1997 to 2006, everyday, not sure how many miles.
As long as you wear it up closer to yer shoulders, and not hanging down at yer asscrack, then it's reasonably comfortable.
As far as the "stabilizer strap" goes, i never used one, at all. I'd hardly call it a "must". Maybe you guys are talking about one of those newer type bags that are like backpacks? I'm talking about the right or left sling style.