SeanBikes

Hello fellow fixed-gear hipsters...

There are only two types of people in this world -- those who wear backpacks and those who wear messenger bags. As elitist cyclists, we all know aesthetic is everything and I know you have an opinion on this... So I present to you a fundamental question of urban riding: What do you sling on your back?

veganbikes

I usually try and use my seatbag designed for bikepacking. However if I am going with a back based bag I generally prefer a good ole' two strap though for small stuff I have a Chrome mini messenger bag someone abandoned at work for a long time and I took home (it has a hole but is functional).

TMonk

it depends, I do both from time to time.

books/papers/files/rectangular objects: backpack
irregularly shaped objects: messenger bag

the messenger back I own is bigger volume too. I also use a camelbak on longer MTB rides as well.

TheLibrarian

A true hipster has a three wheeled utility bike with a cart on the front.

KraneXL

Depends on where you're taking it: Messenger are more appropriate in a business/office setting. However, a backpack is far superior when it comes to carrying capacity and load balance.

Also consider that many stores now don't allow backpacks but have no issues with messengers. I carry a Timbuk2 but after a short distance I long for a more balanced backpack.

bmwjoe

I use a large backpack. Kelty Redwing. It has a super light frame and I can haul a lot. I have put 42 lbs in it and ridden. (Harbor freight 3/4 set)

Ride Safe,

Joe

I_am_X

Old backpack from motorcycle-times. Has a integrated rain hood which makes it very useful for me. Quick ride in the morning to the office. Long tour after work....

rjmcgovern

I've used both for commuting, but prefer a messenger bag. One tip, the Timbuk2 bags have the best strap system, by far. The main strap can be easily adjusted using a special clasp, and their bags in include a cross trap. Meaning, if the bag is slung over your right shoulder, there's a strap on the left that keeps the bag centered on your bag. This gives you backpack-like stability, plus the added feature of looking like a cool hipster. You can see videos of the strap system in their web site, and they routinely have 30% off sales. I use this one, mainly because it maintains its streamlined shape when I add my clothes. https://www.timbuk2.com/collections/...13539626844202

CCMAK

Backpack when I need to carry more stuff, messenger when the load is lighter/less bulky, and a fanny pack when I'm just out riding for fun.

c0urt

when in doubt sew your own,

veganbikes

I am still trying to thread the damn bobbin on my old sewing machine that a friend gave me after his mom passed. Now the dang thing is collecting dust when I was really hopping to use it a lot. One day I will find a friend who knows how to sew and have them teach me. When I sewed in home-ec a billion years ago I don't remember threading any bobbin. I do remember the top thread but nothing underneath. Maybe they did away with that on newer machines?

c0urt

i have been lucky and found videos for every machine i every needed on youtube. maybe you will get lucky or worse comes to worse take it to a sewing shop and have them show you how a few times.

the sci guy 

I started out with a messenger bag for regular clothes carrying to work. But ended up switching to a smaller osprey hiking backpack because it had the air venting on the back - which is absolutely needed in Houston most of the year. The chest strap is also useful. The messenger bag just sitting directly on my back was just uncomfortable sweat city. The backpack has outer zipper pockets that are handy for holding keys and stuff for quick access without having to open up the whole messenger pouch as well.

mavimao