Good Backpacks for Commuting?

[Trek420]

Since getting the Nigel Smythe handlebar bag most rides I don't carry a back pack.

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showt...t=nigel+smythe

When I do I use a Timbuktu WSD back pack. The slot for the laptop is perfect place to slide my sketchbook

[tjf9]

I use a messenger bag for my daily commute, but that might not be the best answer if you're carrying a lot of books. Good luck with your search!

[Dianyla]

It's not fully waterproof like the Ortlieb stuff, but Deuter makes a number of cycling specific backpacks. Most of theirs come with built-in raincovers.

[Torrilin]

L.L. Bean bookbags are well... overkill. They last bloody forever. They're also not horribly expensive. About $60 for a top of the line model. I have two, one 21 years old and one 15 years old, both in good shape after years of heavy use.

They are water resistant (taped seams, waterproof fabric) and will keep things dry in driving rain for several hours. The water resistant nature tends to work better when the pack is carrying a heavy load. Having the fabric under a bit of tension reduces seam leakage IME. No troubles with calculators dying due to getting wet. No pack is truly waterproof if it has seams, so sometimes things in the interior will get damp. Do not put the pack down in a puddle, it's not water *proof*.

The "Deluxe" model can carry about 45 lbs or a week of clothes as a regular load, and is sized for adults. There is a step up model from it that has a padded laptop compartment, which is handy if you have a laptop. The regular model caps out around 30 lbs or a 3 day weekend's worth of clothes.

The big downside is that you can cram enough weight into the bag that you need a suspension saddle for long rides. 2 miles of potholes, gravel and ruts is about all I can take with max load, even if I use my legs as shock absorbers. You can also get shoulder bruising, but that happens whether you're on a bike or not. If you need truly waterproof, wearing the pack under your rain jacket should work.