[TiGuy]

The fall semester will be starting in about a month and time to get ready for classes. Now that my bike is all done, I think I'm going to be riding it to my classes when possible. However, I need a good bag that can hold several books but won't shift alot when riding. Any suggestions on stores or websites? Where I live we only have a Wal-Mart and we all know what great selection of stuff they have I've seen some messenger bags but these seem like they would be a little hard to ride with. Any suggestions?

 

[Drevil]

Chrome bags are very, very nice. They are the messenger-style that goes over only one shoulder.

However, with heavier loads, the single strap of messenger bags aggravate my back so I like to use backpacks. I have an Ortlieb Messenger bag (which is really a two strap backpack) that I love. It carries a bunch of stuff, has a padded back, and is absolutely waterproof. The only problem with it is there are no straps to cinch down your stuff, so if you only have a few things in it, your stuff may shift around when you are standing up and hammering on the bike.

There is always the ubiquitous Timbuktu...

You may get these (and plenty of others) through REI.com or sierratradingpost.com.

 

[p0werp0p]

I use a REI Half Dome pack for my commute. Waterproof and straps that go across your chest and hips so nothing slides around. REI.com has many backpacks to choose from in a variety of styles/prices. Geez, maybe I should work there...

 

[bykhed]

Timbuk2 messenger bags

I've used one for four years and it's still going strong - simple, waterproof and carries most anything. Only drawback is that pointy things will stick in your back if you don't pack it right. Sierra Trading Post usually has a nice selection.

 

[eman]

check out EMS. I got a nice backpack from there. Has straps to tighten it, holds a lot of stuff, and has a waist strap.

 

[jkittlesen]

http://www.jansport.com/home.php

 

[Lotusfinger]

Not to be a chamnion of the evil empire that wal-mart is, but that's where I got my pack. Its an outdoor brand and very large. 3 compartments, chest strap, cinche straps on the sides, pockets all around and a place for a resevior. I dropped a cameback reservior I already had in it. The best part is was 20 bucks. doubt is waterproof though. Will probably find that out this afternoon. I haul my work clothes and boots in it but has room for lots more stuff.

 

[beeristasty]

I use a TImbuk2 bag

if that helps. Used to use a NorthFace backpack but it was a little too hot for me. Using my messenger bag is more comfortable and a not as hot for me. It's also easier to pull stuff out of it when you're walking. If you decide on a messenger bag, I'd recommend Chrome or Tumbuk2.

 

[Old and Slow]

Everyone else has been suggesting pretty big bags, and that's fine if you're carrying a lot of books. An alternate suggestion is a Black Diamond Equipment "BBee" or "Bullet" pack. They're a lot smaller (a couple of books and a notebook would max out the Bbee), but can double as a hydration pack on long rides. They both have opennings for hoses and comparments to slip in a bladder. The Bbee especially is feather weight, so might not have the durability of the beefier Bullet. They were originally designed for rock climbing and are very close fitting to your back. And either one only costs $39. You can buy them from BD's web site at http://www.bdel.com.

Hope this helps.

 

[triscuit]

I put a rack and panniers on my commuter bike. Not pretty, but it is nice to not have something on my back. But I also have a Timbuk2 bag. Not sure it matters to you, but you can design your own bag color scheme if you go to Timbuk2.com and "build your own" bag. It is nice around here since everyone seems to have a T2 bag.

 

[UpRocks]

Marmot Talus.

Carried my Engineering books for four years, and climbing gear every break in classes I got.

Graduated and it still carries like it's brand new.

$140, but I can't wear it out.

 

[WeekendShogunWarrior]

my g/f dosent ride so i hike w/ her (Needed a reason to say i hike ) .. but i have a camelbak peak bagger that i use as a day pack, but gut it and use it as my bookbag as well. i like it cuz of the lower straps that hold it in place when i am riding and i can strap it high enough for heaiver loads that is is centered on my back ..

i too am a college student (Engineer) and those big a$$ books can be heavy so i know how you feel ..

g/l

 

[sandan]

Marmot Talus, too. Holds everything, but, it's a little hot in the summer. Plus it does double duty for when I need a day pack off the bike.