Enduro is hip. But actually nothing new. The same applies to mountain biking without a rucksack. People used to put bars and pumps in their jersey pockets. As an enduro rider, this is not possible because the wide shirts have no pockets. Race Face offers a solution: a tight-fitting tank top with various pockets that fits under the shirt or jacket. With the Stash Tank the Canadians have a similar concept to Specialized with SWAT parts and clothing. The goal is identical for both companies: to make a bike backpack superfluous.
At first glance, the Stash Tank looks like a thick vest. The pockets are relatively inconspicuous on the black mesh shirt: three smaller pockets that resemble those of a classic jersey. And a large pocket across the entire back, which can hold a hydration bladder or even a rain jacket. But you always have to keep one thing in mind: In the event of a fall, the risk of injury is high, as the contents of the pockets are pressed directly into the back. There is no cushioning backpack here.
The Stash Tank changes hands for 90 euros and is available in all sizes between S and XL. The shirt has a normal fit and should be snug, otherwise the pockets will wobble like a cow's tail. If it fits, however, it sits bombproof even when loaded. Only when you have a hydration bladder filled with significantly more than one litre does the stretchability reach its limits. Also problematic: with a full bladder and a jersey over the top, the Gollum look is included. The drinking water heats up noticeably due to body heat. If this doesn't bother you, you can confidently do without a rucksack despite the hydration bladder. A tube, mini pump, bar and mobile phone can easily be stored in the other pockets. Even though we didn't lose anything, without a single zip pocket we often felt around to make sure everything was still in place. On hot days there is a risk of overheating due to the extra layer, but on cold days it offers some wind protection.
The Stash Tank from Race Face is perfect as a backpack replacement on after-work tours. However, if the tour becomes too long and more equipment needs to be carried, this concept reaches its limits.
Advantages of the Stash Tank:
- Backpack no longer necessary
- Plenty of storage space
- Good fit
Disadvantages of the Stash Tank:
- Warm
- No zip pocket
- Use of a hydration bladder only possible to a limited extent
You can read a large test with more backpack alternatives (e.g. hip, saddle or frame bags) in BIKE 6/2016. You can read the issue in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK shop order:
