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We’ve rounded up five products designed for adventure riding and bikepacking that are currently out with our reviewers for testing. The lineup includes Old Man Mountain’s updated Manzanita Cradle and 9L Top Load Bag, Topeak’s U-Shell Drybag and rack system, Mercian’s Ventura Allroad bike, plus new kit from Rapha and Thule. Here are the previews, with the full reviews landing soon.
Mercian Ventura Allroad frame (£2,650)
At the end of last year, British bike brand Mercian released its first new model in two decades, after being saved from liquidation in 2024. Celebrating its 80th anniversary, Mercian has launched the Ventura Allroad, a versatile bike that the brand says is equally at home on fast road rides and off-road adventures. It offers clearance for tyres up to 45mm and is available in six build options.
Stu is testing the frameset which retails at £2,650, with complete builds starting at £4,254. All the Ventura Allroad orders will be hand built to the rider’s dimensions and paint scheme, Mercian saying the six road/gravel packages are just a starting place and they would welcome helping customers build their own spec too.
Buy now for £2,650 from Mercian
Old Man Mountain Manzanita Bag and Cradle (£240)
Salsa stepped away from making bike bags to focus on its bikes, handing its Anything Cradle design over to Old Man Mountain to develop further. The result is the new Manzanita Cradle, paired with the brand’s 9L Top Load Bag, which we have in for testing.
The Manzanita Cradle uses aluminium arms and a reinforced nylon platform, featuring six accessory mounting points and compatibility with both 35mm and 31.8mm handlebars.
The 9L Top Load Bag is made from fully welded, waterproof TPU fabric, with Hypalon reinforcements designed to improve abrasion resistance and provide additional structure. It uses a roll-top closure, air purge valve, and a stretch front pocket for additional storage. Iwein Dekoninck is testing this one, so check back soon for his full verdict.
Buy now for £240 from Ison Distribution
Rapha Mens Brevet Merino Jersey III (£195)
Rapha describes its Brevet collection as “endurance cycling apparel for long-distance riding, ultra-racing and bikepacking adventures combining all-day comfort, reflective visibility and practical storage”.
The Brevet Merino Jersey III is a wool layer designed for changeable conditions, combining Rapha Performance Merino (RPM) with recycled polyester for natural thermoregulation and odour resistance.
It also features increased storage with Rapha’s new Brevet Air Pockets – a “floating” five pocket system (three open and two zipped) that lifts away from the body when loaded and works with an integrated mesh panel to improve airflow and reduce heat build-up on the lower back, according to the brand. Check back soon to find out what Steve Williams thinks.
Topeak U-Shell Drybag (£44.99)
The Topeak U-Shell Drybag is a 10-litre waterproof bikepacking rack bag, featuring a TPU-coated construction, two 80cm mounting straps and an integrated air-release valve for load compression.
The Drybag measures 46 x 24 x 22cm and weighs 270g, including the bag and both mounting straps. Josh Price is testing the it alongside Topeak’s Zi:Rack Essential Quick Mount, which retails for £109.99.
Thule Shield Pannier 22L with InLock (£89.99)
The Thule Shield 22L is a waterproof pannier that uses a roll-top closure and welded IPX4-rated construction to keep contents protected from rain. The hardware-free design is intended to make it comfortable to carry off the bike too, says Thule.
The pannier is designed around Thule’s InLock system, which allows it to be attached and removed using a universal mounting panel. Once fitted, the system is compatible with existing racks and Thule’s Tour Rack system.
Mike Stead is testing this in black, but it is also available in blue and orange.
For all the latest full reviews on road.cc, head over to our reviews section. For more advice before splashing the cash, you can check out our buyer’s guides, and head over to road.cc Recommends to find all our top-rated products in one place.
