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The Trailcontrol 20+ Vaude unveiled this brand-new product at the last Eurobike and immediately won a Eurobike Green Award. The Tettnang-based company has made a conscious decision to use particularly environmentally friendly materials and responsible production methods. But the real highlight of this new touring rucksack is hidden on the back.
Using the so-called Aeroflex Control System, you can switch whilst on the move between a ventilation mode with increased airflow and a contact mode for a secure fit on descents, without having to take the rucksack off.
We tested these 9 mountain bike rucksacks:
- Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 >> available here
- Deuter Compact 14+3 >> available here
- Evoc Stage 18 >> available here
- Osprey Raptor 14 >> available here
- Rockrider MTB Hydration Rucksack 12 L >> available here
- Scott Trail Rocket 20 >> available here
- Tatonka MTB 14 Bike Backpack >> available here
- Thule Rail eMTB 18L >> available here
- Vaude Trailcontrol 20+ >> available here
>> MTB rucksack review: 4 rucksacks put to the test for the Transalp
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>> Handy MTB accessories: all-rounders – these items fit in any rucksack
Furthermore, the back length is quite easy to adjust. As for the rest of the features, Vaude sticks to tried-and-tested design elements: wide hip fins – unfortunately with just one pocket – ergonomically shaped shoulder straps, and a classic layout with a main compartment and a tool pocket. As well as a hydration tube clip and a glasses holder, there’s also a rain cover tucked away in the bottom compartment.
Vaude Trailcontrol+ 20 – Details & Price
- Price: 170 euros >> available here
- Weight: 1202 grams
- Back system: Adjustable ‘on the fly’ between contact and mesh backing
- Facilities: Adjustable back length and ventilation, tool compartment, rain cover, protector straps, external pocket
- Hydration bladder: no / 3 litres / 46 euros
- Volume measured / stated: 21.5 / 20 litres
Well-organised layout, but dark lining
The Trailcontrol is divided in the traditional way into a main compartment and a tool compartment, neither of which opens fully. You also have to unclip the compression strap before opening it.
The tool compartment is clearly organised and marked with small icons indicating their respective uses. Provided you stick to this system, it helps you find the tools, as the lining is completely black – which isn’t ideal. That said, everything has its own designated place.
The large main compartment is designed to hold not only items used less frequently but also the hydration bladder. An additional pocket is provided for storing keys and valuables. Apart from a few minor details, the Vaude is well-organised and thoughtfully laid out.
A full-face helmet can be secured to the compression strap, whilst the pads can be stowed in the side pockets if necessary. We would have liked a second pocket on the hip belt, as well as a double zip on the tool compartment. With just a single zip, you always have to open the compartment fully to access the contents. The hydration tube can also only be routed out of the rucksack on one side.
High level of comfort and an innovative back system
With its special back system, the Trailcontrol combines the best of both worlds: on descents, it offers the stable, close-fitting support of a contact back panel; on ascents, it provides the significantly better ventilation of a stretched mesh back panel. Switching between the settings – via two straps on each side – is intuitive and easy to do even whilst riding; however, the system does not always engage reliably every time it is operated. That said, the change to the back is clearly noticeable. On the ascent, your back stays pleasantly cool; when heading downhill, the load sits closer and more compactly against your back, and is therefore more securely held in place.
The secure fit is further enhanced, in particular, by the wide-reaching and sturdy hip wings. With Trailcontrol, even rough descents are manageable without the rucksack bouncing about or slipping up onto the back of your neck – well done. The shoulder straps and hip wings are ergonomically shaped and also sufficiently padded to prevent pressure points. It is only at the lower rib arches that the narrow strap ends can pinch slightly.
Review & Verdict – Vaude Trailcontrol+ 20
| Category | Grade |
| Carrying system (40 per cent) | 1.6 |
| Handling (30 per cent) | 2.2 |
| Weight (15 per cent) | 3.0 |
| Facilities (15 per cent) | 2.0 |
| BIKE-NOTE | 2.1 |
Conclusion – Vaude Trailcontrol+ 20
A system of loops allows the Vaude to be adjusted between a contact back and a mesh back. This ensures excellent ventilation on uphill sections and, in combination with the wide hip wings, provides a secure fit even on technical descents. Ergonomically shaped and well-padded, it’s also comfortable to carry. The compartments are well organised, but have a dark lining. Overall, the Trailcontrol is an excellent all-round rucksack.
Stefan Frey
Editor