Waterproof Cycling Ruck sack / Rucksack / Back pack / Backpack / Backpacks

Does anyone know of a (cycling friendly) bag that opens flat?

I'm looking for something similar to the Goruck above but with bike friendly features (and not so military looking). I was hoping Chrome, Mission or one of the other big names may have something.

Any opinions on Timbuk2 backpacks?

I'm after a commute/everyday (so around 20 litres I guess) bag that can hold a 15" Macbook and like the look of the "Showdown" - the fact that it has a few easily accessible pockets at the front is a plus, so I won’t have to forage for keys/wallet/phone etc when I’ve got a change of clothes and whatnot in there.

Just wondering whether they're good quality for the price or whether there is a SF/messenger tax going on.

I'm looking for something similar to the Goruck above but with bike friendly features (and not so military looking). I was hoping Chrome, Mission or one of the other big names may have something.

old but my GR1 is perfect for cycling as well.

Kirkov - I have used Timbuk2 for nearly 15yrs. On the second one (4yrs) now.
I've only had the larger ones to use as day (or occasional weekend) bags - find it more stable to have larger bag <half full rather than a full small bag that bounces around.
They lose their waterproofness after a while, but remain strong / stable.
There might be better alternatives around now with ortliebs and others(?) making good quality waterproof bags.
Bags for the cyclist in general are pretty expensive.

Thanks for the reply!

That's a good point about stability actually. Which model do you have? Of the larger ones the Phoenix looks good but there are some mixed reviews.

I don't know whether it is/was the medium or large messenger.
There was also an XL, but it wasn't that.

old but my GR1 is perfect for cycling as well.

In the end I picked up a GR0. Very happy with it.

Good choice, I have my GR1 for over a year and been using it as my primary bag, build quality is amazing.

molle webbing great for hanging lock outside, and carry big bulky item with elastic strap (wheel, frame etc.).

Anybody have experience cycling with one of these? How's the build quality? I don't carry huge amounts but it will be used daily and don't want threading coming out within a month! They have just released the liberty x herschel and think it's time to invest in a new backpack as my 8 year old vans backpack just isn't cutting it anymore.

Cheers all, tried finding a generic backpack / bag thread but couldn't find one.

Fashion accessories. Not suitable for everyday use on a bike in wet weather.
This thread will be useful to you.

Best bet is to buy a BigxTOP Daysack

^ what he said, the quality of them really isn't up to day to day use on a bike.

Oooh, like the sound of a Liberty X backpack

Anybody have experience cycling with one of these? How's the build quality? I don't carry huge amounts but it will be used daily and don't want threading coming out within a month! They have just released the liberty x herschel and think it's time to invest in a new backpack as my 8 year old vans backpack just isn't cutting it anymore.

Cheers all, tried finding a generic backpack / bag thread but couldn't find one.

Chrome citizen

I've had my Restrap highrise backpack for well over a year now and I love it. It's really well made, it looks brand new despite a year's constant use. It's completely waterproof as well (which can be a bad thing if a can of beer explodes and drowns your ipod). The rolltop is handy becuase it means you can fit loads of stuff in it when you need to but can roll it down nice and small when you don't. The front pockets are handy too and nicely separated. I particularly like the hidden front pocket (so well hidden I didn't find it until a month ago....) which is the perfect size for a mini fahg. The only thing I can think of that I'd change would be the addition of a loop for a light.

Good choice, I have my GR1 for over a year and been using it as my primary bag, build quality is amazing.

molle webbing great for hanging lock outside, and carry big bulky item with elastic strap (wheel, frame etc.).

Yep… been meaning to pick up a couple compression straps for mine.

Tell me, Ed, are you rocking a patch on the GR1?

A New California Republic one.

Whats up guys,

im basically looking at upgrading my current backpack that i use for travelling about on my bike for everything from riding to work, to travelling away with for a few days.

Just wanted to get any recommendations or suggestions, basically been looking for something around 30L and preferably somewhere safer than the usual cram -job to store my laptop because chances are i will be dropping this.

So far ive singled out the CHROME YALTA BACKPACK but thats about it, looking to spend no more than £130 ish

http://www.bigxtop.com/product/daysack-black

made by a forumenger.

How about these Big Top ones? http://www.lfgss.com/thread103183.html

Going to be that person who recommends rack and panniers, or saddle bag. Take the weight off your back when riding.

WOW thanks guys, definitely think im going to take the plunge on The BIGXTOP Backpack

Going to be that person who recommends rack and panniers, or saddle bag. Take the weight off your back when riding.

yep, let the bike take the weight, not your back.

Osprey mutant. Loads of sizes, nice back venting etc etc etc.
Bigxtop looks nice though, wish it was a little bit bigger/more practical for my needs or i'd be all over it.

Ye i agree, a tiny bit bigger would make it the perfect bag. The osprey mutant looks good but isnt exactly what im looking for. Still tempted by the Chrome Yalta, maybe i flip a coin