Originally Posted by
Milton Keynes
The pack isn't heavily insulated so water doesn't stay cold for long, even when filled with ice water. When drinking, have to suck on the tube for a bit for the water to turn cold.
I've never found the insulation to be a problem. Even on 100°F days while touring, I have cold water for at least 3 hours, usually more. I often run out of water before the ice melts. If the ice melts and I need more, I just buy some or do without.
Originally Posted by
Milton Keynes
While the tube is easy to unclip, sometimes hard to clip back onto the D-ring.
I'm not sure what you mean by the "D-ring". Camelbaks have traditionally just hung down...usually hitting my leg which I find bothersome at times. The Osprey that taz777 bought has a magnetic clip at the sternum strap which is rather clever and keeps the tube from banging against my leg.
Originally Posted by
Milton Keynes
After use, have to hang it on 1/2 a clothes hanger for several days for it to dry completely so mold doesn't form in it.
I use my nearly every day (200 to 250 days a year) and seldom empty it, much less dry it without problems.
Originally Posted by
CAT7RDR
As a Roadie the biggest con for me is my Camelbak acts like a sail and creates a noticeable drag on flats and descents.
I will use it in temps above 90 degrees because it does encourage frequent sipping to prevent heat exhaustion.
As a bicycle rider of many different flavors and many different areas including many fast downhills, I seldom notice the pack and certainly don' t feel like it is a "sail". I'm not racing but I don't ride slow either. On the other hand, laying on the side of the road because you ran out of water and are suffering from dehydration
really puts a dent into setting records.