Rucksacks

Rucksacks are important, but not all of them are good. Here are our current go-to clutter carriers, and why…

Oxford Aqua V20 £54.99 oxfordproducts.com

⏢ I am a big fan of Oxford’s Aqua range – this is my third and won’t be my last. The V20 is an everyday essentials carrier and overnight storage solution. It is well made, lightweight, waterproof, comfortable, has padded shoulder straps, a waterproof pocket and a sponge section for the small of your back. There are two straps at the front, one is chest height and the other goes around your waist so this bag never moves. It’s also really reflective and helps me be seen. The V20 is a mid-size rucksack but bigger and smaller versions are available. Keep an eye on Bike subscriber offers as we often give one away as a welcome gift. Paul Lang Givi GRT701 Gravel-t £85.99 givi.co.uk

⏢ I don’t want removable pockets, fussy internal compartments, or an app so my phone can tell me what’s in my bag. I want a lightweight, durable, super-comfy bag that holds a decent amount and doesn’t let water in. This 25-litre Givi weighs nowt, has delicate padded straps, an adjustable fit and is the best rucksack ever. Yes, I know 80-odd quid is steep for a tarpaulin sack, but I’ve used it every day for four years, and it’s never become uncomfortable, leaked or broken. It’s sadly discontinued, but is still available from some kit emporiums. Alternatively the 18-litre EA121 is effectively the same thing – you’ll get one for about £50. Mike Armitage Kriega R15 £105.00 kriega.com

⏢ In 20 years I’ve accumulated three Kriega rucksacks, and the original has, despite years of abuse, still got fully functional buckles, straps and zips. They’re expensive, but well made, comfortable and really practical. The R15 is the one that gets most use. It’s big enough for day rides and to take my 12-inch laptop, has two smaller zip pockets as well as the main compartment, and it’ll take a hydration pack. The harness is simple but allows arm movement and there is a waist strap too. And there’s an impressive ten year guarantee. The only flaw is the zip which is ‘water resistant’ not water proof. But that’s never been a problem. Bag for life? This is it. Hugo Wilson

BMW Function 4 £130 bmw-motorrad-bohling.com/uk

⏢ This is the best-designed motorcycle rucksack I have ever used. It’s brilliant for commuting because of the way it transforms from secure tailpack to decent rucksack in the time it takes to unclip four side-squeeze clips. There is absolutely no faffing to frustrate. Also, these clips are attached to webbing loops which are simple to fix to any bike (even sportsbikes) so there’s no hunting under the pillion seat for mounting points. It’s 100% waterproof – even the pockets. The only problems were down to this user’s errors – apparently the liner tears if you use it as a handle, and I broke a zip when I’d stuffed too much in. John Westlake