Backpack for cycle work commutes

Malthusian

Hi all,

Can anyone recommend a reasonably lightweight backpack suitable for carrying a folded work suit (trousers and shirt) and pair of work shoes?

My current backpack has two full size pockets which is ideal as the shoes can go in the front one. But it's falling apart, and it seems very hard to find a midpoint between unnecessarily cumbersome backpacks for hiking and very lightweight ones that won't hold a pair of shoes.

becky_rtw

I use I am run box for mine:
Commuter's Backpacks | IAMRUNBOX

Most cyclists would recommend panniers rather than backpack, but I like the flexibility of being able to run/cycle or just use it.

The hard shell ones are good as your stuff doesnt get creased. 

Herzlos

You can also get panniers that double as backpacks. The benefit of the pannier of course being that the weight is on the bike and not your back and you won't get as sweaty a back.

I'd have a look at decathlon if you are near one and see if they have anything in a suitable size.

Malthusian

Thanks both. I'm not keen on panniers as it's a road bike so will look into both of those.

DingDongitsKingKong

becky_rtw said:

I use I am run box for mine:

Most cyclists would recommend panniers rather than backpack, but I like the flexibility of being able to run/cycle or just use it.

The hard shell ones are good as your stuff doesnt get creased. 

For good reason. A backpack sucks if commuting regularly more than a couple of miles. Panniers all the way. I have got Ortliebs which are great but they dont come cheap. I like their attachment system mostly. However any panniers would be better than a backpack for me.

Malthusian said:

Thanks both. I'm not keen on panniers as it's a road bike so will look into both of those.

Check out frame bags. Wont even need to buy a rack but I imagine their capacity is rather more limited.

[Deleted User]

Deuter make some decent rucksacks with a gap between the body and the bag to allow air flow but as above, I prefer panniers as you don't get as hot when riding, though if you have a shower at work rucksack wouldn't be an issue

glennevis

If your road bike doesn't have lugs on the rear stays for a rack then you can get a seatpost mounted one which clamps on the seat tube. I have a Topeak one and it does the job.

Herzlos

glennevis said:

If your road bike doesn't have lugs on the rear stays for a rack then you can get a seatpost mounted one which clamps on the seat tube. I have a Topeak one and it does the job.

As long as you are aware that they generally have a pretty low weight capacity. They should be fine for a change of clothes though.

[Deleted User]

Herzlos said:

glennevis said:

If your road bike doesn't have lugs on the rear stays for a rack then you can get a seatpost mounted one which clamps on the seat tube. I have a Topeak one and it does the job.

As long as you are aware that they generally have a pretty low weight capacity. They should be fine for a change of clothes though.

The Topeak one (I have the RX one) takes 7.5kg, more than enough for tools, change of clothes etc, just they're not very deep so a shirt has to be rolled up and chucked in the top, wouldn't be ideal for a suit of any kind

sheslookinhot

When I worked in the office I kept my shoes, trousers and shirts when possible in my locker, along with toiletries etc. Cycled with as little as possible.