Why messanger bags?

[madscot13]

this may be a silly question but why do people use messanger bags like the timbuk2s, crumplers, and chrome bags? I have a backpack and panniers for groceries, yet I am interested in a timbuk2 bag from rei. I don't even like velcro, or the excessive weight it puts on one side of my shoulder. Someone help!

[Eden]

Use what you are comfortable with. I use a messenger bag, but I have my reasons. I have one bad shoulder, so having the weight to one side - the good one, is actually better for me, I prefer to have the weight down low near my butt for balance reasons - I find a backpack raises my center of gravity and is tippy feeling, and not all of my bikes have a rack for panniers, but sometimes I still want to ride one and carry something.
Oh and yeah, they are much cooler and trendier than backpacks- which I suspect is what you are attracted to

[Geonz]

I'm a symmetrical person. Messenger bags mess with me. I can't stand 'em. Somehow the straps and my boobs never hit right. I've got a camelbak Blowfish and, of course, my ultimate baggage machine:

[steinspinne]

Nothing of real importance to add as I'm a fan of symmetry as well, so I either have my backpack on my back or strapped to my rack depending on how hot/heavy it is. I had a messenger bag for maybe 6 months a long time ago, then I gave it to my sister because I didn't like it at all.

I just wanted to say to Geonz that that is a GREAT picture!

[7rider]

this may be a silly question but why do people use messanger bags like the timbuk2s, crumplers, and chrome bags? I have a backpack and panniers for groceries, yet I am interested in a timbuk2 bag from rei. I don't even like velcro, or the excessive weight it puts on one side of my shoulder. Someone help!

Ah, hah! REI's advertising and mind control is working!

You use a pack and panniers. Those work fine for you.
You don't like what a messenger bag offers (velcro and asymmetry), yet, you are strangey compelled to go and try one out.
Hmmmm... (rubbing chin thoughtfully)....

Yes! Someone please help the poor gal!!

[Zen]

You can use it for other things besides riding.
Coolness is very important

[KnottedYet]

Geonz - I love that picture!

(and I still WAAAAAANT an Xtracycle! I'm thinkin' a Kona Smoke Xtracycle. Someone stop me, please!)

[Zen]

Were you like that as a baby?

[KnottedYet]

I still AAAAAAAAAAMMM a baby! Spoil me!!!!!

[madisongrrl]

this may be a silly question but why do people use messanger bags like the timbuk2s, crumplers, and chrome bags?

Backpacks make my back gross and sweaty, so I commute to work with a messenger bag.

[Velocity22]

Do whatever is comfortable for you. My bf bikes to work every day with a backpack. I hate hate hate riding with a backpack. I can't stand the feeling of it while I am leaned over on a bike, and it hurts my shoulders. (Yes, he thinks I am a baby )I have the delta quick seatpost rack that I use for commuting.

For quick trips, if I must carry additional items, I use a northface lumbar bag (I think it is called Kanga?) which doesn't make my back sweaty or hurt my shoulders.

I don't like to use a messenger bag because while I have broad shoulders, the rest of my back is on the narrow side, and I have to constantly readjust, which is distracting.

[Blueberry]

Not to add fuel to the fire...but I just received an REI sale flyer for all Timbuk2 bags at 25% off....

[boy in a kilt]

I've got a messenger bag but I find my back gets all screwed up if I use it to carry too much stuff.

I also have a couple of back packs that work well. If I'm carrying a bunch of stuff, I use the regular back pack pack. If I'm just out tom catting around, I have a Mountain Hardware butt pack that converts into a small back pack.