Wednesday 20 May 2009

Good gear to have

As a believer in ATGATT (All The Gear All The Time) I often find myself trying to enjoy a nice summer day in the city or local artists community or whatever my day’s destination lugging around a helmet and a heavy jacket because I have no way to store them safely on the bike. Helmet locks are available, but there’s really not much that can be done with your coat, gloves, etc. if you don’t have fairly large locking saddle bags.
pacsafe Then my brother found this nifty gadget in an outdoor store. The PacSafe is a stainless steel mesh bag that you can use to “Throw … around your pack, secure … to something fixed and get on with your adventure.”  While it’s designed for backpackers, instead imagine your helmets, jackets, gloves, throw-over saddlebags and anything else you want secured in the bag. Just load it up and lock it to your back rest, rack, or any other part of your bike and your gear will be be kept safe until you return.
It comes in various sizes, with the medium size being most suitable (in my opinion) for two helmets and jackets. When folded it takes up practically no space, with closed dimensions of approximately 6 X 4 X 2 inches. And priced under $100 it’s significantly cheaper than a single lost helmet or jacket.
I won’t leave home without it.

5 comments:

  1. I might have to look into that myself.

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  2. It's a really great idea. But $100.00 or thereabouts seems a bit steep to me.

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  3. Mr. M: That's referring to the list prices on their web site for the largest size. I paid $65 Cdn (~$55 US)at an outdoor store for the medium size unit. Still steep for what is basically a bit of wire and a lock, but I figure it's worth the peace of mind and the convenience.

    Danny: Check the outdoor stores. I got mine at Mountain Equipment Coop. I don't know if you have those in the US, but there's probably something similar (Cabello's?). You can get better prices than their on-line list if you shop around.

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  4. How did it work out for you...any good? looks like a tainless steel fish net

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  5. Baron,
    That's exactly what it looks like, with a locking draw-string (wire).
    Works great.

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