Our tests

We assessed the backpacks in everyday use, under the RIDE Hosepipe of Truth and, finally, in back-to-back laps of Bruntingthorpe Proving Ground to make direct comparisons of their riding characteristics. We then scored them on the following criteria:

Build Quality Does a bag use a quality closure or a cheap zip? Is the stitching robust? How strong and padded are the straps? How tough is the material — and is it lined? Do strap ends flap in the breeze? The construction of each bag appraised according to an exacting checklist.

Features Is there a helmet carrier? A carrying handle? Straps to adjust the load when the bag is only partly full? If there’s a rain cover, how well does it fit (and does it stay on when riding at speed)? Does the bag have useful external pockets, a laptop pouch, a waterproof headphone outlet or other detail touches?

Packing Never mind volume claims: can you use the available space? We had three packing tests: five days’ clothing; an assortment of tins, bottles and a loaf of bread; and a 2012 17in HP laptop (385x265x28mm). Top marks

for taking everything... points dropped as stuff was left out.

Fit Can the straps be adjusted to sit the bag comfortably? Do straps cut into shoulders when the bag is heavily loaded? Does whatever’s inside push against your back?

Riding Each bag was packed with bubble wrap and a 5kg weight. Did the load shift under acceleration, cornering or braking? How much drag did it exert on shoulders at top speed? Then half the packaging was removed and any load straps were adjusted, before repeating.

Showerproofing Not a test of outright waterproofing (that’s what rain covers are for) but how much water might get in if you have to ride for two minutes before you can stop and fit the rain cover. A 10 is perfectly dry; 7 or less has damp in the main compartment, suggesting longer exposure would likely lead to more of a leak.