After years of experimenting with different setups for hauling multi-day loads, it was clear that a frame bag—tailored to fit within otherwise unused space—offered a highly functional way of carrying heavier items, such as foods, tools and water.

With an industrial sewing machine in a basement apartment, Eric began producing burly frame bags for fat-tire snow bike riders, including those racing the Iditarod Trail Invitational in Alaska. Demand for the bags grew, and after a short three months Eric left his engineering day job behind and devoted himself to designing and sewing bags for others who shared his adventure biking drive and needed functional, lightweight gear.

Parsons' company, Revelate Designs, now produces not only frame bags, but handlebar bags, seat bags, slings, harnesses, and cockpit bags, including what he calls the Gas Tank, a top-tube-mounted bag designed for quick one-handed access. (And here's how you know Parsons is used to biking out in the wild: The Gas Tank copy says it can be used to hold snacks, a camera, or "bear spray.") Every square inch of dead space on your bike can be converted into useful storage space.

Check out Revelate Designs' full product line-up here, and be sure to peep the "Pimped out bikes - bikes turned up to 11" photo gallery.