Banjo Brothers Commuter Backpack
$79.99
Overall : 4 out of 5 stars.
Pros : Durabilty, storage/pockets, replaceable inner liner.
Cons : Size,  heat/sweat in the summer months.

For the past few months I’ve been using a my Banjo Brothers Commuter Backpack for a variety of things.  The gym, going to work with my laptop, and even in the front of the Civia Loring that I was reviewing. You also may want to read the Introduction to the Review on the Banjo Brothers Commuter Backpack.

How the Bag Fits

One common issue I had with the Banjo Brothers bag was the size.  It was meant for taller folks, or maybe just bigger folks.  It fit my height at 5’10 fine, but it fit my girlfriend at 5’5 horribly.  The length of the bag would either hit her below the hips, or push up on her helmet pushing her head down.

Use and Abuse

The bag has had some type of use almost daily for the past 2 months.  My favorite use of the bag was in the front basket of the Civia Loring, as it fit perfectly in the basket!   The bag is holding up just fine and would do well for someone needing a daily bag that would hold up under the elements.  The fact the inside water proof liner is a replaceable is a huge plus as well.  I’ve had bags with a waterproof sleeve sewn inside, if you busted through the sleeve you would have to get a tailor to fix it and waterproof it.

Storage, Pockets and More

Front and Pockets

The more I used this bag, the more pockets I found.  In fact a buddy told me that the side pocket held a water bottle perfectly only 2 weeks back.   There’s places to hold your keys, phone, pens and wallet.  Inside the main compartment is just one large pit, which I prefer.  I can shove shoes and clothes in there, or fit a good amount of paperwork and my laptop.

Final Thoughts

The bag for myself I like.  The color, the material and the many uses suits my fancy.  I like multi-use products and being able to spread the love of a bag through many different paces.  The bag is hot in the summer, and keeps you warm in the winter.  Any large messenger bag does this these days though.

$79.99 is a great deal on this bag that should last for many, many years.   If you are gifting this bag, make sure it is going to fit the person.  If they live in the South and plan on commuting many miles in the hot summer, maybe pick a different bag with a better “off back” suspension system.

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.

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.

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.