Review : Banjo Brothers Commuter Backpack

Originally posted at our sister site BikeShopGirl.com

Banjo Brothers makes some of the greatest, affordable, commuter packs and bags in the industry.  When they sent me a message about a new WHITE Commuter Backpack I was thrilled to be one of the first to review this product for them.

Information from Banjo Brothers about their Commuter Backpack:

• Medium – 1500 Cubic inches / 17″Tall x 12″ Wide x 8″ deep
• Waterproof 2-layer design: outer ballistic nylon layer wears like iron; replaceable waterproof liner keeps contents dry in a downpour (will not keep water out if submerged, in case underwater-riding is your hobby).
• Wide padded straps distribute load more evenly than messenger bags
• Sits lower on the back than standard backpacks to reduce blind spots while riding
• Chest strap and removable waist strap for stability
• Large reflective stripes and tab for safety light
• Quick-access side pocket fits mini-U lock
• Coming January 2010
• MSRP: $79.99

Initial Thoughts :

As I pulled this bag from the box it came in I was first caught by the fabric.  It feels much like a hard plastic fabric that you would see on a tarp or covering.  Impressing and felt very different to my fingers. It also right off the bat told me “storm proof” or at least appeared that way.

Sizing : The fit on a smaller women, like pictured in these photos, is a bit large.  The shoulder straps are wide, which for heavy loads is a plus.  but for narrow shoulders it can cut in to the neck if you don’t position it well.  There is a chest and waist straps to snug down the bag during riding.

Function: The bag is laid out very functional.  On the front is a few pen holders, a pocket with a flap and a sealed zipper pocket. On the shoulder strap there is a pocket for your phone or camera.

Safety : A reflective stripe down the backside of the bag leads for great visibility, plus the white color really stands out on the road.  A loop towards the bottom of the bag provides a perfect spot for that blinking light that everyone should have on.

The bag thus far is holding up well.  It isn’t my daily bag yet as the heat in Charlotte, NC hasn’t trimmed back too much and this bag can get your back HOT.  I’m looking forward to using this everyday for riding into work. The bag is deep with a lot of room for my thick winter clothes and shoes I carry in the fall/winter. It really seems to be set up by someone that uses their bag daily.

Kudo’s to Banjo Brothers and look for a long term review over at Bike Shop Girl.

This product was given to me at no charge for reviewing.  I was not paid or bribed to give this review and it will have my honest opinion or thoughts through out