Since the RZ2 has to compete with the XLAB, it might seem like it falls a bit short, but this is still an incredibly capable hydration system.

This is also another self-contained hydration system that is mounted on the front in a torpedo position. While not the flagship model, the FC System offers more than enough value, though it is a bit more expensive than most. Convenience Designed As we mentioned earlier, bottle placement can be very individual, but the results we saw for Jess were typical to what we see with a lot of riders. We often recommend that if in doubt, place a bottle behind your saddle as this usually results in the least penalty. In some cases it has even been faster! Having a bottle between your arms is also a good option as we found with Jess, but it works best with riders that have their arms close together, rather than wide apart. Jess decided to go with the fastest of the available choices (500ml bottle behind the saddle) for her future long distance TTs. However, you will want to make sure that you have the appropriate type of aero water bottle or else you are liable to lose it if you hit rough terrain. Still Solid This hydration system also features a low profile which makes it more aerodynamic, but it also leaves it less secure when riding over rough terrain. First, the RML is not that secure and is liable to send your bottles flying when you ride over rough terrain.

Perfect balance

With the overwhelming number of triathlon hydration systems designed to provide around 20 to 24 oz, the fact that the FC System offers a 35 oz model is a significant upgrade. The type of a triathlon hydration system is more a matter of personal preference than it is a do or die situation.

Torpedo – This is a contained system, and a type of modified front mounted hydration system. The main benefit of this mount is that there is no need to carry and hold the bottle to drink water. You can sip the water through its extended feeder tube. The only trouble with this mount is that it takes more time to refill and the feeder tube can also cause leakage. That said, we actually think this is a better practice bike frame mount rather than a competition-worthy option. A better location was the seat tube - only resulting in a 3.6w penalty at 40kph or 1.6w at 30kph (1min30sec over an IM bike leg). Cage – This is a far simpler form of bike hydration system though it will inherently require more effort on your end to use. Basically, the cage type of triathlon fueling systems merely hold whatever receptacle in place but do not aid or assist the transfer of water in any way. This means that cage systems do not have a feeder tube or any other automatic method of distribution. However, this also means that the cage type of hydration systems are much easier to refill as you can just grab another bottle. One issue is that cage systems do not always hold the bottle securely and can allow it to topple out of the cage if you ride over rougher terrain. MountThis is likely in part due to the fact that, aside from being made of carbon fiber, the mounting hardware is extremely light as well. Moreover, this frame mounted hydration system is also easy to install. Our pin is almost 10 times smaller than the hole that receives it, this means it is much easier to locate and replace. Cage – This is a straightforward hydration system to use, and it can hold any liquid in it. This cage system does not aid the transfer of water in any way as it does not come with any automatic way of distribution. The main advantage of this cage system is that it is effortless to refill. The main issue with this System is that it does not hold the bottle securely. As it stands, we feel that it is the best all-around value, assuming you already have a cage and mount.

Easy to Drink East to Refill - Stop reaching down for frame bottles. The Torpedo Versa 200 allows you to keep both hands on the aerobar, giving you added control and confidence. Designed to allow you...The bottle is made of BPA-free plastic and is much easier to clean than some of the other frame mounted systems we saw. I believe the UCI regulation is question is that –‘bottles themselves must not exceed maximum cross-section dimensions of 10cm or less than 4cm.’ When it comes to frame mounted aero water bottle, XLAB once again takes our top spot, though the competition is a bit more fierce.

Carbon fiber is great for hydration cages because not only is it incredibly lightweight, but it is also incredibly strong for its weight.

XLAB is the other company primarily known for manufacturing hydration systems which can be found in numerous Winner’s Circles from a wide variety of different triathlons. The weight of the hydration system is also a significant factor to consider while buying. You have to choose the right weight according to the needs of your body. Choosing an inadequate hydration system will not be worth spending money as it will not fulfil the desired task. On the other hand, selecting a heavyweight system will consume your more energy that can put effects on your race. Thus, choose the weight carefully by considering all the essential factors. Rear – This is the original mounting position for bike fueling systems and is almost always a cage type of hydration system. This is mostly due to the fact that snaking a feeder tube along the entire length of the bike is not an efficient design. The KIT CRONO TT comprises aerodynamic bottle and bottlecage, designed and tested in a wind tunnel.It’s a highly technological and performing product, designed to be efficient. The cage is longer than your typical water bottle cage. Fortunately, it comes with quite a degree of flexibility where you place it on the down tube (or seat tube)