BBB Fuel Tank XL

Over-sized bottle cages are something of a niche product and BBB’s aptly named fuel tank is probably the best I’ve come across for the money. However, all metal construction is both blessing and curse, offering a welcome vice like grip but unpersuadable when it came to accommodating two-litre bottles in the way designs using nylon closures will. In keeping with the breed, it consumes a lot of frame so is best on larger compact and traditional diamond designs.

Measuring a whopping 33cm long and made from durable T shaped aluminium, the Fuel Tank entertains most impulsive roadside drinks purchases up to 1.5 litres and even some Thermos flasks. The all metal construction feels reassuringly rigid and unlike rubbers and plastics which eventually perish, other than wanton abuse it should give years of dependable service. Aftermarket bottle screws and a lick of thread lock are essential if sharing space with mini pumps.

Fitting a cage of this size on my Univega rtb demanded positioning it on the down tube and removing the traditional cage on the seat tube bosses. I tried mounting it on the bosses beneath the down tube but that fouled the front tyre. This scenario probably wouldn’t arise on a 60cm touring frameset but should be a consideration-especially on smaller/compact road/audax bikes.

The satin black anodised finish looks classy, although wear was apparent after a few outings and it won’t retain its look nearly so well as more expensive, silver models. However, this is cosmetic and unlikely to affect the design’s structural integrity. Bottle entry/release couldn’t be simpler-even wearing thick winter gloves, simply open the adjustable hinged collar and slide the bottle in place. Tonic water and similar one litre receptacles required finer adjustment to counteract annoying vibration over lumpier lanes. However, spirited green laning hasn’t revealed any launching tendencies, nor left carbonated drinks unpalatably flat. Bottom line, costlier models with rubberised collars win by a nose if you’re a long haul, of the beaten track tourist or determined to carry two litre bottles back from the off-licence but with excellent design and build quality BBB are onto a winner.

Verdict

Well- made giant cage ideal for lugging 1.5 litre bottles.