Thule Roundtrip MTB Duffel 70L

Review by Will Trail

Initial Impressions

The Thule Roundtrip MTB Duffel 70L is a purpose built gear transport bag designed to organize and carry MTB gear for travel, bike park days, and weekend riding trips. It focuses on structured storage, separation of clean and dirty gear, and quick access to essential riding equipment. Right away it feels like a well thought out system rather than just a large duffel. I’ve used an earlier version of Thule’s MTB duffel in the past, and this updated design is clearly more refined, with better thought-out compartments and a more user-adjustable, flexible layout. As a bluesign® certified product, it also carries a lower environmental impact compared to conventional materials.

Specs

• Capacity: 70L
• Material: Polyester
• Carry options: Hand carry + backpack straps
• Features: Internal adjustable dividers, helmet storage zone, shoe compartment, goggle protective divider panel, multiple accessory pockets, structured body design, standing mat
• Color: Deep Khaki (tested), Black

Design and Functionality

The overall structure of the bag is one of its strongest attributes. It holds its shape well whether fully packed or partially loaded and does not collapse during use. The internal organization system adds useful structure without feeling overbuilt, with dividers that are easy to move, snap in, and reconfigure based on gear setup.

I used this primarily for MTB trail days out of a van or SUV, bike park sessions, and weekend camping trips. My packing style stays fairly consistent, with the main variable being helmet choice between a half shell and full face depending on the ride. Both fit comfortably in the main compartment, though not at the same time unless the dividers are removed. There is plenty of clearance, and helmets stay stable without shifting during transport. Knee and elbow pads also fit easily alongside the rest of the gear, though my full chest and back protector is too large to pack with everything.

Typically, my gear setup includes a full riding kit with helmet, shoes, knee and elbow pads, gloves, goggles, sunglasses, tools, chain lube, spare brake pads, nutrition, bike bottles, and occasional clothing layers depending on weather, along with a packable rain jacket that stays in the bag at all times until needed..

The shoe compartment securely holds MTB shoes and prevents movement. While dirt still transfers, the separation helps keep gear more organized overall. I use the side compartment for tools, brake pads, and fluids to isolate them from bits I want to keep clean. Zipping the bag and buckling the end flaps stabilizes packed items and holds shoes securely in place.

A standout feature is the dedicated divider panel for goggles and eyewear. It keeps lenses protected and organized while still accommodating cases if preferred, which is a nice touch for riders carrying multiple optic setups.

Performance

In real-world use, the bag performs best as a structured gear hub for riding days and short trips. Organization speeds up packing and unpacking, especially when most gear stays consistent between rides. The internal layout makes it easy to separate dirty and clean items, even though dirt still inevitably spreads as expected in MTB use.

The included standing mat is a useful touch during post-ride transitions at the trailhead or when set up out of a van or SUV. It folds out easily when needed and stows away just as quickly. I used it when changing out of riding shoes into casual footwear, and it kept my feet clean and dry while standing outside the bag. Both the mat and the shoe compartment are lined with tarpaulin material, which makes them easy to clean after muddy or dusty rides. It adds a simple but practical layer of convenience when moving between riding and everyday use.

The bag feels sturdy whether hand carried or wearing on the back. One-handed carrying is easy, and I rarely use the backpack straps since I’m typically moving it short distances, though they are simple to deploy and would be useful for airport travel scenarios. When worn as a backpack, the bag stays stable and prevents internal gear from shifting excessively. The main carry handles are comfortable and fold out of the way during loading and unloading. A spring wire frame keeps the opening wide for full visibility and easy access, while the internal structure maintains its shape when loading or removing gear. The inner lining material also resists dirt sticking, which helps keep cleanup simple after dirty riding days. Zippers, snaps, and adjustment points all feel durable and operate smoothly, and the divider system is simple to adjust while holding firmly once configured.

I chose the Deep Khaki color as it stands out more in the darker areas of my van “bike garage,” and the lighter interior color improves visibility. I also typically leave the top unzipped after rides to help gear air out, and the structure continues to perform well in use.

Care and Maintenance

Cleaning and maintenance are simple in real-world use. The materials are easy to brush off after dusty or muddy trips, and the internal layout helps isolate dirty gear which reduces cleanup time. After repeated use, the structure, zippers, and dividers continue to function without issue.

Closing Thoughts

The Thule Roundtrip MTB Duffel 70L is a highly functional gear organization system built specifically for riders who want an efficient way to manage full kits for bike park days, trail rides, and weekend trips. The structured layout, adjustable dividers, and dedicated storage zones for helmets, shoes, and accessories make it easy to keep gear organized and accessible.

What stood out most during testing is how dialed the organization system feels in real-world use. It makes pre-packed riding setups simple and keeps gear separation under control even in messy MTB conditions. For riders who consistently travel with a full kit and want a reliable “grab and go” system, this bag delivers exactly that. In my experience, it is one of the best gear organization bags I’ve used.

Will Trail

Will grew up in Idaho (fifth generation!) where he enjoyed the outdoors, riding his bike, participated in multiple sports, and working on the family ranch from time to time.

During college at Montana Tech, he played football for a few years and worked as a wildland firefighter during the summers.  He met his future wife, Erin Trail, there and after graduating with a degree in Geophysical Engineering, they moved to Texas where he was involved with racing his Subaru WRX, camping and powerlifting.