Soma Further Extra Large Cycling Water Bottle (Clear/Black) (Pull-Open) (36oz)

Typical HDPE Plastic Taste

I swore off HDPE (#2) bottles many years ago, due to the plastic taste, which gets worse when your water has been sitting in the bottle for some time, or when the ambient temperature is higher. But I thought I'd give these bottles a try, given the huge capacity. I have bottles with both styles of caps.
Well, here's my thoughts:
Pros:
1) Soft and squishy- much easier to squeeze than similar SIS and Zefal Magnum bottles.
2) High flow rate- good with either style of cap.
3) Great capacity- more than your typical Nalgene 1 liter bottle
4) Fits most standard cages- I prefer the Profile Kage for a secure fit.
5) USA made
Cons:
1) That dreaded HDPE plastic taste. All the usual tricks (baking soda, lemon juice, etc.) don't help to get rid of it.
2) Leaky threads on both styles of caps.
3) Leaky spouts on both styles of caps.
4) Might not fit smaller frames, especially on the seat tube mounting position.
I'll probably use these for longer trips, where I need the extra capacity. Otherwise I'll stick with my Klean Kanteen 27 oz Classics.

A nice way to carry a lot of water. The plastic is a little soft, which makes sense with the auto sealing valve, though I wish it was a little more solid. I would probably buy the pull open version next time. It fits well on my road and gravel bikes but is too big for my mountain bike frame.