Cycling
For short rides, full-day cycling trips and challenging trails. A cycling backpack should stay securely in place, allow freedom of movement and provide easy access to water and essential gear. Choose from lightweight backpacks for active riding and larger models for longer adventures. Focus on capacity, back ventilation, hydration bladder compatibility and the option to add a back protector.
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How to Choose a Cycling Backpack
A cycling backpack should be comfortable, stable and suited to your riding position. Unlike a regular hiking backpack, it needs to allow unrestricted shoulder movement and stay securely in place, even on rough terrain. When choosing, consider the length of your rides, the amount of gear you carry and your preferred type of cycling.
What Size Cycling Backpack Do You Need?
For shorter rides, a compact backpack with a capacity of up to 10 litres is often enough. It can hold basic tools, a spare inner tube, snacks and an extra layer of clothing. For full-day trips, a backpack with a capacity of 10 to 20 litres may be more suitable. Larger models are useful for longer journeys or when you need to carry extra clothing and equipment.
- Up to 10 litres: active riding, short trips and essential gear.
- 11 to 20 litres: full-day cycling trips, MTB and trail riding.
- Over 20 litres: longer rides, combined cycling and hiking trips or carrying bulkier equipment.
Choose capacity according to the amount of gear you actually need. An unnecessarily large backpack may restrict movement, especially during technical trail riding.
Back Ventilation and Stability While Riding
Cycling often involves considerable sweating, making back ventilation particularly important. Some backpacks use breathable padding, while others feature a suspended mesh system that creates space between the backpack and your back.
Stability is equally important. Chest and waist straps help keep the backpack in place when riding over uneven terrain, cornering or descending. The backpack should fit close to your body without restricting breathing or movement.
Cycling Backpacks with Hydration Bladder Compatibility
Hydration bladder compatibility is one of the practical advantages of cycling backpacks. A drinking tube allows you to stay hydrated while riding without having to stop and reach for a water bottle.
When choosing, check whether the backpack is merely hydration-compatible or whether a hydration bladder is included. Compatibility with a specific bladder and the option to route the drinking tube along the shoulder strap are also important.
Backpacks with Back Protector Compatibility
For mountain biking, enduro and more demanding trail riding, backpacks with a dedicated pocket for a back protector can be a useful option. A protector can help reduce the severity of certain impacts during a fall, but it must be compatible with the backpack and positioned correctly.
A dedicated protector pocket doesn't necessarily mean that a back protector is included. Always check whether the protector comes with the backpack or needs to be purchased separately.
Acepac, Pinguin and Gregory Cycling Backpacks
Our selection includes cycling backpacks designed for different riding styles. Models vary in capacity, back system construction and available features.
- Acepac Edge 7 MKIII: a compact sports backpack for fast-paced riding with minimal equipment.
- Acepac Flite MKIII: a range of cycling backpacks in several capacities for short and full-day rides.
- Pinguin Ride 19 and 25: versatile backpacks for cycling and day hiking.
- Pinguin Flux 15 and 25: multipurpose backpacks suitable for both cycling and hiking.
- Gregory Salvo: compact sports backpacks designed with a focus on carrying comfort and back ventilation.
What Else Should You Consider?
- Weight: a lighter backpack can be more comfortable during intense activity.
- Torso length: the backpack should fit your body and riding position.
- Gear organisation: dedicated pockets for tools, your phone and small essentials are particularly useful.
- Hydration: check whether the backpack is hydration-compatible or includes a bladder.
- Rain protection: check whether a rain cover is included. Protect moisture-sensitive items with a waterproof dry bag.
- Back protection: compatibility with a certified back protector can be an advantage for more demanding riding.
Backpack, Hip Pack or Bikepacking Bag?
For shorter rides when you only need basic equipment, a sports hip pack may be enough. It leaves your back free and provides easy access to small essentials.
If you're planning multi-day cycling adventures and prefer to carry most of your equipment on the bike rather than on your back, explore our bikepacking bags. They allow you to distribute your gear between the frame, handlebars and saddle area.
Need advice on capacity, hydration bladder selection or back protector compatibility? Contact us and we'll be happy to help you choose the right model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What body height is the backpack designed for?
When choosing a backpack, torso length matters more than overall body height. Measure from the prominent vertebra at the base of your neck to the top of your hip bones. Most Pinguin backpacks have a back length of approximately 48 to 50 cm, while children's backpacks have shorter back panels. Models with adjustable back systems allow you to modify the fit. You can try the backpack at home with a load and return it within 14 days if it doesn't fit.
Can I fit a hydration bladder in my backpack or waist pack, and what size?
The suitable hydration bladder capacity depends on the specific model. Send us the name of your backpack and we'll check which bladder fits. For waist packs, we recommend hydration bladders specifically designed for waist packs. Standard backpack bladders may fit, but their functionality will be limited.
Which backpack should I choose for my child?
For children, torso length is more important than age or overall height. Children's backpacks have shorter back panels, while older children may find smaller hiking backpacks with narrower shoulder strap spacing comfortable. Cycling backpacks without a rigid back system and padded hip belt are not designed for carrying heavy loads.
Is the backpack or waist pack waterproof?
Pinguin and Acepac backpacks and waist packs are not fully waterproof. Their fabrics have an internal coating that can withstand a short rain shower, but the seams and zippers are not waterproof. Use a rain cover in wet weather and pack moisture-sensitive items in a waterproof dry bag.
Is a rain cover included with the backpack?Applies to: Pinguin products
Most Pinguin backpacks come with a rain cover, although there are exceptions, such as the Integral 30. If your backpack doesn't include one, or you need to replace a damaged cover, you can purchase a universal Pinguin Raincover separately.
Can I buy a replacement buckle or strap for my backpack?
Replacement buckles and small parts for Pinguin backpacks are usually available. However, components have changed over the years, so please send photos of both parts to servis@activent365.com. Larger components, such as hip belts or rain covers designed for specific backpack models, are generally not available as replacement parts.
Can I take my backpack on a plane as carry-on luggage?
It depends on the size restrictions set by your airline. For backpacks with rigid back systems, the height of the back panel is particularly important. We can measure it for you upon request. You can find the backpack's dimensions in the product specifications.
How much weight can the backpack carry?
Backpack load capacities haven't been certified through testing, so we only provide approximate figures. Large hiking backpacks can generally carry around 15 to 20 kg, while smaller cycling backpacks are designed for loads of approximately 5 kg. Contact us for information about a specific model.
Can I wash my backpack in a washing machine?
We don't recommend it. Clean your backpack by hand using a sponge and mild hand soap. Never use dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents or similar cleaning products, as they may damage the water-resistant coating. Backpacks contain numerous plastic and metal components that could be damaged during machine washing or even damage the washing machine itself.
For answers about orders, shipping and returns, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
