The Amplifi Track 17 is a generously sized day pack with numerous, mostly well-located pockets to separate everything you need to carry. It's made from tough materials and is comfortable to use, although the single size might be a little tall for smaller riders.
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The 17-litre day pack is made from durable ripstop nylon with a PU water-repellent coating, weighing 980g, which is in the ballpark compared to similar-sized models. The Track 17 is compatible with a SAS-TEC LB-L back protector (€35/£30) and also a hydration pack with enough space for a 3-litre reservoir, although neither are included as standard. The pack tested is the Stealth Black version. However, a much lighter Glacier version is available for a little extra (€145/£125).
The pack is available in M/L sizing, with a total height of 51cm and good padding on the back and the shoulder straps, which provides plenty of gaps for airflow. The amount of fit adjustment is good on all straps, and as a smaller rider, when they are sized for a smaller waist and chest, there is no excess strap; it has a neat way of preventing it from dangling around. I'm 168cm tall, and I found the backpack to be a little long occasionally, mainly when it was approaching capacity, interfering with a helmet on descents.
The TRACK 17 remained comfortable while achieving balanced weight distribution when loaded up, thanks to the numerous pockets. The bag has one large main pocket with space for a hydration bladder and room for pads and extra layers. There's a good-sized tool pocket that can be accessed from the front by a deep, double zip that has mesh sections inside to keep things separate. There's also a neat emergency information print on the inside that gives details on signalling in an emergency, and as with many packs, there is a whistle built onto the chest strap.
A glasses/goggles pouch with soft fabric is on the top with two waist pockets and extra side pockets with compression fastening to keep contents inside. A removable helmet carrying pouch can be clipped into place with enough strap adjustment to allow a large helmet to be carried – although I didn't have a full face handy to check. While the helmet carry is easy to load with elastic straps, it makes accessing the front spares pocket tricky and likely requires removing the helmet to get inside. While the majority of the bag has a PU water-repellent coating, there is also a bright yellow waterproof cover that can be accessed from the very bottom of the bag.
The construction of the bag and fabric feels strong, and despite plenty of rugged use, the fabric has remained perfect with no sign of wear. The double zips on the main pocket feel robust, and they're equipped with large plastic pullers. Although all other zips on the pack have a more dainty, slightly stretchy puller. While these have remained intact so far, they don't feel anywhere near as durable as the main zips. They suit the smaller pockets, such as the waist and goggle pouch, but I would rather see a stronger puller on the front tool pocket, especially when the helmet is in place and a little more force is needed to open.
At €140/£120, the TRACK 17 is similar to other high-quality bags that don't have a back protector like the slightly smaller Osprey Raptor 14 at £120, although a reservoir is included with that. The Evoc Trail Pro is £200, which comes with a back protector. So if you consider purchasing the additional back protector for the TRACK 17, that comes to a total of €175/£145; the saving is reasonable, and the quality is comparable.
For riders looking for a generously sized day pack, with space and compartments for all you might need on a ride, the Amplifi Track 17 is worth considering. Although shorter riders might find the fit a little longer than desired.
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