Originally Posted by WalksOn2Wheels

I was wondering how many posts it would take for someone to tell you that you needed panniers instead of a backpack. Don't listen to them.

I did a daily route of about 14+ miles using either an Osprey Talon 22 and later a Manta, but I forget which size. It's in a storage unit right now in between moves. I loved the Talon, but I wanted to try something with a really light integrated frame to get more air circulation on the back (I am in Texas...), so I got the Manta. I loved riding with both.

You're looking at the right kind of pack. Go to your nearest REI or any outdoor store that carries these kinds of packs and find a knowledgeable salesperson. They will let you know how to fit and wear the pack so that the weight is properly over your hips. It will change a bit in the cycling position (I always rode a drop bar bike with at least 4 or 5 inches of saddle to bar drop), but the key is to get the weight off of your shoulders. Let them know you'll be biking with it, or better yet, ride the bike up there so you can try it out on the bike.

But yeah, you'll hear a lot of "don't carry that weight on your shoulders and back, get panniers!" or "You're going to get a sweaty back!" in this forum. 1) You're in Colorado, it's not stupid humid and hot all the time, and 2) like I said earlier, a properly fitted pack doesn't hurt your back or shoulders.