Camelbak M.U.L.E Hydration Pack Review
Why Choose Camelbak’s MULE Hydration Backpack for Mountain Biking
Apr 5, 2009
Camelbak’s M.U.L.E stands for Multi-Use Long Expedition and is the top seller in Camelbak’s range of hydration packs for cyclists. With a 3-litre hydration bladder, a compact shape and almost 10 litres of storage space, the M.U.L.E provides comfortable efficient hydration with easy access to essential bike gear on the move.
The design has evolved over the years to allow easier reservoir filling and to incorporate features required by today’s demanding users such as expandable stowage for helmets. Quality finish remains a constant.
Camelbak M.U.L.E Key Features
- 100 fl oz / 3 litre hydration bladder with a lifetime warranty
- Separate insulated reservoir compartment keeping liquid cool for hours.
- Padded harness system with sliding chest strap and removable waist belt for stability.
- Waterproof zips.
- Easy to access overflow storage with strong compression straps.
- Lots of small storage compartments for tools and snacks, specific MP3 pocket plus a large compartment for extra clothing and other items.
- Breathable mesh backpanel.
Advantages of the Camelbak M.U.L.E
- Compact shape allows free movement of arms and shoulders whilst riding.
- Lockable valve on tube ensures valuable water is not accidentally lost.
- Neat zipper tabs allow easy access on cold days when wearing gloves.
- High quality materials ensure durability. Many riders have saved themselves from more serious injury by falling onto their packs! Dirty packs can also be put in the washing machine (minus the reservoir) without causing damage.
- Doubles as a pillow for overnight rides!
- Neat internal storage compartments make tools and snacks easy to find in a hurry.
- Flexibility – the large 3-litre reservoir can be half filled for shorter rides and compression straps tightened, omitting the need to purchase different sized hydration packs. On a longer ride, simply pack to the maximum and add two water bottles to the bike for hydration reservoir refill.
- Even a helmet can be stowed on a hot climb behind the expandable front pocket.
Disadvantages of the Camelbak M.U.L.E
- The compact design means that a completely full hydration bladder is often difficult to squash into the pack especially when the rest of the pack is full.
- When completely full of tools and water the pack is very heavy, a necessary evil on an epic ride.
- The screw-on lid on the hydration reservoir can be stiff to open.
- The hydration bladder can be punctured easily so beware of placing sharp tools nearby. Use a Park patch to seal any hole in an emergency.
- Too much cycling gear stuffed in the pack can make it feel unstable. Riders finding this problem would be advised to upgrade to the larger Camelbak H.A.W.G.
Cost of Camelbak M.U.L.E
Expect to pay around $90 for the Camelbak M.U.L.E at specialist online bike stores and Amazon. Great offers are available on eBay for older models but check changes in design features to ensure it fits with requirements.
Why Buy a Camelbak Mule?
Mountain bikers looking for a “does-it-all” hydration pack with enough water capacity and storage space to a cover all but the hottest full day ride would do well to consider the Camelbak Mule. High quality and durability go hand in hand with the Camelbak brand and ultimate longevity is assured with the lifetime hydration reservoir guarantee.
Related Articles
You may be interested in our articles on How to Keep Hydration Packs Clean, Hydration packs for Women and Hydration Packs for All Day Mountain Biking
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