Banjo Brothers Commuter Backpack (medium)

The Banjo Brother’s Commuter Back Pack might be just the thing if you don’t like messenger bags, or find panniers inconvenient. A two layer belt and braces waterproof design consisting of a “ballistic” nylon outer designed to resist the day to day rough n’ tumble while a nylon liner catches the contents and avoids the bin liner ritual. The subtle satin black livery looks classy sans bike while reflective striping and obligatory Led tab are nice safety features.

A voluminous main compartment favours the “bung it and rummage for it later” school of packing and the lack of lap-top pocket may well deter some, although with reasonable organization, carrying a modest lap-top, power supply, A4 note books and a change of clothes is achievable. Hidden under the outer closure there’s a pocket for stashing wallets, cheque books, ipods and other small valuables. The penholder is useful but the side pocket for mini U-locks could’ve been larger and something of a missed opportunity in my book.

In many ways this is a messenger bag turned vertically, large shoulder straps distribute heavier loads particularly well paired with the sternum and waist straps and incorporates a useful mobile phone holster. The bag’s contours ensure a ready free-flow of air, largely eliminating the embarrassing sweat patch-even after fairly prolonged effort, although I’d sooner a pannier in the height of summer. Sitting lower on the riders back makes for much- improved peripheral vision-especially negotiating major roundabouts and junctions and I was relieved to find it didn’t interfere with my helmet.

Thanks to the welded construction, weatherproofing is pretty much as good as it gets, so long as you don’t submerge it on a ride making it a useful mountain biking companion. It laughs at sudden, unexpected downpours, brushes with brickwork and bramble alike. While excellent, some pockets could be better designed and tidy freaks will baulk at the lack of internal organization. However, for those commuting with heavier loads and on rides of twenty miles or less, it makes a very, very good choice.

Verdict

Pricey but well made commuter sack for those who don't like panniers or messenger bags.