Avenir Sonic Welded Waterproof Seat Pack

Avenir's 1.5 litre Sonic Welded Waterproof Seat Pack represents excellent value. The top-notch 840/420 denier laminated polyurethane construction comes complete with welded seams and the roll top closure gobbles multi tools, a long handled fixie-type wrench, spare tubes, race-cape, energy bars, keys, wallet, smart phone, energy bars and contingency lighting. The prodigious outer flap not only locks the great British weather out but also incorporates a blinky mount for neat, nocturnal safety.

The only could-do-better part is the mediocre quick-release resin bracket. Installation proved a little fiddly and it's not always the most seamless fit, especially on some cromo rails. For best results, introduce the back plate first, give the threaded Allen screws a shot of spray grease and bolt together using a 6mm key. Slot the bag into position until you hear an audible click and snake the Velcro strap around the post.

Aside from the Perspex base, the heavyweight TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) fabric is both compliant, expanding to accommodate more kit, and durable. It doesn't mind much if it's brushed against brickwork or foliage.

Scuttling across poorly surfaced roads, I was surprised by the lack of jingling from the pack, although the fabric seemed to contract slightly when temperatures hovered around freezing point allowing the storm closure to lose purchase and flap in the breeze.

This aside, waterproofing is excellent. Passing the garden hose methodically over the exterior for five minutes made no impression - water simply beads and rolls off leaving the internals bone dry.

Another major advantage of this polyurethane over Codura or cotton duck types is that silt and spray are easily purged with the deft lick from a jay cloth - great news if you navigate winter on a mountain bike or without guards.

Verdict

Understated but extremely competent mid-sized saddlebag that's perfect for the British winter, although the bracket is mediocre