Essentially a dinkier version of its Cluster 13, the Miss Grape Cluster 2 waterproof seatpack is a two-litre, compact affair that’s equally suited to the rigmaroles of an off-road adventure as it is a fast and furious tarmac session.
Made of thick and durable nylon and polyester, the bag boasts complete waterproofing thanks to an internal membrane, so you can ride with the confidence that your stuff won’t get soaked in a downpour.
While it seems quite small, and is fairly light (142g), it’s actually surprisingly capacious. The roll-top design, combined with a strap that compresses the contents, means you can cram in the essentials for day-long rides.
I managed to fit a toolkit, a mini-pump, a packable jacket, and a Tesco wrap, and there was still a little bit of room left over. You wouldn’t be able to fit a Tesco sandwich in there, but Tesco wraps are the superior lunchtime option in every conceivable way, so I’m not sure why you’d want to.
The only thing it lacks is a dedicated seat post strap, which Miss Grape, in her infinite wisdom, omitted so that the pack could be used with dropper seat posts.
While I initially had my doubts, the buckles, which wrap around the saddle rails, pull incredibly tight. During testing, it stayed firmly in place on bumpy terrain and didn’t sway when I was out of the saddle.
It also lacks a dedicated loop for a rear light. You can mount one on the compression strap, but you’d have to remove the light every time you opened the pack. It’s a minor thing, and understandable because the design negates a position for a light loop, but it’s worth bearing in mind if you don’t have much seat post space for a conventional mounting.
Value
At £99.99, this is not a cheap seatpack, but the quality of the materials and construction here goes some way towards justifying the price.
It also occupies a bit of a strange position in the seatpack market, leaning into the world of saddle bags. This is an advantage in some ways though, because it can compress down for a quick spin or expand for a longer ride.
The closest comparison — and a perennial favourite — would be the medium variant of Topeak’s Aero Wedge Pack.
This saddle bag similarly expands when needed for extra gubbins, and its weight is about the same (130g), but its 1.3 litre max capacity doesn’t quite match Miss Grape’s more capacious 2L, and the zips are weak spots which are prone to seizing. However, at £20, you could buy five for the price of Miss Grape’s one.
Moving up the price scale is Apidura’s 1L Expedition Tool Pack (£53), which is similarly well-constructed and waterproofed, and boasts a neat magnetic closure system. Steve loved it, but found it a little quirky, and it’s smaller than Miss Grape’s option.
> Easy and effective ways to carry stuff on your bike
Overall
The Miss Grape Cluster 2 is a surprisingly roomy saddle bag that offers a fit-and-forget storage solution for lazier riders who don’t want to switch between packs for different outings. The only things that would make it better would be a light loop — and about £50 off the price tag.
Test Report
What does the manufacturer say about this product?:
The Cluster 2 Waterproof is the ideal bag for those seeking lightness; stability; and protection from the elements. Perfect for every type of adventure; from long-distance travel to gravel rides; road cycling; or MTB.
With a 2-litre capacity, it’s perfect for carrying the essentials without undue bulk. Its compact and stable structure stays firmly in place while riding. Saddle rail mount is also dropper-post friendly.
Made from high-resistance materials and featuring Miss Grape’s special internal waterproof lining that perfectly adheres to the outer fabric; This technical solution offers total waterproof performance for even the very worst conditions.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of this product:
Designed and made with pride in Italy
Super light; just 142 grams
Nylon 420 and Polyester 300 construction for superb durability and abrasion resistance
Built to last with a Lifetime Warranty for the original owner
Length: 28 – 35 cm load dependent; Width: 5 – 15 cm load dependant; Height: 10 cm
Custom polypropylene strapping
How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested?:
Possibly the most expensive saddle bag that you can buy.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your overall score
The Miss Grape Cluster 2 delivers the stability of a compact saddle bag with the adaptable capacity of a full-blown bikepacking seatpack, and finds a little niche in the process. While its premium price tag and lack of a rear light loop hold it back from perfection, its bulletproof construction and superb versatility make this one saddle pack to rule them all.
About the tester
Age: 46Height: 193cmWeight: 88kg
I usually ride: Tritao GroontMy best bike is:
I’ve been riding for: Over 20 yearsI ride: Every dayI would class myself as: Expert
I regularly do the following types of riding: Road racing, Gravel riding, Indoor riding, Indoor racing, Bikepacking, Commuting, Audax, Fitness riding, Leisure riding
