Moto Hydro 8L XTR Dirt Biking Hydration Pack

The USWE Moto Hydro 8L XTR is the big-day dirt bike hydration pack, built in USWE's Adventure Fit so it goes on over armour and a riding jacket and still stays put. It carries 3 litres of water, 8 litres of tools, food and spares, and a harness that does not bounce.

Who it's for

Dual sport and touring riders, trail riders who wear a roost guard or body armour, and bigger riders who find standard packs pinch across the chest. Picture a long loop on the high country tracks, a dusty day in the Pilliga, or a trail ride where the next tap is three hours away. If you need more water and more kit than a race pack carries, this is the one.

Capacity and fit

The pack holds 8 litres of gear on top of a 3.0 litre Elite bladder, and weighs 596 g before you fill it. Two main compartments split the load: a large one for a layer and food, and a second for tools and small parts. A large organiser compartment keeps tyre levers, a multi-tool and a first aid kit where you can find them, and a water-resistant phone pocket sits inside the main compartment. Straps on the outside hold a jacket once the day warms up. The pack measures 42 x 19 x 12 cm.

This fit uses an extra-large XXL harness strap and suits chests from 94 cm, measured over the gear you ride in. The No Dancing Monkey 1.2 harness pulls the pack tight to your back with elastic straps that stretch as you breathe, and the NDM buckle clicks home securely. Set the chest straps first, then the vertical straps, so the centre buckle sits around your solar plexus. Ventilated shoulder straps and back panel let air through on a hot day.

Drinking and refilling

The Elite bladder is made by HydraPak and connects to the drink tube with a Plug-N-Play coupling, so the tube unplugs at the bladder when you pull it out to refill. Three litres is a proper supply for a long day on the bike.

Cleaning and mould

The Elite bladder turns inside out like a sock. Reverse it, run it through the dishwasher or wash it with mild soap and water, then leave it to dry completely while still reversed. A bladder that dries properly does not grow anything.

Looking after it

After every ride, empty the pack and brush the muddy areas with soapy water. Hand wash only: a washing machine or dryer damages the PU coating, and the fabric cannot be ironed. Keep the zips clean, and store the pack closed in a dry, well-ventilated spot.