Road Runner Bags Drafter

The $25 Road Runner Bags Drafter is couldn’t be easier to install—wrap the single strap through both saddle rails and close the flap. The bag stays closed securely with the 2″ wide Velcro strip, and the way the strap wraps around the rails allows you to tighten it down and prevent rattling and most movement. Without a seatpost loop the bag does move back and forth, but not enough to notice on the bike—I wouldn’t add a seatpost loop, even if I was king. I would do away with the added weight of the waterproof liner, the Cordura is water resistant enough on its own, and the bag doesn’t fully close anyway. The reflective tab on the back doubles as a blinkie light loop, a nice touch. I find the bag just the right size for a 700c tube, small multitool and patch kit, which is all it can hold. Perfect for the minimalist kit, and combined with a pump enough to get me home 99% of the time. Like everything Road Runner, each Drafter is made to order in the USA and completely customizable.

Check out roadrunnerbags.wordpress.com

Polar Bottle Insulated Sport

The Polar Bottle Insulated Sport bottle keeps liquids colder than a standard water bottle (thanks to its double-wall construction) and the drinking valve is removable to facilitate more thorough cleaning. It’s also BPA-free, made in the USA and both freezer and dishwasher safe. When I reviewed the original model I noted that the plastic felt especially stiff, and Polar Bottle has since updated the plastics making it easier to squeeze. The entire bottle is completely recyclable, though Polar Bottle claims it can easily last 10 years. To back that up, they offer an unconditional lifetime guarantee.

The Insulated Sport bottles come in 12, 20 and 24 ounce sizes and retail for $10 to $15.

Check out www.polarbottle.com