Aero Bar Bottles - Efficient (Lazy) Hydration System Deals
I've pretty much switched to riding aerobars full time and I've noticed "systems" from XLab, Torhans, Profile Design, etc. that place a refillable fluid reservoir with straw between one's aerobars just in the right place to drink without changing position or breaking cadence. Now, I am not a serious competitor to whom every second saved may be the difference between the podium and the pack. I'm just a slow old sod who finds the "forward recumbent" position and efficient for my physique; all the same, I find the idea of super convenient hydration appealing to both my innate sense of laziness and because I'm not yet skilled enough to grab a bottle from off the down tube without a bit of a wobble -- which means I need some clear road to drink.
Since I'm just a recreational rider, though, the idea of dropping $100 for around 2/3 of a liter of hydration seems a tad ridiculous, no matter how convenient. Anyone know of:
- Any affordable aerobar drink systems?
- Any nifty McGyverish hacks to achieve the same convenience for less money? Since I'm not competing and am kinda pokey anyway; weight, aerodynamics and looks are somewhat irrelevant.
Thanks!
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Also, does anyone know of useful adapters for "normal" bottles that make them work with the evil proprietary tube/valve systems from Camelbak, Platypus, etc.? I've rigged one up outta small brass plumbing/HVAC connectors but it was heavy and a total ***** to clean.
Last edited by justinzane; 04-22-15 at 01:29 PM.