EVOC are a new name in bike bags but if the products on show at the Core Bike trade show are anything to go by, the German company are set to make a big impact.
Hydration packs
Their hydration packs aren't the first to include a spine protector – we've already tested models from Deuter and Grossglockner with that feature – but EVOC reckon their back plate is the first to be CE certified, which will be reassuring the next time you're pinballing through a rock garden.
The bags are fairly light considering the level of protection offered (1,250g/2.76lb for the Freeride Trail ML model pictured above, although it feels lighter), and come in a choice of bold, bright colour schemes or stealthy black. Prices start at £64.99 for basic packs and £99.95 for models with a built-in back plate.
The top-end Freeride Trail ML has a removable back plate, so you can use the bag without the spine protector, or the armour without the bag. Features include a large main compartment, helmet and body armour straps, a tool pocket and fleece-lined glasses compartment. RRP is £139.95 (bladder not included).
Bike bag
There are plenty of bags on the market for transporting your pride and joy to sunnier climes, but we've never seen one as well thought out as EVOC's Bike Travel Bag.
The bag itself is made of reinforced and waterproof PU-coated ripstop nylon, with sturdy, wide set wheels and enough space for a downhill bike.
But it's the little features that set it apart, like the fork pocket (an adaptor is available for skinny road forks), seatpost strap, external padded wheel compartments and the foam block on the bottom of the interior to stop your bottom bracket, chainrings or rear mech hitting the ground.
Capacity is 270l and RRP is £249.95, but with a claimed weight of 7,400g (16.3lb) you may be in for some pretty hefty excess baggage charges if you're transporting anything other than a super-light road bike. EVOC kit is available in the UK through Silverfish.
