Price: $159
Color: Moonrock
Capacity: 25L to 35L with expandable roll top
Shell material: 100% Nylon
Lining material: 100% Polyester
Availability: Online or retail
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Velocio Has Commuting in the Bag
Earlier this month, Velocio, known for high-quality cycling clothing, announced its first venture into the biking bag category. The company states that its new Riding Pack and Duffle is their design; it’s not a 3rd party bag with the Velocio logo slapped on.
The Riding Pack I received is designed for the commuter, and like the Velocio’s clothing, it conforms to the rider’s position on the bike. There is an adjustable chest strap and hip belt to prevent the pack from shifting around when pedaling. Rigid channel padding protects the rider’s back from items in the pack, helps air circulation, and keeps the pack’s shape for easy packing/unpacking. The padded shoulder straps add comfort, and there is a loop for storing sunglasses.
The internal capacity of the backpack grows from 25L to 35L using the expandable roll-top closure, which is also designed to keep water out. There’s one internal zipper pocket to store smaller items and valuables. A separate waterproof sleeve protects even the largest laptop or MacBook from the elements.
The pack’s exterior boasts two side expandable pockets made from a tightly woven knit fabric. Using a pull tab to open the pockets from the side makes them more accessible from the riding position than a top-loading pocket. These pockets are perfect for water bottle storage, cell phones, gloves, etc. We’ll have to take the company’s claim that the pockets fit up to a 26 oz insulated water bottle since I don’t own one to test. However, the pocket looks plenty large. There’s an exterior zipper pocket with a waterproof zipper for even more storage.
Along the outside of the pack are two sections of molle webbing (daisy chain loops) for carrying a helmet when off the bike. Or add elastic cording (not included) to secure items, such as a rain jacket. Once reaching your destination, remove the backpack and use the loop at the top of the bag as a carrying handle or storage hanger.
Bottom Line
Velocio’s first foray into the backpack market is a positive one. At $159, they hit the mark on price and features. So, what features do I feel are missing from their Riding Pack? There are just a few. First, the pack is missing reflective elements necessary for a commuter. Second, reinforce the pack’s bottom section to support the cargo’s weight. Third, slots on the inside to store pens so they don’t collect at the bottom of the bag. Lastly, in their next iteration, Velocio should offer additional colors. While the moonrock color is gender-neutral, it’s a bit drab.
Available online or in select retailers, Velocio’s Riding Pack makes an excellent gift for yourself or the commuter in your life.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.