Topeak  MTX 2.0 Trunk Bag EX

The bag looks good and is similar to my older Trunk Bag, but when I tried it on my MTX rack (which I have on several bikes), this one does NOT lock into place like the old one. Topeak has slightly changed the locking device to MTX 2.0, which slides onto the same track but locks differently. I did not know that they had changed the mounting lock, so now I will have to go look for the old style somewhere else, since REI does not seem to carry it. I think REI should offer both old an new MTX styles since many of us have been using MTX racks for years and don't want to buy new racks for this new style bag.

It's a nice bag and I'm glad I bought it, but the yellow latch is not secure. It snaps into place but it also releases if I gently pull back on the bag. Don't know if it would actually slide down the track, but I feel better by using a lanyard to secure it to the seat post. One other improvement would be to make the outside mesh pockets a little taller. Otherwise, I'm using it with the MTX Beamrack II and would say it's a thoughtfully designed system for extra items. Also bought the rain cover, and I'm curious about the MTX Dual Side Frame for the Beamrack. Will be taking it up to the Mississipi bluff country (Iowa, Minnesota) for some rail-to-trail day trips. Later, gravel riding here in Colorado.

I've been using this almost daily for the last ~6 months and I feel compelled to write a review because the others are so useless. This thing really shines if you will be frequently removing and reattaching it to your bike. Probably goes without saying, but you need a compatible Topeak rack. I use it on my mixed bus/bike commute, and it is very easy to take it off before I load my bike on the front of the bus and put it back on my bike at the other end. Way more convenient than messing around with bungee cords. But if you plan to leave it on your bike all the time, you might be able to find something cheaper. I do have a few gripes. First, the side pockets are so tight as to essentially be useless. They can hold a credit card and that is about it. Second, when you have a bottle in the water bottle holder it blocks the zippers and makes the main compartment hard to open. Regarding what other reviewers have said, I have never had this thing come loose and I have taken it over plenty of curbs and rough roads. And no, it is not compatible with the old MTX racks, but Topeak could not have been more explicit about that. TL;DR: Good bag, easy to remove/reattach to the rack. Room for a few design improvements.