How To Choose a Cycling Backpack
Cycling backpacks are designed primarily for use while cycling, but will also serve well when using skates or when running. Compared to regular backpacks, they are lighter and smaller and have a curved back system with ventilation. A practical feature is the possibility of attaching a helmet or a built-in water bag with a hose for comfortable drinking while riding. On cycling backpacks we will find smaller pockets for blinkers or sticking reflective elements on to, which will make you visible to cars and other cyclists in the dark.
What to look out for when choosing a cycling backpack
First, find out how big a backpack you need
Decide if you want a cycling backpack with a drinking container
Then take a look at the range of shoulder straps
Finally, take a look at the useful features of cycling backpacks
What to look out for when choosing a cycling backpack
Volume
The longer the ride, the larger the backpack you will need.
| Volume | What volumes are suitable for what functions |
|---|---|
| 0,25–3 litres | Kidney bags with two small drinking bottles. In addition they provide a pocket for storing keys. |
| 5–7 litres | Backpacks for short rides or training for races. In addition to the built-in hydrovac, you will also find small pockets for energy bars, keys and other small items. |
| 8–12 litres | Suitable for day trips. In addition to the water bag, they contain a large pocket for clothes or snacks and small pockets for small items such as keys, tubes, pumps, bicycle repair tools, etc. |
| 13–20 litres | Suitable for overnight trips. They can hold a small sleeping bag or clothes, such as sweatshirts or blankets etc. |
Drink supplies
Why consider a backpack with a drink dispenser?
The easiest and safest way to drink while driving is to use a special drinking bag for water. Reservoirs with a volume of 1.5 to 3 litres are made especially for cycling backpacks. Another option is a regular bicycle bottle. In hot weather, a 1.5 liter bag should last for a 1 to 2 hour ride, a 2 litre bag for a 2 to 3 hour ride and a 3 litre bag will give you water for 3 hours or more. If there is no heat, the mentioned volumes will last you longer.
Built-in water bag
You do not have to buy the bag separately with this option.
Water bag purchased separately
Such bags are prepared for the bag. Suitable if you like the design of the backpack, but it does not include a built-in bag.
Classic bicycle bottle in a holder
Someone may not be comfortable drinking from a tube. For backpacks without a built in water bag and no means of adding one the main option for drinking is a seperate bottle held in a holder attached to the bike frame. However, this method is not as safe as using a tank. You have to take the bottle out of the holder and hold it in your hand while drinking. In addition, the beverage in it is not thermally insulated as well as in the bag, so it only maintains the original temperature for a short time.
Tip: The larger the hole in the hydrobag, the easier it is to fill and clean. Some models have it large enough for an adult's hand to pass through.
Shoulder straps
What to look for in shoulder straps?
The shoulder straps should be adjustable to ensure the backpack stays on your back in the correct position. In the case of larger backpacks, waist and chest belts will also help to ensure this. They will make sure that your backpack does not move around while riding and thus does not affect your ride. In addition, the straps should be padded and ventilated.
Additional equipment and other functions of bicycle backpacks
Riding comfort is enhanced by a number of factors.
Frequently asked questions when choosing a cycling backpack
How to distinguish a men's cycling backpack from a women's one?
Women's backpacks conform better to the female figure. Their backs are shorter and the straps are shaped to better fit on the chest. They also differ from men’s backpacks in color.
How to protect your backpack from rain?
Best with a raincoat made especially for cycling backpacks. When choosing it, make sure it is the same volume as your backpack.
Why isn't a regular outdoor backpack suitable for biking?
Because they are not structurally curved and do not copy the shape of the cyclist's bent back while riding. So they do not provide as much comfort on a bike as cycling backpacks.
