Backpack or Messenger bag for commuting?

"Nlaplaca" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights and
other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking for a
backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from timbuk2. Is
this a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or pannier on my
bike.

Initially I thought I would just stash things at work but at some point it
will probably easier to carry the things I will need. Just wondering what
other commuters use to carry their items.

Nick

Well, in my opinion a backpack seems neat at first, but it starts to really
suck after a while. It hangs off the shoulders eventually starts to irritate
you, causes your back to sweat profusely with no evaporation or airflow.
If you ride home in the hot afternoons heading east a backpack or hydration
backpack works well as it keeps the hot sunlight off your back then, thus
keeping you cooler. For me I head east in the morning and west in the
afternoon so the backpack doesn't help out there at all. I am always facing
the sun either way.
A rear rack and panniers and or a trunk bag work much better for those
longer rides. The weight of the load is lower down, easier to balance, and
isn't hanging off your back.
My commute is 23 miles one way, and I have been doing it for quite a while
now, so I start to feel and see things that bother me pretty quickly. My
commuter bike has fenders and front and rear racks. One day you will get
stuck riding home in the rain and it will make you wish you had fenders.
I have a messenger bag and it starts to really bother me slung over one
shoulder or across my chest, i have to keep pushing it onto my back as it
gets in the way as I am cycling along.
Thus is starts to aggravate me a lot, so I quit using it mostly. I only use
the messenger bag when I have to ride my airport bike to the airport, along
with my overnight bag or the garment bag if I have to stay longer out of
town. I put the stuff I want to carry on the flight into the messenger bag.
Even then the messenger bag starts to bother me on the short 6 mile ride to
the airport parking area where I lock the bike up. I think I'll just tie it
to the rear rack along with the overnight bag the next time I go to the
airport.
I do have a 100oz hydration backpack and it does work good, but it is
starting to bother me a lot, so i have only used it lately for commutes to
and from work and no where else.
But this year the hydration backpack seems to really irritate me more than
it did last year. So I am switching to a trunk bag on my rear rack as the
panniers do cause a lot of drag when you are riding home in these incessant
headwinds I get stuck with.
What I did was stage my clothing and spare parts and stuff at work, so I can
travel lighter on the bike. Thus a couple of water bottles is all I need and
something to carry along a few minor extras like lunch, spare tire and a
couple of extra tubes in. Now that it is summer I only have like 30-45
minutes of darkness where I need lights a lot, whereas in the winter it is
like 3-4 hours of darkness then so I have to run extra lights with
batteries.
But come to think of it, if your bike riding position is more upright a
messenger bag might work well then. But for me I guess I am leaning forward
too much to be comfortable with it.
Anyway, i would probably check out the hydration backpacks if you want one.
I have seen several commuters with the big HAWG backpacks or similar so they
work pretty good. I have a Camelback Mule, and I think i should have gotten
the HAWG myself too, but it works pretty good though.
The Timbuktu is a good messenger bag, it is great as a carry on bag for the
airport too. 🙂

"Nlaplaca" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights and
other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking for a
backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from timbuk2. Is
this a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or pannier on my
bike.

Initially I thought I would just stash things at work but at some point it
will probably easier to carry the things I will need. Just wondering what
other commuters use to carry their items.

Nick

Is that 26 miles round trip, or 26 miles one way? Either way, that's a long
distance to have either a backpack OR a messenger bag on your sweaty back.
Have you considered a good old saddlebag? Not panniers, but a Carradice-type
saddlebag?

I'm assuming you're not using a Brooks saddle with bag loops, so Carradice
has an option for you:

http://www.wallbike.com/racks/bagman.html

That should give you enough room to carry stuff you need. Pretty cool, too.

Nlaplaca said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights and
other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking for a
backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from timbuk2. Is this
a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or pannier on my bike.

Get a hydrapak brand backpack specifically a model with the three lobes
which keep it off your back. Cannot say enuf good things about it. It
is huge and comfy and my back stays dry. I toured for a week with it
too -- with laptop.

cheers,
dkl

Quoted message said:

Nlaplaca said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights and
other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking for a
backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from timbuk2. Is this
a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or pannier on my bike.

Go with a backpack design. For me with a chest and gut strap, it just says put.
I carry shoes, change of duds, and a quart of coffee in a thermos. I have been
in endos and everything stayed right where it is supposed to. The messenger
bags are for frequent access. I load it up the night before and get in it after
I get into the job. Good luck with your choice.

Chris

Nick Laplaca said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights
and other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was
looking for a backpack on performance bike and noticed messenger bags
from timbuk2. Is this a better option? I don't feel like putting a
rack or pannier on my bike.

Quoted message said:

Initially I thought I would just stash things at work but at some
point it will probably easier to carry the things I will need. Just
wondering what other commuters use to carry their items.

These guys had an even nicer bag than shown on this page but these
would be good candidates:

http://tinyurl.com/hpux6

Jobst Brandt

Gooserider said:

"Nlaplaca" <[email hidden]> wrote in message

Quoted message said:

Initially I thought I would just stash things at work but at some point it
will probably easier to carry the things I will need. Just wondering what
other commuters use to carry their items.

Is that 26 miles round trip, or 26 miles one way? Either way, that's a long
distance to have either a backpack OR a messenger bag on your sweaty back.
Have you considered a good old saddlebag? Not panniers, but a Carradice-type
saddlebag?

I'm assuming you're not using a Brooks saddle with bag loops, so Carradice
has an option for you:

http://www.wallbike.com/racks/bagman.html

That's interesting, I don't think I've seen that before.

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

1) No need to attach a rack
2) Easy to swap between bikes
3) Waterproof
4) Sits in your rain/windshadow
5) Depending on the model fits laptops nicely
5.5) Excellent for trips to the library ;-)
6) Attaches/detaches in about 2 seconds

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

My co-workers were so impressed two of them have bought the slim
version (it fits laptops better - in the touring mine has to go in
diagonally). In terms of cost, it's not too far off a rack + decent
trunk bag ($75 = $35 rack + $40 trunk bag).

--
Dane Buson - [email hidden]
`The only way tcsh "rocks" is when the rocks are attached to its feet
in the deepest part of a very deep lake.' -- (Linus T.)

Quoted message said:

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

1) No need to attach a rack
2) Easy to swap between bikes
3) Waterproof
4) Sits in your rain/windshadow
5) Depending on the model fits laptops nicely
5.5) Excellent for trips to the library ;-)
6) Attaches/detaches in about 2 seconds

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

My co-workers were so impressed two of them have bought the slim
version (it fits laptops better - in the touring mine has to go in
diagonally). In terms of cost, it's not too far off a rack + decent
trunk bag ($75 = $35 rack + $40 trunk bag).

--
Dane Buson - [email hidden]
`The only way tcsh "rocks" is when the rocks are attached to its feet
in the deepest part of a very deep lake.' -- (Linus T.)

Thanks for all the comments guys. I am still torn. I won't actually be
carrying a whole lot. My usual gear. (tubes,levers, tools) can be carried in
my small under the saddle bag. I will probably be taking either arm warmers
or maybe a thin jacket that will need to be stored for the ride home as I
will be leaving at 4:30 a.m. and chances are some mornings will be cool.
That along with a change of clothes and food. So far one of the SQR options
seems appealing to me. I think I am leaning towards that,

Nick

"Dane Buson" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Gooserider said:

I'm assuming you're not using a Brooks saddle with bag loops, so
Carradice
has an option for you:

http://www.wallbike.com/racks/bagman.html

That's interesting, I don't think I've seen that before.

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

1) No need to attach a rack
2) Easy to swap between bikes
3) Waterproof
4) Sits in your rain/windshadow
5) Depending on the model fits laptops nicely
5.5) Excellent for trips to the library ;-)
6) Attaches/detaches in about 2 seconds

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

A riding buddy was using a Carradice bag with the bagman (see link above) --
but the bagman is both overpriced ($38 for the regular, $67 for the quick
release version for what basically is a bent steel rod with a simple bracket
on it), didn't seem particularly sturdy, and proved that by the bracket
breaking soon.

Like you, I have the SQR bag and I've been very happy with this system. It's
particularly nice for somebody who doesn't want the weight of a rack on the
bike when they don't need to carry anything.

"Mike Kruger" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

"Dane Buson" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Gooserider said:

I'm assuming you're not using a Brooks saddle with bag loops, so
Carradice
has an option for you:

http://www.wallbike.com/racks/bagman.html

That's interesting, I don't think I've seen that before.

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

1) No need to attach a rack
2) Easy to swap between bikes
3) Waterproof
4) Sits in your rain/windshadow
5) Depending on the model fits laptops nicely
5.5) Excellent for trips to the library ;-)
6) Attaches/detaches in about 2 seconds

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

A riding buddy was using a Carradice bag with the bagman (see link
above) -- but the bagman is both overpriced ($38 for the regular, $67 for
the quick release version for what basically is a bent steel rod with a
simple bracket on it), didn't seem particularly sturdy, and proved that by
the bracket breaking soon.

Like you, I have the SQR bag and I've been very happy with this system.
It's particularly nice for somebody who doesn't want the weight of a rack
on the bike when they don't need to carry anything.

Ok that seals it. I am going with the sqr slim. Thanks again everyone. I am
glad I decided to post this. I almost bought one of the messenger bags from
performance but backed out and decided to gather some opinions and
suggestions first. Performance is good about returns but I would rather get
exactly what suits me from the start.

Nick

"Dane Buson" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Gooserider said:

"Nlaplaca" <[email hidden]> wrote in message

Quoted message said:

Initially I thought I would just stash things at work but at some point
it
will probably easier to carry the things I will need. Just wondering
what
other commuters use to carry their items.

Is that 26 miles round trip, or 26 miles one way? Either way, that's a
long
distance to have either a backpack OR a messenger bag on your sweaty
back.
Have you considered a good old saddlebag? Not panniers, but a
Carradice-type
saddlebag?

I'm assuming you're not using a Brooks saddle with bag loops, so
Carradice
has an option for you:

http://www.wallbike.com/racks/bagman.html

That's interesting, I don't think I've seen that before.

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

1) No need to attach a rack
2) Easy to swap between bikes
3) Waterproof
4) Sits in your rain/windshadow
5) Depending on the model fits laptops nicely
5.5) Excellent for trips to the library ;-)
6) Attaches/detaches in about 2 seconds

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

My co-workers were so impressed two of them have bought the slim
version (it fits laptops better - in the touring mine has to go in
diagonally). In terms of cost, it's not too far off a rack + decent
trunk bag ($75 = $35 rack + $40 trunk bag).

The SQR looks like another great idea. The only limitation I can imagine is
if someone is showing a small amount of seatpost. Not really a problem with
most bikes, I know. What is the weight limit of the SQR?

Recently I switched to a waterproof Ortlieb X-Cursion backpack for
commuting:

http://pages.prodigy.net/rjmatter/gallery/ortlieb.jpg

I carry a Thermos in one side pocket and a water bottle in the other.
When I unfasten the compression straps the side pockets fold back behind
the pack and I drop it in a milk crate attached to my rear rack. It has
a waist strap and a chest strap. It's comfortable and stays put when I
am off the bike and carrying it on my back. I like it a lot.

I used to carry a size large waterproof Ortlieb X-Press Courier
messenger bag which I also liked a lot:

http://pages.prodigy.net/rjmatter/gallery/xpress2.jpg

I got 4-5 good years out of it before retiring it. Unfortunately they
are no longer made.

I have a bad back so I thought I would try the X-Cursion to keep the
weight evenly distributed on my shoulders. Plus the X-Cursion is smaller
which forces me to carry to less weight.

-Bob Matter
-----------
Cyclestrians fare best when accommodated with exclusive space free of
dangerous automobile traffic.

"Gooserider" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

The SQR looks like another great idea. The only limitation I can imagine
is if someone is showing a small amount of seatpost. Not really a problem
with most bikes, I know. What is the weight limit of the SQR?

Looks like both the slim and the tour have a capacity of 22 pounds. The
volume for both is 976 CU. Dimensions are slightly different. Other than
that they are pretty similar.

I have a 26 mile, round trip, commute to my job and I have a backpack
that I bought, in almost new condition, from a garage sale for $2.00
(yup 2 bucks)

Hope this helps.

Lewis.

*****

Nlaplaca said:

Quoted message said:

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

1) No need to attach a rack
2) Easy to swap between bikes
3) Waterproof
4) Sits in your rain/windshadow
5) Depending on the model fits laptops nicely
5.5) Excellent for trips to the library ;-)
6) Attaches/detaches in about 2 seconds

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

My co-workers were so impressed two of them have bought the slim
version (it fits laptops better - in the touring mine has to go in
diagonally). In terms of cost, it's not too far off a rack + decent
trunk bag ($75 = $35 rack + $40 trunk bag).

--
Dane Buson - [email hidden]
`The only way tcsh "rocks" is when the rocks are attached to its feet
in the deepest part of a very deep lake.' -- (Linus T.)

Thanks for all the comments guys. I am still torn. I won't actually be
carrying a whole lot. My usual gear. (tubes,levers, tools) can be carried in
my small under the saddle bag. I will probably be taking either arm warmers
or maybe a thin jacket that will need to be stored for the ride home as I
will be leaving at 4:30 a.m. and chances are some mornings will be cool.
That along with a change of clothes and food. So far one of the SQR options
seems appealing to me. I think I am leaning towards that,

Nick

On Sat, 03 Jun 2006 22:38:45 GMT, "Nlaplaca" <[email hidden]>

Quoted message said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights and
other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking for a
backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from timbuk2. Is this
a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or pannier on my bike.

Messengers use messenger bags because they generally don't have far to
go, and don't want to waste time fiddling with the process of getting
stuff into and out of a backpack many times per day. Messenger bags
tend to slip around and dangle in the wrong place at the wrong time if
you have more than a short distance to travel. Backpacks generally
stay put. I'd go with the backpack.
--
Typoes are a feature, not a bug.
Some gardening required to reply via email.
Words processed in a facility that contains nuts.

I would strongly recommend you look into finding some way to carry the
load on the bike rather than your body. You will be more comfortable
over the distance traveled and you will be able to radiate heat off of
your back.

A pannier is best for general commuting (you can use just one).This
will require some sort of rack on the back (or possibly front) of the
bike. Other options are large trunk, saddle, or handlebar bags although
you may need to keep a stash of pants at work if you can't find a bag
large enough. I commute with an older version of the Performance
Transit Pro and it has the nice property of being narrow enough to fit
easily into a standard width locker. This size bag can handle a full
change of clothes and rain gear in a single pannier.

If you decide to go with a body mounted bag I would definitely choose a
backpack that has nicely made curved ergonomic straps and a
chest/sternum strap to keep your shoulders from being pulled back. Look
for cheaper small frameless hiking backpacks with a plastic reinforcing
sheet in the back panel. You may also want to consider some of the
larger Camelback type hydration bags that have suficient cargo
capacity. These are more accomodating to the needs of a forward leaning
cyclist. Don't get some cheap school backpack with primitive straps or
you will be miserable after 26 miles.

Werehatrack said:

On Sat, 03 Jun 2006 22:38:45 GMT, "Nlaplaca" <[email hidden]>

Quoted message said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights and
other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking for a
backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from timbuk2. Is
this a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or pannier on my
bike.

Messengers use messenger bags because they generally don't have far to
go, and don't want to waste time fiddling with the process of getting
stuff into and out of a backpack many times per day. Messenger bags
tend to slip around and dangle in the wrong place at the wrong time if
you have more than a short distance to travel. Backpacks generally stay
put. I'd go with the backpack.

I have both and I haven't found this to be true. For lighter loads, a
messenger bag is cooler and lighter. It generally rides like a [censored]
pack, and stays put just fine. I prefer it when I'm not carrying much.
For loads greater than 5-6 LB, I'll take the backpack.

But if you're going to be carrying much for more than a few miles, you're
much better off with the load on the bike -- either panniers, or the
SQR-type bags already mentioned.

Matt O.

<snip>

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Have you considered a good old saddlebag? Not panniers, but a
Carradice-type
saddlebag?

I'm assuming you're not using a Brooks saddle with bag loops, so
Carradice
has an option for you:

http://www.wallbike.com/racks/bagman.html

That's interesting, I don't think I've seen that before.

Also there are the SQR Carradice bags which mount to the seatpost.
These have a number of advantages over rack trunks and panniers:

<snip>>

Quoted message said:

The SQR looks like another great idea. The only limitation I can imagine is
if someone is showing a small amount of seatpost. Not really a problem with
most bikes, I know. What is the weight limit of the SQR?

I've tried lots of different bags for commuting. The hotter it gets,
the heavier the bag is, and the further I travel, the more I like
having the pack off of my back and on the bike. Mostly, I use a
Carradice saddle bag. I really like the *Silver Hupe* ($30 -- not in
their online catalog) saddlebag support from RIvindell. It attaches to
the seat stays, and supports the bag. If you don't have seat loops on
your saddle, you can get a set of add on seat loops (c$6); or just hang
a wood dowel thru the seat rails, and a attach the bag to that.

Regards,
Larry

Gooserider said:

"Dane Buson" <[email hidden]> wrote in message

Quoted message said:

http://sheldonbrown.com/harris/bags/sqr-products.htm

I've used the touring version to commute back and forth to work very
happily for two years. I can fit my clothes + laptop + lunch +
sundries. That's not counting the sidepockets where I keep my tools /
cellphone / wallet / keys / work badge.

The SQR looks like another great idea. The only limitation I can imagine is
if someone is showing a small amount of seatpost. Not really a problem with
most bikes, I know. What is the weight limit of the SQR?

Also, if you have a small bike, you might not have enough clearance to
get the bag on and off. My one co-worker has a 48cm road bike, we tried
my SQR bag on his and it really didn't work. My other coworker had no
problems with her 53cm bike, and probably had about an inch of extra
clearance above what she needed.

As to weight, the heaviest I've had it was 25 lbs. That was with my
clothes and sundries, all the library holds I could cram in (10 books, 5
videos), and my lock hanging off the outside. It handles a little
differently of course when it's fully loaded, but it's more centered
than panniers, which is nice.

--
Dane Buson - [email hidden]
Using words to describe magic is like using a screwdriver to cut roast beef.
-- Tom Robbins

Nlaplaca said:

I am going to start commuting to work next week when I get my lights
and other supplies for my bike. It's a 26 mile commute. I was looking
for a backpack on performancebike and noticed messenger bags from
timbuk2. Is this a better option? I don't feel like putting a rack or
pannier on my bike.

Initially I thought I would just stash things at work but at some point
it will probably easier to carry the things I will need. Just wondering
what other commuters use to carry their items.

Nick

if you can find it the Deuter Race X Air backpacks are great -- the best i've
ever used for commuting. they have a suspension system that keeps the
actual backpack off your back (so no sweating). they're lightweight, they
don't shift .. the I has mesh straps. the II has 1200 cubic inches, the I less
(i use the I -- fits a U lock, a tire and tool kit and a change of
clothes -- but
you'd be hard pressed for much else probably not a laptop). so not a ton
of space, but enuf. that said Deuter does not appear to be making them
anymore.

i much prefer that backpack to a chrome messenger bag (shifts too much, i
still use the chrome for hauling 3 bags of groceries, tho). ime, you only
want a messenger bag if you want to haul a lot of stuff or need to access
to it often. otherwise backpacks are the way to go.
--
david reuteler
[email hidden]
http://www.visi.com/~reuteler