I needed a backpack for commuting and for those long weekend rides that require you to take a backpack. I searched far and wide….I even considered a tank bag or saddle bags but also wanted to something that would allow me to carry a nice load and maybe strap my helmet to it. So I narrowed it down to the Ogio backpack line up and the AlpineStars line up. I liked how Ogio offered a no-drag design, which AlpineStars does as well, but they were not completely water proof and did not have any options to strap your helmet to.
I then found the AlpineStars Tech Aero backpack. It has self-sealing water resistant zippers, helmet “pouch”, water proof cover, pockets for your MP3 player, easy access panels for your phone/money/driver’s license. It is also well vented and can accommodate a 15” lap top.
Zippers: They are self-sealing, which means, they have a rubber “flap” on both sides of the zipper which close behind the zipper as you close the zipper. They are water RESISTANT, not water PROOF.
Main Compartment: Contains a big pouch for a 15” lap top and it made of wet suit material so it’s gentle on your laptop. It also has multiple pockets and pouches inside the main compartment to accommodate your bikes tool bag, cables, and misc. items.
Outside top pocket: It is lined with a fleece material and designed to carry your sunglasses, phone, mp3 player (has a small opening to feed the wire through)
Straps: Another neat feature about the Tech Aero are the arm straps. They hold a small pouch which will accommodate your MP3 player. Across the chest you get a pouch which has a clear pocket and a solid pocket. The clear pocket can hold your phone/map/money/Credit Card or any important documents. The solid pocket can hold the same as the clear; it’s just solid and non-see-through.
“Belly” Straps: The straps that strap around your waist also have built in pockets. These are nice as they are easy to reach and can hold your wallet/phone/or anything that you may need in a hurry.
Helmet Pouch: Now, this was the seller for me. When you park your bike and you’re going to be away for a while and don’t want to leave your expensive helmet but also hate carrying it in your hand….well, fear no more. The pouch is easy to open and its even easier to strap down your helmet. This was super handy at MotoGp.
Detachable shoulder strap: The left should strap can be detached to make it easier when putting the back pack on…..with a simple press of the button…it breaks in half. If you have ever tried putting on a backpack with a leather jacket on…you know what a pain in the @$$ it is to put on….with this system….it makes it a breeze.
Water Proof Cover: Last but not least is the water proof cover that is built into the backpack. It is held in a pocket located at the very top next to the handle….you unzip the pocket, pull out the cover and pull it over the back pack….you’re Tech Aero is now water proof!!!! It also has a nice reflective AlpineStars logo for night visibility.
Over all, I am extremely happy with my purchase. I was able to fit a days’ worth of clothes, pair of shoes, toiletries, phone charger, wallet, sunglasses, phone, bikes tool bag. The straps across the chest and waist really help relieve all the weight off your shoulders. I would definitely recommend this back pack for the commuter and even the weekend rider for those long weekend rides. I know RidersDiscount carry this backpack and I’m sure they can give you a good price on it.
If you have any questions or would like me to take a pic of a specific part of the back pack…just post up your request and I’ll get to it as soon as I can.
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