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Kifaru Suggestions for a trail builder?

O

olybears57

Joined
Aug 25, 2013
Messages
658
Hey guys, I work on a trail crew in western washington, and oftentimes have to haul heavy, bulky, and awkward things in the backcountry.... Chainsaws, 5 gallon buckets full of gravel or rock, large rocks, timber, my tools and backpacking equipment... I've been thinking about buying a Kifaru Bikini Platform and Frame in conjunction with their tactical cargo panel. I want it to be able to fit a saw, or a 5 gallon bucket, etc... Does anyone have experience with this or similar system? Any other tips? I'm thinking I would haul my main camp and backpacking gear up in a big dry bag, and then just have cargo panel shell to haul water, my lunch, and tools during my work days... thoughts?
Thanks guys!

Here are links to the products.

http://store.kifaru.net/bikini-platform-frame-and-suspension-p116.aspx
http://store.kifaru.net/tactical-cargo-panel-p69.aspx

I am currently running an Osprey Aether 70L
 
i don't have first hand experience with the bikini frame but my ku3700's frame is similar to it without the added cross-bar at the top of the stays. i've carried probably 60 lbs with it once or twice (filled with axes and knives on top of the usual shelter and food stuff to show to friends on an overnighter) and i can tell i should've used my zxr instead with it's much beefier suspension and padding...the ku3700 will carry heavy loads so long as it's nice and evenly distributed but throw in awkward items and it doesn't do as well.

so based on your description of heavy, bulky, and awkward things have you considered a duplex frame instead? here's a recent thread about it: http://www.kifaruforums.net/showthread.php?t=36346.
 
Thanks for your response JV3, the obvious problem there is weight but I believe Kifaru suggests the bikini frame for loads of 50-60 lbs or less. I seldom if ever will be carrying that kind of weight. While I work all of my camping equipment will be set up at base camp, and I'll only be carrying tools, lunch, a change of clothes, and water. Would you still recommend the duplex? I would say my max weight would probably be 50 lbs.
 
Given the items you'll be toteing around , I'd go with the duplex. the solid frame sheet will give more protection for your spine & center back from being jabbed by hard objects.
 
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