View Full Version : Are there any good rucksacks?
I don't fancy the idea of a topbox, and i tend to use rucksacks all the time on my mountain bike.
Are there any particuluarly good rucksacks suitable for biking, or could i really use any normal rucksack?
missyburd
08-01-09, 11:11 AM
What about a tankbag? Magnetically sticks to the fuel tank, they come in different sizes depending on how much you want to pack in them.
YC has a Knox backpack but he doesn't tend to put much in it, don't think it's a good idea to have too much on your back should you come off, but I believe there are a few threads on that matter.
http://www.mcs-scotland.co.uk/ProductImages2/127_orig.jpg
Someone more helpful will be along soon am sure :-)
SoulKiss
08-01-09, 11:24 AM
Just remember that anything attached to your back is potentially something you will be landing on.
Whilst I appreciate people's concerns about landing on a backpack and what may be in it, I think unless you carry a selection of knives in your bag it's probably a minor concern :p
Completely unrelated kinda, but I have a friend who was hit by a car when crossing the road, he rolled over the top of the car with his backpack smashing the windscreen and he landed on his feet behind the car. If it wasn't for his backback he would have probably been inside the car through the windscreen. So they can be a help or a hindrance!
The things I generally carry in my backpack would probably give me a bit of a bruise on my back were I to land on them - just be sensible what you put in it.
I did the 1200 mile round trip to the Nurburgring last year with my Kriega on and it didn't bother me one bit, in fact, I think it kept me a bit warm in the kidney area on occasions! :cheers:
The Guru
08-01-09, 11:36 AM
Just remember that anything attached to your back is potentially something you will be landing on.
Thats why I only carry pillows in my backpack :mrgreen:
You keep boobies in your backpack?!
The Guru
08-01-09, 11:42 AM
You keep boobies in your backpack?!
I said pillows... not fun bags
Kriega all the way - http://www.kriega.com/. I've got an R35 and once you're on the bike you don't even know it's there! Reflective patches on front and back as well. If you don't want the backpack check out their tailpacks like the US-20 or US-10 -they can be used as tank bags as well if you buy the relevant accessory.
I also have rucksacks on my site if you are interested
Link in my signature
Ceri JC
08-01-09, 12:22 PM
RE: carrying stuff in the backpack/the effects in a crash. It's much less of an issue if you're wearing a back protector. I've come off at high speed with a rucksack on and landed on my back. The rucksack had a laptop in, but I didn't even feel it courtesy of the back protector.
Kriega make great kit, so I'd be inclined to whichever capacity rucksac of theirs suits your need, but as other has said, I'd also consider a tailpack, tankbag, etc.
wyrdness
08-01-09, 12:23 PM
I've got a Kriega R35. They're designed for bikes and are very well made. It holds a lot of gear and has many hidden pockets and pouches. The only downside is that it isn't completely waterproof in very heavy rain (I'm talking thunderstorms here). I believe that they sell a waterproof liner, but I use a plastic sack inside if the weather looks bad. Mine's a few years old now, so they might have improved since I got it.
THe Knox pictured above is equalled designed just for Motorcycles and is very good if the Kriega are too expensive for you.
SoulKiss
08-01-09, 02:57 PM
I am not totally anti-rucksack - I do use them if needs must.
However I REALLY like my Bagster tank-cover and the clip-on tank bags on my Z750....
I am not totally anti-rucksack - I do use them if needs must.
However I REALLY like my Bagster tank-cover and the clip-on tank bags on my Z750....
Why do you prefer using a tank bag? Which model do you own?
JamesMio
08-01-09, 03:09 PM
I prefer Tank Bags too - I've got an Oxford rucksack (rubbish - avoid!). I just find the tank bag is so much easier, comfier and less of a faff than using my rucksack all the time.
I might have been tempted by a Kriega if the price was just a bit more in my range though.
SoulKiss
08-01-09, 03:13 PM
Why do you prefer using a tank bag? Which model do you own?
I prefer the bike to take the weight rather than me for a start.
I have the standard Bagster tank cover for the Z750 and choice of 3 tank bags, 2 of which that can be zipped together to make a double-decker tank bag (tho doing this usually obscures the clocks.......)
I also have a tiny little one for putting my video-recorder in when using that on the bike.
They are the Sherpa (http://www.baglux.co.uk/productinfo.php?code=4891) and Tweety (http://www.baglux.co.uk/productinfo.php?code=4886) ones.
i have the knox 6 pack back pack and can't really fault it. the loops that stop the excess straps from flapping can be annoying to adjust but other than that its a good alternative to luggage on the bike. i took it to france with 2 days clothes etc and big chain and issues. hasn't really been rain storm tested yet so couldn't say how dry it owuld keep things but i have been caught in a slight downpour as everything was still dry.
was meant to say and had no issues not that i was carrying issues......
SoulKiss
08-01-09, 03:32 PM
Oh and if you have a large well padded tankbag it is great to help support you on long boring motorway journeys.
i have the knox 6 pack back pack and can't really fault it. the loops that stop the excess straps from flapping can be annoying to adjust but other than that its a good alternative to luggage on the bike. i took it to france with 2 days clothes etc and big chain and issues. hasn't really been rain storm tested yet so couldn't say how dry it owuld keep things but i have been caught in a slight downpour as everything was still dry.
I've got a Knox Six Pack. Got it at Christmas. I use my bike and bag daily and can't fault it. There far less expensive then the Kriega ones too. The Kriega might be better haven't seen them, suppose it depends on your budget.
Bunks
fatneck
08-01-09, 06:35 PM
Load the bike, not the rider!
BBadger
08-01-09, 06:41 PM
Kriega R25, job done :)
+1 :cheers:
love it... never let me down.
Whilst I appreciate people's concerns about landing on a backpack and what may be in it, I think unless you carry a selection of knives in your bag it's probably a minor concern :p
Tell that to my sister's Brother in Law, who fell off an RG125 on his 17th birthday and is now wheelchar bound for life. His back was broken by a can of coke and he's paralysed from the chest down.
SoulKiss
09-01-09, 03:12 PM
Tell that to my sister's Brother in Law, who fell off an RG125 on his 17th birthday and is now wheelchar bound for life. His back was broken by a can of coke and he's paralysed from the chest down.
And I dont think a back Protector would have helped much either.....
I have a Knox Aeropack and a Kriega R35.
The Knox I use for day to day use, the Kriega when I'm going further because it holds more and is far more comfy to wear and more versatile. I never wear either without a back protector as well.
And I dont think a back Protector would have helped much either.....
Quite probably not
I don't carry anything potentially harmful in my rucksacks, mainly clothing etc
missyburd
09-01-09, 03:15 PM
Tell that to my sister's Brother in Law, who fell off an RG125 on his 17th birthday and is now wheelchar bound for life. His back was broken by a can of coke and he's paralysed from the chest down.
Oh 'eck that's awful :(
suzsv650
09-01-09, 03:55 PM
got a Kriega R35 for xmas top quality
MCN_LiamM
09-01-09, 04:44 PM
What about a tankbag? Magnetically sticks to the fuel tank, they come in different sizes depending on how much you want to pack in them.
YC has a Knox backpack but he doesn't tend to put much in it, don't think it's a good idea to have too much on your back should you come off, but I believe there are a few threads on that matter.
http://www.mcs-scotland.co.uk/ProductImages2/127_orig.jpg
Someone more helpful will be along soon am sure :-)
I've been using that ^^ KNOX backback for a couple of years now and can't fault it. (There's a review in Dec 31 issue of MCN if you have it).
I'd highly recommend their stuff. They're designed to keep the weight off your back to reduce back ache and it works well. Plenty of storage as well.
I've just had this (http://www.planet-knox.com/detail2.aspx?ID=63) delivered today to replace mine. Newer version and comes with laptop puch and visor bag, as well as the masses of storage that are present in the bag above.
I'd recommend Knox, but that's because I've not tried any of the Kreiga stuff, although it's highly rated.
northwind
09-01-09, 05:09 PM
I know a guy who suffered kidney failure after falling off with a pair of shoes in a rucksack, anything solid in a bag can basically be an anvil if you land on it (same goes for cycling btw...)
I just use a random Eurohike cheapy that I bought about 8 years ago for a tenner, it's almost completely unwaterproof so I have a roll-top bag in it which is 100% waterproof. Never failed me, I honestly don't reckon these expensive kriegas do anything that it doesn't.
daved407
09-01-09, 06:43 PM
I used a Berghaus dart for about ten years, then 2 years ago I got another Berghaus. The same style. side pockets etc. I cant fault it. I use it daily on bike, in car on ferry etc. Ive had cheaper rucksacks that seem to struggle holding themselves together with riding at higher (?) speeds down the autobahns. So I am more than happy to pay that little more for the Berghaus name, about 30-40 quid. But I doubt Id pay the 90-100 for a Kriega.
But I doubt Id pay the 90-100 for a Kriega.
I didn't. I got mine via a bulk purchase organised by the ever helpful Tink on the Gixerjunkies forum. I think I paid about 70 quid for it, money very well spent.
suzsv650
09-01-09, 07:28 PM
I do fine the R35 a little hard to put on is there some form of technique?
However once on your arms are fully free like your not wearing a bag...
I do fine the R35 a little hard to put on
Saw the thread title and was going to post exactly the same thing. With leathers on almost have to be double jointed to put on and zip coordination is sometimes a bit tricky with helmet on but that maybe because its a leftie zip
i'm sure it's a great rucksack but £70-100 on a fecking bag come on.
suzsv650
09-01-09, 07:49 PM
It is alot i know i would price them at £70 off the shelf but you get what you pay for i suspose
well not really how i class it it's a bag a space to put stuff in that's it above £40 and it's rediculous.
suzsv650
09-01-09, 08:00 PM
Fair enough... you seen/ worn a r35?
tried one and what can i say it's good yeah but not that good i'd want to miss out on several tank's of petrol for.if you've got the spare dosh then yeah absoloutly but other than that i cant see the point.
suzsv650
09-01-09, 08:06 PM
fair enough... only posting this cus its my 1000th post whooooo hooooooooooooooo
suzsv650
09-01-09, 08:08 PM
yours is next post too!... how sad lol
i'm sure it's a great rucksack but £70-100 on a fecking bag come on.
Not massively expensive surely?
yours is next post too!... how sad lol
damn it's 1000 posts all round then :-D
Not massively expensive surely?
just a tad :)
just a tad :)
ok I'll settle for a tad expensive :mrgreen:
Not expensive when you consider how well made they are and how long they last. You could quite easily wear out a couple of 50 quid cheapies and a daily used Kriega will still be perfect after the same amount of time. Some things really are worth the extra initial outlay.
northwind
09-01-09, 08:26 PM
Yeah, but compare with, say, Camelbaks and you see them making bags that are just as well developed and made, for a lot less- plus the camelbaks come with the hydro packs into the bargain. They do a different job so I wouldn't recommend them for motorbikes, I think, but it does show the pricing of the Kriegas up for what it is. A decent, cheap rucksack will last for years too, and either will be destroyed in a sliding-on-your-back crash.
But they are sexeh.
maybe your right lozzo but i've had my knox bag for a fair while and it's only a 30 quid bag and it's had a hammering and still looks good condition cant see it maybe just me being a tightwad though.
I have a Kriega R35, I'm biased in thinking it's the mutt's doodahs.
I have a Knox Aeropack too, it's 'ok' for what it cost
suzsv650
09-01-09, 10:46 PM
I have a Kriega R35, I'm biased in thinking it's the mutt's doodahs.
I have a Knox Aeropack too, it's 'ok' for what it cost
So whats the technique of putting them on?
Loosen the straps at the d-rings on the front and tighten them after you've zipped up. Dead simple
suzsv650
10-01-09, 07:48 PM
Loosen the straps at the d-rings on the front and tighten them after you've zipped up. Dead simple
mine are quite tight do they losen up?
shonadoll
10-01-09, 07:52 PM
I love the Kriega stuff too - I've got a US10 and it's always stayed fully waterproof, even in heavy rain. They are expensive, but they do what they say they will.
BBadger
10-01-09, 09:09 PM
This whole expensive, but will sit died in one trip down the road does not apply.
When i had my off, R25 on the back took alot of the impact and sliding. Still looks good and only one stictching has come loose( not bad for 40mph ) so well worth the money.
mine are quite tight do they losen up?
Try it, how the hell would I know where yours are adjusted to.
Tim in Belgium
11-01-09, 12:01 AM
Da Kine also make good rucsacs.
Does anyone use thier rucksacks for normally dailly use or soley for the bike.
I know the ergonomics are changed on the Kriega stuff to suit a riding position, does this mean they are a little uncomfy when just walking around.
What i'm getting at really, is could i use this bag for walking to and from uni or is it best left to just when on the bike???
MCN_LiamM
04-02-09, 02:51 PM
I suppose they're ok for just walking around in.
When my Dad bought his Kriega last year at the ExCel show he wore it on his back for the rest of the day.
I've got an R35 and after reading the posts on this thread I thought I'd try a tailpack and went out and bought a Kriega US20 and I have to say that it is a lot better than the rucksack. The rucksack on the bike wasn't so bad but the tailpack is great as I can move around freely on the bike, off the bike the rucksack is pretty pants and pulls on all the wrong places (I had quite a lot of heavy stuff in there) whereas the US20 comes with some straps which are cool and it looks a lot better too IMHO. So I would say go with the tailpack! :) Hope that helps
Does anyone use thier rucksacks for normally dailly use or soley for the bike.
I know the ergonomics are changed on the Kriega stuff to suit a riding position, does this mean they are a little uncomfy when just walking around.
What i'm getting at really, is could i use this bag for walking to and from uni or is it best left to just when on the bike???
I've taken my Kriega R25 on a couple of holidays and always take it to the gym. I find it really comfy for walking round in. I thought you tried mine on when we went to the Ring?
The Guru
04-02-09, 04:02 PM
http://forums.sv650.org/picture.php?albumid=207&pictureid=1710
http://forums.sv650.org/picture.php?albumid=207&pictureid=1711
I just use a Berghaus one. Sprayed it with some waterproofing. Pic is with helmet, gloves, and other bits and bobs inside.
I've taken my Kriega R25 on a couple of holidays and always take it to the gym. I find it really comfy for walking round in. I thought you tried mine on when we went to the Ring?
I did. But only breifly and i can't recall what it was like to wear. IIRC there was nothing or very little in it too. I'm thinking of the euro trip in the summer as well as replacing my quite old normal rucksack. Was hoping to kill two birds with one bag.
I did. But only breifly and i can't recall what it was like to wear. IIRC there was nothing or very little in it too. I'm thinking of the euro trip in the summer as well as replacing my quite old normal rucksack. Was hoping to kill two birds with one bag.
I reckon it does the job fine- we can meet for a rideout, I'll put a load of stuff in my bag and you're welcome to carry it for a while to see if you like it?!
Does anyone use thier rucksacks for normally dailly use or soley for the bike.
I know the ergonomics are changed on the Kriega stuff to suit a riding position, does this mean they are a little uncomfy when just walking around.
What i'm getting at really, is could i use this bag for walking to and from uni or is it best left to just when on the bike???
If you want a rucksack for on and off bike use, Id go for a bike specific one. Its gonna work better on the bike and will still be fine for off bike use.
BBadger
04-02-09, 06:31 PM
The R25 is brilliant for walking around.
I take it to collage and so can be weighed up quiet abit and is just as cumfortable so well worth a look at.
I don't know my Kriega is there even when walking.
AndyBrad
04-02-09, 07:05 PM
Im looking at getting a R25.
take a look at this if your interested.
http://forums.sv650.org/showthread.php?t=125037
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