Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
MSRP: $50 - $90
Available Sizes XS, S, M, L, XL
Available Colors: Various colors or design your own.
----- Have I got a message for you! -----
Backpacks, daypacks, shoulder bags, and messenger bags all have the same purpose, to carry cargo securely while allowing you freedom of movement and hopefully a comfortable fit. Most people shopping for cargo solutions end up purchasing a backpack of one kind or another, but before you go for the “old standby” let me explain the advantages (and disadvantages) of the Timbuk2 Messenger Bag.
Founded back in 1989 by real bike messengers in San Francisco, Timbuk2 has forged a loyal customer base thanks to their extreme-duty bags designed to last a decade or more, not just until the warranty is over. Their flagship product line consists of messenger bags designed to carry all types of cargo while riding a bike. Messenger bags are distinguished by a large shoulder strap and full-length flap covering the top of the bag. This flap is secured to the bag with large Velcro strips and can be locked down via quick-release straps if you want extra security. The advantage of a messenger bag is easy access for loading and unloading thanks to the large top-flap. Opening the flap exposes the whole interior of the bag and allows you to quickly sort through items inside or stow a large, bulky package with ease.
The
Classic Messenger reviewed here is only one of over eight designs now available from Timbuk2. Some of these include the
Pro Series, Metro, Wool, Hemp, Laptop, and
Courier Messenger bags. When I shopped for a bag I decided the updated Classic design was what fit my needs best, so that’s where my story begins.
----- Takin’ care of business… every day. -----
For most trips involving my bike I usually slip on my
Camelbak H.A.W.G. and head into town. The 12 mile one-way trip isn’t that bad and I can easily tote any small items or a change of clothes inside my H.A.W.G. After trying out my
friends Dahon messenger bag I decided to pick up one of my own. My research led me to Timbuk2 as the best choice from both durability and customer satisfaction ratings. After making my desire known I received a
Timbuk2 Bag in a Box gift card and proceeded to build my very own custom bag. Thanks to Timbuk2’s interactive website customers can design their bag with the color scheme, options, and accessories they want right from the factory. My tri-color Xtra-Large bag arrived at my door in under two weeks, exactly the way I ordered it.
Messenger bags are generally worn slung over your shoulder and hanging at your side (are you ready for this guys?) just like a purse. Timbuk2 bags feature a quick-adjust locking strap that allows you to lengthen or shorten the shoulder strap at will. When you’re riding your bike the most comfortable position for your bag is high on your back and lying along your spine. Another thinner waist strap clips onto the bag to help stabilize the bag while riding, it also keeps the bag from sliding or bouncing around.
My messenger is the XL size which anyone would describe as a big bag (26.25" wide x 14" high x 9" deep), can it ever hold a tremendous amount of cargo. I’ve had the main compartment stuffed with a complete change of clothes,
laptop sleeve, full-size SLR digital camera, lunch bag, and still had room to stuff in several small boxes and a bike helmet. On other occasions I’ve carried both my inline skates in my bag while shopping at stores downtown. The downsides to a bag this large are the exterior dimensions and weight are a bit much to deal with unless you need the space. If you don't need the extra volume of the largest model I’d recommend a medium or large sized bag for most people.
----- What else is inside the bag besides a big gaping hole? -----
Of course the biggest reason to buy a Timbuk2 bag is the large, open cargo area, but there's also plenty of "stuff" pockets and organizers built in. My bag has a medium sized zipper pocket on the front which is covered by the cargo flap, I use it for carrying cash, maps, or other frequently accessed papers. On the inside you'll find a full-length zipper pocket that goes all the way to the base of the bag, I call this the literature pocket. My pocket (at least on the XL bag) can swallow full-size magazines with ease, I've packed 5 normal-thickness magazines in there without any problem. Just inside the literature pocket is the organizer panel which has slots for pens, larger slots for markers, a small clear sleeve to store business cards or an ID card, and another medium width pocket for smaller items.
As you can see a standard messenger bag is quite capable of holding enough stuff to be anything from a mini-mobile office to a picnic basket. I’ve used in several different ways and I’m always surprised by how well it works.
----- There’s got to be a few drawbacks, let’s have ‘em! -----
The most obvious negative I’ve noticed with the Timbuk2 Messenger bag is the unpadded and unforgiving shoulder strap. I immediately purchased the Timbuk2 Shoulder Pad for my bag, while it helped quite a bit it still dug into my shoulder after a few hours. Without the pad I couldn't stand more than 30-40 minutes total before I had to give my shoulders a rest. My one wish is that Timbuk2 would include a padded gel area where the bag contacts your body.
My second and last gripe is regarding using the bag while nearly empty. Since messenger bags are very malleable and will accept cargo of various dimensions they tend to collapse inwards when they are empty. Walking or riding around with an empty messenger bag is sometimes difficult due to their lack of any internal structure or support system. This isn’t a complaint against Timbuk2 in any way, it’s more of a warning about messenger bags in general. If you won’t be filling your bag with lots of stuff I recommend getting a smaller bag that will “fill out” with less inside.
----- Bottom Line, who’ll get the Message? -----
I’m pretty sure many people won’t utilize or want a bag designed the way these messenger bags are. They aren’t a replacement for a backpack as they ride much different and are more of a shoulder bag when not riding your bike. If you’re a bike commuter or someone that cycles for recreation you’ll definitely appreciate the design features that make these the cargo solution of choice for bike messengers all across the USA.
Your bag can be built out of either Ballistic or Cordura® fabrics, both offer superior strength, abrasion resistance, and color quality compared to cheaper polyester fabrics. Each bag features three main panels running vertically up the bag and each panel can be a different color. You can also choose the color of the interior liner and the Timbuk2 logo on the front. Remember to specify whether you're right handed or a leftie, Timbuk2 will build your bag appropriately. Each bag comes with reflective tails that hang behind you while you're walking or riding your bike. Between the sizes and customized styles available, there's a bag for every need that still makes a fashion statement. Classic Messenger bags can just be thrown into the washer and hung out to dry. Timbuk2 suggests washing their bags with similar colors in cold water and using only mild detergents.
Most local outdoor shops have Timbuk2 products in stock, REI retail stores also have quite a large wall for bags and accessories. I don't use my bag every day like some people do but I love it when I need to take a ride and haul half the house with me.
Related backpack links:
•
Timbuk2 Bag in a Box
•
Timbuk2 Classic Laptop Sleeve
•
Timbuk2 Quilted Laptop Sleeve
•
Timbuk2 Cell Phone Holder
•
Camelbak H.A.W.G.
•
Camelbak HydroBak
•
Camelbak Rim Runner
•
Camelbak Classic
•
Camelbak Reservoir Dryer
Thanks for reading and feel free to comment!
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