Kriega have launched their lightest backpack yet, with a new harness design intended to make staying hydrated easier for riders tackling the toughest off-road events.
The new Hydro RACE has already proved its credentials in competition, having been worn by Kriega ambassador Pol Tarrés on his way to a top-three finish at Red Bull Romaniacs. Hard enduro racing brothers Mitch and Ashton Brightmore have also used the pack on their way to taking podium finishes in the FIM Hard Enduro championship.
The biggest departure from Kriega's existing hydration packs is the harness, which does away with conventional buckles in favour of an elastic loop fastening.
Kriega say the new design provides a secure, bounce-free fit while making the pack easier to put on and remove. The elastic loop should be particularly useful for riders trying to operate a fastening with cold, wet or tired fingers after hours of demanding riding.
The harness follows Kriega's established approach of spreading weight across the upper body to reduce pressure points and rider fatigue. The straps are made from breathable mesh to improve airflow, something that's especially welcome when working hard on challenging terrain.
Hydration comes courtesy of the three-litre HydraPak reservoir supplied as standard. The heavy-duty, military-spec bladder has internal baffles to prevent water moving around excessively, helping the pack maintain a stable, low-profile shape as the contents are used.
An insulated drinking tube is designed to keep water cooler, while a magnetic attachment holds it in place on the shoulder strap when it's not being used.
Despite its focus on keeping weight down, the Hydro RACE retains some useful carrying capacity. An elasticated Cordura net on the back provides space to carry essentials such as spare gloves or a waterproof layer, and accommodates accessories developed specifically for the new pack.
Photography: Kriega
Kriega have introduced five accessories alongside the Hydro RACE, four of which are exclusive to the new design.
The £32.50 Kriega Race Pocket replaces the elastic loop fastening at the front of the harness with a zipped storage compartment. It uses a YKK double zip and is intended for items riders need to access quickly, such as energy gels and nutrition bars.
For additional storage at the rear, the £22.50 Kriega Race Pouch fits into the elasticated net and provides a zipped compartment to keep smaller items secure. It's available in black, lime, orange or brown.
There's also a waterproof alternative in the £32.50 Kriega Race Pouch Drypack, which has a roll-top closure and a white liner with taped seams. It comes in the same four colours.
Racers who want to display their competition number can fit the £4 Kriega Race Number Board. The polypropylene panel attaches using the rear net's clips and is supplied blank, allowing riders to add their own numbers, logos or graphics. Kriega provide a downloadable template for graphics companies to produce vinyl designs to fit.
Completing the accessory range is the £39 Race Hands-Free Kit, which extends the drinking tube to position the bite valve close to the rider's mouth. That allows riders to drink without removing a hand from the handlebars, potentially a valuable advantage when there's little opportunity to ease off during a race.
Kriega say the Hydro RACE is the lightest backpack they've ever produced, but it still uses the durable materials and components associated with the brand. It's also covered by Kriega's 10-year guarantee.
The Hydro RACE has a UK list price of £115, with the five accessories available separately.
