I got a chance to take the Osprey Raptor 14 out for a test ride this weekend, and while it handles the basics well, it's the little touches of convenience that make the pack stand out.
Given their reputation, it's expected that Osprey would do the basics right-the AirScape suspension system keeps the pack comfortable and breathable, and the Raptor's organizational system keeps bike tools in order and easily accessible.
But again, if Osprey wasn't adept at getting basic amenities like comfort and breathability right, they wouldn't be where they are today. With the Raptor, it's the details that make all the difference. Little things like a magnetized clip that allows the bite valve to attatch to the pack's chest strap with a satisfying 'snap'. It seems like a small detail until you're bouncing down a trail with a bite valve in your mouth-the magnet's simplicity makes putting the valve away a no-look affair.
In addition, the Raptor's Hydralock internal frame keeps pressure on the HydraForm bladder, which helps increase flow and minimizes sloshing on the trail. Other packs start to loosen up and jostle around as the bladder empties, but with the Raptor's compression, the pack stayed taut as I emptied it, and with the weather on my ride approaching the 90's, empty it I did.
The Raptor comes in 6, 10, 14, and 18 liter sizes and range in price from about $80 to $120. You can get full specs at www.osprey.com.
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Wow this looks really great. Like a good combination of style and function!
Yeah, they're been around for 35 years, but they just started making dedicated hydration packs this year. They're late to the party, but they've got a good name and all the know-how they need to grab a nice big handful of the market.
What's the story on Osprey as a company? Seems like they're a late-comer to the field, but have dominated the high end. Is that accurate?
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