Every Day Adventurers

Many folks have inquired about the new bags pictured with 2010 Radish here.

Here’s an initial post to satisfy some of that curiosity, though it is by no means the definitive and final product information for these products. That is to say, there is more to come.

2010 Hoodie

For as long as I’ve been here at Xtracycle, I have longed to be able to offer a more reasonably priced Xtracycle package that does most of what the current FreeRadical + LongTail Kit offers. We sought a way to maintain super high quality and utility, but also how to make a big dent in the price (currently $489 for the kit most folks purchase). Hoodie came about as we considered ways to simplify/reduce cost on what are three separate items (SnapDeck, Right FreeLoader bag, Left FreeLoader bag). The name Hoodie, and the function of this simple system, evokes the integrated sweatshirt-hat-gloves that’s an ever so comfortable and simple way to stay warm.

Simultaneously, we were seeking a different aesthetic than the FreeLoader/SnapDeck combo – something more sleek, unified and integrated. Less of the straps-a-plenty look and feel, and more of the wheel fairing or engine cowling look. A true cover, hiding all the mechanical intricacies, and leaving only a pure form – function and fashion. Okay, so no one would say that a Hoodie sweatshirt is the essence of form meets function, but there is something casual yet cool about wearing a Hoodie out to brunch.

Hoodie Features:

• Hoodie has two bags that open out to accept objects large and small, soft and hard (max box size seems to be a case of 24 bottled beers).
• Hoodie has an integrated ABS frame sheet that acts as a deck for light passengering, and carrying items on top of the Xtracycle
• Hoodie is made of 600D polyester, and reflective webbing.
• Hoodie will work with V-Racks and P-Racks
• Hoodie has a U-lock pocket, which could also be used for keys, cell phone, tools, etc.
• Hoodie has a 6 point attachment system to secure it to Xtracycle
• Hoodie is not compatible with Big Dummy
• Hoodie has a small silkscreened Xtracycle logo at rear bottom, and 2 Xtracycle tags on either side.
• Hoodie is compatible with all FreeRadicals produced by Xtracycle
• Hoodie, though not yet tested, should be compatible with Terra Cycles Cargo Monster
• Initially, Hoodie will come in two colors – Charcoal and Redical
• Hoodie is not compatible with any Xtracycle decks or PeaPodLT.
• Hoodie Kit (1 Hoodie, 2 V-Racks) estimated retail price: $125
• Buying an Xtracycle FreeRadical and Hoodie Kit estimated retail price: $364

NOTE on Big Dummy compatibility: The Hoodie was not intentionally designed to be BigDummy non-compliant. The design of the BigDummy (with one large boom style seat stay coming down from the seat tube) is fundamentally different than that of a bike + FreeRad. To make the Hoodie work with BigDummy, we would have had to alter the design, losing our beloved LockPocket, the easy install, and full fairing coverage. Furthermore, we were focused on making the Hoodie an entry level solution. BigDummy customers we felt were already stepping out of ‘entry-level’ sphere, looking for something more, so we ultimately resolved that the Hoodie would not work with Surly’s product, by circumstance not by design. Much love to the BigDummy! We made some new FreeLoaders that you Big Dummy customers are going to love! Hope to post info on those tomorrow…

Hoodie Pictures: