Hi chaps, I'm looking at getting an Alpkit Stingray for my hardtail but torn over which type of side zip to get. I initially liked the idea of two horizontal zips and seperate compartments so it'd be easier keep stuff organized inside. However, the "surgeon" style looks like it'd be really handy for being able to fit in bigger items like my stove. Can anyone offer their thoughts on which is best? Cheers!

I haven't used the surgeon style but I went for two zips and the horizontal divider. You can fit a lot of big items in with that combination although it takes clever packing to do so. Generally I used the bottom pocket for tools and other heavier stuff I wouldn't regularly access, and the top was for food.

The talk on the Alpkit site about width isn't too relevant I found - go for the widest size and you can pack a lot into the top pocket yet still not get leg rub on it.

I've since moved to a different style of bag (Wildcat Ocelot) as I've changed bikes.

I think a little depends on the frame / triangle size ... bigger the triangle, more use the double zipper / divider is.

I've got a surgeon flap on my Stooge Wildcat bag, it's really very good and does make packing easier ... you just need to remember to lean the thing over when you unzip it completely