I find a normal backpack on a bicycle to be horrendous. When you lean forward, it's too tall and flops over.
I know I use more water than most, but on a 100 km+ ride, I will take a full MULE (3+ litres) with two 750 mL bottles of electrolyte. On the road bike is a tail bag with C02, tire and tube so it's not on my back (it's heavy and makes me sad to buy a light bike and add weight, but I need to be self sufficient). Food on the go used to be in the camelbak but after the niagara falls trip it has moved to a small bag on the top tube so it is easier to get to while riding. Garbage goes into the left jersey pocket. Camelbak has gauze, space blanket, cell phone, multi-tool, one card and cash.
with my backpack... it's actually GREAT for my commuter bike (much more vertical and relaxed position)
on the roadie...i'm more cramped, but i can adjust the straps so its not horrible
what i like about the backpack:
- able to get the bladder in and the tube out
- can put whatever i want in it without worrying
- it has a separate mesh backing to avoid overheating/sweating on the back
what i hate about the backpack:
- too big, bulky (28L)
- i might add too much stuff for no good reason
what i like about the camel back:
- lighter, very spartan
- fits better on my back (ive done one ride for heart with it)
what i dont like about the camel back:
- smaller size means i can carry less stuff in it
- the heat from the bladder being directly on my back (sweat + heats up the water)
- how awkwardly the tube is positioned
ive got a few co2 canisters but im going to buy another 1-2 tubes just to be safe
the tail bag has what i need for basic stuff if something happens on the side of the road
@daught drinking that much before a ride would make me feel queasy (like even if i take it over an hour)
first year i did ride for heart, i didnt drink enough and i was fine for the ride, but as soon as i got off the bike..OH THE PAIN. My quads seized and i had to limp to the feeding stations even after chugging 2 bottles of water... The next year i had the bladder so i was fine but i also didn't need to stop to pee. i feel like that much water would make me pee and as soon as i break the seal...