bag and we can't wait to give it a test!
What do you need to know?
Here are the specifications and specs:
- 16-litre capacity. Designed to slot into the range between the smaller 5- and 10-litre bags and the full-capacity 22-litre versions.
- Shaped to create a minimal profile, reducing the risk of snagging on tight trails.
- X-Clamp mounting hardware is a unique attachment mechanism:
- Single lever-operated cam that provides an over-centred clamping mechanism (NOT just a hook) for zero rattle and perfect fit.
- Principally made up of three CNC machined 6061-T6 alloy components combined with various bushings and pivots.
- Design is modular and user-serviceable in the event of any damage.
- Internal CNC machined and lightweight 6061-T6 alloy frame adds stiffness and stability directly inside the bag.
- Compatible secure Laptop Holster available separately.
- Ships with two modular T Hook compression straps providing two closure options - roll-top or side-closure.
- T Hook compression straps can also be used across the front of the bag to attach further luggage or provide extra load compression.
- 100% waterproof welded Hypalon and ripstop nylon construction.
- Compatible with all Tailfin racks including the original T1.
- Additional shims allow mounting to any brand of rack, front or rear.
- 5-year, no-quibble warranty.
- Crash replacement warranty.
- Weight limit: 4kg (off-road use), 8kg (road use).
- Weight:570g* / with Laptop Holster 690g
*without additional stacking straps (50g)
The panniers are sold separately at a price of €120 (£100) and the Laptop holster is sold separately.
They do look promising for sure and I will keep my eyes open this season, as I am sure I'll see them out on the trails.
You can find the bags on Tailfin's website.
What are your thoughts? Strap on bags all the way or are panniers coming back?