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Is The Rab Neutrino 200 The Best Down Sleeping Bag For Bikepacking and Cycle Touring?

The Rab Neutrino 200 is super lightweight and possibly the most compact down sleeping bag on the market making it a great pick for summer bikepacking and cycle touring

This article explores the Rab Neutrino 200 and asks if it could be the best down sleeping bag for bikepacking and cycle touring in summer.

I’ve owned the Neutrino 200 for 15 years. It’s still in great condition. That’s why I buy Rab gear* and can recommend this sleeping bag*.

As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve invested in adventure gear over the years, in particular cycle touring kit. A quality sleeping bag is one of the non-negotiable essentials for long-term travel.

This article includes everything there is to know about the Rab Neutrino 200 and why I feel it could be the best down sleeping bag on the market for cycle touring and bikepacking during the summer months.

airing out the Neutrino 200 down sleeping bag in Greece
Airing out the Rab Neutrino 200 and silk liner after a night in Greece

Overview of the Rab Neutrino 200

The Rab Neutrino 200 is an extremely lightweight goose-down sleeping bag.

Designed for two-season use, this mummy-style sleeping bag is perfect for bikepacking trips, mountaineering expeditions, or long-distance cycle touring.

With its impressive weight-to-warmth ratio, the Neutrino 200 boasts an incredible fill power of 800+ hydrophobic goose down.

Remember, this is a summer sleeping bag for fair weather adventures

Pertex Quantum Fabric

The massive 800+ fill power ensures maximum insulation while keeping the overall weight of the bag to a minimum. The Pertex Quantum fabric used in its construction adds durability and water resistance.

As a down sleeping bag, it’s best to keep it dry as far as possible however, the Pertex fabric offers some protection from damp conditions.

This compact sleeping bag features a snug fit with an ergonomic design that allows freedom of movement without compromising on heat retention.

The angled foot box and adjustable hood ensure optimal thermal efficiency. Additionally, the two-way zipper allows for easy ventilation when needed.

The Neutrino 200 is so light it carries itself!

rab neutrino 200 down sleeping bag in a monastery in Cambodia
You can sleep in any climate with the Neutrino 200, even humid places like Cambodia in South East Asia

Specification and Features

WEIGHT: 579G / 20OZ

RAB SLEEP LIMIT: -1C / 30F

PACK SIZE: 30 X 20cm / 11.8 X 7.9 inches

The Rab Neutrino 200 down sleeping bag is filled with high-quality 800-fill-power ethically sourced European goose down. Which provides exceptional warmth without adding unnecessary weight.

The down insulation is also treated with a hydrophobic coating to ensure it retains its loft and insulating properties even in damp conditions.

Compact Design For Bikepacking

In terms of size and weight, the Rab Neutrino 200 is designed to be lightweight and compact. It’s about the same size as a ThermaRest*. Alongside my Hilleberg tent, these three bedtime items packed neatly inside my 30l Ortlieb Messenger bag.

Additionally, the bag weighs just under 600 grams, making it ideal for backpacking, cycle touring and mountaineering.

A Spacious Down Sleeping Bag

The Neutrino 200 has a mummy shape with a tapered fit for maximum heat retention while minimizing bulk. I found this down sleeping bag to be comfortable – I’m 6’2″ on a good day.

I also used a silk liner* to protect the bag from my sweaty slumber. A liner means easy laundry and a clean sleeping bag. A great option for long-term trips where showers are infrequent.

In colder seasons I usually wear Merino base layers* to maximise the warmth. I chose the 200 over other models primarily for weight. Warmer sleeping bags are available.

a down sleeping bag is ideal for summer in Central Asia
A super lightweight down sleeping bag is perfect for summer in Central Asia

The Rab Neutrino 200 could be the best down sleeping bag for summer bikepacking and cycle touring

As a veteran cycle tourer, I have experience across 40+ countries. I’ve come to rely on outdoor gear that can withstand the challenges of diverse terrains and ever-changing weather conditions.

When it comes to choosing the best down sleeping bag for bikepacking and cycle touring, the Rab Neutrino 200 certainly stands out.

This sleeping bag boasts a remarkable balance of warmth, weight, and packability. Making it a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures.

Its high-quality down insulation is designed to keep you cosy during chilly nights. Ensuring a restful sleep regardless of the temperature outside.

Built To Last

Constructed with durability in mind, the Rab Neutrino 200 is built to withstand the demands of rugged terrain and frequent use.

Its robust materials and solid construction ensure longevity. 15 years of use suggest it’s a worthwhile investment for those planning extensive bikepacking or cycle touring trips.

Look after your Rab and it will look after you

Comfort is paramount during long-distance cycling journeys, and the Rab Neutrino 200 doesn’t disappoint in this department.

This sleeping bag offers a comfortable and rejuvenating rest after a day of vigorous pedalling.

a cyclone in Vietnam was not a great night for the Neutrino down sleeping bag
Wet conditions, like this cyclone in Vietnam, are not happy places for down sleeping bags

A Personal Experience

Feedback from fellow outdoor enthusiasts and my own personal experience confirm the Rab Neutrino 200’s reliability.  The point of the Neutrino 200 is that it’s super lightweight and very compact.

Some reviews suggest that the bag is not warm enough. It’s important to remember that this is a summer sleeping bag for fair weather conditions.

If you’re nesh or plan to go to cold places, choose a heavier fill power. The Neutrino 600* is a good place to start.

Brand Name Down Sleeping Bags

The Rab Neutrino 200 has garnered praise and commendation from experts and adventurers alike.

Its performance and quality make this bag a top contender for the best down sleeping bag. For bikepacking and cycle touring, the Neutrino meets the standard for weight, packability and performance.

Alpkit PipeDream 200

Alpkit is another of my favourite outdoor gear makers. Their comparable down sleeping bag is the PipeDream 200.

It’s a few grams lighter but has a seven-degree limit to the Neutrino’s 1. It’s about half the price though, so makes an excellent value alternative.

Hyke & Byke Eolus

The Eolus packs a punchy -10 limit that makes this a reliable 3-season down sleeping bag. It is, however, twice the weight of the Neutrino 200 which somewhat compromises the bag as a choice for bikepacking.

Perhaps better suited to long-term bicycle tours, the Eolus* is a bargain at £160.

Sea to Summit Treeline TII

Another British manufacturer of outdoor gear is Sea to Summit. The Treeline TII is their closest equivalent down sleeping.  bag.

It’s a 3-season mummy-style bag in grey colour. At 970g it’s 400 grams heavier than the Neutrino and compacts well though packs up more space in a pannier.

free camping on the road to Danang with my Neutrino 200 sleeping bag
Free camping in Danang at a roadside cafe with my Rab Neutrino 200 sleeping bag

Why I Love My Rab Neutrino 200

In conclusion, based on its remarkable insulation, portability, durability, and comfort, the Neutrino 200 continues to be a  popular choice with cycle tourers and bikepackers

This reliable and high-performance sleeping bag remains my pick for adventures all over the world. 

 

Do you prefer down or synthetic sleeping bags? Share your insight in the comments: