Chrome bags seem to be the choice of nearly every messenger here and the Metro seems to be the preferred size for most although a few other guys and I use the Kremlin which can carry an immense amount of stuff.

I addressed the issue of there being no back padding...

If you go to an outdoor supply store you can get camping rolls that are made of some very high quality and high density foam... I just happened to have an old one kicking around.

I cut a piece to size and slipped it between the liner and outer shell of the bag and it makes a world of difference in comfort when you are carrying a few bricks...it does make things a little warmer but that can also be good thing when one has to work / ride in sub zero temps.

I figure that one day I will probably pick up a Metropolis.