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.

 

Pose in Chrome

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.

 

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

 

Chrome pockets

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

 

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.

 

Farmpunk

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

 

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.

 

Mhumphrey

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.

 

Bailey Works

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

 

Stock

I love the website for the Bailey Works - the strap system seems really well thought out, I must find out if there is a UK distributor.

In case it is useful for anyone, I have listed all the web addresses of bags recommended so far:

Timbuk2 – recommended by Doc Hudson
http://www.timbuk2.com

Chrome Citizen – recommended by blackheartrob
http://www.chromebagsstore.com

REI Novara Buzz – recommended by jmack.net
http://www.rei.com/product/780463

Pac Design bag – recommended by Farmpunk
http://www.pacdesigns.com/

Ortlieb Velocity – recommended by mhumphrey
http://www.rei.com/product/768101

Bailey Works Super Pro – recommended by stock
http://baileyworks.com/home/ourbags.html

This thread has made my decision a lot harder!

 

Kreiga US20. It's not a traditional messenger-style bag, but the supplied shoulder strap lets you carry it like one. It's waterproof, has plenty of room, and is the perfect size to stay out of your way while you ride. The big bonus: it's designed as a tail-pack, so if your load gets too heavy you can strap it to the bike.

It does not have a lot of bells and whistles, but it does what it's designed to do very well.

 

swestenzweig

That looks like an excellent bag and truly multi-purpose - price is pretty good at £59. Web address is:
http://www.kriega.com/pages_uk/us20/US20-topframeset.html

 

what about a magnetic tank bag, they come off easy enough and can be put on easy enough for the work commute

 

jabberjoe87

I like the look of the tank bag but my concerns are scratched paintwork and how easy it is to carry around. It needs to travel from classroom to classroom with me carrying teacher things: valium, exercise books and a revolver etc

 

http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=11&idcategory=2

 

Try Crumpler

Any of the Crumpler bags are good. I prefer the backpack to the messenger style but have both.