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What backpack do you use?

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Do you ride with a pack on you? If so, what do you use?

I need to replace an old Camelbak pack that's falling apart, and the Black Diamond Distance 15 looks like a near perfect replacement for an all-around moto, cycling, running, hiking daypack. It's sort of a hybrid running vest/daypack, with the strap system borrowed from the running world.

I want to stay in the 15-20L range, with a large main pocket, good ventilation, and a strap system that won't let the pack flop around. I don't want a bunch of small pockets, zippers, straps, or other heavy & fairly useless add-ons. The Black Diamond Distance 15 meets most of those requirements.


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Here's a positive review, and the site also compares it to several other options. Other than the shoulder strap pockets, they had no complaints; those pockets won't be a concern for me: https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/fitness/hydration-pack-for-running/black-diamond-distance-15

I think the flexibility offered by the lower shoulder strap attachment method will be helpful when adjusting the pack for use with moto gear and use off the bike. The zigzag side compression cord will manage any slack material, too.

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This video review walks through many features, but I cued it up to the one problem area I see for moto-use, the main bag closure.


I don't have much doubt that the front facing "Quick Blitz" flap & drawstring closure aren't the best for motorcycle use. I think it can be secured well enough to not flap in the wind, but water will definitely be scooped inside. In my opinion, this pack would be even better with a waterproof, rolltop bag - basically a Mosko Moto Stinger 22 bag with the rest of the Distance 15 features. I've spent a lot of time looking for a pack like that, but the Distance is the closest I found. I can add a lightweight dry bag for use as a liner and call it good.

Another review: https://sectionhiker.com/black-diamond-distance-15-pack-review/

It's not a cheap pack, but unless Mosko Moto revamps their Stinger or another dry bag manufacturer puts together a rolltop bag like I described, I think this is about as good as I'll find. I'll post more once I have one in hand and give it a try on the bike.
 
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OU812

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I still run a Wally World with solid frame.
I only use it for Moto.
Cheap cheep
 

Punkinhead

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For off road and dual sport I prefer a much smaller pack. I really only want a hydration pack and enough room for some snacks and stuff. I just picked up this Osprey Katari 7L pack last week to replace the 20+ year old similar size backpack that finally wore out.
 

Punkinhead

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My day hiking back pack is an REI branded 20L which is a good size for days when the weather is going to change and I need to be able to strip off & put on layers and take along rain gear. But it's covered with a plethora of buckles, straps, and other dangling doo-dads that only serve to snag passing limbs so I understand your desire not to have a bunch of that stuff littering the outside of your pack.
 
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ZoomerP might want to change the title to " What are you Packing "

I use these 3L small packs, Perfect for a wallet, keys, meds, snacks

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I have an old CamelBak about that size, but without as much room in the small pouch. I only bought it because it was on sale and I wanted the bladder. It'd be a good choice for dirt riding.
 
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My day hiking back pack is an REI branded 20L which is a good size for days when the weather is going to change and I need to be able to strip off & put on layers and take along rain gear. But it's covered with a plethora of buckles, straps, and other dangling doo-dads that only serve to snag passing limbs so I understand your desire not to have a bunch of that stuff littering the outside of your pack.
Snags, and all of that extra stuff costs weight & money.

My main backpack is a Zpacks Arc Haul Zip. One of the reasons I like it is that it doesn't have a lot of extraneous stuff, mainly just a large main bag that's easy to access without having a yard sale to get something from the bottom.

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Possum

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When I rode my dual sports for commute I ran a 5:11 tactical rush 12. great backpack that I still use often for travel exc. also have the larger rush 72 for longer trips same thing just bigger. just don’t like carrying a backpack around all the time. Just picked up a Mosko moto nomad tank bag that has backpack straps that I will be using on the bike and for fishing.
 
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I hate riding with a backpack. I will use a Camelback for offroad and Mtn bike rides but that's about it.
I'd rather not carry a pack, but I spend enough time in the American Southwest that having easily accessed water is important. I tried slipping a bladder in my jacket, but that didn't ride well, and it wouldn't do me any good off the bike.
 

skibum69

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My Klim Adventure jacket has a built in bladder in the back which I use. My Mosko Moto Nomad tank bag also takes a bladder so I have 2 east options there. If I'm just riding offroad in lighter gear as stated I will wear this one. Perfect size for light days.
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Shinyribs

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Very happy with my Fly Racing XC70. They come in different sizes.

The bladder/hose is easy to clean and refill. The reflectivity of the bag is nuts. I've been using it for hard enduro for 3 or 4 years now and it's seen lots of crashes. Holds up well.

Nice breathable standoffs keep the pack off your back for good airflow. I was worried they might breakdown and flatten, but they're still good as new.

Several hiking trips we it. It stays in place and doesn't flop around or try to slide over your head if you bend over to tie a shoe.

I can't find any faults with it. It's house sparrow approved as well.
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Ps_ notice those little loops? There's a big net that stows in the bottom. If you find your pack full but end up needing more room, you can pull out that cargo net and carry the jacket your riding buddy doesn't have room to put on his bike anywhere. It's a pretty tough cargo net. I found a really interesting piece of wood on top of a mountain once and hiked several miles back with that piece of wood (about the size of your forearm with a cantaloupe attached to one end) stashed in the cargo net. It's handy.

Edit: he can explain better than me

 
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GMK999

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The Leatt is my favorite as it carries my necessities well for a day on the trails and has the roost guard and some back protection built in. Now that I can ride to the trail (street legal) I cary a bit more stuff.Water, snacks, pump, Jacket and tools
The USWE is a really good piece of kit but has no armor. Super comfy and rides really well.
The grey one is from Amaz... and carries my Camera gear (DSLR + lenses) it is about 6 years old and has not let me down. But, you know that you are wearing it.
 

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