Old Man Mountain Bikepacking Rack System Review

For outdoor enthusiasts who frequently embark on multi-day cycling excursions, finding an effective method to transport essential equipment, particularly on full-suspension mountain bikes, often presents a considerable hurdle. Conventional seat bags frequently cause issues for riders of shorter stature, as they tend to contact the rear tire when the suspension compresses, a problem exacerbated on 29-inch wheel models. This challenge highlighted the need for a more stable and integrated gear-carrying solution, especially when preparing for arduous routes like the Colorado Trail, known for its demanding terrain that includes boulder fields, root webs, and loose scree.

A promising alternative has emerged in the form of advanced rack systems, which have gained traction among bikepackers. These systems leverage technological improvements to offer superior stability for cargo, even across rugged landscapes. Critically, they enable the use of full-suspension mountain bikes for bikepacking by preventing common issues like tire rub. One such system, the Old Man Mountain (OMM) setup, has been specifically designed to cater to these needs, providing a comprehensive and durable platform for carrying gear. This innovation allows riders to tackle technically challenging trails with the comfort and performance advantages of a full-suspension bike, ensuring a more enjoyable and efficient bikepacking experience without compromising on gear capacity or stability.

Introducing the Old Man Mountain Bikepacking System

For those seeking a dependable solution for carrying substantial gear on demanding bikepacking journeys, especially on full-suspension mountain bikes, the Old Man Mountain (OMM) system offers a robust and well-engineered choice. This comprehensive setup, costing around $809, includes the Elkhorn rear rack, Axle Pack front mounts, multiple 7L Hemlock dry bags with Flip Cages, a 9L Atlas Rack Pack, and specific front and rear fit kits. The system addresses the common problem of seat bags interfering with rear tires on full-suspension bikes, making it particularly advantageous for riders of smaller stature. While the OMM system prioritizes durability and load-carrying capacity over extreme lightness, its total additional weight of 1,900g (4.2lb) is a small trade-off for the enhanced stability and gear security it provides, making it ideal for navigating technical trails and ensuring gear remains protected and accessible.

The OMM system's design emphasizes functionality and ease of use. Installation, though initially time-consuming, is straightforward and can be managed by an average home mechanic with basic tools and the provided guides. The fit kits integrate seamlessly by replacing existing thru-axles, creating secure attachment points that distribute the load as unsprung weight for better stability. The specialized dry bags, featuring hooks and flip locks, securely fasten to the Flip Cages, virtually eliminating rattling and preventing detachment even on the roughest terrains. The system also boasts impressive accessibility, allowing riders to quickly unclip and access specific gear bags mid-ride, a significant improvement over traditional bikepacking bags. While some minor adjustments, like using Loctite on certain bolts and thoughtful packing to prevent rattling, may be necessary, the overall performance and ruggedness of the OMM system make it a reliable companion for epic adventures, even in harsh environments like the Sonoran Desert. Its ability to handle challenging conditions, from thorny desert trails to river crossings, underscores its value for serious bikepackers.

Performance and Practical Learnings from the Trail

Putting the Old Man Mountain (OMM) bikepacking system through its paces on the arduous Black Canyon Trail revealed both its strengths and areas for minor refinement. The system's formidable durability proved invaluable when traversing the notoriously rocky, root-filled, and narrow sections of the trail, where traditional bikepacking setups might falter. The robust dry bags, designed to withstand harsh elements, successfully deflected countless thorny plants and survived accidental impacts from laying the bike down, underscoring the system's ability to protect gear in unforgiving environments. This ruggedness, while contributing to the system's weight, is a clear advantage for riders facing extreme conditions, offering peace of mind that their essentials are secure and intact. The integrated design, which eliminates tire rub on full-suspension bikes, further enhances the riding experience, allowing for full suspension travel without compromise.

During the intense two-day expedition, several practical insights emerged regarding optimal usage and packing strategies. One key learning involved the importance of securing bolts, as one Flip Cage initially loosened during the ride, highlighting the need for thread-locking compounds like Loctite instead of just grease to ensure long-term stability on high-vibration trails. Additionally, careful packing became crucial for preventing items from rattling and damaging sensitive gear or food. The internal bolt heads of the Hemlock bags necessitated padding with soft items to avoid wear and tear on contents. However, a significant benefit discovered was the unparalleled ease of gear access. Unlike cumbersome traditional bikepacking bags, the OMM system's individually clip-on dry bags allowed for quick retrieval of specific items during a ride, streamlining on-trail adjustments and improving overall efficiency. Furthermore, careful consideration of seat clearance, especially with the Deck Pack, proved essential, with strategic positioning ensuring optimal suspension performance without interference, confirming the system's adaptability for diverse rider and gear configurations.