Corybantic

I have two bikes I use to go back and forth to work. Therefore I need a bag to carry on my person rather than on the bike.

For years I’ve used messenger type bags. One I had was good most of the time, it is a small timbuk 2 bag. The other is a custom made giant PAC Designs bag. Both bags are awesome, but for my riding they were too small and too big. Plus with a more upright riding position the bulk of the weight is on one shoulder, which can get painful. Messenger bags are made to be worn while you are in a more of a flat back position so this isn’t a problem.

The biggest issue with these two bags was that I kept forgetting items as I switched between bags.

After some research I decided I wanted a backpack that was around 18 liters in size, has a hip belt, sternum strap, rain proof, with only a small amount of internal organization.

One day on my brompton I took the bus after work to my local EMS and searched. I found a north face bag that matched my criteria and fit my long torso.

After using this bag for I week I am happy with my choice. The medium backpack is the way to go.

I live in a medium size town 15 miles outside the small city of Wilmington, DE. I am married with an infant. We own 2 small responsible cars, both are fully paid off.

I work in Wilmington. Typically I take the regional SEPTA train there. It’s a bit over 3 miles each way between home and the train station. At the train station I have rented for free a bike locker. It couldn’t be easier.

I have two bikes I use. One is a Surly LHT. This is outfitted with fenders and a rack. This is my massive hauler.

My second is my favorite. It’s an S type brompton 2 speed.

For the last 4 years I have flirted off and on with riding my bike to work. I’d go several weeks riding most of the time then stop. Last year was the first time I really considered getting rid of a car. Again I didn’t follow through.

This October was different. I went to my insurance company and garaged my car saving a $1000/year. Now I can’t drive it.