Kicking Donkey Gravel Seat Bag: Italian craftsmanship for bikepacking
We are proud to share an excerpt from the full review of the Kicking Donkey Seat Bag by Gravelitalia.
Read the original review on Gravelitalia.
Behind the whimsical name “Kicking Donkey” lies a truly Italian story: that of Roberto and Martina, two enthusiasts who launched a small artisanal brand that stands out in the world of bikepacking accessories. It is a human-scale company where passion and attention to detail drive production.
First impression: love at first sight
It is hard not to be impressed upon first handling the Gravel Seat Bag. The craftsmanship is refined, the details are precise, and the perceived quality is immediately apparent. This isn’t just a vague impression; the chosen materials speak for themselves.
The main fabric is Dimension Polyant VX21, a 4-layer waterproof laminate also used in sailmaking—guaranteeing resistance to both the elements and mechanical stress. The construction is rounded out by 1000D Cordura, polypropylene straps, Duraflex buckles, and a large, solid, and practical Velcro mounting system. All this comes in at a weight of just 150 grams.
In the saddle: real-world performance
The bag was tested for over a month on both gravel and road bikes, in all weather conditions. The result? A reliable travel companion: compact yet surprisingly spacious, with a 6-liter capacity (12-liter and 17-liter versions are also available in the shop for those with greater storage needs). It is designed for medium-distance gravel rides (150–200 km) and micro-adventures, yet it also proves useful for more leisurely outings involving a lunch stop where you might want to carry a change of clothes. Even when fully loaded, the bag remains highly stable without interfering with your pedaling.
Customization: the added value
One of the features that sets Kicking Donkey apart from the competition is the ability to customize products. Customers can choose bespoke color combinations and—in the case of frame bags—get a bag literally tailored to their specific frame geometry, a rarity in today’s market.
