I got some new gear this week so I had to take a ride to test it out. What I got was:
- Tourmaster Draft 4 mesh jacket
- Coleman tank bag
- Rok Straps
- Sedici cooling vest
The jack is Hi-Viz yellow and came with a removable waterproof liner. The fit is great.
The tank bag was inexpensive, about $33, so compared to others, which run from $100-200, it's a good deal. It's small but has magnetic attachment, a rain hood, a bunch of pockets inside, a carrying handle, and a clear plastic top which is removable by undoing snaps and velcro. I wasn't sure I wanted a tank bag but when I heard about this one I thought the price was too good to pass up and decided give a try. I like it. I can keep my small water bottle, a hat, and other items I want easy access to without having to get into the saddle bags.
The Rock straps seem like the way to go rather than bungee cords but I haven't figured out the right way to attach them yet. For now I am using one as a tether for the tank bag.
The cooling vest was another impulse buy. I read lots of good reviews and they sound like a simple solution to riding in the summer heat. The vest is placed in cool water for a minute of two and then it's worn under the mesh jacket. It retains lots of the water and stays cool by evaporation. On today's ride it worked just fine. I really gave it a soak and by the time I got back my shirt and pants were wet. I think I'll wring it out a bit next time.
The ride was out to the Chief Joseph memorial, and then down to Laurel, through town, and back east on River/Theil Road. I had it all to myself. When I got to Duck Creek Road, I turned right and went down a quarter mile to Fritz and drove up to the top for some photos. I ran that hill yesterday morning. Lots easier on the bike.
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