As we introduced previously, CHRIS KING’s new "Midnight" colorway. To coincide with that release, the creative team at CHRIS KING and Circles have teamed up to develop the JS Loader, the newest member of the RAL Loader family.
RAL JS Loader
The JS Loader is both durable and weather-resistant, meeting almost every requirement for a handlebar-mounted cycling bag used for carrying compact loads. The CHRIS KING team produced a special run of headset caps in their new Midnight color specifically for this bag, serving as a key component of the exterior flap closure system.
As a B-Corp certified company, CHRIS KING is committed to sustainability, so the bag is primarily constructed from EcoPak recycled nylon. The Midnight headset cap complements the coyote brown EcoPak material perfectly, acting as a subtle yet instantly recognizable accent piece.
We commissioned Cody Forsythe of JACK SUPPLY CO—a collaborator on this project and a friend of Steven from SimWorks USA—to handle the bag's production, allowing us to move forward with this project through a very close-knit connection where everyone involved is based in Portland.
Cody is someone we have relied on for small-batch bag production for some time; he was also the one we asked to produce the frame bags for our Doppo High Plains Drifter. He is truly a reliable presence who can immediately turn our ideas into samples.
The goal in developing the JS Loader was to create a compact handlebar bag with enough capacity for long day rides. Its 3.5-liter capacity provides ample space for a light rain shell, knee warmers, compact tools, a mini-pump, snacks, a small camera, or lights. A plastic insert maintains the bag's structure, while a foam liner protects your gear when riding off-road.
The bag’s flap features a bungee strap that hooks onto the CHRIS KING headset cap, enhancing the bag's top-side weather resistance and covering the zippered main compartment.
Additionally, there is a thin sleeve on the front of the bag accessible via velcro; since it is hidden by the flap, it can be used to store credit cards, ID, or cash. Plastic D-rings are attached to the sides of the bag, allowing you to remove it and attach a shoulder strap to turn the JS Loader into a small carry-around bag.
Quick and easy attachment to the bike is achieved using two 6-inch VOILE Nano Straps for the handlebars and a cord-lock strap that passes between the bike's head tube and the daisy chain sewn into the back of the bag. Even if you don't have space on your handlebars, you can utilize saddle loops to use it as a saddle bag.
Production of the JS Loader is limited, and while we made as many as we could for sale in the US and Japan, they have already sold out in the US. We are truly happy to share this bag—developed in collaboration with our friends at CHRIS KING and brought to life with the help of JACK SUPPLY CO—with cyclists here in Japan.
RAL / JS Loader
【SPEC】
Size: 24x15x10 cm
Capacity: 3.5L
Outer Fabric: ECOPAK – EPLX400 (Waterproof, recycled nylon from PET bottles)
Liner Fabric: ECOPAK – RBC200 (Water-resistant, recycled nylon from PET bottles)
Plastic Insert Material: 1/8″ HDPE
Webbing Fabric: Nylon
Included: 6-inch Voile Nano Strap x 2, Cord Lock Strap x 1
Price: 19,250 JPY (tax included)