How do cycling backpacks differ from other backpacks?
Since you quickly start to sweat on the saddle, the back ventilation (the "air flow") is very important. These are more important than, for example, the hip belt, which is very important when hiking. When cycling, you are bent forward. You don't carry your weight with your hips, but more with your shoulder straps and back. A narrower hip belt also gives you more freedom of movement in the bent position, especially when pedalling. This is why the carrying system differs from a conventional hiking backpack.
Bicycle backpacks also have a narrower cut, because on the one hand it is also important for the aerodynamics when riding and on the other hand for the freedom of movement of your arms. For example, if you are riding down a trail standing up, it is important to ensure that your upper arms and elbows do not rub against the backpack.
You also don't need holders for trekking poles. What you do need is a helmet holder.
A backpack for cycling is therefore very carefully adapted by the manufacturer for the intended use.
It's the little things that count: Equipment details of bike backpacks
Good bike backpacks, like daypacks or hiking backpacks, are divided into useful compartments. Your clothes, food and tools can be stored optimally and, most importantly, quickly found and removed. Ideally, your bike backpack should have an outlet for a drinking tube. That way it is also a hydration backpack. Good bike backpacks also have an extra compartment for attaching your helmet and a practical compartment for a bike lock.
Additional: The safety of a bike backpack
To increase passive safety, your bike backpack should have reflectors on the outside. It is also an advantage if there is a fastening option (a strap) to which you can attach an additional rear light. If the backpack has a rain cover, it should be designed in bright colours and also have reflectors. This increases safety in bad weather.
Bike backpacks for mountain bikers with integrated back protectors
Bike backpacks for mountain bikers with integrated back protectors
If you ride your mountain bike a lot on downhill trails, you can consider buying a backpack with an integrated back protector. This way you kill two birds with one stone. Your spine is optimally protected and you still have storage space for water and equipment.
How do I adjust my bike backpack correctly?
The answer is quite simple: Comfortable! It must not pinch or chafe when you ride. And thanks to modern carrying systems, you can quickly and easily adjust the shoulder straps and hip belt until everything fits. With some models you can remove the hip or pelvic belt completely if it bothers you.
There are some specially adapted backpacks for women that are optimally adapted to the female anatomy. They are shaped slightly differently than unisex or men's backpacks and adapt better to a woman's body.
Which backpack do I choose for road cycling?
On a road bike, weight and aerodynamics play an even greater role than on a mountain bike. Therefore, you should choose a backpack that is small and light.
If you have planned a long tour on a road bike where you know that you will not be able to refill your drinking water and that your two water bottles will not be enough, you can also take a hydration pack with you. Depending on the hydration bladder, you will then have 2 litres more liquid with you and some additional storage space.
Bike backpacks for children
We also have a wide range of cycling backpacks for children. Children's backpacks are correspondingly smaller than those for the "grown-ups", but still super equipped. Padded shoulder straps, practical outside pockets and safety reflectors are usually part of the standard equipment. The chest strap, which prevents the backpack from slipping, is particularly practical.
Thus equipped, the girls and boys can proudly and happily take their own drinking and eating on a tour, just like the adults.
