Mr. Fusion vs. Spinelock: The Most Stable Seat Pack?

compose Logan Watts
time Jul 16, 2020
comment 27

There have been a lot of advancements in bikepacking gear over the years. That statement is especially true for seat packs. Small bag makers and larger companies have been tinkering, innovating, and creating solutions in attempt to craft the perfect bag. Two of the best and most advanced options currently on the market are the Porcelain Rocket Mr. Fusion and the Revelate Designs Spinelock. Both of these seat packs are 100% waterproof and have unique attachment systems to make them easy to remove and install, and act as stabilizer to eliminate side to side sway. Our YouTube channel host Neil Beltchenko tested both seat packs to find out which was the most stable. Her’s his detailed review of both bags.

Porcelain Rocket Mr. Fusion

The Canada-made Porcelain Rocket Mr. Fusion has long been one of our favorite seat packs. Not only is it completely waterproof, but the mini-rack/holster system prevents sway and movement. It’s also easy to remove and extremely durable (read my 5,000-mile review from 2016). In 2018, Porcelain Rocket reworked the strap system and introduced Mini and XL versions. The latest version released in 2019, which Neil tested, has a curved rack that better carries the load and the ability to run either 12 or 15 liter “DarkWhite” dry bags. Find the specs below and read our review here.

• Weight 567 grams (as tested)
• Volume Up to 12 or 15 liters
• Place of Manufacture Calgary, Alberta CA
• Price $250 CAD ($185 USD)
• Manufacturer’s Details PorcelainRocket.com

Revelate Designs Spinelock

From the outside, the Revelate Spinelock System seat bag looks a lot like any other bikepacking-style saddle pack, but its patented mounting system is different from anything else on the market. The Spinelock system offers a clever quick-release mechanism for getting the bag on and off for packing/unpacking, it’s 100% waterproof, and as Neil demonstrated, it’s quite stable. The Spinelock bags feature a one-way air purge valve, rear light mounting slots, a shock cord deck on the top to stash extra gear, and a skid plate on the bottom for durability. And it comes in two sizes to fit a wide range of bikes and riders. Find the specs below and read our full review here.

• Models available 10L ($179) or 16L ($185)
• Saddle rail to tire clearance 10L (8.0″/20.3cm); 16L (9.5″/24.1cm)
• Model tested 10L
• Weight of bag (as tested) 573g (1.26 pounds)
• Weight of clamp 57g (2.01oz)
• Place of manufacture China
• Manufacturer’s Details 10L / 16L