I don't ride with a pack on my recreational rides - don't like to carry a bunch of stuff for a fun ride. If I can't fit everything I need into my pockets in my jersey, I don't carry it. The only exception to that is when I mountain bike and need to be prepared for anything on the mountain, then I carry a larger camelback (the mule). It is heavy cause it has a large bladder, but I will then carry more clothes, food, etc. on the other compartments and attached by bungie cord thing.

I wear a back pack to commute, although it is not large. The most it has in it are underwear, socks, a pair of shoes and clothing for work; with my tire changing equipment, hair brush and a small wallet. It probably doesn't weigh as much as my mountain bike camelback fully loaded!

I don't find that it overbalances me one way or another. It is kind of hot just like a camelback on your back, but no big deal. I'm not usually riding hard since I'm commuting.

spoke