Comments on: Review: Banjo Brothers Waterproof Commuter Backpack

By: Michael (Seattle)

Michael (Seattle) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 05:07:13 +0000

You get what you pay for with this bag. It has minimal padding and is not made very well, especially if you ride in wet weather.

I’m going back to a Chrome or Seal bag.

By: Michael

Michael — Sat, 22 May 2010 01:52:44 +0000

In response to the original poster who recommended the Topeak MTX Trunk bag: I also heartily recommend it! I’ve been using both the Topeak MTX and a 1,500 cu. inch Banjo Brother’s Commuter Backpack for 2 years, and they are both outstanding for what they are. I load up the backpack when I want to comfortably carry my mini-U lock and a change of clothes, and I use the trunk bag for smaller, lighter items.

One thing about this commuter backpack, is it is built RUGGED! I spilt some soup in the backpack one time – no problem. I simply removed the removable liner and washed out the sticky stuff using hot water and dish soap. The backpack itself (not the liner) stays clean. Also, I have used this backpack during all kinds of rainy weather, and it’s just perfect when the crap hits the fan.

Oh, and besides being rugged, it also looks pretty darn cool. I regularly receive compliments RE: my bag’s appearance, and drivers can see me when I ride at dawn, dusk, and (rarely) at night. Overall, this bag is a 10 out of 10 for me, and I would have no trouble recommending it to the everyday bicycle commuter.

By: Portland Biker

Portland Biker — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:21:09 +0000

I’ve been looking for a waterproof backpack that I can rely on to actually be waterproof. I need to carry my laptop and keep it safe – just like you, this is my business. I’m a graphic designer. Your blog posting has convinced me to purchase this bag over Timbuk2, Overboard and Ortlieb. Banjo Brothers should be happy that you contacted them! Thanks for the detailed posting.

By: jd

jd — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:29:58 +0000

This back pack is MADE IN CHINA”can you say, Bejing Brothers? I checked one out after brief email correspondence with company rep via their web site. company rep responded quickly and with useful info, but when i went to buy the backpack i saw that it was made in china. this might not bother people some folks, and probably accounts for the decent price. but the website is so down home small town just 2 good ole guys from minnesota that i expected better.

By: Randy H.

Randy H. — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 03:12:41 +0000

I bought BB bag a few months ago. Within two week, the velcro on the pocket came apart. Emailed BB but they never replied. I like bag though and still use it during foul weather. It is 100% waterproof and holds plenty for my 10 mile RT bike ride per day. Quality is lacking a bit, but you get what you pay for. I believed I paid $59.

By: Eric

Eric — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 22:31:44 +0000

PushingWind, I sold already, sorry.

By: PushingWind

PushingWind — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:01:59 +0000

Eric (Jun 15th, 2007 at 2:52 pm). Found my note (really old) to followup on your offer of the BB backpack. Did you ever sell it? Let me know.

By: Noah

Noah — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:45:38 +0000

I have the Banjo Bros. Saddlebag panniers. They withstood a blast from a pressure-washer and have survived plenty a light rain without so much as a drop inside. If their non-waterproof stuff is this good, I can only imagine how awesome their waterproof bags are.

By: Eric

Eric — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 19:52:15 +0000

I bought one of these, and it is a terrific pack, only my 32 round trip commute with many steep hills puts too much strain on my shoulders. I went with panniers. I don’t care what they look like. I’ll be putting a light on my helmet soon. T’heck with geekiness… I’ll sell the BB backpack to anyone who wants it… I only used it once.

By: Paul

Paul — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 13:53:53 +0000

I second getting the bag off your back (though I have no doubt that this is a good product). If regular panniers are too geeky and don't fit the bill for carrying the bag when you're off the bike, check out the Arkel Bug.