Robust, lightweight and easy-to-handle bikepacking bags from Acepac

The Czech brand Acepac was founded over a decade ago and specializes in bike and outdoor bags aimed specifically at adventurous cyclists. With a clear focus on lightweight design, high functionality, and durable materials, Acepac represents a philosophy that prioritizes practicality and durability. The company also takes a consistent approach to sustainability: Acepac offers a lifetime warranty* on its products, as well as a repair service to actively extend their lifespan. Even during the development of the bags, care is taken to ensure they are easy to repair and that spare parts remain readily available. We tested the models of the MKIII series from Acepac's broad portfolio, which ranges from backpacks and accessories to full-fledged bikepacking bags. This revised generation builds on seven years of experience and features new, lighter materials, optimized cuts, slimmer straps, and modern color schemes.

Bar Roll MKIII

The Acepac Bar Roll MKIII is a high-quality handlebar bag with a functional design. The pack can be rolled up on both sides, allowing for flexible volume adjustment. It is made of robust Robic nylon with a PU coating, which has a water column of 1.500 mm. Inside is a removable dry bag made of nylon ripstop with sealed seams and a water column of 5.000 mm, which reliably keeps the contents dry. Practical: The inner bag can be removed separately, which is ideal when you're on tour and only want to take your luggage with you without dismantling the entire bag. It is attached using two mechanisms: a Velcro fastener that prevents slipping and straps with buckles that are designed for heavier loads. Spacers ensure sufficient distance from the handlebars, but can also be removed if necessary. Overall, the Bar Roll MKIII impresses with its sturdy construction, clean workmanship, and well-thought-out handling; there were no negative aspects to it during testing.

Technical data:

Dimensions: 60 18,5 x x 18,5 cm
Weight: 360 g
Packing volume: 16 l

Zip Frame Bag L MKIII

The Acepac Zip Frame Bag L MKIII is available in two sizes: an M version measuring approximately 40 cm in length and an L version measuring approximately 48 cm. Both versions are identical in construction, differing only in length and thus capacity. The bag's construction features a foam stiffening insert that ensures it retains its shape and doesn't protrude uncontrollably from the frame. The bag also wraps around the frame on the sides, providing additional protection against luggage friction or pressure points. The main opening is via a waterproof YKK zipper with two sliders, allowing access from both sides. Inside, two mesh pockets keep things organized, ideal for safely storing small items. The bag is attached to the frame with hook-and-loop fasteners, which must be shortened individually as they are designed to be oversized at the factory. One small drawback: these hook-and-loop fasteners are firmly sewn, meaning that later adjustment of the straps for optimal frame integration is not possible. We would have liked more flexibility here, especially in combination with a top tube bag.

Technical data:

Dimensions: 48 6 x x 17 cm
Weight: 210 g
Packing volume: 4,5 l

Saddle Bag MKIII

As with the frame and handlebar bag in the MKIII series, Acepac also relies on a well-thought-out design and the use of robust, weatherproof materials for the Saddle Bag MKIII. The outer material, made of nylon with a PU coating, impresses with its low weight, high durability, and reliable weather protection. The bag's base is additionally reinforced with tarpaulin material, while the contact surfaces on the seat tube and seat stays are made of abrasion-resistant Hypalon, ensuring stability and durability. The seams are also reinforced with Bartack stitches, and the polyester thread used contributes to the high-quality workmanship. As with the handlebar bag, a removable, waterproof inner pocket made of coated ripstop nylon is used. This is secured with Velcro and makes loading and unloading noticeably easier. Particularly impressive is the horizontal strap, which runs through guides, allowing the bag to be tightened evenly and the strap to stay in place permanently. In practice, the Saddle Bag MKIII demonstrated outstanding performance: It sat securely, didn't rattle, remained stable even on rough terrain, and reliably kept the contents dry in the rain. Overall, the Saddle Bag MKIII presents itself as a high-quality, functional, and durable saddle bag that consistently builds on the strengths of the MKIII series—the test ride was flawless.

Technical data: