Cycle backpacks: what are they and how to choose?
The bicycle is one of the most widespread and popular means of transportation. To be able not only to ride a bike independently, but also to transport goods, you need to get a bicycle backpack. However, when choosing it, you need to be quite careful in order to buy the most practical and functional product. What features and requirements of bicycle backpacks, what types exist, how to make the right choice, an overview of the best models - you will learn about this from our material.
Features and requirements
Today on the market you can find a huge variety of backpacks for a bicycle. In addition to backpacks, in sports stores there are also bags, covers, sacks and other devices for transporting and storing things, but it is bicycle backpacks that hold the undoubted primacy. The main advantages of a bicycle backpack include several important characteristics. So, it is important to note that with the help of a roomy backpack, you can transport all the necessary things from place to place.
Besides, you can put a variety of things in a high-quality backpack (documents, a bottle of water, keys, and so on). Since you use a backpack to transport your belongings, you do not weigh the bike down, so riding on it is simplified several times.
However, at the same time, it should be understood that overloading a backpack can lead to negative consequences for the cyclist himself - all the load falls on his spine.
Varieties
All bicycle backpacks are divided into several types: frame, soft and easel.Each of these categories of cycling backpacks has its own individual characteristics and characteristics, which are both positive and negative. Let's consider each of the varieties in more detail.
Easel
The main characteristic feature of these products is the presence of a solid rigid structure. Thanks to this, the cyclist is able to transport even large loads over fairly long distances. As for the shortcomings, the main one, according to user reviews, is the lack of comfortable anatomical straps. Among cyclists, the most popular are easel anatomical products endowed with a special internal frame.
Such cycling backpacks are preferred due to the fact that their use is characterized by increased comfort, since the product follows the contours of a person's back. In addition, these bags help to evenly distribute the load. They also allow free air flow, and the shoulder straps can be adjusted to your liking. At the same time, when buying an easel cycle backpack, it should be noted that it is quite heavy in weight and can also cost quite a lot of money.
Soft
As you might guess from the name of this category of products, they are quite soft in structure and do not have a single rigid element in their composition. Due to this their use is quite convenient. The main difference between soft bags and any others is it is the presence of a pendant sewn to the bag. In addition, soft products are quite affordable in terms of their cost, so almost everyone can buy them.
Such products also have a special weight belt, which makes it easier to transport heavy loads over long distances. Additional comfort of use is also provided by special shoulder straps and low weight. The products are also quite convenient in storage, since they are quite compact in size and can be stored even in a small apartment (for example, in a pantry or on a balcony).
As for the disadvantages, among them we can single out such characteristics as the possibility of deformation due to the fact that the soft structure completely lacks a frame.
Wireframe
Distinctive features of such a product - this is the presence of a special strap, which provides ease of use, as well as a tight back. The rigidity of the structure is ensured by the presence of specialized metal and plastic plates. If necessary, they can be removed without any difficulty. This is also useful if you want to fold the item for storage.
Frame backpacks are also subdivided into several subspecies, namely, they come with an external and an internal frame. Products with an outer frame have back ventilation to protect the cyclist from overheating. However, at the same time, when using such a product, a rather large load is placed on the spine. As for backpacks with an inner frame, their device has rigid elements that can be easily removed if desired.
In addition to the most popular varieties described above, there are other cycling backpacks. So, many athletes do not prefer backpacks, but products that can be fixed on the trunk or on the frame. And there are also so-called backpacks pants, backpacks with hydration and hydration system. The right type of backpack will turn your cycling trip into an enjoyable journey.
Review of the best models
There are a huge number of bicycle backpack manufacturers on the market today. In our material, we will introduce you to the top companies.
Deuter
Backpacks from this manufacturer are quite affordable in terms of their cost. So, the most popular model is a backpack. Deuter Bike I 20, the cost of which is about 5,000 rubles. The backpack has a modern urban design. As for the technical characteristics of the Deuter Bike I 20 backpack, it is important to include such indicators as:
- weight - 880 grams;
- the backpack is endowed with a special anatomical back for ease of use;
- backpack material - nylon;
- the maximum volume is 20 liters;
- the presence of additional pockets;
- the presence of a drinking system.
There are several characteristics of the Deuter Bike I 20, thanks to which it is chosen by a large number of buyers. These properties of the product include a complete set of delivery, which includes a raincoat.
And also in the device of the backpack there is a special fastener for a flashlight and compression straps.
Cyclotech
The backpack is painted in several colors: blue, black and gray. Its cost is lower than the price of the above model and is about 3,000 rubles (the price may vary depending on a specific point of sale). The design of the backpack includes the following specialized items like sports straps and a drinking system.
Moreover, the wire of the hose of the drinking system can be brought out to the strap of the backpack, which simplifies its use and provides the ability to consume water without interrupting the trip (which is especially convenient for various competitions and group trips). The set of this backpack, in addition to the main product, includes helmet mount and rain cover. In addition, there is a special reflective element and mounts for the lantern. The total volume of the backpack is 18 liters.
Thule
Thule products are popular not only among amateur cyclists, but also among professional athletes. There are a wide variety of models. The advantages of a backpack include such properties as:
- the presence of a cape that protects the product from negative environmental phenomena (especially precipitation);
- comfortable and roomy compartments;
- the ability to fix the helmet;
- the presence of a department for the transportation of especially fragile items;
- compartments for a laptop;
- reflective cape;
- additional fastening elements;
- secret pockets.
Thus, there is a huge variety of cycling backpack models on the market that will suit even the most demanding athlete.
How to choose?
Choosing a quality backpack for a cyclist is a difficult task. To determine the specific model of the product that is suitable for recreational cycling or professional riding, there are several factors to consider.
- The immediate design and size matter. For example, a small one is suitable for city walks, but larger models should be chosen for professional sports. On the other hand, mesh models with ventilation will keep your body from overheating.
- Another noteworthy factor is the mount. Ease of use while driving depends on this. So, some models are only designed to be transported on the back, while others can be mounted on a frame or trunk.
- Form is no less important. Try to choose such models that will repeat the outlines of your back, since it is these products that will be the most convenient and comfortable during use.
- The material from which the backpack is made plays a role in the reliability and durability of the backpack. So, if you buy a cheap backpack made of low-quality fabric, then it will serve you for a short period. A version made of expensive material will last more than one season.
- It is also important to focus on the external characteristics of the backpack so that its design matches all your aesthetic preferences.
You can choose a product that will fully match your bike in color.
For information on how to choose a backpack for a cyclist, see the next video.