CamelBak Palos 4LR Overview

We just received CamelBak's new Palos 4LR. While most all-mountain/enduro bags have become massive, the Palos takes MTB-specific packs in the opposite direction.

Here's a quick overview.

In Camelbak's own words:

"The Palos™ 4 LR is the bike world’s first reservoir-based waist pack designed specifically for mountain biking. It’s the ideal option for hard-charging riders who need more than a water bottle, but who don’t want to carry a full backpack. The Palos keeps your water and cargo centered around your waist, leaving your shoulders and back free. As a result, you’ll have a lower center of gravity and more mobility on the trail. Built with an integrated tool roll."

Riding with a bumbag is quite nice, actually, especially in the summer. Instead of your shoulders bearing the weight of your pack, it's all carried on your hips. If you look at a tramping bag that distributes weigh, the idea is the same.

With a 1.5L bladder, roll-up tool area in the back and heaps of pockets. The water tube uses CamelBak's magnetic clasp for quick and easy use. Of course the waistband is adjustable, but there are also tabs on each side that can be pulled to tighten up the bag as you drink water.

It's a pretty neat little bag. For a standard 2-3 hour ride, they make a lot of sense. Check it out next time you're in the store and see the light.