Water bladder
#1
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Water bladder
I'm getting ready for a tour of Big Bend Park in S. Texas. Water is a definite concern.
I have 4 btl cages on the bent, but feel I need 2-4 liters more. Will be no room left in panniers for extra bottles.
I'm looking for a bladder that will fit/hang behind the webbed seat of my bent, in a space 2" deep and about 14" wide. And I don't want to pay more than about $10-15 for it, as it'll be a one time use.
Anybody got any ideas/experience for/with an inexpensive, reliable bladder? A DIY?
I have 4 btl cages on the bent, but feel I need 2-4 liters more. Will be no room left in panniers for extra bottles.
I'm looking for a bladder that will fit/hang behind the webbed seat of my bent, in a space 2" deep and about 14" wide. And I don't want to pay more than about $10-15 for it, as it'll be a one time use.
Anybody got any ideas/experience for/with an inexpensive, reliable bladder? A DIY?
#2
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Go to the camping section of Walmart. They have Outdoor Products replacement bladders for $8 (I think the insulated bladders go for $15). I have a couple. I ginked the first one, causing the bite-valve to drip a little bit, but they have replacement valves for $2 or $3 (two in a pack).
#3
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We have had good luck with a Platypus bladder. They are a little spendy, but very tough. They also take very little room when empty.
https://www.mountaingear.com/webstore.../R-113645P.htm
https://www.mountaingear.com/webstore.../R-113645P.htm
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Also consider the MSR Dromedary bags. I have the 4 liter but wish I bought the 10 liter. Very durable with plenty of accessories.
https://www.rei.com/product/733948/ms...y-bag-10-liter
https://www.rei.com/product/733948/ms...y-bag-10-liter
#5
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No experience with a bladder here, however you may wish to consider a larger water bottle cage. The Salsa Anything cage for example. https://salsacycles.com/components/anything_cage/ scroll to towards the bottom of the page.
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I use a Camelback Unbottle in the very same position on my Rans Vrex recumbent. I have both the 2 & 3 liters. It fits perfectly in there and the tough outer cover protects the bladder
#7
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We have had good luck with a Platypus bladder. They are a little spendy, but very tough. They also take very little room when empty.
https://www.mountaingear.com/webstore.../R-113645P.htm
https://www.mountaingear.com/webstore.../R-113645P.htm
I am kind of surprised at the comments about so many bottles on the bike and such large water bladders. I have always found two bottle cages sufficient, because I am ready for a quick stop before both are empty any way. At that point I can refill them from whatever extra I am carrying. As far as carrying capacity, it makes more sense to me to add and reduce capacity by saving or discarding sport drink bottles than to carry a bunch of empty capacity all of the time. Water bottles in the cages get hotter than water bottles in the pannier.
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I managed to pick up a couple 2L water bags for 7.50 each at MEC. Very small and lightweight.
#9
If you're looking for a larger bladder I'd recommend this. I prefer the large mouth for easier filling, cleaning, adding ice, and to use with filters. My 48 ounce has lasted for many years.
#10
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Thanks for the ideas. Wouldn't mind investing in a high end bag(the MSRs?), but figure this to be a one time need, maybe. Not much of a boonies tourist. Being led astray by a buddy who is.
As it turned out, another buddy has three 2 liter Platypus bags he'll loan. Found out after posting the question.
As it turned out, another buddy has three 2 liter Platypus bags he'll loan. Found out after posting the question.
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I used (4) 10 liter MSR dromedary bags for a kayak tour recently and I would highly recommend them. I was throwing them around for two months and never got a leak. Maybe get (2) 4 liter bags to even it out and you are set for years.
#12
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I noticed that some 'bent manufacturers offer custom hydration systems that fit nicely on their frames. Have you checked with yours?