The small USWE Moto Hydro 8L Kurt Caselli Edition hydration pack really pleasantly surprised me.
Except when I use my motorcycle as a means of transportation to get to work, I’m not usually a fan of backpacks. With all the safety gear already on me, a backpack quickly becomes more of a hindrance than a help. Not only can it restrict certain movements, but it’s also often difficult to adjust so that it stays securely in place.
Fit
The Moto Hydro 8L uses the “No Dancing Monkey” (NDM) system, which relies primarily on a central buckle that pivots 180 degrees, as well as two Velcro adjustments on the shoulder straps. These straps also incorporate elastic sections that allow the system to remain stable without restricting the rider’s movements.
The Moto Hydro 8L stays so stable that you completely forget it’s there. Note that it sits fairly high between the shoulder blades and fastens at the front at the sternum. Result: no pressure on the lower back, even on the more technical and rough sections.
One detail I particularly appreciated: even with relatively high-mounted panniers and a saddlebag on my motorcycle, the Moto Hydro 8L never came into contact with the luggage, regardless of my riding position.
The shoulder straps also feature reflective strips, which are useful during night rides.
Storage
The Moto Hydro 8L features three closed compartments.
The first, smaller one is ideal for personal items like a wallet, keys, or a few small accessories. It features several dividers that make organization easy. Simple, effective, and well-thought-out storage.
The middle compartment is better suited for small tools, a phone, or various items of similar size.
The third compartment, the largest, is divided into two sections. The first holds the three-liter hydration bladder. It fits easily and stays in place thanks to a small Velcro strap that prevents the bladder from sliding to the bottom of the bag.
The other section offers enough space to carry a pair of gloves, a neck warmer, and a few snacks.
A Little More Capacity
At the bottom of the Moto Hydro 8L are two adjustable straps. Although they’re mainly used to compress the pack to limit movement of the contents, I used them to attach my rain jacket.
Once rolled up tightly in its sleeve, it fits perfectly and stays securely in place.
Easy Access
With its three-liter hydration reservoir, the Moto Hydro 8L showcases a smart design.
The hydration tube can be attached to either the left or right side thanks to small straps on the shoulder straps designed for this purpose. A small clip also prevents the tube from moving unnecessarily while riding.
There is also a small opening at the top of the left shoulder strap for threading through a phone or GPS charging cable.
Comfort
On the back of the pack, USWE has integrated six small cushions that enhance comfort and promote airflow.
The back of the bag and the shoulder straps also use a breathable material that helps manage heat while reducing the overall weight.
Only fools never change their minds
In my motorcycle gear closet, I have an excellent protective jacket (body armor) that I actually use quite rarely.
Even though the level of protection is remarkable, the lack of storage space almost always pushes me toward my motorcycle jacket, which is much more practical with its multiple pockets and its own hydration system.
The Moto Hydro 8L, with its compact size and weight of about 500 g without the reservoir filled, is seriously likely to give my jacket a few days off.
Even though it takes a few minutes to adjust it properly during the first few uses, the system proves to be effective, well-designed, and particularly stable once correctly installed.
After several hours on the trail, I often realized I had completely forgotten I was wearing a pack.
And that, in my opinion, is probably the best compliment you can pay a hydration system.
Thanks to Kimpex Canada for making this test of the USWE Moto Hydro 8L Kurt Caselli Edition possible.
Strengths
- Ideal size for half-day rides
- Highly effective stabilization system
- Smart design
- Excellent comfort
- Very stable during active riding
Weaknesses
- Higher price than the regular edition
- Design and color scheme heavily KTM-oriented
Who is Kurt Caselli?
Kurt Caselli was a top-level American professional off-road and rally raid rider. A true desert legend, he won several AMA Hare & Hound championships, WORCS races, and Dakar stages riding official KTMs.
Renowned for his immense talent, his intensity on the track, and his well-liked personality in the community, Caselli was considered one of the best off-road riders of his generation.
He tragically passed away in 2013 during the Baja 1000 following an accident while leading the race.
Following his death, his family, friends, and several industry figures established the Kurt Caselli Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to protect and support off-road motorcycle riders by improving safety in the off-road and rally-raid communities.
The foundation works in particular to:
- Improve safety standards in racing,
- Develop safety equipment and protocols,
- Fund medical and signage initiatives,
- Provide support to riders after their racing careers.
Even today, Kurt Caselli’s name remains strongly associated with off-road motorcycle safety as well as the spirit of mutual support within the off-road community. One of the labels attached to the bag states that a portion of the proceeds from sales of this special edition will go to the Kurt Caselli Foundation.
