Race 12

The Deuter Race 12 is a small, light ride pack that holds water and the essentials and then gets out of the way. Fill the bladder, drop in a tube and a multi-tool, and go: it weighs 560 g and sits close enough that you forget it on a fast descent.

Who it's for

Cross-country and trail riders, and gravel riders on long days between water stops: laps at Nerang, a big loop at Stromlo, or a summer gravel ride where the bidons are not enough. Deuter rate it five out of five for mountain biking and road and gravel riding, and the recommended 2-5 kg load is water, a spare tube, tools, a snack and a light layer.

Capacity, and what actually fits

12 litres takes a 3 L bladder in the elasticated inner compartment, a tube, pump and multi-tool, a gilet or rain shell and some food. The pack measures 44 x 24 x 15 cm, slim enough to stay clear of your elbows and helmet. Stretch side pockets hold a gel or bar, and a side cell phone pocket keeps your phone reachable.

How it carries

The Airstripes back runs two padded strips with a ventilation channel and breathable 3D mesh between them, so air moves across 80% of your back on a climb. Mesh shoulder straps and mesh hip fins keep it light and cool, and the sternum strap adjusts two ways and clips one-handed. Together they hold the pack in place when the trail gets rough.

Fitting it

The Race 12 comes in one size with a wide fit range: back lengths of 38-54 cm, for riders around 158-195 cm tall. Ride with the hip fins snug just above your hips and the sternum strap high on your chest, so the pack does not bounce off the back of your saddle on drops.

Access and organisation

Inside, a valuables compartment and key clip keep your keys and cards secure. Outside are stretch side pockets, the side phone pocket, a glasses stow on the shoulder strap and loops for a helmet holder, with reflective details for the ride home.

• Hydration compatible, up to 3 L
• Side cell phone pocket; stretch side pockets
• Inside valuables compartment and key clip
• Glasses stow on the shoulder strap
• Removable rain cover included
• Helmet holder loops (holder sold separately); reflective details

Weight

560 g for 12 litres with a ventilated back, hip fins and a rain cover. That is about as light as a full-featured ride pack gets, and light enough to wear for a whole day in the saddle.

Looking after it

The body is 100D recycled polyamide with a finish made without intentionally added PFAS. Deuter back it with a 2-year warranty.