Finding the perfect mountain bike backpack can be a challenge, with so many options available. This detailed review dives into the top 10 best mountain bike backpacks of 2022, carefully examining their features, performance, and suitability for different riding styles. Whether you're a seasoned enduro rider tackling demanding trails or a casual commuter needing a reliable pack for daily adventures, this guide will help you navigate the market and choose the ideal companion for your next ride. We've analyzed backpacks from leading brands like Osprey and CamelBak, considering factors crucial to mountain biking, including hydration systems, storage capacity, weight distribution, and overall comfort.Our comprehensive review covers a diverse range of backpacks, from minimalist designs ideal for shorter rides to larger capacity packs equipped for longer adventures. We highlight key features such as innovative hydration reservoirs, secure storage compartments, ventilation systems, and specialized pockets for tools and accessories. This in-depth analysis will equip you with the knowledge needed to select a backpack that perfectly complements your riding style and enhances your overall mountain biking experience. Let's find the perfect pack for your next epic ride.
Pros And Cons
- Designed for Enduro downhill and Freeride mountain biking
- Available in two sizes (small/medium and medium/large)
- Carries full face or standard helmet
- Easily accessible main compartment
- Dual stretch mesh pockets for elbow and knee protection
- Zippered non-scratch pocket and padded shove-it pocket for sunglasses/clothing
- Removable roll-out tool pouch
- Dual stretch mesh harness pockets and dual zippered hip belt pockets
- Zilla Air Escape back panel, harness, and hip belt for ventilation and stability
- Included reservoir for hydration
- Blinker light attachment
- Stable and well-fitting
- Air Escape suspension
- Wing-shaped contouring harness
- Ventilated back panel
- Adjustable sternum strap
- Magnetic bite valve attachment
- Stabilizing air mesh hip belt with dual zippered pockets
- Included Osprey LT 2.5-liter reservoir
- Internal hydration sleeve
- Scratch-free zippered pocket
- Lid lock bike helmet attachment
- Stretch mesh front pocket
- Blinker light attachment
- Reflective patches
- Removable tool roll
- Side compression straps (14L only)
- Full face helmet attachment (14L only)
- Front panel zippered stash pocket (14L only)
- One-size-fits-all design (adjustable torso fit)
- Soft stretch harness
- Suspension techniques from backpacking packs
- Bike-specific fit and framing
- Ventilated back panel
- Sunglass pocket
- Water bottle pocket
- Helmet carry
- U-lock carry
- Dirty shoe carry
- Expandable pack
- Groceries carry
- Rain cover
- Blinky light
- Carries water and cargo weight low on hips for stability
- Solstice 10LR designed specifically for women
- Both packs carry 7 liters of cargo and a 3-liter Antidote lumbar reservoir
- Easy reservoir access through back panel
- Compression webbing to keep water weight stable
- Large, easy-access waist belt pockets
- Magnetic tube trap
- Removable tool roll
- Large fleece-lined pocket
- Ability to carry soft armor
- Lifetime guarantee
Read more: 5 Must-Have Cycling Frame Bags
Osprey Zealot 15 Hydration Pack: Enduro & Freeride Focused
The Osprey Zealot 15 is specifically designed for the demands of Enduro and Freeride mountain biking. Available in two sizes (small/medium and medium/large), it prioritizes organization and secure storage.
Key features include a large zippered back panel for easy access to the main compartment, dual stretch mesh pockets for elbow/knee pads, and a dedicated padded pocket for sunglasses or extra layers.
A removable tool pouch ensures quick access to essential hardware, while dual stretch mesh harness pockets and zippered hip belt pockets offer convenient on-the-fly gear access. The included reservoir provides lightweight hydration.
CamelBak Low Rider Collection: Skyline 10LR and Solstice 10LR
The CamelBak Low Rider collection, including the Skyline 10LR and Solstice 10LR, focuses on low-profile weight distribution for enhanced stability. The packs carry their water and cargo weight low on the hips, lowering the rider's center of gravity.
The Solstice 10LR is tailored to women with an S-curved harness, adjustable sternum strap, and breathable lining for comfort. Both packs boast 7 liters of cargo space and a 3-liter Antidote lumbar reservoir with quick link access.
Additional features include large waist belt pockets, magnetic tube trap, removable tool roll, and the ability to carry soft armor. These packs prioritize stability and weight distribution during aggressive riding.
Osprey Raptor & Raven Series: Stability and Fit for Serious Riders
The Osprey Raptor (men's) and Raven (women's) series are designed for serious mountain bikers. Available in 14 and 10-liter volumes, these packs prioritize stability and a secure fit.
Osprey's AirScape suspension, a wing-shaped harness, and a ventilated back panel ensure dynamic movement and breathability. Features include a magnetic bite valve attachment, stabilizing hip belt, and an included Osprey LT 2.5-liter reservoir.
Additional features include a scratch-free pocket, helmet attachment, stretch mesh pocket, blinker light attachment, reflective patches, and a removable tool roll. The 14-liter versions also offer side compression straps and a full-face helmet attachment.
CamelBak Minimalist Bike Packs: Classic, HydroBak, and Charm
CamelBak's minimalist bike pack collection (Classic, HydroBak, and Charm) utilizes the Crux Reservoir, offering a 20% increase in water delivery per sip. The Crux is easily loaded via external access without removing the pack.
These packs are designed for comfort with lightweight builds, dedicated compartments for essentials, and subtle reflective accents. Ventilated back panels allow for airflow and movement with the rider.
They offer a balance of minimal design and practical features, focusing on efficient hydration and essential storage for shorter rides.
CamelBak Mountain Bike Packs: Mule, Lobo, Lux, and Magic
CamelBak’s mountain bike packs (Mule, Lobo, Lux, and Magic) prioritize the Crux reservoir for efficient hydration, featuring a 20% increased water flow per sip and a quick-link system for easy refilling.
These packs utilize the Air Director back panel for improved ventilation and comfort. They offer multiple storage options, including tool compartments, overflow pockets, and helmet carrying hooks.
The line includes options for both men and women, covering various storage needs for longer rides. All models feature dedicated organization for tools and essentials.
Osprey Radio: Versatile Commuter Pack
The Osprey Radio is a versatile one-size-fits-all pack designed for bike commuting. It prioritizes fit and ventilation with an adjustable torso fit and soft stretch harness.
Features include a ventilated back panel for airflow, a sunglass pocket, secure water bottle pockets, helmet and U-lock carrying options, expandable storage, a rain cover, and a blinker light attachment.
Its sleek design balances functionality with a comprehensive feature set suitable for various commuting conditions and needs. The pack also handles groceries, dirty shoes and even more!
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Mountain Bike Backpack
The reviewed backpacks offer diverse features and designs to suit various riding styles and preferences. Osprey stands out with its focus on fit, ventilation (especially the Raptor/Raven series and Radio), and organized storage (Zealot).
CamelBak's Crux Reservoir is a notable hydration feature across its range, maximizing water delivery. The Low Rider collection excels in stability, while the minimalist packs offer lightweight solutions.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs – consider pack size, hydration system preference, and desired features for both short and long rides before making a decision. Lifetime guarantees from both brands provide peace of mind.