The XQIGI Elastic Bike Cargo Net is a low-cost method for turning a flat rear rack into a useful surface area to haul goods. It works as a net, using a latex core and nylon mesh to capture gear on your rack. It expands from 11 x 12 inches to 24 x 26 inches. As such, it is best suited for individuals who already own a rack and wish to restrain loose objects.
Cargo Nets vs. Baskets
Baskets add mass and change the center of gravity on a vehicle. Cargo nets maintain the vehicle's shape. Cargo nets allow you to quickly toss gear down and tighten. In doing so, cargo nets provide increased flexibility when dealing with changing loads. You no longer have to worry about gear being larger than a particular basket. If you are carrying a backpack, it remains attached to you or requires strapping to the frame. That is why the cargo net is ideal for commuters who dislike carrying gear.
When you purchase a basket, you commit to a particular volume. Your gear cannot exceed that volume. If your bag is wider than your basket, it will hang below your arm. The cargo net eliminates that limitation. The cargo net provides the ability to layer gear. You may put a jacket on the base of the cargo net and a bag above it. The mesh will hold both down. That is the distinction between a successful journey and a frustrating ride due to gear flailing. The cargo net maintains the clarity of your vision.
Many riders mistakenly believe they need containers for each trip. They do not. They need a way to secure what they currently have. A basket is a cage. A cargo net is an embracing force. The embracing force provides pressure from all angles. That adaptability is crucial to the rider who is indecisive. You may carry a grocery bag one day and a jacket another. The cargo net does not differentiate between cargo types.
Latex and Nylon Analysis
The cargo net contains latex as its core material. That allows the mesh to stretch in order to accommodate various forms and sizes of loaded gear. The 1x1 inch mesh is tight enough to preclude loss of smaller items such as gloves or keys. By relocating the hooks between squares, you may create a tension pattern that accommodates your unique load. That custom-fit is superior to a standard bungee cord which exerts tension in only one direction.
Over time, latex exposed to sunlight will dehydrate. However, considering it is used in a budget-oriented product, it performs reasonably well. The nylon mesh is substantial enough not to tear easily like the cheaper options found at retail food establishments. You can sense the tension applied to the mesh as you pull it taut. This tactile experience is essential when in a hurry.
The quality of the nylon determines whether rainwater can penetrate the mesh. Water will soak through the mesh and apply additional weight to the net, yet the water will drain rapidly through the individual holes. Any mesh net will experience rapid drainage of rainwater. It does not claim to be waterproof. It simply expects to endure exposure to inclement weather conditions without collapsing.
Failure of ABS Hooks
ABS plastic was chosen for the hooks. While ABS plastic hooks are inexpensive for a reason, they lack the tensile strength of steel. Plastics tend to flex when subjected to strong winds while riding at high speeds. If the hook were to break free from the mesh due to excessive load, your gear would likely end up on the roadway. That is the price paid for purchasing an affordable product. Should you consider your gear more valuable than saving money, you could search for products that utilize metal hooks instead.
The hooks are designed to clip into the mesh. If either the mesh is thin or if the plastic is brittle, the bond will ultimately fail. That represents a common failure mode experienced by many consumers who purchased low-priced motorcycle accessories. The plastics lack sufficient shear strength to support a heavy load while experiencing high vibrational forces. Once you encounter a pothole, the plastic must absorb the excessive energy. That is simply the harsh reality of utilizing consumer grade materials.
Practical Uses for Moto and Bike
As per the manufacturer’s listing, this cargo net may be utilized on motorcycles, bicycles, canoes and/or kayaks. To illustrate how nets compare to rigid containers, please refer to our basket comparison table. As a motorcycle owner, it will protect your helmet from bouncing around in windy conditions. As a bicyclist, it will stabilize bags that continually shift on your bicycle. It offers a simple solution for securing any object on any surface that includes hooks for attaching.
To the motorcyclist, this net represents an essential safety feature when making quick stops. You can quickly wrap your jacket across the seat and attach it via this net. No special bag required. To the bicyclist, this net replaces multiple entangled bungee cords for securing secondary gear.
This cargo net also proves beneficial for campers. Sleeping rolls may be secured to your rear rack easily via this net. It prevents rolls from sliding off your bicycle when leaning into turns. That represents a benefit that does not depend upon owning a specialized camping rack. You can find more storage and gear-carrying write-ups in the blog if you are still planning a rack setup.
Upkeep and Longevity
Upkeeping this net is straightforward. However, maintaining it properly is often ignored by owners. Never leave this net on your vehicle during winters. UV radiation is detrimental to latex rubber cores.
Regularly check your hooks for stress cracks. If you suspect that one of your hooks appears strained, replace this net immediately prior to it failing while traveling at 60mph. Regularly checking your mesh for snagging tears will similarly help extend the functionality of this inexpensive net. Use the same criteria described earlier.
The XQIGI net is an accessory that supplements any rear-rack equipped bicycle or motorcycle. It is a functional restraint system, not a basket. Therefore, if you need to carry items that remain stationary, look elsewhere. However, if you need something that restrains items from flying away while traveling, then this represents an excellent option given its price. Please visit current pricing on Amazon before determining if this is suitable for you since listings are frequently removed or relocated.
Either way, keep a set of real tie-downs in the garage for the days you carry more than a jacket and a helmet. Check the XQIGI cargo net on Amazon if the rack-strap route fits how you carry gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cargo net questions come up fast once you start using one. Here are the answers that matter most.
Does this cargo net require installation?
No, it utilizes hooks that grab onto existing bars on your bike rack or motorcycle frame.
How big is this cargo net?
It begins at approximately 11×12 inches and expands to 24×26 inches.
Will my gear remain dry using this net?
While nylon mesh and latex cores are water-resistant, they do not constitute a waterproof enclosure.
Can it support my helmet?
Yes, it can support standard helmets. However, plastic hooks represent the maximum weight capacity.
How do I modify my hooks’ positions?
You simply remove the ABS clips from their current position within the mesh and reattach them into adjacent squares. That alters the tension pattern to match your load.