Messenger Bag vs. Back Pack

[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.

[GLC1968]

I've always been a fan of the backpack for the secure feeling and balance. I have a Timbuk2 laptop backpack that has a channel that runs between the pads on my back. When I'm riding, I tip my head down for a second and air rushes down that channel and cools me off...very neat! If you are in a very aero position on the bike, the center of gravity is a little high and makes it feel precarious. It worked for me with bars level with my saddle (even when I was in the drops).

That said, I've lately been using a messenger bag because it's much bigger (and I don't carry my laptop so much anymore). It's easy to get in and out of (like at the grocery store) and it holds a ton of stuff. Mine's a Timbuk2 large which is really too big for my frame, but with the retainer strap, it sits still and remains comfy. I also find that it actually works better when it's got some weight in it.

I'm no help because at this point, I'm torn. Of course, I haven't ridden in the heat with a messenger bag...or for longer rides...so technically, the jury's still out.

Oh, and I'm editing to add that I prefer the bags over panniers because I switch bikes a lot. This gives me much more flexibility (as a couple of my bikes don't have a rack or even mounts to add one). If I only had one bike that I rode, I would likely opt for the rack and panniers.

[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 )

[Beane]

I'm commuting, not racing, so I don't particularly care about being aero.

I am also talking about commuting, but I still like the ride to be as easy as possible. I live at the top of a hill and 95% of the time my ride home is into the wind. Sooo, it's good that its this way since I get home (rather than into the office) sweaty, but still I would prefer a more pleasant ride (yes, being a bit of a princess here).

p.s. I have seen commuters with aero bars and thought it didn't seem like such a bad idea...

[NadiaMac]

chrome makes a bike messenger backpack that is designed to use while riding. My boyfriend got one after getting neck issues using a messenger bag, and it's been really great. The pack distributes the load on both shoulders, avoiding the messenger bag issue (single strap puts pressure on one side). He bike commutes and frequently carries laptop, groceries, etc. on his road bike. A lot of bike messengers use these bags.

[Eden]

Ortlieb makes a messenger backpack too - its *huge*, I could probably get inside and close it up huge, but its totally waterproof and probably bombproof too.
I have issues with one shoulder, so funny enough I prefer only have a strap on the good one. I do find, much like with the waist strap on a backpack, that properly positioned the chest strap on my messenger bag takes most of the weight off of my shoulder too, so its actually pretty comfy to ride with.