Race 16

The Deuter Race 16 is a pared-back riding pack in light recycled 100D polyamide, made to carry water, spares and a layer on fast rides without weighing you down. It suits the rider who wants the pack to disappear once it is on.

Who it's for

Mountain bikers and road and gravel riders: Deuter rate it five out of five for both. It suits a hot morning at Mt Stromlo, laps of Bellbird Park, or a long gravel day where you want 3 L of water on your back and nothing flapping.

Capacity, and what actually fits

16 litres holds a 3 L bladder, a spare tube, pump and multi-tool, a light shell and food. An elasticated inner compartment takes a wet vest or the bladder, and two stretch side pockets carry a gel or a bottle. The pack measures 46 x 26 x 16 cm and carries a recommended 2-5 kg.

How it carries

The Airstripes back sits on padded strips with ventilation channels between them under breathable 3D mesh, so air moves across most of your back. Mesh shoulder straps, mesh hip fins and a 2-way adjustable sternum strap with a one-handed buckle hold it tight to you, so it stays put when you drop off a ledge or sprint out of the saddle.

Fitting it

One size for back lengths of 38-54 cm, suiting riders roughly 158-195 cm tall. In the riding position, set the shoulder straps so the pack sits clear of your saddle, then clip the hip fins and sternum strap snug.

Access and organisation

• Side phone pocket you can reach on the bike
• Inside valuables pocket and key clip
• Elasticated inner compartment for wet gear or the bladder
• Two stretch side pockets
• Glasses stow on the shoulder strap
• Hydration compatible, up to 3 L
• Removable rain cover; reflective details
• Attachment loops for a helmet holder (sold separately)

Weight

590 g with a rain cover and ventilated back, light enough that the water is the heaviest thing you carry.

Looking after it

The recycled polyamide is bluepass certified and finished without intentionally added PFAS.