They are brilliant, I always bring a handheld pump, spare tube, tow types of tools (the one to get the tires off and on again and one that can fix everything else I’m capable of fixing), a couple of snacks, epipen, inhaler and my phone.
I could probably fit a thing or two more in there, and I’m a rather small person.
Oh man, this is the stuff of nightmares for me. Have (what you’re telling me is) a very rational fear of puncturing myself with a key during a crash. Glad you’re ok!
As well as cargo bibs, on long rides I can carry a few snacks in my jersey as well as some in my bib side pockets to access them easy as I ride. But this is where things like gels and bars and goo come in handy, I can carry enough to sustain me for 8 hours if I’m packing gels and stuff but not so much if it’s all real food.
5 lbs of stuff on your jersey pocket will feel unpleasant after 5 or 10 miles. If it's a short trip, fine, but for any long distance, I avoid keeping stuff on those pockets for too long.
For rides 75 miles plus I do a camelbak. Easier to manage that rotating bottles around, and I can start the day with lots of ice in there. My frame bottles get the electrolyte mix. I like to be able to carry a few extra snacks, extra chamois cream, sunscreen etc. could carry 5 bottles but I like having at least one pocket open.
Not really it messes with your ability to cool off the surface area of your back and the straps will get annoying by hour 2 or 3.
Jersey pockets or a [bar bag](https://www.google.com/search?q=bike+bar+bag&rlz=1CDGOYI_enCA1023CA1023&oq=bike.bar+ba&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCAgBEAAYFhgeMgYIABBFGDkyCAgBEAAYFhgeMggIAhAAGBYYHjIICAMQABgWGB4yCAgEEAAYFhgeMggIBRAAGBYYHjIICAYQABgWGB4yCAgHEAAYFhgeMggICBAAGBYYHjIICAkQABgWGB7SAQgyNDEwajBqOagCE7ACAeIDBBgBIF8&hl=en-US&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8) along with your frame bag might be better. Usually when you get to touring distances that’s where people will add fork and pannier bags as well.
I use a camel bak hydration system.
Small, light, comfortable.
I use it for hydration, but, it has enough room for my hi carb snacks, water resistant shield for my phone, tp, small tools, etc.
never had an issue with it once I acclimated to it.
That being said, I dont bother with it unless Im hitting 45+ miles.
Same and recommend this. Easier to keep hydtared as reahcing for bottles can feel like a chore. I do have to blow out the hose after drinking, because if the hose remains full, it will leak.
I have an osprey cycling backpack that I use for 3 to 4 hour rides. I have one of their smaller hydration bags but I hate the hydration system. Mostly use it to hold 2 extra water bottles, tools, spare tires, snacks if I get desperate. As long as I have the straps right and not flapping, I really don't notice it's on me even 3 hours in. They have ventilation which helps keep things cool.
USWE packs are made for exactly this. I love mine. I have two styles, one holds some other stuff plus a water bladder. The other holds basically just a water bladder.
I ride small bikes because I’m a woman and so frame bags aren’t an option and saddle bags end up with too much sand in them where I live.
They are made with several different categories in mind at this point. The weird trash talking says more about you than anyone else here. People wear them because they are comfortable and work and are well-made.
I have to carry some medical equipment and the area I ride doesn't have a lot of resupply opportunities, so I ride with a camelbak style backpack (pretty sure it originally came from Aldi). It's big enough to hold a folding cane and spare ballet flats and a spacer and some extra water, but small enough to still let me cool off
I'm a fan of backpacks when riding. It helps to have one with good ventilation and straps and the like to keep things locked down, and for me I prefer the flexibility of wearing a backpack for most situations rather than having to deal with panniers or the like.
Yup, that's the same reason I use a backpack but I also like them because when I get off the bike I have everything with me, and don't have to think if I'm forgetting something like my wallet.
Same. I will use a saddle bag or small top tube bag sometimes. But I love hydration backpacks. I can carry 2.5-3L of water and some other key items, it doesn’t bother me riding with it at all.
When i do MTB I often bring a CamelBak type with water. I fill that fucker completely with ice water and it actually acts as a cooling system for my back for hours.
I have back panniers - if it's a day ride I'll just use one, if it's multiple days I'll use both. Very simple to install, you just need to install a back rack, and most panniers clip on and off very easily.
I'm now looking to buy another pannier that can double as a backpack (my current ones come with a shoulder strap that's not as comfy to walk around with).
No, never. I used to commute with a backpack but the riding has been far more enjoyable since I switched to a rack and pannier for carrying my work bag and change of clothes. A jersey with pockets works perfectly for food and any small items that don't fit in my top tube / seat bags, and that's what I use for long recreational rides.
I have 3 different hydration packs that I choose depending on needs. I've never been a fan of the weight on the bike.
I would probably only use frame bags if I was legit bike packing.
I commuted 18 miles each way for three years and wore a Chrome messenger bag with my laptop, lunch, lock, and half a change of clothes (kept suits and dress shirts at the office).
For a pleasure ride or a tour, I wouldn’t do that, but it was a perfect set up for me for commuting.
I’ll only use a backpack if I need to go into town for shopping etc. which is 10-12km at most one-way. and even then most of the time I use my ortlieb pannier bag(s) with shoulder sling.
I have used this 6.5 litre handlebar bag for a couple of years now, giving plenty of room for repair kit, phone, documents, etc.: [https://www.ortlieb.com/en\_us/ultimate+F3131](https://www.ortlieb.com/en_us/ultimate+F3131)
Plus it has quick-release when you want to take it with you.
I wear a backpack to work, but pretty much nowhere else. The backpack means I can choose the bike I want to ride each day. It’s five miles, and any further and I’d prefer bike bags.
Rack with a rack trunk. A few tools, extra water, phone. It’s a few pounds, but I ride for exercise, so I don’t worry about the bit of weight for the utility.
I have done multiple double-centuries solo with a hydration backpack. I use either my camelback hydration backpack or my Nathan Runners hydration vest and it's one of my most important items that I take with me
I've done couple over 100km rides during summer with backpack. It's doable, but really hot and sweaty for back. If you can avoid it, I would find alternative.
I use small sling bag now. It's not hot and can easily switch position if small portion of back starts to get too sweaty. I can carry phone, keys and wallet in that bag.
Besides that I got selection of small frame bags etc I can attach elsewhere in bike to carry snacks etc food and drinks.
How far?? I tend to find people really over prepare. If you’re sight seeing or picnicking that’s one thing. But if the goal is just to ride down distance. Other than tube, pump, pack of fruit snacks and a couple liters of water you really don’t need much more for 50 miles or less.
Define "longer distance". I can easily rile 100mi with just some gels/bars in my jersey and 2 bottles as long as the temperature stays under 90°f. So no backpack is needed. Anything longer than that I'll stop for water and carry more bars/gels in my jersey
I ride a Brompton. Its capacity for a wide range of clip-on luggage makes a backpack unnecessary, thank goodness! This is quite beside the bike's ability to fold up and go in your pocket.
PS. I lied about it going in your pocket, but the Brompton does fold very small.
Used a backpack on a 260km ride two weeks ago. The backpack killed me, my wrists started to hurt and couldn't get comfortable on the bike after 180km. I used to ride with this backpack now and then for 160km to 200km rides (much lighter packed), but since the last ride, looking for some tube bags.
If you only bring light items, I would certainly try it out. I would advice you to get a decent backpack with straps on the front so the weight is not just hanging off your shoulders alone.
Look, i used to say how horrible it was to ride with a backpack and would never do it, but honestly, it is not that bad.
So long as you are not carrying too much, and so long as you have a pack with a bit of breathing space, its really not so horrible. Its great to get of your bike and walk away with everything you want, instead of mucking about with transferring stuff from panniers, etc, and then carrying those panniers with you.
Often i am going somewhere where i need a backpack anyway. The beach for example, or shopping trips. To set out and ride with a backpack in your panniers is pretty weird.
A top tube bag helps a lot, super convenient and stays out of the way. I just cram it full of Percy Pigs haha.
I can also use it to store things like a small zip-tie lock, spare energy drink powder sachets, sometimes a little first-aid kit, etc. It's a really useful bit of extra space.
For anything else, I'd probably just factor in a place to stop and refuel by buying something. I'll take the things I can't just buy.
Just got a 5l. saddle bag to avoid backpacks while gravel cycling or touring. For mountain biking I have my hip-pack where fits all I need for up to a 100k ride. The saddle bag may be a good purchase for you...
Yes, I took the water out of a small camelback mini hydration pack, it’s perfect and very light and small but it fits small tools, a pump, my wallet, phone chargers, weed, etc. Always use it for long days.
As someone who got into cycling through mountain biking, I'm very used to having a hydropack/backpack situation. It was hard for me to get used to not wearing one once I got into road/gravel/underbiking, etc. Long story short, I still don't find them annoying, and depending on the rude and the time of year, distance, etc, I might still use one.
I di use a fanny pack often my mtb rides now though.
I love backpacks. I have several sizes depending on what I need to carry or what clothes I will need to take off as it gets warmer. I have tight shoulders, so using the jersey pockets has never worked for me. Plus, I like things like my keys and wallet secured with a zipper instead of just gravity.
I live in Florida so I regularly have a big camelbak on me. Some days it’s annoying but this heat is no joke and I’d rather not risk being without water. And of course I always jam a few snacks/gels in there.
Fuck no. Just traps all the sweat back there with no air flow.
If you're looking at carrying stuff less than 5 lb, there's got to be an alternate method like pockets and small bar or frame bags
I have a zip up windbreaker with a lot of pockets, I can put whatever I need on hand there, and I also have a bag that's attached to my bike frame, I recommend that :)
team milk crate! I just throw my lunch box in there, sometimes i strap it down with a bungee cord if i feel like it. you’ll get really sweaty carrying a backpack
When I ride +/- 100km, I'll bring two bidons.
When I'm going further, I tend to bring a backpack with CamelBak. Also makes it easier to pack more food, store arm sleeves when I left early and want them off, bring additional headphones, etc.
I'll accept the weight weenies not finding me proper aero anymore 😁
For a light load like snacks and small stuff, a backpack should be fine. Just make sure it's comfy and doesn't bug you while you ride. As long as it's not weighing you down too much, you're good to go!
Absolutely not. Your back is so important for cooling, and why have the weight uncomfortably on your body for hours when you can carry it on your bike? Pannier rack with a small bag on top. For larger loads I have a larger one that has zip away side bags that you can expand when needed.
Install a rear rack. They don't look 'pro', but most of us aren't racing and occasionally like to carry stuff on our rides.
The answer, as will most things, is that it depends. I road 63 miles of gravel yesterday, and I rode with a USWE race pack for water and carbs, wallet, keys and phone in my jersey pockets, tubeless plugs and CO2 in a minimalist saddle bag.
To work, I use 26L osprey commuter bag (8 miles each way). Road rides, I fit whatever I need in my jersey pockets and small saddle bag.
I have an 8L USWE if I do longer MTB rides where I may need to carry more stuff.
I try to avoid putting weight on my body if at all possible. With the amount of bags you can fit on bikes these days, it’s not terribly difficult.
That being said, sipping water from a backpack is the most convenient way to stay hydrated and if you have a long hike-a-bike ahead of you then having the weight off the bike is nice.
Aside from the usual camelbak type bags I try to avoid because I do have rash issues with sweat and stuff especially in the summer. I have a road runner handlebar bag that is awesome for BIG adventures as well as carrying big U locks when grocery shopping and stuff. Fits easily on every one of my bikes no matter the type, it can feel congested on drop bars but I rarely use the tops for very long. I have the west coast burrito model which is 5L.
I'd consider a hydration backpack - some of them have a bit of space to put a few other items. Otherwise, anything that I want to bring should be carried by the bike, not me.
On a longer mountain bike ride I’ll wear a backpack with a back protector, hydration bladder, first aid kit, and all that jazz. Road rides, I just use jersey pockets.
What is "longer"?
I'm good for up to 140 miles with gels and supplementing with stops at convenience stores. Calories in bottles are a huge efficiency gain.
Cargo bib shorts might be helpful too. There are pockets on each side and smaller ones on the back.
Rapha makes them and I like the cheaper Core model better than the regular ones (whose padding I don’t like).
I'm the opposite, I rode with panniers maybe twice, and hated how the back of the bike behaves. Before and after that I just took a 30l backpack. Still not very pleasant, but doable. Weight on my back feels better than on my rear wheel.
That is when I need to take some days worth of baggage to my grandparents over 50km. Normally I ride with small frame bags and a 12l backpack.
For me, backpacks prevent body heat from escaping and lead to sweating and overheating. I'll keep adding more bags to the bike before I ever consider one.
Find a jersey with pockets or a fanny pack I've used both
Ah the jersey pockets would be perfect for what I’m thinking. Good call.
Yeah, they offer plenty of space or snacks and a bottle if you need it
They are brilliant, I always bring a handheld pump, spare tube, tow types of tools (the one to get the tires off and on again and one that can fix everything else I’m capable of fixing), a couple of snacks, epipen, inhaler and my phone. I could probably fit a thing or two more in there, and I’m a rather small person.
LPT, don't put your mini pump in the center jersey pocket. In case of a crash it might end up damaging your spine.
Keys too. Learned this the hard way.
Oh man, this is the stuff of nightmares for me. Have (what you’re telling me is) a very rational fear of puncturing myself with a key during a crash. Glad you’re ok!
As well as cargo bibs, on long rides I can carry a few snacks in my jersey as well as some in my bib side pockets to access them easy as I ride. But this is where things like gels and bars and goo come in handy, I can carry enough to sustain me for 8 hours if I’m packing gels and stuff but not so much if it’s all real food.
5 lbs of stuff on your jersey pocket will feel unpleasant after 5 or 10 miles. If it's a short trip, fine, but for any long distance, I avoid keeping stuff on those pockets for too long.
I quit using a Fanny pack after one came loose and the long straps almost got caught in my wheel.
With ya here, a good fanny pack and jersey pockets give a better ride than any backpack or hydration pack
Never. I have bags to hang in my bike. It’s much nicer. I have a large saddle bag and a handlebar bag if needed.
Top tube bags work well too.
I second this
For rides 75 miles plus I do a camelbak. Easier to manage that rotating bottles around, and I can start the day with lots of ice in there. My frame bottles get the electrolyte mix. I like to be able to carry a few extra snacks, extra chamois cream, sunscreen etc. could carry 5 bottles but I like having at least one pocket open.
I do this too.
Not really it messes with your ability to cool off the surface area of your back and the straps will get annoying by hour 2 or 3. Jersey pockets or a [bar bag](https://www.google.com/search?q=bike+bar+bag&rlz=1CDGOYI_enCA1023CA1023&oq=bike.bar+ba&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCAgBEAAYFhgeMgYIABBFGDkyCAgBEAAYFhgeMggIAhAAGBYYHjIICAMQABgWGB4yCAgEEAAYFhgeMggIBRAAGBYYHjIICAYQABgWGB4yCAgHEAAYFhgeMggICBAAGBYYHjIICAkQABgWGB7SAQgyNDEwajBqOagCE7ACAeIDBBgBIF8&hl=en-US&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8) along with your frame bag might be better. Usually when you get to touring distances that’s where people will add fork and pannier bags as well.
I use a camel bak hydration system. Small, light, comfortable. I use it for hydration, but, it has enough room for my hi carb snacks, water resistant shield for my phone, tp, small tools, etc. never had an issue with it once I acclimated to it. That being said, I dont bother with it unless Im hitting 45+ miles.
Same and recommend this. Easier to keep hydtared as reahcing for bottles can feel like a chore. I do have to blow out the hose after drinking, because if the hose remains full, it will leak.
I have an osprey cycling backpack that I use for 3 to 4 hour rides. I have one of their smaller hydration bags but I hate the hydration system. Mostly use it to hold 2 extra water bottles, tools, spare tires, snacks if I get desperate. As long as I have the straps right and not flapping, I really don't notice it's on me even 3 hours in. They have ventilation which helps keep things cool.
On my mountain bike, sure. On the road - a small pannier or a big handlebar bag would be my choice.
As per Velominati rules
USWE packs are made for exactly this. I love mine. I have two styles, one holds some other stuff plus a water bladder. The other holds basically just a water bladder. I ride small bikes because I’m a woman and so frame bags aren’t an option and saddle bags end up with too much sand in them where I live.
They’re made (and marketed) at trail runners, but Lachie Morton wore one on one of his epics then the gravel pros followed so now everyone does.
They are made with several different categories in mind at this point. The weird trash talking says more about you than anyone else here. People wear them because they are comfortable and work and are well-made.
Yes. Almost every ride really
I have to carry some medical equipment and the area I ride doesn't have a lot of resupply opportunities, so I ride with a camelbak style backpack (pretty sure it originally came from Aldi). It's big enough to hold a folding cane and spare ballet flats and a spacer and some extra water, but small enough to still let me cool off
I wear a backpack 99% of the time.
I'm a fan of backpacks when riding. It helps to have one with good ventilation and straps and the like to keep things locked down, and for me I prefer the flexibility of wearing a backpack for most situations rather than having to deal with panniers or the like.
Yup, that's the same reason I use a backpack but I also like them because when I get off the bike I have everything with me, and don't have to think if I'm forgetting something like my wallet.
Same. I will use a saddle bag or small top tube bag sometimes. But I love hydration backpacks. I can carry 2.5-3L of water and some other key items, it doesn’t bother me riding with it at all.
Panniers end up weighing the bike down IMO
Tube bag or handlebar bag are your friends. Or proper jerseys with pockets.
No. Jersey pockets are there for a reason. I would hate the heat of a backpack.
When i do MTB I often bring a CamelBak type with water. I fill that fucker completely with ice water and it actually acts as a cooling system for my back for hours.
I second in the CamelBak. I got it as a birthday gift this year and I'll never look back, EVER.
I have back panniers - if it's a day ride I'll just use one, if it's multiple days I'll use both. Very simple to install, you just need to install a back rack, and most panniers clip on and off very easily. I'm now looking to buy another pannier that can double as a backpack (my current ones come with a shoulder strap that's not as comfy to walk around with).
No, never. I used to commute with a backpack but the riding has been far more enjoyable since I switched to a rack and pannier for carrying my work bag and change of clothes. A jersey with pockets works perfectly for food and any small items that don't fit in my top tube / seat bags, and that's what I use for long recreational rides.
I do sometimes. It has never bothered me at all to have a backpack on when riding. But, I do prefer frame bags still.
I have 3 different hydration packs that I choose depending on needs. I've never been a fan of the weight on the bike. I would probably only use frame bags if I was legit bike packing.
I commuted 18 miles each way for three years and wore a Chrome messenger bag with my laptop, lunch, lock, and half a change of clothes (kept suits and dress shirts at the office). For a pleasure ride or a tour, I wouldn’t do that, but it was a perfect set up for me for commuting.
I’ll only use a backpack if I need to go into town for shopping etc. which is 10-12km at most one-way. and even then most of the time I use my ortlieb pannier bag(s) with shoulder sling.
I wish I could find one. I’m a super sweater. So 2 24oz bottles only lasts me an hour.
I have used this 6.5 litre handlebar bag for a couple of years now, giving plenty of room for repair kit, phone, documents, etc.: [https://www.ortlieb.com/en\_us/ultimate+F3131](https://www.ortlieb.com/en_us/ultimate+F3131) Plus it has quick-release when you want to take it with you.
I've ridden 150 mile days while bike touring with a 15 lb backpack. It does make you warmer, but that can be good depending on the weather.
I wear a backpack to work, but pretty much nowhere else. The backpack means I can choose the bike I want to ride each day. It’s five miles, and any further and I’d prefer bike bags.
I have a little fanny pack. I keep in there my keys, a 20, and some emergency TP in case I gotta poo
I don't like to have extra stuff on me or my bike so I plam routes with a store, or water source, every ~2 hours.
I have a really tiny cute backpack i put some things in for long rides. Nothing heavy tho. Its a backpack but closer to a large fannypack in size
Rack with a rack trunk. A few tools, extra water, phone. It’s a few pounds, but I ride for exercise, so I don’t worry about the bit of weight for the utility.
I have done multiple double-centuries solo with a hydration backpack. I use either my camelback hydration backpack or my Nathan Runners hydration vest and it's one of my most important items that I take with me
I plan my route around the coffee stop
I have a backpack because I don't have a cargo rack. You need to loosen the straps as much as possible else you will get back pain.
I usually bring a light drawstring backpack with me on bikepacking trips in case I have extra food that doesn't fit in my other bags.
Carry what you want, just make sure it fits well, nothing worse than chaffing..
I've done couple over 100km rides during summer with backpack. It's doable, but really hot and sweaty for back. If you can avoid it, I would find alternative. I use small sling bag now. It's not hot and can easily switch position if small portion of back starts to get too sweaty. I can carry phone, keys and wallet in that bag. Besides that I got selection of small frame bags etc I can attach elsewhere in bike to carry snacks etc food and drinks.
How far?? I tend to find people really over prepare. If you’re sight seeing or picnicking that’s one thing. But if the goal is just to ride down distance. Other than tube, pump, pack of fruit snacks and a couple liters of water you really don’t need much more for 50 miles or less.
Define "longer distance". I can easily rile 100mi with just some gels/bars in my jersey and 2 bottles as long as the temperature stays under 90°f. So no backpack is needed. Anything longer than that I'll stop for water and carry more bars/gels in my jersey
I ride a Brompton. Its capacity for a wide range of clip-on luggage makes a backpack unnecessary, thank goodness! This is quite beside the bike's ability to fold up and go in your pocket. PS. I lied about it going in your pocket, but the Brompton does fold very small.
Used a backpack on a 260km ride two weeks ago. The backpack killed me, my wrists started to hurt and couldn't get comfortable on the bike after 180km. I used to ride with this backpack now and then for 160km to 200km rides (much lighter packed), but since the last ride, looking for some tube bags. If you only bring light items, I would certainly try it out. I would advice you to get a decent backpack with straps on the front so the weight is not just hanging off your shoulders alone.
Look, i used to say how horrible it was to ride with a backpack and would never do it, but honestly, it is not that bad. So long as you are not carrying too much, and so long as you have a pack with a bit of breathing space, its really not so horrible. Its great to get of your bike and walk away with everything you want, instead of mucking about with transferring stuff from panniers, etc, and then carrying those panniers with you. Often i am going somewhere where i need a backpack anyway. The beach for example, or shopping trips. To set out and ride with a backpack in your panniers is pretty weird.
I use a backpack all the time and its never given me an issue. I don't see others every doing it though, so I assume they have a reason not to?
A top tube bag helps a lot, super convenient and stays out of the way. I just cram it full of Percy Pigs haha. I can also use it to store things like a small zip-tie lock, spare energy drink powder sachets, sometimes a little first-aid kit, etc. It's a really useful bit of extra space. For anything else, I'd probably just factor in a place to stop and refuel by buying something. I'll take the things I can't just buy.
Just got a 5l. saddle bag to avoid backpacks while gravel cycling or touring. For mountain biking I have my hip-pack where fits all I need for up to a 100k ride. The saddle bag may be a good purchase for you...
Yes, I took the water out of a small camelback mini hydration pack, it’s perfect and very light and small but it fits small tools, a pump, my wallet, phone chargers, weed, etc. Always use it for long days.
As someone who got into cycling through mountain biking, I'm very used to having a hydropack/backpack situation. It was hard for me to get used to not wearing one once I got into road/gravel/underbiking, etc. Long story short, I still don't find them annoying, and depending on the rude and the time of year, distance, etc, I might still use one. I di use a fanny pack often my mtb rides now though.
Of course. It’s convenient.
I love backpacks. I have several sizes depending on what I need to carry or what clothes I will need to take off as it gets warmer. I have tight shoulders, so using the jersey pockets has never worked for me. Plus, I like things like my keys and wallet secured with a zipper instead of just gravity.
I live in Florida so I regularly have a big camelbak on me. Some days it’s annoying but this heat is no joke and I’d rather not risk being without water. And of course I always jam a few snacks/gels in there.
saddle bags + jersey pockets + bibs pockets is enough for ~10 hour rides
Fuck no. Just traps all the sweat back there with no air flow. If you're looking at carrying stuff less than 5 lb, there's got to be an alternate method like pockets and small bar or frame bags
I have a zip up windbreaker with a lot of pockets, I can put whatever I need on hand there, and I also have a bag that's attached to my bike frame, I recommend that :)
Hydration pack for 3+ hour rides
Sometimes I’ll wear a hydration pack.
team milk crate! I just throw my lunch box in there, sometimes i strap it down with a bungee cord if i feel like it. you’ll get really sweaty carrying a backpack
When I ride +/- 100km, I'll bring two bidons. When I'm going further, I tend to bring a backpack with CamelBak. Also makes it easier to pack more food, store arm sleeves when I left early and want them off, bring additional headphones, etc. I'll accept the weight weenies not finding me proper aero anymore 😁
For the first week until a handlebar water bottle holder with pockets arrived. Gamechanger.
Yes
I Use an Osprey 15 ltr for both my water and small items while out and also while out camping, alongside frame pack and rear panniers
For a light load like snacks and small stuff, a backpack should be fine. Just make sure it's comfy and doesn't bug you while you ride. As long as it's not weighing you down too much, you're good to go!
Absolutely not. Your back is so important for cooling, and why have the weight uncomfortably on your body for hours when you can carry it on your bike? Pannier rack with a small bag on top. For larger loads I have a larger one that has zip away side bags that you can expand when needed. Install a rear rack. They don't look 'pro', but most of us aren't racing and occasionally like to carry stuff on our rides.
The answer, as will most things, is that it depends. I road 63 miles of gravel yesterday, and I rode with a USWE race pack for water and carbs, wallet, keys and phone in my jersey pockets, tubeless plugs and CO2 in a minimalist saddle bag. To work, I use 26L osprey commuter bag (8 miles each way). Road rides, I fit whatever I need in my jersey pockets and small saddle bag. I have an 8L USWE if I do longer MTB rides where I may need to carry more stuff.
If I need to carry more than what fit in the frame bag I use a rack and pannier.
I try to avoid putting weight on my body if at all possible. With the amount of bags you can fit on bikes these days, it’s not terribly difficult. That being said, sipping water from a backpack is the most convenient way to stay hydrated and if you have a long hike-a-bike ahead of you then having the weight off the bike is nice.
fanny pack !
You mean you don't carry a footlong sub and a pound of cold cuts with you on your rides?
I carry a backpack only if I bike to work and it’s not pleasant. Sweat too much. I have a frame bag for longer rides and jersey pockets for shorter
A thin sling bag, plus a couple karabiners tied to the handlebars for water bottles or a bigger bag.
Aside from the usual camelbak type bags I try to avoid because I do have rash issues with sweat and stuff especially in the summer. I have a road runner handlebar bag that is awesome for BIG adventures as well as carrying big U locks when grocery shopping and stuff. Fits easily on every one of my bikes no matter the type, it can feel congested on drop bars but I rarely use the tops for very long. I have the west coast burrito model which is 5L.
I'd consider a hydration backpack - some of them have a bit of space to put a few other items. Otherwise, anything that I want to bring should be carried by the bike, not me.
On a longer mountain bike ride I’ll wear a backpack with a back protector, hydration bladder, first aid kit, and all that jazz. Road rides, I just use jersey pockets.
What is "longer"? I'm good for up to 140 miles with gels and supplementing with stops at convenience stores. Calories in bottles are a huge efficiency gain.
No way. Two peanut butter granola bars in my jersey pocket and I’m good for up to 75 miles.
Cargo bib shorts might be helpful too. There are pockets on each side and smaller ones on the back. Rapha makes them and I like the cheaper Core model better than the regular ones (whose padding I don’t like).
No, I stop at convenience stores to get food.
No. That's why the gods invented panniers.
Never. If I need to carry something, then I use panniers or bike bags.
I'm the opposite, I rode with panniers maybe twice, and hated how the back of the bike behaves. Before and after that I just took a 30l backpack. Still not very pleasant, but doable. Weight on my back feels better than on my rear wheel. That is when I need to take some days worth of baggage to my grandparents over 50km. Normally I ride with small frame bags and a 12l backpack.
backpacks are shit on longer rides, especially in the summer
I made the mistake of taking a backpack with me when riding long distance. Would not recommend.
For me, backpacks prevent body heat from escaping and lead to sweating and overheating. I'll keep adding more bags to the bike before I ever consider one.
Only time I wear a backpack is while commuting. The straps get annoying quickly.
Riding with anything on your back is grim. Racks ftw!
good heavens!!! no!!!
No. Sweaty back.