First impressions of using a messenger bag:
 

Used my Chrome bag for the first time today.... rode to work on my 20" BMX of all things (just to say I did.... sucker beat me up!!).

I am actually really impressed with how awkward it looks, yet feels so natural. I will certainly be experimenting more in the future.

Which model? I have had my Metropolis for about five years and I still find it comfortable to ride with. Plus with almost daily use the only real sign of aging is the faded color.

I think its the Civilian.

As it happens, I threw a bag with tubes/tool, etc. on for the first time for a longer ride this past weekend. I didn't have the same experience you did, mine would slide off my back to my side and sway. Didn't like it a bit. It felt like it should have another strap to hold it on my back.

I used to ride all the time with a bag attached to the bike, but when I rebuilt the bike, I stripped off all non-essentials. Took one ride to fall in love with the responsiveness and acceleration without 5-7 lbs. of crap strapped on the bike.

I gotta take a look at how to do the messenger bag thing again. It gets old not going far for fear of flats or breakdowns.

I added a third strap to my Timbuktu bag and I use it on my commute and I love it

RE Load makes the Civilian. The Chrome bag is called the Citizen.

I stand corrected. Got a free t-shirt, though.

I need to get a decent bag. I've got a crappy no-name bag that goes over one shoulder, but it slides around too much when going down hills.

I still prefer a backpack but the Messenger bag feels good sometimes. I have a chrome bag and something about it I just don't like, its a bit clunky, though it has more fit and finish than my timbuk2.

I really like Chrome bags. I had three now I'm down to the Metropolis wich is huge on me (I'm a pretty small guy) but I like that I can fit everything (including the kitchen sink) in it. And I have the Soyuz backpack with is great for stowing papers, books, a laptop, etc. Their stuff is built super tough. My only complaint is that if I don't pack stuff in the Metropolis properly, I get a U-lock or something poking me in the kidney.

By the way, I work across the street from their flagship store in SF, and they have a great little coffee shop set up the garage. They make the best coffee in the neighborhood!

I don't have a messenger bag, I use a backpack when I need to.

Yeah that's what I use, love that bag.

really want to buy a new messenger bag/backpack. I am using this and it slides down all the time:mad:

I have a Chrome Berlin which was awesome when I was doing courier work, and is still awesome when I have to do laundry or big grocery runs. For everyday use I have a Mission Workshop Monty now. Love it. I could never get used to the feel of a backpack.

I'm a bag junkie with 5 mess bags and a couple backpacks now. YNot Junction is my main go-to. I don't carry much, but I do carry heavy crap and their shoulder pad is the best I've seen so far.