CamelBak Introduces New M.U.L.E., Soft Bottles, and Updated Reservoir - Press Camp 2016
CamelBak M.U.L.E. LR
CamelBak have been at the forefront of hydration pack systems for some time and their name is even a common reference to all packs among the cycling community, with many no doubt asking “Have you got your camelbak?”, rather than using the term “hydration pack.” More recently the brand has pushed to improve the experience of wearing a pack on the trails, adjusting weight distribution to be closer to a rider's hips in an effort to accomplish this.
CamelBak have been at the forefront of hydration pack systems for some time and their name is even a common reference to all packs among the cycling community, with many no doubt asking “Have you got your camelbak?”, rather than using the term “hydration pack.” More recently the brand has pushed to improve the experience of wearing a pack on the trails, adjusting weight distribution to be closer to a rider's hips in an effort to accomplish this.
Details
• Updated helmet carry buckles
• Airfoil back panel for increased airflow and comfort
• Stabilizing load-bearing waist belt
• Dual reservoir compression straps
• Larger diameter tube and connections
• 15L capacity (3L water reservoir)
• MSRP: $150 USD for LR, $110 for the regular M.U.L.E.
• Updated helmet carry buckles
• Airfoil back panel for increased airflow and comfort
• Stabilizing load-bearing waist belt
• Dual reservoir compression straps
• Larger diameter tube and connections
• 15L capacity (3L water reservoir)
• MSRP: $150 USD for LR, $110 for the regular M.U.L.E.
With this shift, which can already be found in their Skyline and Solstice packs, we’re seeing the functionality of the LR series make its way into some of the brand's more common staples, like the M.U.L.E. and H.A.W.G. LR is an abbreviation for “low rider,” and packs with this moniker include an updated reservoir that is contained lower down on a rider's lumbar, keeping the center of the pack mass low and toward the hips.
The bag's contents can now be accessed with a helmet still attached.
Straps on the waist belt cinch down the reservoir, keeping it secure as the fluid level drops.
The move to update the M.U.L.E. was a big one, if only internally for the team, given that the pack has quite a following and has been a part of the lineup for a long time. For those that are fine with the regular design it will still be available, with the LR style being an addition to the line rather than a replacement. This is the case with all of the packs that will be available in the LR styling. These packs will also include updated helmet attachments, which allow riders access to the inside of the bag without removing the helmet altogether. Updated webbing through the lumbar area and adjustable from the waist (though separate to the waist strap adjustment itself) allows riders to really cinch down on the reservoir, making sure that it remains secure within the pack as water is removed—a great feature to aid with pack stability on the trail. 2017 packs, including the M.U.L.E., will now come with a new tool roll as well.
Updated Reservoirs
For the 2017 line CamelBak have looked to improve all of their reservoirs. Through feedback gathered from reviews and team athletes, CamelBak found the top priority for the update was to improve water flow through their entire reservoir collection.
Reservoir updates include an improved locking mechanism at the valve...
...and a revised hose connection system.
In an effort to achieve this they have increased the diameter of the tube and connectors, as well as improving the angle of the bite valve. The result is more water per sip and ultimately more time riding and less drinking. The locking mechanism on the bite valve has also been updated, making it far simpler to use, as has the detachable connection for joining the tube to the reservoir. The cap has also been improved, making it easier to fill and handle when open.
CamelBak Quick Stow Flasks
Also new for 2017 are their Quick Stow Flasks. Available in insulated and uninsulated versions, these bottles combine CamelBak’s reservoir and bottle technologies.
Unlike many of the soft bottles currently on the market, the material used for these is a little thicker to help the bottle keep its shape, making it easier to hold on to. They include a bite valve that can be locked and spade-shaped design to aid with stashing them in jersey or bib pockets. The bottle lid is still hard—necessary for sealing and handling—but the rest of the design makes for an easy-to-stash bottle that will be more comfortable up against the small of riders' backs.
Unlike many of the soft bottles currently on the market, the material used for these is a little thicker to help the bottle keep its shape, making it easier to hold on to. They include a bite valve that can be locked and spade-shaped design to aid with stashing them in jersey or bib pockets. The bottle lid is still hard—necessary for sealing and handling—but the rest of the design makes for an easy-to-stash bottle that will be more comfortable up against the small of riders' backs.
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One size fits most? One size fails many.
I really hate the bright colors and lack of some tactical scheme though. My current one is Desert camo.
Great napsack .... but not worth the kick in the nuts when it comes time to replace the bladder.
They've been doing right by me for over 25 years, and will continue to get my coin for as long as they keep it up.
I got an older H.A.W.G. and every time I priced out replacement bladders they are like 80 bucks... Just gave up and said screw it.. Maybe it's time to break down and start buying crap from the internet instead of trying to support my LBS.
Looks more like some disco crazed Amazon parrot.
Camelback, you've give me the hump!!????
Shall I continue?