Triumphrat

Doc Hudson · 09-19-2009, 06:38 PM

I have always sworn by my Timbuk2 bag. It's a cycle courier bag and is genuinely waterproof. I like the little pockets inside for carrying phones or precious items, the wide, comfortable strap and they are pretty cavernous.

My latest one is on the way out and I'm looking to replace it.

The American couriers swear by Citizen Chrome bags - same deal as the Timbuk2 but they have a cool seat belt buckle on the strap. Only problem is they don't seem to have any pockets inside and are pretty pricey in the UK. Both bags have an additional strap to stop too much flapping in the wind. I'm not keen on rucksacks, as I find them less comfortable and I cannot deal with sweaty back syndrome.

There seems to be a dearth of decent rack solutions and at best they are ugly, so I'm after a day to day solution, rather than coping with touring or a long weekend.

Anyone have any fantastic ideas?

jmack.net · 09-19-2009, 06:51 PM

My favorite bag I've used so far is a REI Novara Buzz bag (you can mail order them, but not sure you can get them in the UK otherwise). I really liked the extra pockets and internal organization it had over the Chrome or Timbuk2 bags, and even at full retail it was about 1/3 the cost of the Chrome. It also has a nice contoured strap that keeps it stable on my back instead of spinning around. Here's a link:

http://www.rei.com/product/780463

Chrome is a good bag is all you need is a big durable waterproof sack, but in my opinion they're overpriced and lacking really useful features. I'm convinced that couriers like them simply for the durability and style. But for my use, I'd definitely get another Timbuk2 before buying a Chrome.

Doc Hudson · 09-19-2009, 07:00 PM

Thanks JMack, I kind of felt the seat buckle was a bit bogus in the Chrome Citizen literature; how hard is it really to lift a bag over your head? I've checked out your link and it looks good.

blackheartrob · 09-19-2009, 07:24 PM

Chrome bags are great lots of sizes lots of color choices. Very durable. Had mine for six years still love it.

Doc Hudson · 09-19-2009, 07:28 PM

Tell me Blackheartrob, has it got any pockets inside and what size do you go for?

Farmpunk · 09-20-2009, 07:37 AM

I've owned and abused a Chrome bag for over six years now. Mine was a special edition made for Cars R Coffins, hunter orange, is made out of PVC, and is totally bulletproof. I'll never return to a backpack for cycling or biking.

When it finally does wear out, though, I may invest in a Pac Design bag: http://www.pacdesigns.com/

I noticed on the site there's now a UK dealer.

Doc Hudson · 09-20-2009, 08:45 AM

They look really nice but I see you could lose yourself in choosing the right size and style. What version are you leaning towards?

mhumphrey · 09-20-2009, 09:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Doc Hudson

Anyone have any fantastic ideas?

I use the Ortlieb Velocity messenger pack. I like the fact that it straps on your back like a backpack, which I find more secure and stable. It's kind of spartan feature-wise for the price, though. I see the Timbuk2 is heavily discounted at REI right now.

Doc Hudson · 09-20-2009, 10:24 AM

I have an ortlieb system on the back of my pushbike and they are really durable and totally waterproof, I love the bold colours too - I guess it's a personal choice but I find a messenger bag more comfy than a back pack and if you are carrying a lot, the messenger bag can actually sit on the seat behind you, as long as you get the tension right in the strap.
That said, I think the Ortlieb has everything and the price is outlandishly sensible.

stock · 09-23-2009, 03:00 AM

I'm rocking a Bailey Works Super Pro for my next bag. http://baileyworks.com/home/ourbags.html