Commuting with a backpack... UGH!
10-03-15, 11:40 AM
#51
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Interesting because I just posted this thread above:
"I have a new Rivendell which I will now become my main commuter but at times I'd like to still take my Specialized Tarmac to work. I've used the Tarmac for many years but the commute started to become more uncomfortable as I got older since I was also wearing a backpack with my change of clothes and other work related items. I purchased a Carradice tail bag for my Rivendall but was wondering if I could also connect one of the Bagman QR supports to the rails of the carbon seat stem so I can use the Carradice on that bike also. Has anyone ever used a Bagman on a carbon stem and do you see any issues with having it attached since it only connects to the aluminum seat rails?"
I live in Atlanta and don't really have any issues with a sweaty back from a backpack but I do have issues with the weight on my back, It really makes my commute less enjoyable having to deal with the weight and occasional shifting straps which is why I asked if a bagman QR would work on a road bike with CF seat post. I'd be free of the backpack if I could make the Carradice bag work. I also read that one of these bags could be strapped to the handlebars of a road bike but since I have the larger Nelson bag I'm not sure how that would work. I left the bag at work so I'm not able to give it a try at the moment but just based on the size of the Nelson it seems like a tight fit. I also would rather have the weight on the back instead of on my front steering.
"I have a new Rivendell which I will now become my main commuter but at times I'd like to still take my Specialized Tarmac to work. I've used the Tarmac for many years but the commute started to become more uncomfortable as I got older since I was also wearing a backpack with my change of clothes and other work related items. I purchased a Carradice tail bag for my Rivendall but was wondering if I could also connect one of the Bagman QR supports to the rails of the carbon seat stem so I can use the Carradice on that bike also. Has anyone ever used a Bagman on a carbon stem and do you see any issues with having it attached since it only connects to the aluminum seat rails?"
I live in Atlanta and don't really have any issues with a sweaty back from a backpack but I do have issues with the weight on my back, It really makes my commute less enjoyable having to deal with the weight and occasional shifting straps which is why I asked if a bagman QR would work on a road bike with CF seat post. I'd be free of the backpack if I could make the Carradice bag work. I also read that one of these bags could be strapped to the handlebars of a road bike but since I have the larger Nelson bag I'm not sure how that would work. I left the bag at work so I'm not able to give it a try at the moment but just based on the size of the Nelson it seems like a tight fit. I also would rather have the weight on the back instead of on my front steering.
10-03-15, 11:56 AM
#52
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I learned to not like carrying a backpack the hard way in the military, and now as a grumpy old fart I cant even stand cycling jersey pockets on my back. I find the simplest solution is to use bikes for commuting that can carry what I need without ill effect, or having to bear the burden on myself.
10-03-15, 01:09 PM
#53
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Every time I decide to ride in, I contemplate taking my road bike with a messenger bag, instead of my commuter with the rack, panniers, fenders and lights. I know that I can ride the roadie a good 5 mph faster, even uphill, and that it would be a fun ride. But every time I end up taking the commuter. My messenger bag is actually the pannier, with an easy conversion system, but I still don't like riding with it on my back.
10-05-15, 06:43 AM
#54
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The images with the "Googleusercontent" URL don't work.
What do you do for footwear? That's my primary concern, as pretty much everything I've tried still leaves me with freezing toes after 45 minutes or so. One time they were fully numb when I got to work, which I think is pretty dangerous. Part of the problem is that my toes (2nd toe especially) are as long as my pinky fingers.
What do you do for footwear? That's my primary concern, as pretty much everything I've tried still leaves me with freezing toes after 45 minutes or so. One time they were fully numb when I got to work, which I think is pretty dangerous. Part of the problem is that my toes (2nd toe especially) are as long as my pinky fingers.
10-05-15, 09:21 AM
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Here is a copy of something I posted on another thread regarding the Green Guru Hauler Bike Pack:
I use one of these on my bike and really like it a lot. It has a stiff plastic insert on the bottom, so it's like a removable rack. It's expandable so it's only as long as it needs to be depending on how much stuff you have in it. It comes with a shoulder strap, so when you reach your destination it can be worn as you would a messenger bag. When I don't need to carry lots of stuff, like when I go out for lunch, I can easily remove it from my bike so I'm left with a bike that has no added weight from an attached rack. It's very durable and waterproof and I like that it's made entirely from recycled materials. Only downside is the straps that go through the saddle rails are short, so it takes some practice inserting them, but that's a minor complaint. Also, it only has one outside "pouch" that is a decent size 2-dimensionally, but not 3 dimensionally, if you know what I mean (It's a flat pouch. I would have designed it to have more depth). I fit my smartphone and keys in it, and could probably stuff my wallet in it, but not much else. Not a huge problem - it's quick and easy to undo the side clasps and open the main bag while it's attached to the bike.
I use one of these on my bike and really like it a lot. It has a stiff plastic insert on the bottom, so it's like a removable rack. It's expandable so it's only as long as it needs to be depending on how much stuff you have in it. It comes with a shoulder strap, so when you reach your destination it can be worn as you would a messenger bag. When I don't need to carry lots of stuff, like when I go out for lunch, I can easily remove it from my bike so I'm left with a bike that has no added weight from an attached rack. It's very durable and waterproof and I like that it's made entirely from recycled materials. Only downside is the straps that go through the saddle rails are short, so it takes some practice inserting them, but that's a minor complaint. Also, it only has one outside "pouch" that is a decent size 2-dimensionally, but not 3 dimensionally, if you know what I mean (It's a flat pouch. I would have designed it to have more depth). I fit my smartphone and keys in it, and could probably stuff my wallet in it, but not much else. Not a huge problem - it's quick and easy to undo the side clasps and open the main bag while it's attached to the bike.
10-06-15, 10:40 AM
#57
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^ there is no way that I could commute to work carrying that much stuff. If it doesn't fit in my bag, it doesn't make the trip.
10-06-15, 10:56 AM
#58
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I'm with you, OP. I hate a backpack. I just ordered a Carradice Barley. I have a Brooks on my Synapse so I am looking forward to switching that out between my synapse and old Raleigh for commutes/century rides. I shouldn't need the quick release with saddle tabs, but it is good to know that they QR will fit posts as small as 25 mm, if I ever do go that way. I do use a messenger bag when I have short (~5 mi) distances to ride. I've used it once for my full commute and after around 5 miles am just not comfortable carrying anything on my back.
10-06-15, 11:51 AM
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I recently bought a small backpack with a suspension air-mesh and I must say, it works really well. The back felt as if I didn't carry a pack. The pack is light weight and only big enough for a laptop and a jacket.
10-06-15, 01:34 PM
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I purchased the Osprey Radial 34 for my commute in July and LOVE IT! It has a suspended mesh frame with full side air ventilation. No more sweaty back even during the hot days. It fits my work clothes, lunch, coffee thermos and everything else I need with no problem.
Best backpack I've ever had.
Osprey Radial 34 Cycling Pack - REI.com
Best backpack I've ever had.
Osprey Radial 34 Cycling Pack - REI.com
10-07-15, 05:55 AM
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I used to commute with a backpack until the heat and weight just became too annoying. Since I don't need to carry all that much and my bike has no rack I went with frame bags. It works out great. The only drawback is that it takes longer to strip them off the bike when I arrive, and put them back on when I depart again. It's a minor drawback though, and feeling unencumbered in the cockpit is worth it. I'll still use a backpack on occasion though. It's not as bad in the colder months.
Heres a shot of the rig. I no longer use the top tube bag as it proved itself unnecessary.
Heres a shot of the rig. I no longer use the top tube bag as it proved itself unnecessary.
10-07-15, 08:20 AM
#62
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I used to commute with a backpack until the heat and weight just became too annoying. Since I don't need to carry all that much and my bike has no rack I went with frame bags. It works out great. The only drawback is that it takes longer to strip them off the bike when I arrive, and put them back on when I depart again. It's a minor drawback though, and feeling unencumbered in the cockpit is worth it. I'll still use a backpack on occasion though. It's not as bad in the colder months.
Heres a shot of the rig. I no longer use the top tube bag as it proved itself unnecessary.
Heres a shot of the rig. I no longer use the top tube bag as it proved itself unnecessary.
10-07-15, 08:36 AM
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I think Revelate (and other brands) have a similar dry bag system. It works well for me. I'm a video editor and I work in a cave so fancy dress isn't required. I roll up some shorts or pants and a fresh shirt and I'm good to go.
The only time I really notice the load is in high winds. It's a bit more work strapping these bags on the bike but once it's on I'm riding comfortably.
10-07-15, 08:45 AM
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I tried putting the SQR block on my 25.4mm seatpost yesterday. No luck. I didn't have time to fiddle with it. I might give it another try. I may have to use some inner tube to shim it to make it fit. I'm not sure I want to go that route. I may be looking for another solution or... just deal with some sweat and a backpack. The bike is not my main commuter, so I don't want something that is permanent or in the least bit difficult to put on or take off the bike (I have some other carradice bags, but they aren't a quick on/off of less than 30 seconds.)
10-11-15, 11:11 PM
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I have a new road bike. It's not my main commuter, but I'm enjoying riding it, and with the weather being fairly decent today (dry) I thought I'd give it a try as a commuter. The bike is fabulous. But, I got a reminder of why I don't commute with a back pack. That's how I started about 8 years ago - with a backpack. Then I got a touring bike that became my main commuter (it still is) and went with a rack and panniers. On my previous road bike, I had a carradice quick release block on the seatpost with a quick release bag that carried a good amount of stuff. I don't have that hooked up to the new bike and I don't know if it will work with the smaller diameter seat post. So, backpack it was if I wanted to commute on the road bike.
The pack is still in great shape. I had to make adjustments to the straps as others have used it for various purposes. My load wasn't all that heavy or bulky and it wasn't uncomfortable. The temperature outside was 47 degrees and foggy. I had on an under armour shirt, a thin wool pullover, and a very breathable cycling jacket as the outer shell. About 10 minutes into the ride, I started to get really warm. Soon I was sweating profusely. By the time I arrived at the front door at work, my hair and upper body were soaked. Most of the ventilation on the outer shell of my cycling jacket is through the vents on the back of the jacket. The pack on my back effectively closed off those vents. Work doesn't have a shower. It was a good 15 minutes of sitting in front of a fan to dry off and stop sweating.
It's supposed to be 70 degrees when I go home. I'll be able to throw the outer two layers into the pack and ride home in a t-shirt and shorts. I'm hoping this will be more comfortable, but not expecting it. The ride home is a gradual uphill grade for about 4 miles and the temperature, while comfortable, will still be 23 degrees warmer than this morning. If I want to commute with the road bike, it will have to be with a different method than a backpack. I'm hoping that my carradice quick release block will fit the smaller diameter seat post on the new road bike. And well, the wet weather will be hear soon, so the sane option will be to use the touring bike with the rack and panniers.
The pack is still in great shape. I had to make adjustments to the straps as others have used it for various purposes. My load wasn't all that heavy or bulky and it wasn't uncomfortable. The temperature outside was 47 degrees and foggy. I had on an under armour shirt, a thin wool pullover, and a very breathable cycling jacket as the outer shell. About 10 minutes into the ride, I started to get really warm. Soon I was sweating profusely. By the time I arrived at the front door at work, my hair and upper body were soaked. Most of the ventilation on the outer shell of my cycling jacket is through the vents on the back of the jacket. The pack on my back effectively closed off those vents. Work doesn't have a shower. It was a good 15 minutes of sitting in front of a fan to dry off and stop sweating.
It's supposed to be 70 degrees when I go home. I'll be able to throw the outer two layers into the pack and ride home in a t-shirt and shorts. I'm hoping this will be more comfortable, but not expecting it. The ride home is a gradual uphill grade for about 4 miles and the temperature, while comfortable, will still be 23 degrees warmer than this morning. If I want to commute with the road bike, it will have to be with a different method than a backpack. I'm hoping that my carradice quick release block will fit the smaller diameter seat post on the new road bike. And well, the wet weather will be hear soon, so the sane option will be to use the touring bike with the rack and panniers.
10-11-15, 11:17 PM
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Warning: At 47 degrees you will be cold for the first 5-10 minutes of your ride. After that, you'll feel great and you'll barely sweat, if at all. You may want to wear gloves.
EDIT: The other option is to simply pedal slower, or perhaps take a break mid-ride to avoid building up sweat.
10-11-15, 11:31 PM
#67
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That's a bummer. I finally got my Carradice yesterday. I can see switching it around from 3 of my bikes with relative ease, but it will be a 5-10 minute job just threading the straps through the tabs on my saddle and getting them tight. Worth it for nice long rides where I want to switch the bike, or switch up my commuting bike if I have some time to mess around. Like you, the bikes I use it on are not my main commuter.
Nitto Saddlebag Grip R50 - 20109
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10-12-15, 11:07 AM
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Take off the jacket and you won't sweat. I don't care how "breathable" the jacket is, you'll notice a world of difference if you just wear the underarmour shirt and the wool pullover.
Warning: At 47 degrees you will be cold for the first 5-10 minutes of your ride. After that, you'll feel great and you'll barely sweat, if at all. You may want to wear gloves.
EDIT: The other option is to simply pedal slower, or perhaps take a break mid-ride to avoid building up sweat.
Warning: At 47 degrees you will be cold for the first 5-10 minutes of your ride. After that, you'll feel great and you'll barely sweat, if at all. You may want to wear gloves.
EDIT: The other option is to simply pedal slower, or perhaps take a break mid-ride to avoid building up sweat.
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10-12-15, 11:09 AM
#69
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I rarely carry more than a laptop and a library book, and that goes into my larger pack.
Most days I leave the laptop in the office and carry just the book; no need for paniers for such a small load...
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10-12-15, 05:58 PM
#70
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Here is a copy of something I posted on another thread regarding the Green Guru Hauler Bike Pack:
I use one of these on my bike and really like it a lot. It has a stiff plastic insert on the bottom, so it's like a removable rack. It's expandable so it's only as long as it needs to be depending on how much stuff you have in it. It comes with a shoulder strap, so when you reach your destination it can be worn as you would a messenger bag. When I don't need to carry lots of stuff, like when I go out for lunch, I can easily remove it from my bike so I'm left with a bike that has no added weight from an attached rack. It's very durable and waterproof and I like that it's made entirely from recycled materials. Only downside is the straps that go through the saddle rails are short, so it takes some practice inserting them, but that's a minor complaint. Also, it only has one outside "pouch" that is a decent size 2-dimensionally, but not 3 dimensionally, if you know what I mean (It's a flat pouch. I would have designed it to have more depth). I fit my smartphone and keys in it, and could probably stuff my wallet in it, but not much else. Not a huge problem - it's quick and easy to undo the side clasps and open the main bag while it's attached to the bike.
I use one of these on my bike and really like it a lot. It has a stiff plastic insert on the bottom, so it's like a removable rack. It's expandable so it's only as long as it needs to be depending on how much stuff you have in it. It comes with a shoulder strap, so when you reach your destination it can be worn as you would a messenger bag. When I don't need to carry lots of stuff, like when I go out for lunch, I can easily remove it from my bike so I'm left with a bike that has no added weight from an attached rack. It's very durable and waterproof and I like that it's made entirely from recycled materials. Only downside is the straps that go through the saddle rails are short, so it takes some practice inserting them, but that's a minor complaint. Also, it only has one outside "pouch" that is a decent size 2-dimensionally, but not 3 dimensionally, if you know what I mean (It's a flat pouch. I would have designed it to have more depth). I fit my smartphone and keys in it, and could probably stuff my wallet in it, but not much else. Not a huge problem - it's quick and easy to undo the side clasps and open the main bag while it's attached to the bike.
Today I carried a pair of shoes and tools. It might be cool to attach my toolbag outside the bikepack, if possible, to further expand the volume, and make the tools more quickly accessible. I might even revert to using an (empty) back pack as well, as a lightweight "reserve" cargo space, e.g. for an extended ride to stow a light weight jacket or fleece as the day warms up.
The picture below shows the Bike Pack fully extended. It has a roller type closure like the Ortlieb pannier bags to expand or collapse for the particular cargo. A Velco strap attaches the bag to the seat post without much stress, and straps with easy closures suspend the bag from the seat rails high above the wheels.
The only better alternative I have seen is a custom-made (four weeks) bag which requires an additional metal seat bag support.
PS: See this additional post about attaching tool bag.
Last edited by Jim from Boston; 10-20-15 at 05:55 AM. Reason: Added PS
10-13-15, 12:12 AM
#71
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As noted in the writeup for this product, it's easy enough to homebrew a version of it with hardware store bits if you have a bent QR from a broken axle lying around
Nitto Saddlebag Grip R50 - 20109
Nitto Saddlebag Grip R50 - 20109
10-13-15, 07:17 AM
#72
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Once I went with panniers and a rear rack, I haven't looked back. I haven't worn a backpack on my bike once, and I don't plan to start. As long as the smaller diameter seat post isn't a CF wonder, you should be able to throw some kind of shim in there and make it work.
10-13-15, 08:55 AM
#73
GATC
I rode today for the first time in months w/ panniers and while my back felt sooooo great it was (is) still sweaty and the bike was measurably less fun (in standing to climb and banking corners). But the bike w/ the rack in general is less fun and the 35mm tires truly floated over the chipseal in a way (my) 28s cannot.
10-13-15, 08:56 AM
#74
GATC
Sadly, pannier season (which apparently started today unless I get a light for another bike) does not coincide w/ leafy green season.
10-13-15, 09:10 AM
#75
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I do the same thing for my laptop, but only because I don't want my delicate electronics going through all the shock on the back of the bike. I hate having to carry my laptop or anything else on my back. I wish I had a better method. I suppose I could always throw the laptop in my saddlebag, but I just don't know how it'll handle our potholes and road cracks.