Shimano go Bikepacking: PRO Discover

Bikepacking – Shimano Style

Wandering around the Shimano stand at Eurobike, we stumbled upon a Trek Checkpoint bedecked with some very snazzy looking PRO DISCOVER bikepacking gear. PRO Components are Shimano’s sister brand..

With almost everyone else distracted by the new 12 speed XTR groupset, we were lucky to speak to Shimano Europe’s PR supremo, Ben Hillsdon, for a quick overview.

Discover by nature, DISCOVER by name.

PRO Components DISCOVER Bikepacking set

Firstly, these are pre production models. Expect some minor design tweaks before you see them in the shops.

All the PRO DISCOVER bags are waterproof and designed to be durable, practical and tough enough for life in the big outdoors.

Discover Top Tube Bag features a hand elasticated stash net.

The 0.765l top tube bag has a dual attachment system. You can screw it to the frame if you have ‘Bento Box mounts, or you can use the more usual velcro straps if you haven’t. Both the top tube bag and the 5.5l frame bag have cable ports for USB charger cables, headphones etc.

The zips all passed our ‘pinky test’ and can all be opened on the fly with just one finger.

Internal liners are all high-visibility blue so you’re not left rummaging for black tools in a black bag.

Handlebar pack and seat pack both feature these spacers to add some clearance away from control points.

The PRO DISCOVER handlebar harness offers a sensible 8 litres. The main attachment fits to the handlebars and holds an easily detachable dry bag-style bag in place. The 15 litre saddle pack is attached to the bike by velcro straps for the seatpost and saddle rails.

Hefty seat pack with more than enough storage for even the hardiest of bikepackers.

With lots of neat features, it is clear that the PRO Components team have taken a long hard look at the current crop of bikepacking bags and have come up with a range that will be hard to ignore.

Expect to see the PRO Components DISCOVER range in the shops by autumn. Pricing has yet to be announced.