Designed for trail running and hiking, the Junction 4 makes a good pack for moving fast and light on the bike too, yet is sturdy enough to stand up to longer rides if you’re keen to travel minimally.
It comprises just two compartments – one for the bladder and an exterior one that’s big enough for a few essential tools, a lightweight jacket and a couple of bars.
As you’d expect from TNF, the construction and detail of the outer pack is excellent, with strategically placed mesh and breathable foam. The shoulder straps are comfortable and held everything so securely that we tended not to use the waist belt.
The drinking tube routes internally over either shoulder for snag-free riding, and the valve gets a magnetic clip. The bladder itself has a slide-off retainer and opens right out, making it easy to clean and fill, but has a plasticky taste that we just couldn’t minimise.
