The Premier Brand Redefining Technical Bikepacking Equipment Through Innovation, Quality, and Performance
In the rapidly evolving world of cycling and bikepacking, few brands have made as significant an impact as Tailfin. This Bristol-based company has established itself as a premium manufacturer of technical bikepacking equipment, earning recognition from ultra-endurance athletes, weekend adventurers, and cycling enthusiasts worldwide. With their signature focus on engineering excellence and innovative design, Tailfin has carved out a unique position in the competitive bikepacking market.
Company Origins and History
Tailfin was founded in 2014 by Nick Broadbent, a mechanical engineer and industrial designer with a passion for cycling innovation. The company's journey began as what Broadbent himself describes as "a passion-driven basement project" that would eventually evolve into one of cycling's most respected innovative brands.
The company was officially incorporated on February 21, 2017, marking its transition from startup to established business. Initially known as "those weird rack guys" (their own words), Tailfin has steadily expanded and transitioned into the mainstream, now offering a comprehensive suite of bikepacking solutions.
The company's headquarters are located at 129 Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6UX, United Kingdom. Having recently relocated to a larger workshop in Bristol to accommodate their scaling operations, Tailfin continues to grow its presence in the global cycling market.
Tailfin's Bristol headquarters hosts a highly skilled team of 25 industry-leading designers, marketers, and operational specialists, collaborating with specialist manufacturing partners across China, Vietnam, and Taiwan. This global approach extends further through partnerships with a worldwide network of R&D riders who help test and refine products in real-world conditions.
What Tailfin Offers: A Comprehensive Product Portfolio
Tailfin has developed an extensive ecosystem of bikepacking equipment that emphasizes modularity, compatibility, and performance. Their product range includes:
Core Products
AeroPack System: Tailfin's proven and reliable bikepacking system now has expandable pockets. The AeroPack is an integrated rack and bag system that represents the company's flagship product. The AeroPack is about the neatest solution for adding some storage space to pretty much any bike, combining aerodynamics with functionality.
Frame Bags: With nine unique half-frame and wedge-style models we offer more sizes than are available anywhere else, with a key emphasis on serving the majority of riders regardless of frame size. This extensive range addresses one of the most common frustrations in bikepacking: finding the right fit for different frame geometries.
Top Tube Bags: Top Tube Bags provide convenient, accessible storage for essential items on the go. Designed to attach securely with our patented V-Mounts, these bags prevent knee rub and ensure stability without needing a front stabilizing strap.
Pannier Systems: The company offers both mini and ultra-durable pannier options that integrate seamlessly with their rack systems, providing traditional touring capabilities within their modern framework.
Bar Bags: Never happy to settle. We set out to create a new type of Bar Bag, to solve the fundamental issues of carry kit on your bars. This is the new generation of bikepacking equipment.
Innovative Features
What sets Tailfin apart is their attention to engineering details that solve real-world problems:
V-Mount System: Tailfin's proprietary V-Mounts, as they're dubbed by Tailfin, are a revised version of the system used in their downtube bags, using a similar mount in a rubberised boot, in conjunction with the brand's own grippy, Voile-style TPU straps.
Carbon Space Frame Technology: Our carbon space frame eradicates this problem of sagging bags, providing internal structure and support.
Machine Learning Sizing: Our Frame Bag Sizing Tool uses machine learning to scale your bike to perfection, making it the most accurate way of finding the right sized frame bag to fit your bike.
Engineering Excellence and Design Philosophy
Tailfin's approach to product development sets them apart from many competitors. Over a third of our dedicated team focuses exclusively on product development and engineering, demonstrating the company's commitment to innovation.
The brand's engineering philosophy centers on solving fundamental problems in bikepacking equipment. Back in 2021, Tailfin reached out to their customer base and asked them if they'd like to be involved in helping to create "the best performing frame bag in existence." A bold goal, but one that exemplifies their ambition.
Key engineering features include:
Waterproofing: Most Tailfin products feature welded construction and waterproof materials, ensuring gear stays dry in challenging conditions.
Noise Reduction: No 'jangle' zip pullers Custom zipper sliders and pullers achieve a silent ride.
Aerodynamics: The AeroPack design means that the bag is tucked away in the dirty air behind the rider, and the parabolic carbon arch that supports it is designed to cut cleanly through the air too.
Stability: This results in a top tube pack that stays stubbornly in place over the very roughest of terrain, without ever leaning to one side or scuffing your frame's finish.
Competitive Advantages Over Rivals
When compared to established brands like Apidura, Revelate Designs, and Ortlieb, Tailfin offers several distinct advantages:
Superior Attachment Systems
Neither features its impressively secure mounting system, instead relying on more conventional hook-and-loop or fabric buckle straps. Tailfin's V-Mount system and TPU straps provide superior stability and durability compared to traditional Velcro attachments.
Engineering Integration
Increasingly, Tailfin is creating its own ecosystem of bikepacking storage solutions, with new equipment interacting seamlessly with the old, which to my mind bears similarities to the approach of tech giant Apple. This ecosystem approach means components work together better than mixing brands.
Modularity and Compatibility
The modularity of the system means that this kit will fit the needs of a wide variety of cyclists. Bikepackers will appreciate the vast pack volume and bounce-free ride. Road tourers will appreciate the aerodynamics and easy removal. Commuters will be thrilled with the obsessive waterproofing and quick-release pannier bags.
Frame Bag Variety
Designed with maximum rider inclusivity in mind, Tailfin are offering these new frame bags in two different styles and a mind-boggling nine sizes, addressing a common frustration with other brands that offer limited sizing options.
Performance Focus
The developers from Bristol/UK come from a sporting background and in their development have primarily focused on use in races and more ambitious Bikepacking tours, giving them credibility in the performance cycling community.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Despite its many strengths, Tailfin products come with some considerations that potential buyers should weigh:
Premium Pricing
The price of Tailfin's bags is also on a par with premium bike luggage. The company positions itself firmly in the premium segment, with prices significantly higher than budget alternatives. The AP18 Cargo will retail for £190 / $260 / €240 and the AeroPack Carbon Cargo with pannier mounts will set you back £430 / $590 / €540.
Weight Considerations
As we've come to find with other Tailfin products, these frame bags aren't the lightest frame bags in the market. In fact, comparable bags from Revelate, Restrap and Apidura are between 100-150 grams lighter across a comparable size range. For weight-conscious cyclists, this could be a significant factor.
Ecosystem Lock-in
There are positives and negatives to this from a consumer perspective. In terms of how the kit performs together it's hard to think of anything other than fully bespoke luggage set ups which will give the same level of finesse and function. That however comes with a risk of feeling trapped into using one company for your luggage needs.
Limited Availability for Mountain Bikes
This first range is aimed at drop handlebar bikes (road and gravel) However you can still use our Frame Bag sizing tool to see if any will fit your full suspension mountain bike. Mountain bikers, particularly those with full suspension, may find limited options.
Rigidity Trade-offs
Some reviewers note that Rigid sides make it harder to pry the bag open, though this contributes to the bags' excellent stability and shape retention.
Professional Recognition and Reviews
Tailfin has earned significant recognition from cycling media and professional reviewers:
"Beautifully made, fully waterproof, mounts in seconds, more capacity than a seatpack, AERO… it's a lovely thing that's a joy to use."
"Tailfin's AeroPack S is one of the best rear luggage options for serious bikepacking (and commuting) ever tested. It is expensive but its simplicity, ease of use and pleasing design make you forget the price within the first ride."
"Its innovative space frame technology, user-friendly functionality, zipper support, stable and secure fit and overall aesthetics make it the best frame bag I've ever used."
Gear doesn't often wow me and a bike bag has never impressed me, but I was a big fan of this kit, noted a reviewer from GearJunkie.
Pricing Structure
Tailfin's pricing reflects its premium positioning in the market:
Frame Bags: Prices vary by size and style, generally ranging from approximately $150-250 USD Top Tube Bags: Retailing at $80 USD, the Tailfin Rear Top Tube Bag comes in 0.8 and 0.9L sizes AeroPack Systems: The AeroPack Carbon Cargo with pannier mounts will set you back £430 / $590 / €540 Pannier Bags: One 22l Ultra-Durable pannier costs £115/$150 Complete Systems: The Tailfin Alloy Rack + trunk bag combination is the company's cheapest option, priced at USD350
The company offers Free shipping on orders over $205.00, despatched tax and duty-free from our US warehouse, and maintains a policy of "Always fair, always the best price".
Where to Purchase
Tailfin operates as an online-only direct-to-consumer company and are unable to offer B2B sales. This approach allows them to maintain better control over pricing and customer experience.
Primary Sales Channels:
Tailfin.cc (official website)
Direct-to-consumer shipping from multiple warehouses
EU orders ship from our EU warehouse facility in the Netherlands. US Orders now ship from our US Warehouse. All other orders ship from our UK warehouse facility
Global Availability: The company ships worldwide, with If you do incur import tax charges when you receive your package, we will reimburse you this cost, making international purchases more appealing.
Customer Support and Warranty
Tailfin places significant emphasis on customer service. Customer service is very important for us here at Tailfin. If you have any questions or need help or advice about any of our products then please get in touch.
The company offers:
These top tube bags are warrantied for a reassuring five years, and spares and rebuild kits are available
Comprehensive assembly guides and instructional videos
We are happy to refund unwanted items. If you've realised it's not what you need, it has arrived damaged in some way, or you've simply just changed your mind, let us know and we'll help you with your return
Recent Developments and Future Growth
Tailfin continues to innovate and expand. Tailfin is entering a pivotal stage of development and sought additional working capital to broaden its product range, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and advanced manufacturing processes. The company recently secured £600,000 investment to fuel further growth.
Significant investment is also being directed towards expanding the company's Bristol headquarters, creating a state-of-the-art R&D studio complete with new equipment, specialised tools, and enhanced prototyping capabilities.
This investment marks a significant milestone for Tailfin, enabling us to push the boundaries of design and technology further and to enhance our robust intellectual property portfolio, which already includes over 20 patents.
Conclusion: A Premium Choice for Serious Cyclists
Tailfin represents a compelling option for cyclists who prioritize quality, innovation, and performance over budget considerations. The brand's engineering-first approach has resulted in products that genuinely solve problems in the bikepacking world, from their sophisticated attachment systems to their comprehensive sizing options.
Yes, it's expensive. And no, it's not as versatile as some other setups. But it does the job it's designed to do extremely well, and it's a lovely thing that's a joy to use.
For riders seeking the ultimate in bikepacking equipment performance and willing to invest in premium products, Tailfin offers an ecosystem that delivers on its promises. The brand's continued growth, strong customer support, and ongoing innovation suggest it will remain a significant player in the premium bikepacking market for years to come.
Whether you're an ultra-endurance racer pushing the limits of human performance or a weekend adventurer who appreciates quality gear, Tailfin's products represent a significant step forward in bikepacking technology. The premium pricing may give some pause, but for those who value engineering excellence and long-term durability, Tailfin offers compelling solutions that justify their investment through superior performance and reliability.