mamypoko

Hi all,

I'm from Singapore, currently commuting to work using a crumpler messenger (complete seed).

I'm looking to change to a good roll top backpack for commuting to work, as I suffer from scoliosis and my messenger bag isn't really helping me with it since I sling it to one side.

Was actually looking at the Chrome Ivan or Pawn, or the Ortlieb flight, anyone have any experience with such bags? Hows the support for the back like? I'm 5 feet 4 inches by the way.

I'm thinking of putting panniers but my current bike is a roadie

Thanks!

mstrpete

Hi there
Why can't you put panniers on the roadie? No braze-ons for a rack? I'm not much help on the backpack issue; they sit too high for me. Someone'll be along soon, or you could search the forum for older backpack threads. Hang in there!

Wino Ryder

I use a "Timbuk 2" back pack called the 'Bucket' on my commutes and I like it a lot. Its cycling specific and sits relatively low on my back compared to other backpacks i've tried. Not sure if they still make it or not, but Sierra Trading Post had them on sale not too long ago;

Made out of balistic nylon, so its quite heavy duty. Also has an attached loop near the rubberized bottom for a blinkie light.

check it out.

kmac27

I didn't have back problems but commuting with a backpack was a pain in the ars. I switched to panniers and wow it is a huge difference. I don't even notice that I am carrying weight. You have more energy to put in your legs rather than worrying about how your back feels.

Cyclist0383

I'm another one who uses panniers and highly recommends them. That being said if you really want to use a backpack check out the ones from Deuter. They are very well designed with the cyclist in mind and are extremely comfortable. They also provide very good back ventilation.

https://www.deuter.com/en/products/bike.php

climbhoser

You can still put a rack on your roadie with p-clamps. In fact, my Blackburn EX-1 rack (also known as the Expedition) came with p-clamps for putting it on a road bike without eyelets and braze-ons.

Don't be deterred, you can make it happen, and with scoliosis I would say it's in your best interest!

If you're dead set on the backpack route, don't focus on cycling specific...there is a world of awesome backpacks out there that'll work. I used a DaKine Heli-Pro for a long, long time and must say it's as good as they get for cycling (which, arguably, isn't very good).

Rob_E

I used to ride with a backpack, but when I got my new bike, I got a rack and trunk (with fold out panniers) with it. It makes a huge difference, and now I'll got to great lengths to keep everything off of my back and on to my racks. If you can find a way to mount a rack, I recommend it.

sumguy

used a backpack last summer and switching to a rear rack and trunk and then panniers was the best thing I ever did. Enjoy biking 100x more. I also have scoliosis but my short rides don't aggravate it. You won't regret putting all your stuff in a front or rear trunk.

iqaro

A back pack cuts air stream off your back, so you get too sweatie. If your bike has not eyelets for a rack, get a seat tube rack. Only con is that have only 7kg capacity...

Brian T

Try this
https://www.rei.com/product/733837

swwhite

I use the Ortlieb waterproof messenger backpack. I like it, but I wore it on a 30-mile four-hour ride once and about half-way my back was sore. My backpack-savvy daughter helped me adjust it and it was better for a while, but then I started to hurt again. On my hour-long commute to work I have no problems.

My design goal in purchasing it was that I wanted one bag that I could carry on or off the bike (not too good in that respect since it has the waist strap flapping around when carrying it), I wanted one bag I could use on all bikes without having to equip every bike with a rack, and I wanted, above all, the total waterproof-ness, at which the Ortlieb excels. Since I have achieved my goals, I am happy, but if I had enough money to try both ways, I would like to try the pannier route also for comparison.

My only complaint about the Ortlieb is that it is tall and deep, and black on the inside. It is hard to find little things in the bottom. I almost have to dive in with a flashlight. But that's minor; I still really like it and am glad I got it.

mamypoko

Thanks guys!

Think I'll be looking for a mountable rack on my roadie, or I'll just get a on one pompino for commuting

Ride safe!

mstrpete

I've also seen panniers that detach from the rack and can be carried like a backpack or shoulder bag, but I forget where and what company...I think the link was in this very forum...but I have to go do homework now, so no time to look...

element928

While availability in Singapore may be an issue, I just ran across this bag by Banjo Brothers. It looks very well thought out, but I have not tried it. I will say that I was using a pannier and just found it to be a hassle, o i went back to a backpack. If I had a dedicated commuter I would possibly go back to panniers, but a backpack is just so simple and so easy to carry around off the bike.
https://commutebybike.com/2007/06/14/...uter-backpack/

mrbrown

Hey Mamypoko (my kids use that brand of diapers too haha)! Tatonka backpacks come with decent back support via their X-vent system. I use one daily. Mine is the Ventrail S. Very good.

Here is what it looks like:

https://www.outdoorsurvival.com.au/ca...1/1/40/TAT1669

You can find the Tatonka stores inside BHG department stores in Singapore, I think.

mamypoko

Yep Singapore doesnt really stock a lot of stuff, and shipping from the US is expensive for us

Will look at panniers and frames tomorrow to make my decision

Thanks mrbrown! (i read your blog too! i agree with you on the park connectors, they really suck) will take a look at the tatonka ones during the weekend