Riding with a BACKPACK?

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mikbusa said:
How the hell are we supposed to know? WTF are you going to put in it? Find one that fits.
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it does make a difference what you intend on carrying ...
DucatiDog3237567062_c8e9c876c3.jpg
 
Make sure you get one with a waist strap. I rode with one with just the shoulder straps once and it was not particularly enjoyable, it kept trying to inch down and I was really conscious of it. Waist strap = way more secure and comfortable.
 
I would imagine that an SS would be more susceptible to the extra weight, but I haven't noticed any issues with my backpack. It's a cheap large hiking backpack, no frame or anything, but pretty big. I grabbed groceries a few weeks ago and filled it right up. The weight was somewhat annoying for me but didn't affect my 636 from a commuting standpoint. I didn't use the waist strap and it didn't sink on me at all. I did a good high speed test and it didn't try to pull me off too much until I was verging on the street racing law. I cannot recommend spending extra money on an aerodynamic unit.

On the other hand I would agree with the previous suggestion of keeping your clothes at work. They'll be better stored and less wrinkled that way.
 
I got different backpacks for different requirements:

For bulk and adaptability (groceries, bike washing kit, clipping on additional odd shaped objects) Downsides (too many loose straps slap and sting the thighs at high speed, too informal for work, not water proof):
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or something similar:
http://www.mec.ca/AST/ShopMEC/Packs/Daypacks/TopLoad/PRD~5024-091/arcteryx-cierzo-25.jsp

For fair bulk but formality also (transforms into a shoulder slung or briefcase for meetings, also has decent laptop padding and restraints). Downsides (not waterproof, too nice to filth up on a rugged demanding excursion):
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http://www.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=...&rls=com.microsoft:en-ca&tbm=isch&um=1&itbs=1

For Laptop protection, aero dynamics, and cool factor (also impresses clients despite sporty look, designed for laptops, extremely water resistent, protective, great laptop padding, minimal straps - very tidy) Downsides (limited to 15" laptop, price, limited storage size, in a severe downpour some water will penetrate zipper...never got my laptop wet though):
image-1c.jpg


http://www.axioluggage.com/swift_carbon.html

For extreme waterproofing / actually for swimming!!! (100% waterproof, trust me I went snorkling with it) Downsides (single zipper / pocket, price, limited application, can be negated by a water proof cover for a regular back pack for riding):

5024-396_CHA00_view1_1000x1000.jpg


http://www.mec.ca/AST/ShopMEC/Packs/WaterproofPacks/PRD~5024-396/mec-aegir-20-pack.jsp


For those days when I don't have pockets and wanna take a couple little items (if I am in my styling jacket, full leathers, or whatever):
4009-376_BK000_view1_1000x1000.jpg


http://www.mec.ca/AST/ShopMEC/Packs/ShoulderBags/PRD~4009-376/mec-bon-vivant-shoulder-bag.jsp

And of course, the "foldaway pack" to stuff into your bike trunk for when you didn't think to take a bag, did some shopping and now don't know how to take it home! Downsides (not robust quality as it is meant for light usage):

eurohike-packable-daysack.jpg
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http://www.blacks.co.uk/Rucksacks/T...102510/packable-daysack.html?attribute=165072
 
Depending on what you need to carry, the distance your going etc etc I would look into a tailbag, But then I hate riding with a backpack. I find for me, with my leather jacket the straps cut off the airflow and I end up with sweat "straps" up the front and down the back on an average summers day.

Then there's the whole sharp/pointy/solid objects your carrying slamming into your back if you crash argument.
 
I commute all the time with my backpack, my dayhiker backpack sits too high and interferes with the back of my helmet. Find a cheap simple one without too many straps that will be flapping in the breaze.

my two cents
 
The "formal" back pack I suggested may be your best bet. It's about $40 at MEC and can store: 18" laptop + large adapter + mouse + files in dedicated sleeves + shoes + a change of clothes + a light jacket + toiletries + a $3 scrunched up rain cover. Deceptively large volume and great price!

The bag is both a side carry brief case, shoulder sling, and back pack (straps tuck away out of sight).

It's got clean, fairly rigid lines for office formality and doesn't scream "I got a laptop in here, steal me!".

Great size, not too bulky, and not too many straps to molest you while you ride at high speed.
 
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For just your work clothing, something quite basic will work fine. It won't be weighty, so you don't need anything much more than a basic type.

Remember, if you commute regularly by bike, you'll sometimes encounter rain, so get a large plastic bag, ziplock type bag, whatever to keep what you need dry. The rain is another reason not to spend to freely on a backpack, the pack will be subjected to somewhat extreme duty (high wind, wetness, direct sun, road grime) so will wear out quicker.
 
i hate riding with a backpack, gives me shoulder / back pains later... I just use a seat bag now...
 
If you're riding with a backpack never close the zipper up top. Always make sure the zippers are closed on the bottom and or secure the zippers with a carabiner.

Otherwise it may decide to release it's contents into the wind.
 
Try a tank bag! I use one and usually fit everything I need in it. Mine came with straps which clip on, to wear as a backpack when not riding.
 
redridernl said:
If you're riding with a backpack never close the zipper up top. Always make sure the zippers are closed on the bottom and or secure the zippers with a carabiner.

Otherwise it may decide to release it's contents into the wind.
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This man speaks the truth. I recently lost a pair of expensive dress shoes on the 407 when I was in a rush and forgot this rule.
 
I ride with a backpack on everyday for work. I use it to carry my lunch and rain gear. It works fine for what it is, I just got a cheap 30 dollar one with a chest strap so the shoulder straps stayed in place. My commute isn't far though, its only 10 km each way but if I stop at a grocery store on the way home the extra weight can be a pain in the ***. If I was going further or carrying more stuff I would find something better.
 
Srsly, 2 pages over a backpack?

@OP: get a jansport backpack (costs ~$30 and is good quality).

/thread
 
I have heard people complain that back packs act as a sail in crosswinds, and can cause additional injuries in an accident -- but there certainly seem to be more and more people using them. Personally, I find they make me sweat. With my previous bike I did the top case thing - often with my back pack in the case. An alternative would be a bicycle style back pack with a sub frame that holds the pack from your back (I have one for use on my bicycle that I picked up at MEC).
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