The German dirt-surfers over at Ion were showing an interesting new pack/protection at Interbike last week- one that should make spine cushioning that much more appealing for those who ride up as well as down mountains.
The Transom (in 16L and 24L sizes) uses a unique suspension system that’s said improve comfort and stability- and it looks to have promise. Most interestingly, a rigid hipbelt wraps securely around the rider’s hips while the pack itself is attached to the belt via a sliding toggle. This toggle allows the bottom pack to be lifted as far as 8in from the wearer’s back, creating (it’s claimed) more ventilation in that region than no pack at all. Come the descent, pull the toggles to snug the pack (and its included spine protector) against the rider’s back for improved protection and a more centred load.
The shoulder straps look quite breathable and the Y-shaped harness running from mid-back to the waist belt it claimed to keep the pack in place, even when the wearer is upside-down. The SAS-TEC motocross-derived spine protector is a low-rebound memory material that is multi-impact improved.
The two packs are available in two sizes each (S/M and L/XL) and the shoulder harness is further adjustable. Each includes a removable tool roll, has a mud/rain-shedding PU centre panel, and a rain covers are available separately.