My current one is annoying as it clashes with my helmet. Any recommendations for one that will take office work clothes, a small lunch box and gym gear?

Clashes with your helmet? Is this a joke?

I use this http://www.wiggle.co.uk/dhb-luggit-slice-25l-rucksack/

I can fit everything in it. There’s also a 30L version.

Clashes with your helmet? Is this a joke?

I assume he means it physically gets in the way.

Anyway, have a look at Osprey Momentums. I have the orange 30L size, can fit work clothes, lunch box and a bit of shopping in there. Surprisingly unsweaty on the back, compared to the messenger bag it replaced anyway.

I assume he means it physically gets in the way.

I really didn’t think I would have to explain that one but yes, physically clashes.

+1 the DHB one as it just works.

Bump!

I’d go for an Overboard pack, mine’s great for commuting in all weathers. The straps and roll top sealing system can be a faff some mornings but it’s a small price to pay for having a 100% waterproof bag that keeps your stuff bone dry.

I’ve an ortlieb one that is very similar to that dhb one but *a lot* simpler design. I think it came from wiggle. Basic, waterproof, comfortable. Only downside is the top corners are visible when I look over my shoulder – I guess that’s what some of the additional bits are for on the dhb.

Expensive but great http://www.chromeindustries.com/uk/en/bags/backpacks/barrage-cargo

I use an Exped Cludburst. It’s simple, inexpensive and waterproof and if I need to carry it empty it rolls up into a pocket.

Thanks Jon but £160 on hipster gear is a bit steep.

How do those dhb fit? Good enough for a racey position in a road bike?

Frame bag FTW. No more sweaty back and more aero than Cadbury’s with bubbles. I
I can’t recommend one highly enough.

Deuter Alpine
Fits laptop and feels like you’re been spooned all the way to work.

I use the luggit 25l on my cx and road bikes and it’s been great. You do have to find the “sweet spot” on your back though.

Alpkit Gourdon

Alpkit Gourdon for cheap n dry

Ortlieb Velocity for quality & dry & seen (in yellow)

Ortlieb Messenger for hipster & dry

Ortlieb panniers for sensible & dry

Deuter Race EXP Air, barely notice I’m wearing it. But I like panniers too.

I also use an overboard pack in winter, I use the 20 litre pro-light version.

Great pack, lots of straps to tidy up though before first use.

It’s a personal choice, but after 30 odd years of knocking around in outdoor pursuits, I’ve found Osprey sacks pretty hard to beat. I’m using a Osprey Escapist 25 for commuting. Fits the bill and also gets plenty of abiuse at the weekend

The big Camelback ones are good and look just like a normal rucksack, but great for commuting. I put a yellow cover over mine when dark / raining.

After years of commuting I would always use bags on the bike somewhere if possible. Framebags are great but don’t detatch easily – panniers are really the best option by far. Altura Dryline 20 is a good choice

Still loving my 14.99 running one from Sports Direct.

Karrimor rucksack

Price seems to be all over the price, but it’s stuffable (I get clothes and shoes in, sometimes a small towel but usually leave that at work), sits nice and low on your hips and has a couple of waist pockets for monet, phone, pass etc.

Might have to buy a couple more in case it splits, but it’s been rugged enough so far.

Panniers are better, but I just find them a bit of a faff. haven’t touched them since trying this.

Using a Grivel from Rock and Run, £28 and with a fluoro cover has been great.

The larger Vaude bag I have, which I’ve used for commuting has adjustable straps that you can alter depending on your height.

You can get the pack to sit lower if you find it sitting too high and clashing with your helmet.
I think it’s a Splash Air 20+5. They do a bigger one too, I think.

The only issue I found with it for commuting was the curved rigid back (it has a ‘suspended back’ to keep your back drier) means that you have to be quite careful how you pack it or you end up with voids where straight stuff you put in doesn’t fit against the curve.
But that said, I used to get quite a lot of kit in there and it’s held up well to general use, trips to Spain loaded with 3L bladder and knee/elbow pads hanging off it. Must be 6 or 7 years old now.

I cant be doing with a normal back pack for cycling…has to be one of those that sits on mesh mounts so you dont get a sweaty back

Are there any that can be used for running as well?

I run with the Karrimor one too.

Also have a Deuter bag that sits off the back with a mesh frame and has a raincover etc. – only use that for big days out when I need the capacity and to fit a bladder – as a bag I prefer the Karrimor. Bought it after getting a Camelbak Charge which was a revelation for mtb rides, bit a bit cosy for a full kit commute.

This guy makes custom made cycling bags at a pretty sensible price.

Mack Workshop

Hmmmm not really my thing there neil

Timely thread as I have a need for a new commuting backpack. Have just purchased the dhb Luggit Slice, cheers for the recommendation guys!