The Adventure Source was asked to check out the Viking Bags - Viking Odyssey Adventure Touring Tool Roll.
To start the shipment came in a discreet shipping bag, it did not scream what was inside of it. I appreciated that as the delivery driver didn't know if it was something boring for my wife or something awesome for me. It also meant, my wife wouldn't know if it was something awesome for me as well. Win Win
Upon first inspection of the tool roll the bag seems to be well crafted and made of a decent material. Viking claims the bag is made from ballistic nylon which makes it both abrasion-resistant and waterproof. I am not sure on the waterproof part but I did not test that part.
The bag has numerous ways to store tools and gear. Thats a big win for me, I love me some organization. The bag has multiple long skinny zips, an area to slip tools into small pockets and two clear zippered sections for wanting to see certain items. I could see sticking a map or even a small repair manual in one of those pockets.
I loaded the tool roll with most of what I would be bringing with me on a ride. I do not plan on overhauling a bike on the side of the road but do want to be able to make small tweaks and repairs if needed. This tool roll will definitely accommodate that and more.
The one question I had was where to place my larger T-handle without it falling out. Upon further inspection I noticed a pocket on the backside that could accommodate and secure my T-handle.
Here are some close up pics of further organization. I have no doubt I will move some things around once I begin using the tool roll more.
Now for the waterproof rain cover that comes with it.... This is a real disappointment. The shape is more of a flat design for when the tool roll is laid out vs it being designed with intention for when the roll is rolled up.
I also noticed that once I actually placed a loaded tool roll in the bag the velcro couldn't actually close it 100%. The roll is by no means full either.
Now will this be a deal breaker for me? No, no it won't be a deal breaker for me as I plan on keeping my tool inside another bag. It would be nice to have the option to leave it on the outside and I am sure I could leave it out with minimal impact. I would prefer a more cylinder style waterproof bag to slide the tool roll into vs how Viking designed it. I will have to test the waterproof-ness of the cover to know for sure.
Overall Assessment
Pros:
Seems to be built well
Lots of organization options with both zippered and clear viewing pockets
Has a decent sized pocket on backside
Large grab handle to carry
Kinda a Goldilocks size bag, not too big but not too small to hold enough tools
Cons:
I am not a fan of the rain cover, I'd prefer a cover designed to be used when tool roll is rolled not flat.