Ok, yes I shamelessly stole the topic name
I started out my Kriega collection with their R-25 pack sevral years ago. Back then they basically only had the R-25 and R-35 packs and a couple other small add-ons. Since then, they have added more than a dozen items. A couple more size of back packs, waist packs, tail/tank bags an other goodies. They seem to have something for pretty much any application. Also a lot of them are modular, so you can build all sorts of custom configurations.
After the holidays I've added a couple more Kriega items to my collection, and traded one out. Since the topic of back packs and/or messenger bags comes up with some regularity - I figured I'd share my experiences with Kriega bags.
The short general look at Kriega - they are top notch. They are designed with riding in mind. As such, they have features that your standard run of the mill bags don't. The design takes into account riding postures, armored jackets, use with gloves and a number of other utility features. Also, the materials are tip top. Though they say many their bags are not water proof, they have gone to lengths to make them as close to it as possible. There are a number of items them do offer, which are listed as water proof.
None of the materials/parts are skipped on. Heavy weight water resistant rip-stop nylon, schoeller-reflex panels, rubberized zippers, aluminum cinching mechanisms etc
*Edit - since it came up in the thread I should note that Kriega offers a 10 (ten) year warrenty on their stuff. Not much in this world with a warrenty like that any more
R-25 Back pack
He Mans detailed review (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=11593.0). He man pretty much sums up on this pack, and I agree with him. It's a great pack. Prior to getting this pack, I was using a normal back pack that I found impossible to get on with my jacket on. I'd end up taking off the jacket, putting the pack on the jacket and then wresting the whole ensemble into place. Far from ideal as you can imagine.
The fit of the Quadloc strap system that He man notes is a bit win. It might look a little odd and parachute like, but the weight distribution system and ease of adjustment far outweigh any look based issues, for me.
The R-25 is a pretty simple pack layout when you break it down. There's two zippered compartments, one large that accounts for most of the packs volume, and a smaller outer stash pocket. The main pocket has a smaller mesh, organizer, pocket in it at the top. There's also a slim pocket built in against the wall closest to your back. It's handy for maps, papers - stuff like that. Rounding out the organization features is a hook for your keys, or the like. So there's not a ton of sub pockets and compartments, which some might see as a detriment. But extra zippers, dividers etc add weight and bulk to a pack. The lean design of the R-25 minimizes the weight and bulk of the pack.
Topping things off, there's 4 compression cinch straps that can - well compress and stabilize your load. They also can be used to add one of their US-5 or US-10 packs to the R-25.
The R-25 can carry a lot. I know for a fact that it can fit a 17" MacBook, a bunch of CDs and dinner for two. It carried 4 days worth of clothes for a run to deals gap, that included jeans, street shoes, socks, shirts and underoos, some additional tools, a SLR camera, an extra hemlet visor, water bottle and munchies. On that trip I did use stuff sacks and it was pretty full - but I still could have worked some more stuff in
R11 Waist pack
This is the item I traded back in. It's basically one pouch without the organization features seen in the smaller R3 waist pack.
It's intended for use with their 1.5 hydrapack water bladder - but doesn't come with it. To add the water bladder, it's additional $25 item. As a result, the R11 with hydra pack costs more than the Hydro 3, which comes with a water bladder from the outset. If you are looking for a larger, water proof waist pack you might look at this one. But I think there's better offerings from Kreiga that could fill a similar role. Which brings me to
Hydro 3 back pack
This is a small back pack featuring a 3 liter water bladder. If you're looking for a small day pack and/or a back pack type water system this is a great choice. I haven't ridden with it yet (since it's still very winter) But I have filled it with water and put it on with a jacket.
With just a little adjustment it fits perfectly over the jacket, even with it's got small spoiler hump (Dianese Santa Monica for reference). It sits low enough to clear that hump and also not interfere with the helmet when you're leaned forward.
As with the r25 the adjustments are pretty slick. The shoulder strap length is set with some guide straps that also feature marks to help you adjust them evenly. The wider section that rests on you shoulders actually isn't fixed where you'd typically see, at the body of the pack. In fact they aren't fixed at all, but slide in or out of the pack body depending on the length you set with the guide straps. It's quite a good solution. Unlike the R25, it's not designed to adjust the shoulders with the pack on.
When you put the pack on, it's secured by a single chest clip - what they call Quadloc LITE 4 point harness. The shoulder straps count for 2 points, the other 2 points of the 4 point pass around your lower ribs and are set with a simple cinch strap adjustment. With the shoulder straps set correctly and the rib straps cinched it feels very solid. They do supply a waist strap, but I don't think I'll ever need to use it, and it's easily removed.
As mentioned, it has a 3 liter water bladder that is removable. The bladder and hose are connected via a quick disconnect system, making it petty easy to take out the bladder, without forcing you to remove the drinking tube from the pack. This feature, combined with the design of the bladder allows for easy filling and cleaning. The bladder is built so it can be turned inside out to let things dry - it even has instructions screened on to it on how to do so. As i said, attention to details is apparent through out.
The drinking tube is terminated with a bite style valve that can also be pushed in to seal it and prevent any accidental leaks.
With the bladder in, the cargo capacity is pretty limited. There are two pockets in the pack, the main one is where the bladder lives. The other is a zippered pocket that runs the length and width of the pack. With the bladder full, you could fit a decent selection of small items - like snacks, a rag and maybe smoother little bits. With the bladder empty, you could probably fit a couple t shirts and sundries. IF you removed the bladder, you could probably swing a shirt, shorts and flip flops.
Beyond the two pockets there is an external; shock cord web that can be used to compress/stabilize the load - that could be pressed into holding something like a jacket liner, shirt etc. The Hydro-3 does have the ability to mount one of the US-5 or US-10 add on packs if you need more room.
As I said, I haven't put the Hydro 3 to the test yet - but I think it'll be a very useful item.
The Kube
Kriega has all sorts of modular add-on packs, one line is the Kubes. The smallest is the Kube Pocket. It's a simple little (0.5 Liter) add on pocket that's designed to fit over a strap on a larger bag.
It's height and width are a bit larger than the dimensions of an iPod/Iphone in a case, and 2-3 times as deep. Obviously not a huge amount of space - but perfect for a phone an other small items you might want to keep ready at hand.
Like the other stuff, it's made of heavy gauge nylon canvas that has a big patch of the schoeller-reflex down the front, with a water resistant zipper to close it. Also, even though it's tiny, they build not a cinch strap to secure your load.
The R-15
Because I am a gear whore - I graced myself with an R-15.
Obviously the R-15 is smaller than my older war horse R-25, but not surprisingly shares a lot of the same features - so I'll hit the differences.
The R-15 uses the quadloc LITE 4 harness system, like the Hydro-3 above. The R-15 also has a waist strap, though I don't think mine will see much use since the torso harness does a good job at solidly holding the load.
Like the Hyrdo-3 the R-15 can carry a water bladder. It's not supplied with one. The pack has an internal pocket and retainer clip that allow for the use of the same 3 liter water bladder the Hyrdo-3 uses. Like that pack the water tube is routed out a passage for the shoulder strap as it shares the quadloc LITE system, when a water system is installed.
The general layout of the pack is about the same as the R-25. There's an external smaller zip pocket, and a larger main section that has a small mesh pouch, a clip for keys and a sub-divider pouch. One difference is that smaller sub divider pouch, which in the R-25 is only big enough for an atlas or similar book shape is much larger in the R-15. This is to accommodate the potential water bladder and that pocket features cinch straps. If you don't have a water bladder, it could easily be used to carry and secure... something or other.
The outside of the pack has the same rubberized zippers seen on the Hydro-3, and the main compartment's zipper runs about 2/3 the perimeter of that compartment. Such a large zipper should allow for easy loading of even rather bulky items into the pack. On the exterior of the pack there's also a couple strips of nylon web material running vertically down the pack. The strips are bar stitched in a couple places each, so they form two small loops per strip which could be handy for strapping something to the outside of the pack.
As with other packs, it has attachment points for the US series of add-on bags, and the 4 cinch straps.
One thing that I noticed on this pack, that's not on my R-25 is a small grommet in the bottom of the pack. It's not in a spot that one could attach anything, so I'm assuming it's a drain as it's as close to what would be the lowest point in the pack when worn loaded.
As far as cargo capacity - I've yet to do any real world tests. It looks like it could easily handle a change of gear for going to the gym, or changing out of moto wear at a destination - including a set of shoes of low boots. But it's not up to the 17" macBook challenge like the R-25 is
Kube- gets in the way when your in full tuck. eats rain since its on your chest. But otherwise hella convenient. I love it. Fast access to camera, cell, without digging through your pockets. long zipper attatchment so you dont need to fuss with finding the zipper. Great for mp3, cellphone, camera, sun glasses, candy bars and redbull.
As for my R-25, ive had it for about 2 years now, and had the pleasure to crash in it. i fell on my shoulder/face and rolled ontop of it then tumbled to a stop. theres some scratches on the CNC aluminum ring adjuster, but other then that, it held up great and im still using it. The tough condura or whaever it is they use as the canvas is perfect for abusive motorcycle use. ill post some pics of it tomorrow.
but there is no way i cannot recommend the kriega line. nothing beats it. hands down.
heres some pics of how much i abuse my gear.
(http://kuixihe.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=265&g2_serialNumber=2)
(http://kuixihe.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=269&g2_serialNumber=2)
Ill try to snap pics of post crash bag also half that stuff is held on via duct tape. to keep it from hitting my wheel.
yuu...... We appreciate all the kudos on the Kriega line. [thumbsup] This was unsolicited and really great insight into the product features. Came up on my Google Alerts for Kriega.
Any questions on Kriega products you can check out the site at www.kriega.us (//http://)
Here is a shot from this week of the new waterproof R30 on Neale Bayly as he rides the new Ducati Hypermotards in Arizona, at a Ducati launch.
(http://conpix.smugmug.com/photos/777749136_UDbXs-L.jpg)
Thanks again!
how waterproof is it?
Ive wanted to get a dry bag on my R-25. Whenever i ride in heavy rain, the rain collects on the bottom. Or i can get a new bag. [evil] 5 extra liters sounds like it could come in handy when i go grocery shopping.
The R30 main body is 100% waterproof. Kriega took the best of the backpacks, R25 and used its harness on a drybag that is the main compartment. The outer pockets are water resistant.
Here is a link http://www.kriega.us/products/kriega-r30-rucksack (http://www.kriega.us/products/kriega-r30-rucksack)
Not that I don't want to sell a new R30 but have you looked at a rucksack liner? check this.....
http://www.kriega.us/products/kriega-us-liner (http://www.kriega.us/products/kriega-us-liner)
ive been wanting a liner for a long time because I often get caught in rainstorms without warning in the spring, and i am just too lazy to have to put in a dry bag and take it out if not in use. Thats why a pack thats 100% waterproof to begin with intrigues me.
But...is it REALLY 100% waterproof, or water resistant?
Main difference to me being is, a waterproof item is waterproof even if i shoot a garden hose at it or tie it to a rock and leave inside a tank of water.
Water resistant will stop rain simply because the water beads up on the surface of it, and the holes aren't big enough to allow water through, but after time or with immediately with a garden hose, the contents inside end up getting wet.
Hey Scott - if you've got a line to kreiga development folks - what about a water proof Kube?
Quote from: He Man on January 30, 2010, 11:26:03 PM
Kube- gets in the way when your in full tuck. eats rain since its on your chest.
Might get in your way during a tuck, there stretch. Might not be so much for a *ahem* taller rider. ;D
clipped your suggestion and just sent off to UK. I see your point. Let's see what they say.....
He Man...... yep, the main body is WATERPROOF. Break out the garden hose..... [laugh]
The other compartments have the sealed zippers.
Quote from: matrixmoto on January 31, 2010, 02:58:29 PM
clipped your suggestion and just sent off to UK. I see your point. Let's see what they say.....
it would be cool if you can make the wasit straps smaller. at 5'6 fit frame. its too loose when i dont use the jacket.
waist strap on............? waistpacks or R15 and R20? R25, R30, R35 do not have waist straps.
OR....... are you referring to should straps in general?
Probably the main chassis straps on the bigger packs. I'm a good bit bigger than He Man, but I can cinch the straps on my R-25 pretty far down.
Yeah I love my Kriega packs too. I have the R25 and in this pic the US10 used as a waterproof tail bag; works great and the R25 IS amazing!
(http://applewood.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Ducati-S4/IMG3813/545587505_RYeqy-M-1.jpg)
(http://applewood.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Ducati-S4/IMG4578/663811242_BLRRF-M.jpg)
Quote from: matrixmoto on January 31, 2010, 03:18:20 PM
waist strap on............? waistpacks or R15 and R20? R25, R30, R35 do not have waist straps.
OR....... are you referring to should straps in general?
i meant the straps for the lower abdominal area...or the bottom 2 straips for the gut on the R25.
i had to overlap sew a section of it almost 1 whole inch. But im also a short and skinny guy. 28-30" waist depending on how i eat. lol
yuu, i think you got atleast 100lbs on me. thats a mini me right there. lol
Any pics of the interiors/pockets on the r25 and r30. The pics seem to be missing on He Man's review.
Thanks for the pics. I am still torn. I have an organization fetish and is hard to tell about the bag without seeing one in person. I was thinking of getting the 25 with the 10 addon but maybe I should just go with the 30. I like the idea of being able to use the 10 as a tail bag though.
THe 25 is probably your worst nightmare in terms of pockets. it has 3.
1 small enough for about 3 ipods.
1 medium enough for 2 bottles of water.
1 large enough for your inmagination
This is hte damage on my R-25,
(http://kuixihe.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=275&g2_serialNumber=1)
Yeah, if your idea of a good pack means more pockets than the Kriega packs might not be for you. But, as I said extra pockets and such mean more weight and bulk added to the pack. I've got a few of the Granite Gear Air Bags which I've used when I needed to org gear in my R-25. Couple of those, and maybe an air pocket or two and I'd be set for just about any situation. And, using those, you can move them to any other packs you might have for hiking etc.
Oh, one other thing i found about the R-25 - the width and curve at the top of the pack are almost exactly the same as a helmet visor. On a long trip (1500 mi on 4 days) I stashed a 2nd visor at the top of my pack - fit perfectly just inside the zipper
Thanks for the info everyone.
My old backpack's zipper is broken, so I just ordered a Kriega R20. :) [moto]
Anyone pick up a R30 yet? I can not find interior pics anywhere. I was curious if there is a divider in the main compartment for a laptop. Is there any other internal pockets or just the two on the outside. Hard to find info.
Watch Kriega.us. For most of the packs they have video tours. None for R-30 yet, at least not on the site.
Their youtube channels got some more videos too: http://www.youtube.com/user/matrixmoto (http://www.youtube.com/user/matrixmoto)
Quote from: golgofett on February 13, 2010, 08:44:25 PM
Anyone pick up a R30 yet? I can not find interior pics anywhere. I was curious if there is a divider in the main compartment for a laptop. Is there any other internal pockets or just the two on the outside. Hard to find info.
the R25 does, but it wont it anything larger than a 14"
Quote from: He Man on February 14, 2010, 11:26:35 AM
the R25 does, but it wont it anything larger than a 14"
Could could still fit a 15 inch inside the main compartment though, just not in the sleeve for it? Kinda at an angle and careful packing?
the main compartment could fit a two 17 inch notebooks. and a days worth of clothes + dinner for 2
While I was waiting for my R20 to arrive, I was beginning to worry that it wouldn't be big enough for my computer, etc.
Well, the R20 arrived on Friday, and wow was I surprised! It's rather long, and easily fits my 13" Powerbook G4 in the Axio hard case, plus all my peripherals, glasses cases, phone, wallet, etc. I borrow my colleagues Macbook Pro (15"?), and it too fit easily.
Even better is how comfortable it is! I tried it this morning on my way to give an exam (grad courses have exams on Saturdays! [evil] ). When adjusted properly, the pack fits snugly against your body and because the weight is distributed differently than an ordinary backpack, you hardly noticed it. Finally, the clasp that holds the harness together is a one-push release that opens easily.
I was so pleased, I ordered the US10 which can be attached to my R20 and double as a tailbag.
Once your US10 arrives, please share your thoughts. I've been pondering getting one of my own. I'd like to hear a bit more about them.
i broke the pull strap on my R25. :P Right shoulder tightening strap that is. i tugged on it to adjust my pack, i use it often, because the pack is too big for me so im always trying to get that extra snug fit. Well it finnaly gave. the left one is fine
goes to show, i break everything i own. now i just need to figure a way to fix it. anyone know what kind of thread i should buy?
If you've got time to send it in, they have a 10 year warranty you know. I'd get in touch 1st before trying to cobble with up yourself
Quote from: yuu on February 22, 2010, 05:13:00 AM
Once your US10 arrives, please share your thoughts. I've been pondering getting one of my own. I'd like to hear a bit more about them.
Sorry man, I forgot about this.
I posted some info in another thread (w/ a few new edits):
I use my R
20 with US10 attached for commuting. The US10 rolls closed and is then held in that postion with 3 buckles, and its waterproof.
On a daily basis, I carry:
13" MacBook Pro inside Axio hardcase
assorted manuscripts and paperwork (about 50-75 pages)
computer peripherals, etc. (external hard drive, video adapter, ac adapter, laser pointer)
2 pair prescription glasses
collapsible umbrella
running shoes (size 11-1/2; inside US10)
iPod nano
...and that's an R
20.
Sorry, crappy cell phone pic, but here's tonight's load (R20/US10 on the left):
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d147/pompino/1c045ca0.jpg)
The US10 is also large enough to carry a 6-pack. The other day, I also fit a 4-hook door-mountable coat rack as well all the other stuff mentioned above. [thumbsup]
I'm still loving this combo: I didn't think I'd be so impressed with a backpack. :)
Quote from: yuu on March 16, 2010, 04:28:33 AM
If you've got time to send it in, they have a 10 year warranty you know. I'd get in touch 1st before trying to cobble with up yourself
10 years??? holy crap i thought it was a normal 1 year!
thanks for the info!
Yup. It's right on the front page of the company site.
Quote from: yuu on March 16, 2010, 12:34:42 PM
Yup. It's right on the front page of the company site.
shot an email to matrix moto, no response so i went straight on kriegas website and shot an email to them (which i think goes to matrix moto since they are the sole distributor in the US)
Anyway, they have a rebuild kit for this, as it seems like it must occur kinda often to warrant it. Scott Conley got back to me in the middle of the night and i sent him some pics and he sent me a rebuild kit for the said straps!
Awesome. Looks like my kriegas going to keep on ticking. Im going to have to saw off someones thumb to give Kriega's service and products three thumbs up.
Quote from: He Man on March 19, 2010, 11:39:40 AM
Anyway, they have a rebuild kit for this, as it seems like it must occur kinda often to warrant it. Scott Conley got back to me in the middle of the night and i sent him some pics and he sent me a rebuild kit for the said straps!
Awesome. Looks like my kriegas going to keep on ticking. Im going to have to saw off someones thumb to give Kriega's service and products three thumbs up.
See! Your luck is changing!
I love the Kriega R25 also, fits my thinkpad fine tho my larger T400 now travels without the padded sleeve.
The 10L bag is sorta nice, but small and sorta klugey to attach to tail, but that's sloved with a strap aound my seat and a short bungy. Would like to see a 20L bag.
I was set to buy the tank bag adapter but someone gave me a tank bag.
Stuff is spendy but for carrying on a moto, no foolin around.
Just got an R-15 and added that to my original post, along with some edits to the R-25 info
still waiting for my R25 repair kit :(
Who did you contact?
I just had an exceptional customer service experience with Scott at matrixMoto who posted as matrixmoto.
In going over that R-15 i just got an looking over some photos I found that the water bladder in my Hydro 3 was missing a clip. I contacted him this morning about it and he asked me to send some photos. I snapped a couple celly pix once I got home from work, around 7pm east coast, and sent them off. He mailed me back within a couple minutes to tell me that something was a miss and he was sending me a a new water bladder gratis. he even managed to get it into the UPS chain today.
No hemming or hawing, no send back your old one, once we get it we'll send you another... Just BAM, there's something wrong, here comes a replacement.
edit: got the shipping info late last night it shipped yesterday. :)
got my pull tabs. thanks to scott, they work great. gave me a few extra in case they break again!
I love my R30.
The only problem I have encountered with it is that it sits a little too high on my back and interferes with me cranking my neck back when I'm seriously hanging off. Which, to be honest, I shouldn't be doing when I have a backpack on.
Quote from: matrixmoto on January 31, 2010, 12:03:44 PM
Here is a shot from this week of the new waterproof R30 on Neale Bayly as he rides the new Ducati Hypermotards in Arizona, at a Ducati launch.
(http://conpix.smugmug.com/photos/777749136_UDbXs-L.jpg)
Thanks again!
Wrong place to be testing out a waterproof bag. ;) Well, except for this year of course!! We had more rain in those few months than in the last several years combined! That sparked me into looking into the new R30. Any more reviews on it Matador?
I'm looking at ordering the R30 along with the US10 if they don't have them here at Ducati Scottsdale.
Question for MatrixMoto..will the US10 work as a tailbag on the new Monsters?
I am a new rider and currently researching gear. I have decided to go with a Kriega pack. I commute daily to law school but also make weekend trips to visit my folks. That stated, I'm a little unsure whether to get the R-25, R-30, or R-35. For my daily commute, I will be carrying a laptop and potentially several heavy books. On the weekends, I will be carrying some overnight stuff (clothing, toiletries, shoes). I plan on adding the US-10 as an attachment to whichever pack I get (for weekends). I am just not sure if the R-25 will be sufficient for my commuting needs but I also do not want to run into a situation where the R-30 or R-35 becomes too bulky. Any assistance would be much appreciated.
go with an R30. im thinking about jumping and upgrading to it form my R25 cant beat waterpoofness, and extra pockets.
The R-25 Will fit a 17" Mac book pro with room for plenty more. It's more than sufficient for a weekend.
On a trip to deals gap I carried in an R-25:
Sneakers
Extra socks for a few days
Jeans
Toiletries
Couple t shirts
Couple underoos
A full sized SLR
Extra tools
Helmet visor
And some other misc crap
Thanks. The rucksack feature on the R-30 may be nice given that it renders the pack virtually waterproof. It's good to know too that the R-25 will suffice to carry my stuff. These books I'm referring to are about 3 inches thick a piece and I carry between 2 and 3 on any given day.
Quote from: matrujillo1211 on May 03, 2010, 12:55:52 PM
Thanks. The rucksack feature on the R-30 may be nice given that it renders the pack virtually waterproof. It's good to know too that the R-25 will suffice to carry my stuff. These books I'm referring to are about 3 inches thick a piece and I carry between 2 and 3 on any given day.
imo the R25 will be stressed carrying 3" books plus laptop.
Mine carries my thinkpad, lunch, thermos plus a few sundries but add a rainsuit and push the limit (I've got a system to slap the R10 on as a tail bag).
Waterproof is a nice feature of the R30.
These bags are for sure the tits.
So assuming I go with either the R-30 or R-35, which is the better choice (aside from the obvious waterproof benefits of the R-30)?
textbooks are very heavy. The R25 can do it, but your not left with any roo mto carry anything else since theres limited pockets. the small pocket on the R25 is integrated ot the size of the R25, so the more stuff in the main packet, the less you can carry in that small pocket.
on the R30 it seems like you can carry a sizeable amount on main copartment and have 2 other ocmpartments for wahtever you want.
Quote from: matrujillo1211 on May 03, 2010, 03:34:54 PM
So assuming I go with either the R-30 or R-35, which is the better choice (aside from the obvious waterproof benefits of the R-30)?
The R30 is nice. Quality is topnotch and it looks sharp. The R30 External Pockets are pretty large (approx 9"wide X 8"tall X 4-5 " deep). This bag has a ton of room. The rucksack turns me off a bit in convenience factor though. It does becomes tedious to unclick-click three buckle clips and roll-unroll everytime you need something. Unless you like the rucksack style, or need waterproof gear, I might go with the R35. I decided on the R30 because I thought I would like the style and it was not as tall as the R35. I am not unhappy with the R30 by any means. I just now that I would now prefer a ziptop. Maybe my mind will change with more use this summer.
I just picked up the hydration pack along with the 5 liter bag and cube. [moto]
Scott at MatrixMoto (Kriega USA)..which happens to be located about 15 miles away from my place..was awesome! I emailed him this morning and he responded immediately. The shop was closed but he let me swing by and pick up the gear anyway. He had a ton of information and showed me everything in Kriega lineup. Definitely the 5-star treatment, i.e.: fitting, attaching gear, etc. I'll be going back for the R30 in the near future!
Thanks again Scott!!
[thumbsup] [thumbsup] [thumbsup]
Had my R20 for a few weeks now. I absolutely love it! It's the perfect size for me and can expand to hold a great deal of items. Super impressed with the build quality.
I've been riding with the different configurations the last couple of daysi.e.: solo hydration pack..hydration with 5 liter..hydration/5 liter/cube. Either way..it feels like nothing on my back. Fits great! The only problem I'm experiencing..which I've read before.. is the cube gets in the way of any tucking down on the bike at speed. Other than that..loving the set up!
Went over to Kriega this afternoon and picked up the Stash wallet.
[thumbsup]
I'm thinking about getting a US-10 to attach to my Hydro 3. Then, buying a netbook so I can ride with minimal materials when I'm doing home therapy visits for work. Sounds like a perfect setup on paper. Anyone carry a netbook in their 10?
Been rockin the R20 for a year or so. It's with me on 99% of my rides. For me it's the perfect size as the 30 is just too big unless you're a serious commuter. It's not waterproof, but neither is my leather gear.
A motorcycle specific backpack is sooooooo nice.
10 hour rides back and forth from PHX to Santa Barbara with a full Hydro and 10 liter attached. Didn't even know the pack was there. R30 next on the list if its anything like that!
anyone have any xp with the r35/r30? i'm looking at possibly getting a r30 or a r35 and i'm pretty torn...
i like how the r30 has the r25 style buckles to connect in front, but i can see having to roll and unroll the top would be pretty annoying in order to get anything and i havent seen how large the opening is. is it hard to find stuff inside there?
what i dont like about the r35 is the zippered front... i can see it get pretty fiddly to deal with compared to the snaps that are on the r25/30. and does anyone know if that front pocket will fit a ezpass aka electronic toll reader?
i have the ogio no drag right now... but it's just not cutting it for me in terms of space. i love how many pockets there are, the helmet holder comes in handy, but it just gets too full too easily.
The cube (the add on front pocket) will fit an ez pass. I just tried it now. It fit the ez pass, my iPhone, it's headphones, my earplug tube/case and a bottle of eyedrops
Quote from: Sad Panda on July 06, 2011, 07:00:17 PM
The cube (the add on front pocket) will fit an ez pass. I just tried it now. It fit the ez pass, my iPhone, it's headphones, my earplug tube/case and a bottle of eyedrops
thanks man :)
i was wondering about how much the cube would fit too... so that's a plus for the r30 because for some odd reason the r35 isnt listed as compatible with the cube.
the more i think about it, the more i'm leaning towards the r30 now... the whole zip up section of the r35 looks like it would block a lot of air right in the middle of the jacket.
The R35 wouldn't really be. The cube wraps around one side of the chest piece of the R25 and R30. It's got two flaps with velcro that wrap around, between the two clips. With the R35 having a zipper to join them, that placement would work. You could attach a cube higher up on the shoulder strap, but I'd wager it would get in the way of looking around.
The R35 does have 2 pockets in the chest/connector bit - so you do get handy up-front storage that's integrated into that pack.
Regarding the air blocking - the R25 blocks plenty too, so that should be a minimal decision factor for you. Any of the bigger packs cover a good bit of real-estate.
BTW - I'm referring to the (k)cube pocket. Looks like they have added other models to the kube line
You can see the wrap around attachment set up pretty clearly here:
(http://www.kriega.us/product_images/e/243/R15kubepocket__75767_zoom__37738_std.jpg)
what i really wish is i had someonwhere close by that actually stocked kriegas so i could take a look.
You guys must be huge!
I have an R20 and it will fit 1 helmet, or jeans, riding boots, and a 17" laptop no problem.
When I was a student it would fit my 13" laptop and two 2" textbooks no problem.
It's already a pretty large backpack. I cant imagine how big the 30 and 35 are.
Quote from: thought on July 08, 2011, 07:26:07 AM
what i really wish is i had someonwhere close by that actually stocked kriegas so i could take a look.
As I mentioned, I am right by the US distributor. Ducati in Scottsdale also has a few bags.
What are you considering Thought?
BTW..love the Cube. It's been said though that it gets in the way of tucking down or leaning on during long rides. No biggie though. I bungee it to my handlebars when I go to the gym sometimes. I fits a wallet, blackberry, workout gloves, wristswraps and a small ipod
I've had my R25 for about 8 years now and love it. I regularly carry a bulky and heavy load in it, but it practically disappears on my back. I have the Cube attached to the right strap and use it to carry my earplugs, garage door opener, and sunglasses.
I've worn both through heavy weather and been impressed with their water resistance, but I'm not the sort of guy to trust the manufacturer. I always keep a trashbag in the bottom of the bag in case I get caught out in a serious rain. If it's raining hard before I depart, I'll pack everything in wp bags before loading it in the R25 - but that's just me.
Quote from: IZ on July 08, 2011, 03:15:47 PM
As I mentioned, I am right by the US distributor. Ducati in Scottsdale also has a few bags.
What are you considering Thought?
BTW..love the Cube. It's been said though that it gets in the way of tucking down or leaning on during long rides. No biggie though. I bungee it to my handlebars when I go to the gym sometimes. I fits a wallet, blackberry, workout gloves, wristswraps and a small ipod
right now, it's btwn the r30 and the r35... leaning towards the r30 right now because i like the way the clips in the front work better than the r35 and that big zipper panel. zipper just seems like it would be really fiddly to deal with vs the quick release snaps. but i also dont like the idea of having to roll and unroll the top of the bag everytime i want to get anything... and overall, it just seems like a lot more work to get something out of/find something in a drybag. so the r35 with it's bit bigger capacity and zipper opening in the back also has a pretty solid draw... esp since one of the reasons i'm looking at the kriegas is to have a bigger backpack compared to the ogio no drag.
i'm sure that if i could sit and try each on i could make the decision pretty quickly... but the only way i see that happening is if i order both and just return one which i dont like to do really, but might having to wind up doing. :\
Quote from: thought on July 08, 2011, 08:01:21 PM
right now, it's btwn the r30 and the r35... leaning towards the r30 right now because i like the way the clips in the front work better than the r35 and that big zipper panel. zipper just seems like it would be really fiddly to deal with vs the quick release snaps. but i also dont like the idea of having to roll and unroll the top of the bag everytime i want to get anything... and overall, it just seems like a lot more work to get something out of/find something in a drybag. so the r35 with it's bit bigger capacity and zipper opening in the back also has a pretty solid draw... esp since one of the reasons i'm looking at the kriegas is to have a bigger backpack compared to the ogio no drag.
i'm sure that if i could sit and try each on i could make the decision pretty quickly... but the only way i see that happening is if i order both and just return one which i dont like to do really, but might having to wind up doing. :\
How tall are you? The R35 is MASSIVE and interferes a bit with beign able to look up and really extend your neck for looking through the turn in really spirited riding. It happens to me and I'm 5'10"
Quote from: El Matador on July 09, 2011, 12:59:27 PM
How tall are you? The R35 is MASSIVE and interferes a bit with beign able to look up and really extend your neck for looking through the turn in really spirited riding. It happens to me and I'm 5'10"
I'm about 6'... and i just put in a order for the r30. in the end, i figure i can deal with a bit of annoyance in opening and closing it for the waterproof quality. got a cube too :)
once i get it, i'll post some pics and thoughts on it.
In case anyone's interested, this is what the US-20 (with US-5 piggy-back) looks like on the M796. I got the upgraded alloy US hook straps. In the photos, you can see how I attached the loops under the seat. Took me a while to get this to work really well. The loops are pretty discrete when no tail bag is carried. I run the hook straps outside the grab handles (not as in photo) so neither the straps nor the hooks make contact with the set cover. I cut a silicon table place mat down to size to protect the seat cover from scratches as the underside of Kriega tailbags is not all soft which is why Kreiga say their bags have to be placed on seats without covers. In the photos, the bag is back-to-front which means in actuality it sits further back (no contact with rider's butt). I think the back end of the grab handles give the bag a bit of support.
Great bags, I almost wish I got the larger US-30 to accommodate all the stuff that I carry (laptop, clothes, wet weather gear, etc), but I do also have a US-10 which means I can combine to achieve the same capacity. They aren't as convenient as my Ogio which hooks up in 15 seconds and has usefully sized side pockets which zip open/closed, whilst the Kriega dry-bag design means more work to open and close. Just a few thoughts in case useful to anyone contemplating new luggage.
ciao,
Mark
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6127/5943329050_367d28b727.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5943329050/)
IMG_1812 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5943329050/#) by markhk123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/65338255@N08/), on Flickr
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6018/5942773993_254fae9504.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942773993/)
IMG_1813 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942773993/#) by markhk123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/65338255@N08/), on Flickr
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6147/5942774167_5b15cb546c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942774167/)
IMG_1820 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942774167/#) by markhk123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/65338255@N08/), on Flickr
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6013/5942774295_60908faa46.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942774295/)
IMG_1821 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942774295/#) by markhk123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/65338255@N08/), on Flickr
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6125/5942774449_f5ae823f1d.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942774449/)
IMG_1818 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5942774449/#) by markhk123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/65338255@N08/), on Flickr
Quote from: IZ on July 16, 2011, 08:07:55 PM
Where did you pick those up?
http://ducati.com/accessories/monster/passenger_grab_handles_506/index.do?urlBack=%2Faccessories%2Fsearch%2Findex.do%3FkeyWord%3D%26pageNumber%3D0%26idBikeFamily%3D22%26idModelBike%3D796%26idModelYear%3D16%26idCategory%3D2%26nameOrder%3Dasc%26sortOrder%3Dname (http://ducati.com/accessories/monster/passenger_grab_handles_506/index.do?urlBack=%2Faccessories%2Fsearch%2Findex.do%3FkeyWord%3D%26pageNumber%3D0%26idBikeFamily%3D22%26idModelBike%3D796%26idModelYear%3D16%26idCategory%3D2%26nameOrder%3Dasc%26sortOrder%3Dname)
only fits on 796's or 2011+ 696's or 1100evos though... dunno if you can mod your subframe to fit it.
Hmm..won't fit my '10 1100?! :/
Do you have a photo showing your silicon mat? I need to do that...my tail is all scuffed from my Kriega US-10
Quote from: positivecarry on July 19, 2011, 05:22:18 AM
Do you have a photo showing your silicon mat? I need to do that...my tail is all scuffed from my Kriega US-10
i use stuff like this... you can buy it at any bed bath and beyond or home depot etc...
http://www.amazon.com/Duck-1100731-Non-Adhesive-12-Inch-20-Square-Feet/dp/B002AS9NAI/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_1 (http://www.amazon.com/Duck-1100731-Non-Adhesive-12-Inch-20-Square-Feet/dp/B002AS9NAI/ref=pd_sim_sbs_hi_1)
it's cheap, effective, and if i ever lose it or it wears out i just cut myself a new roll.
it also works really well for lining drawers/shelves/toolboxes ;) haha
Quote from: IZ on July 18, 2011, 09:53:09 PM
Hmm..won't fit my '10 1100?! :/
i dont think so... i think it's only the ones that came out after the 796. basically if your bike came stock with the 796 style seat and risers then it can fit.
Quote from: positivecarry on July 19, 2011, 05:22:18 AM
Do you have a photo showing your silicon mat? I need to do that...my tail is all scuffed from my Kriega US-10
Here's what I have, but that Duck shelf liner looks even better.
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6006/5961159693_d5c0fd0783.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5961159693/)
silicon mat (http://www.flickr.com/photos/65338255@N08/5961159693/#) by markhk123 (http://www.flickr.com/people/65338255@N08/), on Flickr
The best would be the supple, thin neoprene that Ogio use on the base of their tailbag. Came across something similar called FLXa Prene which can apparently only be found on KitchenGrip's oven mitts! would like to find a roll of this stuff...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BBDUX8/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=1278548962&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0041TZ8M6&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1NB3JPE1J0ZBXK4ZTPAT (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004BBDUX8/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=1278548962&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0041TZ8M6&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1NB3JPE1J0ZBXK4ZTPAT)
I've now also tried something similar to the Duck shelf liner and find its pattern leaves a stubborn imprint on my seat cover. Rubs off ok but I don't suppose it'll be good for the cover in the long run. A shame because I like using it better then the silicon sheet... it's more grippy and I was able to stitch it to the base of the Kriega so it's always there were you need it.