Messenger Bag vs. Back Pack

[flash]

I prefer a messenger bag over a backpack for cycling. The m bag rides lower & is in minimum contact with you, so you don't end up with a sweaty back.

[tulip]

I much prefer panniers over either a backpack or messenger bag. Keeps the weight on the bike and off my back.

[mimitabby]

If you're carrying a lot of weight, the panniers are best for your bod.
But for a medium amt of weight, the backpack does keep it more balanced.

[Geonz]

RIght. I'm also not on a road bike, so I'm not leaning over to give a nice back for the messenger back to rest on. And I'm not bothered with the perspiration problem - but that's an individual thing.

I got a timbuk2 backpack from steepandcheap that I *love.* it has a place for my laptop... nice pockets... *almost* as roomy as my 15-year-old LL Bean bag (oops... OMG... 22 years old... it was a masters-degree present...)

[Xrayted]

If it doesn't fit in my Camelback Mule, it goes in a pannier or a trunk rack.

[Beane]

has anyone else found that panniers make you a lot less aero? Mine sticks out a good 8" (I basically just put my messenger bag in the pannier when it's really heavy). Also with cross-winds it seems to be more difficult.

has anyone used one of those backpacks with the taut mesh bag (deuter makes one, as does osprey and a few other companies)? feedback?

I've found that the messenger bag is better at minimizing sweat than the backpack, but when it's really loaded down, I end up with a lot of back/neck/shoulder pain.

[7rider]

Backpacks, I found, put my center of gravity too high and make me feel unstable. I didn't care for a messenger bag, as it stuck me in bad places. Ouch. I did have a lot of luck with the REI Singular bag...a single strap, teardrop shaped backpack that sat low on my back, and didn't hurt. But then, I got rear-ended in my truck, ended up with a herniated disc in my neck, and now can't/don't ride with anything on my back (other than a Camelback when mountainbiking), and go with panniers. My panniers do stick out of the sides by a bit, but I don't worry about aero with them. Yeah, strong crosswinds are an adventure...

[tulip]

has anyone else found that panniers make you a lot less aero?

I'm commuting, not racing, so I don't particularly care about being aero. That being said, I have a pair of smaller panniers that suit my needs fine. I balance my things in both panniers so one side isn't overloaded.

I also occassionally use my Arkel laptop pannier when I have to take my laptop with me. It unhooks from the bike and is an instant briefcase.

For small loads, a trunk bag on top of the rear rack seems the best way to go.

[Eden]

If you're carrying a lot of weight, the panniers are best for your bod.
But for a medium amt of weight, the backpack does keep it more balanced.

I'll agree with your first point, but not with the second. A messenger bag carries the weight lower and if you are wearing it properly, better balanced than a backpack. A bag with a stabilizer strap, a good fit, proper packing and setting it up properly are necessary, but I much prefer a messenger bag for comfort and stability.

[Jen-Jen]

I have used both messenger and back packs. I perfer backpacks and only because the messenger bag strap sets smack dab between my breast! I feel very exposed when the strap pushes my shirt down and outlines my breast. I get honked at as I ride.

I am currently looking at the timbuk2 backpack.

[Eden]

I have used both messenger and back packs. I perfer backpacks and only because the messenger bag strap sets smack dab between my breast! I feel very exposed when the strap pushes my shirt down and outlines my breast. I get honked at as I ride.

I am currently looking at the timbuk2 backpack.

Those of us with A cups have plenty of room inbetween the girls for a strap ...... (and not much to outline either )