Originally Posted by dauphin
I also own a mule which I use mostly on short day hikes. I used to take it on rides but I didn't like the heat buildup on my back. My regular backpacking pack is an Osprey Atmos 50 with a specially ventilated air flow back that is unbelievably comfortable. Osprey now makes a similar smaller pack called the Stratos that has the same feature. I would seriously check it out if I were you! Our local REI sells them.
http://www.ospreypacks.com/packs/23/Stratos18/
That's very useful info, especially since you can compare it to my Mule. Most of my riding is before sunrise so I don't get the opportunity to see how bad it would be during the day much and, except for one metric century under overcast and often rainy conditions, any daylight rides are typically 14 miles.
So I figure anythnig that is more comfortable than the Mule would satisfy me in that area. Thanks!
Now if I can just find a place here that sells them so I can try one on.
Bob