This review delves into the Revelate Designs Mac Tank strap-on top tube bag, offering a comprehensive assessment of its features, performance, and suitability for cyclists. We explore its lightweight construction from recycled polyester, its surprisingly spacious 0.9L capacity (a larger 20,000 model also exists), and its innovative magnetic and mechanical flap closure system. The review examines the bag's protective qualities, including padded bottom and integrated hard plastic inlays, as well as its user-friendly, easily accessible opening. We also assess the practicality of the flap closure mechanism, considering both its advantages and drawbacks regarding water resistance and potential interference with leg movement.The Mac Tank's compatibility across various bike types and its ability to securely carry essential items are thoroughly evaluated. Comparisons are drawn with similar products from Apidura and Brooks, highlighting the Mac Tank's strengths and weaknesses. Finally, the review concludes with an overall assessment of the bag's design, functionality, and potential areas for improvement, offering recommendations for both the manufacturer and potential buyers considering this popular cycling accessory.
Pros And Cons
- Made from recycled polyester
- Weighs 128g
- Maximizes volume while allowing comfortable pedaling
- Integrated key clip
- Hard plastic inlays for stability and durability
- Padded bottom to protect top tube
- Simple cable management
- Magnetic flap closure mechanism works well, even one-handed
- Large opening for easy access
- Easy to open, even with thick gloves
- Separate TPU liner (removable for cleaning)
- Wide Velcro strap with synthetic lining for good grip
- Additional strap for securing to steer tube
- Foam piece to prevent rubbing against steer tube
- Fits well on various bikes, especially those with flat top tube surfaces
- Flap doesn't close as tightly, potentially allowing items to fall out
- Flap gets in the way of legs while cycling
- Flap doesn't offer sufficient protection from heavy rain
- Closing mechanism can be tricky when overpacked
- Light flap doesn't fall aside while cycling, gets in the way due to wind
- No loop on top of the flap for sunglasses
Read more: 5 Must-Have Cycling Frame Bags
Mac Tank Versions and Specifications
The Revelate Designs Mac Tank is available in both strap-on and bolt-on versions, each offered in a standard and a larger "20,000" size with 50% more capacity. This review focuses on the strap-on version.
Constructed from recycled polyester, the standard strap-on Mac Tank weighs a mere 128g and boasts a 0.9L volume. Its sloped design maximizes space while maintaining ample leg clearance during cycling. The recommended retail price is €85.
For comparison, similar top tube bags like the Apidura and Brooks offer similar volume, while the Rear Strap bag offers slightly less capacity.
Features and Design Highlights
The Mac Tank features a flap closure with a magnetic and mechanical locking mechanism, offering convenient one-handed operation. Integrated hard plastic inlays provide stability and protect contents during rough rides.
A padded bottom further enhances protection for both the bag's contents and your bike's top tube. Simple cable management is facilitated by simply laying the cable under the flap.
An integrated key clip keeps keys securely in place.
Flap vs. Zipper Closure: Pros and Cons
The Mac Tank's flap closure provides a large, easily accessible opening, allowing for easy viewing and access to contents. Opening and closing are generally straightforward, even with thick gloves.
However, flap closures are not as waterproof as zipper closures and may allow for items to fall out more easily than a zipper closure.
The flap design can also interfere with leg movement while cycling, which is a significant drawback mentioned in the review.
Additional Features and Accessories
A removable TPU liner, similar to hydration bladder material, is included for easy cleaning. This liner is attached with Velcro and can be removed for cleaning.
Some parts, such as the front strap, liner, and foam piece, are available as separate replacements or upgrades.
The wide Velcro strap and additional steer strap ensure a secure fit to the bike’s top tube.
Capacity and Usage
The 0.9L capacity is suitable for carrying essential items such as keys, tools, a spare tube, lights, and a snack. Examples of what can fit inside the bag are detailed in the video.
For those requiring more space, a frame bag is a recommended complement.
The reviewer used the Mac Tank on various bikes, finding the fit satisfactory, especially on bikes with flat top tube surfaces.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
The Revelate Designs Mac Tank is a well-designed top tube bag with a user-friendly closure and good protection for its contents. However, the flap closure's tendency to flap in the wind while riding and its less-than-ideal water resistance are significant drawbacks.
The reviewer recommends the bolt-on version for enhanced stability, particularly on round top tubes. While the strap-on version performs better than competitors, the flap's design is problematic for on-the-bike access.
Suggested improvements include adding a second magnet to hold the flap in place during cycling and enhancing the flap design to improve water resistance.
