Porcelain Rocket bike packs
For mixed surface touring, distributing gear between frame, seat, and handlebar packs is preferable to clunky panniers. And when it comes to bike packs, there’s no better option than Calgary-based Porcelain Rocket.
Checkout our in-depth Q&A with founder Scott Felter here.
On this trip, I used a Mr. Fusion seat system ($190), MCA handlebar system, ($125) and partial frame pack ($160, custom fit).
The MCA, which borrows its name from the late Beastie Boy, is a stripped-down, version of the Mission Control handlebar setup that Porcelain Rocket made for years. I was able to strap my quilt, sleeping pad, and a pair of spare shoes under the MCA, with snacks and tool in the pouch, without feeling like it was maxed out. The MCA accommodates any commercial drybag in the 5-15L range.
The Mr. Fusion might look similar to other seat setups at first glance, but its design, execution, and functionality stand out upon closer inspection. The system implements a mini-rack and seatpost clamp designed and fabricated by Rick Hunter of Hunter Cycles. The result is unparalleled stability. Unlike other seat pack setups, there is ZERO movement with the Mr. Fusion, which pays off when riding the rough stuff. The pack is also modular and can be easily removed from the bike for packing/unpacking, while the mini-rack stays clamped to the post.
Felter and his assistant make all the 500D cordura packs by hand, and it’s evident in the bomb-proof performance.