22 Vado SL 5.0 EQ Frame Bags/Storage Recommendations

Hekkubus

New Member
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USA
I'll start by saying that I have the Ortlieb Bikepack Panniers that work perfectly with the rear rack, but I have wanted another type of frame bag when I am not commuting where I can store essentials such as emergency kits, spare tubes, and other items. I am used to my Kona Sutra LTD, which has loads of places to attach bags storage bags.

When I first got my Vado, I was almost beset with anxiety because I wasn't even sure where any bags could go (this was before I broke out the Ortliebs that I have for my Sutra). The problem is that the bike's top and bottom tubes are irregularly shaped so that many bags simply won't work with them. Then there's that beautiful Mastermind TCU that makes it even more of a puzzle as to where to strap a frame bag.

Thus, the advice I seek of you, great friends is which frame bags, or other bags that go around the frame, can one use with the Vado SL? I like the Oveja Negra 1/2 pack frame bag, or equivalent bag, but will they fit on the bike? Have any of you tried any frame bags on your Vado SL bikes?

On the cockpit, I am using a slap bag for handlebar storage, but I would like to use a feed bag. The wheel spacing doesn't seem like the bottom bag strap will fit, and I worry about wear on the carbon fork from a bag strap. Anyone using a feed bag on yours? Oveja Negra calls theirs the Chuckbucket, and I really like mine that I have on the Sutra.

Just looking for more storage options for when I'm not commuting but don't want to have both of the panniers on it. Right now I just keep one of them on the rear rack when I'm going for a long, fun ride out into rural areas. I'd appreciate your feedback, experience, and advice. Thanks!
 
@Hekkubus: Typically lack of the answer within 24 hours means "we don't know" and you didn't need to create another (almost identical) thread :)

No experience with slap or feed bags. However, I was trying to select a frame bag for my Vado SL size M. Relatively small frame (to save on weight). A sloped top tube of varying width and hosting the TCU. I looked at my SL from the side...

1676092038810.png

...and gave up the idea of the frame bag.
 
@Hekkubus: Typically lack of the answer within 24 hours means "we don't know" and you didn't need to create another (almost identical) thread :)

No experience with slap or feed bags. However, I was trying to select a frame bag for my Vado SL size M. Relatively small frame (to save on weight). A sloped top tube of varying width and hosting the TCU. I looked at my SL from the side...

View attachment 146825
...and gave up the idea of the frame bag.
Apologies, I tried to delete the other post but couldn't find a way. If there is a way, please let me know, and I will delete one of them.
 
Look at the Ortlieb Rack Pack. I think that’s what it’s called. Very well made and it clips on the rack and locks in place with their special key.
 
anyone has had any problems getting Pathfinders Pro 700x42 under your bike rear and front fenders, I have order just need to know do i need to remove Fenders or not, TIA
I have Vado SL 5.0 Eq
 
anyone has had any problems getting Pathfinders Pro 700x42 under your bike rear and front fenders, I have order just need to know do i need to remove Fenders or not, TIA
I have Vado SL 5.0 Eq
You have to remove the fenders. The fenders limit the tyre size to 38 mm. Proven in my case! I had to un-EQ my Vado SL to allow for the 42 mm rubbers!
Currently, running Tracer Pro 2Bliss 42-622 in tubeless setup for a better off-road grip. Used Pathfinder Pro 2Bliss 38-622 in tubed setup on my SL with the fenders.
 
You could, however, think of converting your wheels to tubeless :) Depending on your body weight, you could go for the inflation pressure of 44 psi or even less! And practically no punctures!
 
thanks I do run Rhino Liners now but will consider Tubeless when i get the new tires, do you have any other tire recommendations besides Pathfinder Pro 2Bliss 38-622
 
Pathfinder Pro are totally silent on the pavement and are very fast rolling, so that's probably the best choice for you. As other Gripton tires, they are supple, which adds to the ride comfort. I have PP intentionally installed (tubed) on my big Vado.

Now, I went with the Tracer Pro for my Vado SL as these have a better grip on loose surfaces (loose gravel, sand). Having all other benefits of the Gripton compound, these tyres are significantly noisy on the pavement :) I thought of Rhombus Pro for a while but I decided I didn't want strict off-road tyres anyway, especially I am not fond of riding in the mud :)

Pathfinder Pro are an excellent choice!

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Pathfinders Pro were bringing me through a technical singletrack, gravel roads and a steep sandy climb to my utmost satisfaction in a race!
Photo courtesy of Szymon Gruchalski Cycling.
 
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