Review: Mosko Moto Apecat 9L Harness

I’m no stranger to wearing a vest during backcountry motorcycle travel. In fact, such a system has become my signature look during any excursion for the simple ability to have water, tools, a first aid kit, communication, and other essentials quickly at hand.

With the Apecat 9L Harness, Mosko Moto repeated its usual trick of taking what everyone else was doing, threw it in a blender, and constructed something different altogether. 

To compare the Apecat to a backpack wouldn’t quite be fair. More of a fanny pack on steroids, it features a large main rear pouch, two smaller side pouches, and a rigid main belt system. 

The larger rear pouch features multiple pockets and elastic retention slots, alongside straps on the bottom for securing a rain layer. Meanwhile, the side pouches have a single internal divider. Each pouch and the belt itself are adorned with MOLLE webbing for attaching additional accessories. 

With a minimalistic and lightweight shoulder strap system, you can route the hydration hose around the waist or up and over the shoulders for quick access. I often ride with a radio and appreciate the additional webbing for routing a shoulder mic and antenna. 

In typical Mosko fashion, the company wanted this product to be more than meets the eye, and its modularity provides tons of additional configuration options. 

Don’t need the shoulder straps? You can remove them altogether. Don’t need the side pouches? Simply slide them off and just use the main rear pouch. 

In fact, I typically use this exact setup for mountain bike rides, where I can conveniently keep my 1.5-liter included hydration bladder on board, and still have enough space in the rear pouch for first aid supplies, snacks, and tools. My setup stays ultralight and compact, with plenty of airflow and everything I need on board. 

Users looking for additional space or the ability to access more essential items can purchase the separate Chest Rig, which easily attaches to the Apecat shoulder straps. This is a great way to carry your Garmin InReach Mini, a knife, tire pressure gauge, or whatever else suits your fancy. 

If you’re used to wearing a backpack, you’ll genuinely appreciate the streamlined design and ability to carry the bulk of your load around your waist, alleviating shoulder fatigue and allowing for more breathability. With high-quality design and craftsmanship, the Apecat harness will stand the test of time and miles of abuse in the backcountry.

Mosko Moto Apecat 9L Harness
From $239; $299 as reviewed 
Colors: Black, Onyx/Orange, Woodland