Torch Apparel’s new Flux backpack has integrated LED panel for night-time visibility

Torch Apparel has launched the new Flux backpack which with its integrated light panel could help you stand out on the daily commute and riding at night-time. The Flux is currently on the Indiegogo crowdfunding website, where it hopes to raise $45,000.

The US company, also responsible for the Torch helmet, says part of the appeal of the Flux backpack is that it looks like a regular bag during the daytime. That’s ideal if you’re not a fan of brightly coloured bags, but recognise the importance of improving your visibility to other road users at night.

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“Small, centrally mounted lights just don’t cut it,” says Torch’s founder and creative force, Nathan Wills,.  “And most people just won’t wear the silly looking safety clothing because of what they’ll look like once they reach their destination. The solution is large surfaces with active safety lights on the rider, not the bike.”

The bag is waterproof and offers 29 litres of cargo capacity and made from a durable 1000 Denier Nylon fabric with a waterproof vinyl tarpaulin liner. The back panel is made from mesh and is padded for comfort.

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The large (11in x 4in) lighting panel comprises fibre optics illuminated by LEDs to provide a high-intensity red light. It claims a 2 - 12-hour run time and the lithium polymer battery can be charged via a USB 2.0 port. The light can be switched on and off with a shoulder strap button.

The Flux is available in black or red with black colours and is expected to cost £140, and you can support the company's Indiegogo funding campaign here.