After reading the recent write up of the Race EXP Air in Dirt Rag Magazine, it occurred to me that I'd never taken one for a ride. My go to cycling pack for well over a year now has been the amazing Race X Air and it shares many features with the Race EXP Air so I was stoked to get out and put in some miles with the Race EXP Air to see what I thought of the differences.
On Sunday, a friend of mine and I took a spin from Boulder, up the canyon and rode the Betasso loop. We traded the Race EXP Air back and forth so we could each weigh in. The most notable feature that sets this (and other Deuter Hydration Packs) apart from typical hydration systems is the ventilation. A spring steel frame provides a flexible and light structure, that applies tension to the mesh back panel holding the pack away from the rider's back. My buddy, having never carried a Deuter hydration pack immediately commented on how much cooler he stayed because of the increased air flow.
The included 3L Streamer bladder was more than enough water for our ride and would easily be sufficient for day-long excursions. The Race EXP Air's 12L volume easily stores, an extra tube, a patch kit, CO2, a multi-tool, some sunscreen, snacks and a jacket - unzip the back zipper and the main compartment expands and can accommodate quite a bit more. The expandability of this pack keeps loads locked down well - avoiding shifting when on technical sections. A zippered front pocket keeps essentials close at hand and has a clip for keys (super helpful if like me, you always end up fishing frantically for them at the end of a ride).
The included rain cover (which nicely tucks away into a small external pocket) and helmet holder round out the features of this pack and firmly plant it atop the Deuter hydration pack line. Looks like my Race X Air might be spending some more time on the shelf...
Want to learn more? Check out the full specs of the Race EXP Air.
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