Backpack recommendations

Watcher · August 13, 2014, 07:40:28 PM

I want to get one of those packs that has only one shoulder strap that gets put across your chest. That way I can "roll" the pack around to my front for access while on the bike without having to take it off completely, which would be a lot more convenient in drive-thrus, and I wouldn't have to go digging through saddlebags for my drinks when I get to work and can just dismount and walk right in.

Does anyone know where to look to find something like this? I tried a local sports authority and they didn't have anything, unsurprisingly I guess.
Any chance they make them specifically for motorcycles? Any chance they make them waterproof?

yamahonkawazuki · August 13, 2014, 08:59:16 PM

Cant answer the questions, BUT try cycling. Shops. Am pretty sure what youre in search of ex i sts. You can also convert a double strap to a single

. Like i did on one of my glock backpacks. Remove one strap, then remove bottom of remaining strap and fasten it to side you removed strap from. Will post pics soon on that. Before and after. Youll get the same thing

weedahoe · August 13, 2014, 10:45:41 PM

Why not get a tank bag? Everything would be right there in front of you.

cWj · August 13, 2014, 10:59:14 PM

"messenger bag"

If you want a "real" one, look at timbuktu & brooklyn industries ($$$)

As stated, check cycling sites: nashbar.com, performancebike.com, jensonusa.com. You could also look on amazon/ebay. I think they are a bit passe trendwise, so you're not as likely to see them in local big-boxes, but that's what you looking for - messenger-style bag.

IF you have an REI near you, the used to have one called "Musette" that worked pretty well for what you're looking for. I still have one that I still use despite it being beat to hell.

Also, understand that if with a heavy load, you're putting a lot of weight on one shoulder. Doable for short trips or if you're crouched way over (like on a road bicycle - the weight is on the back instead of the shoulder).

I do know there's also a smaller, military-type messenger I saw on ebay/amazon that might work for you. It doesn't carry much, but it might work for what you need:

http://thumbs2.ebaystatic.com/d/l225/m/mwiIpUgxFB6TOqBJxsNDV3w.jpg

I would just suggest trying to find something that has a chest strap to go under your free arm. It keeps the bag from flopping around while you ride spiritedly.

Watcher · August 14, 2014, 12:00:22 AM

I don't like that a tank bag could potentially interfere with my view of the gauge cluster, nor do I want to cover access to the tank fill cap or cover up my custom paint. Plus I don't like the idea of having to put the bag down to gas up then putting that now soiled bag back on my tank.

I have a backpack now that I use, but being as it is a military "assault pack" it kind of has some shortcomings as a motorcycle bag.

And a messenger bag is definitely not what I am looking for. I don't want a shoulder bag or a stachel, I want a backpack. I actually have a messenger style swissgear laptop bag that I use as a range bag, but I'd hate it on the bike due to the fact it likes to swing to my side all the time...

I know what I am looking for exists, just haven't seen one in the longest time. Like a typical backpack but with only one strap that would go from the top of the bag over your right shoulder to the bottom of the bag by your left hip.

REI does sound like a good lead, though. There's one not far from me.

BockinBboy · August 14, 2014, 08:25:46 AM

I'll stress the importance of how that strap attaches... and I have a short story for this, too.

My wife, then girlfriend in college, had a single strap backpack. She got it for the very reason you want it for, except on her bicycle. It seemed like a pretty sturdy bag, and I have a high standard for backpacks (oddly enough LOL). However, only a month into using this phenomenal pack, the strap held closed together by industrial velcroe, would come apart at the most inopportune times. Riding one morning to class, she hits a bump and loses the pack right off her back - The bag falls into the street from the bike path. The pack lands in front a car, the car swerves and hits a fire hydrant... an officer just happens to be watching the incident - and gives her a ticket for reckless driving!!! On a bicycle!!! ... as if she were weaving on and off the bike path, and threw the pack off her back or something, I dunno?!?!

So, whatever ever you choose with a SINGLE strap, be sure that strap is hefty and secure - its the only piece that keeps it on your back... and definitely NO VELCROE!!

- Bboy

yamahonkawazuki · August 14, 2014, 09:01:11 AM

Agreed buckles only then go ocd and make another secure connection once sized

cWj · August 14, 2014, 09:17:05 AM

"I don't want a shoulder bag or a stachel, I want a backpack"

A real messenger bag is not a satchel or shoulder bag.

Try "single strap backpack".

REI Musette will, however, deliver what you need.

(trust me - real-life NYC bicycle-rider here...)

yamahonkawazuki · August 14, 2014, 12:00:47 PM

Quote from: cWj on August 14, 2014, 09:17:05 AM
"I don't want a shoulder bag or a stachel, I want a backpack"

A real messenger bag is not a satchel or shoulder bag.

Try "single strap backpack".

REI Musette will, however, deliver what you need.

(trust me - real-life NYC bicycle-rider here...)

ive seen these. I will have to grab one at some point. If it can handle NYC , it can handle east tn

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Backpack recommendations