Commuting backpack

milese

I got knocked off last night (non mirror using white van man turning left across my cycle lane), and have put a hole in my backpack.

So I need a new one, would like:

Built in rain cover
Big enough to carry a change of clothes, but not too bulky
Pocket for small things on front
Some kind of system to allow ventilation around your back
Something that wont break my back if I fall on it
Not too expensive!

This looks good, but is there anything similar that is a bit cheaper?

http://www.outdoorgb.com/p/deuter_cross ... dle=106151

Monty Dog

If you want quality, durability and comfort - Deuter - mine's still fine after 8 years

Bozman

+1 for the Deuter, i've had the race for a couple of years and i can't fault It.

Phate

Have a look at the Relolution Stow range, actually manufactured by Vaude for Edinburgh Bicycle Co-op, apparently getting this for my christmas

http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/ebwPNLq ... 119c003128

Should be perfect for commuting and for long runs at weekends!

hugo15

+2 for Deuter. i've got a Deuter Race and it's excellent. It fulfills all your criteria except maybe for price.... but it's definitely worth the bit extra cash.

dizzydane

+3 for Deuter - I have the Race and I Love it!

Gazzaputt

+4 Detuer. Had my small 10 litre pack a couple of years now with now problem.

leelondon117

Just got a Deuter Bike 1. Very comfy, great features (including all the ones you are looking for). On the more expensive side, but worth the extra.

spasypaddy

i have a bigger deuter that is waterproof. recommended. not cheap though.

i find raincovers dont work.

derosa

Didn't think the Deuter came with a built in rain cover?

I have one of these:
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/ebwPNLq ... 119c003128

Bozman

The Deuter race comes with a bright yellow rain cover which is stashed in a pocket at the bottom of the backpack, and it works!

milese

Thanks for the replies. I've put a Deuter on my xmas list!

al-hardman

I'd say spend the extra couple of quid and get the Race exp air http://www.outdoorgb.com/p/deuter_race_exp_air_backpack/?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=directory&utm_content=GBR&currency=GBP&country=GBR&SelectedBundle=123133
Ive used mine almost everyday for the last 12 months and even after a heavily assisted low speed off, its still as good as the day i bought it. (minus a few small scuffs).
It may be a bit smaller but its been more than enough for my daily commute.
Would highly recommend.

utah

I have a Kriega R25 which is rated the best by motorcyclists. I use it when on my motorcycle and road bike. I've had offs on both and it's as good as new 3 years on. The design is excellent and particular attention has been paid to the harness system which makes the rucksack not noticeable when on.
It is expensive but it is a top quality product.

I also have the Kriega Kube Pocket which connects to the front harness providing easy access storage.

It looks cool also.

These products are guaranteed waterproof and have not let me down when riding my motorbike in heavy downpours.

It's also a modular system enabling additional storage. Check out the Kriega website.

chrisw12

My Personal opinion from a few years of commuting with rucksacks is that they are all way over engineered and way too heavy with padding extra straps and extra pockets. I'm no weight weenie but one place you don't want any extra weight is on your back. Also how many with zips are truly waterproof without using the extra weight of covers or inner bags?

So the holy Grail of cycling rucksacks, light, cheap and totally waterproof. Type in dry pack rucksacs into google and take your pick. My favourite http://www.headtothehills.co.uk/outdoor ... 5-rucksack

TheStone

Another +1 for Deuter. Their bags are great. I use this one. It's small - I usually leave shoes at work, but you can squeeze them in.

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/deuter-race-exp-air-rucksack/

Have had it for maybe 5 years. Chucked it in the washing machine last week and now as good as new.

Includes rain cover.

macondo01

[quote Have a look at the Relolution Stow range, actually manufactured by Vaude for Edinburgh Bicycle Co-op, apparently getting this for my christmas

http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/ebwPNLq ... 119c003128

Should be perfect for commuting and for long runs at weekends!
[/quote]

You are quite right these bags are made by Vaude and they are excellent. I bought the Vaude Ultratrail 20 (there was an offer). It's one of my favorite bits of kit. I think you will be pleased

scruffyduncan

I have a deuter which is great. I also have a carradice saddle bag which is better.

tigerben

left field suggestion - how about lightweight pannier with rack top bag?

So much more comfortable and liberating not to have back pack on... adds a bit of weight the bike / ruins the lines a touch but worth it

furrag

I have the Deuter Crossbike.

Great solid bag, but the airstripes system doesn't stop your back from sweating.