Struggling to find exactly what I wanted for enduro DH events, CamelBak's minimalist Octane XCT came to my rescue. A super-light, sleek pack, it's low - profile shape still has room for race day essentials and three litre reservoir. It has been delivered on all counts as a racer's pack, although I have given it plenty of all-day outings too.
With around two litres of fluid on board, it will easily accomodate two tubes, two air canisters, an inflator, tyre levers and a mini tool. The hip pockets are an excellent feature, providing swift access- on the fly if necessary - and really come into their own for racing, putting spares and energy bars at your fingertips. There's a useful stash pocket on the harness strap too for an emergency gel.
The combination of the slim shape, plus clear attention to breathability and venting on both back panel and straps, means overheating is never a problem and it stays put too.
The quick link reservoir is useful if the pack's not in frequent use, as dismantling parts is easy for cleaning and drying, keeping them mould free...as a specific racing pack the Octane XCT is hard to fault.
9 star - MBR September 2011
Please click here to view product