My search for a backpack has come to an end.
I started off with a semi-successful adaptation of the borough bag into a backpack: https://www.reddit.com/r/Brompton/comments/1knnsld/brompton_x_hardy_large_borough_roll_top_bagpack/ It worked fine for what it was, but it still wasn't a backpack.
Then, I figured I'd try getting a backpack with multiple robust anchor points on the front to attach with zip ties to a luggage frame, as inspired by this post, only with a larger backpack: https://www.reddit.com/r/Brompton/comments/1kkhy5l/finally_found_the_perfect_brompton_bag_for_me/
The Patagonia Black Hole 32l backpack came on my radar. I bought it along with the Trigo 20 cm wide frame + extender plate (Aliexpress). I was surprised to find out that the backpack has a pass-through sleeve intended for mounting on a suitcase handle, and that it's width is perfect for a snug fit on the Trigo frame. I gave it a try and it works surprisingly well in practice. On the contrary, vertical mounting with the zip ties method would not have worked well as the backpack is too big for it, plus it would leave my laptop dangling away from the frame. As a bonus, I can use my backpack without having the frame attached to it whatsoever.
One quick pull by the upper backpack strap releases it from the frame. Pushing the pass-through sleeve down as much as possible results in a secure fit. The Trigo frame does not fit as securely on the luggage block as original Brompton luggage adapters. I may try some DIY improvements. There is currently slight wobble of the backpack when cycling, though it may very come down to its size and the lack of rigid structure. I will also try if straps could help, but the wobble is already firmly in the 'good enough' territory, so I wouldn't bother with adding extra mounting steps for my regular commute, only for the occasional longer cycling distances.
The backpack placed horizontally is wider than the Brompton borough bag, and so the kickstand mode is less trustworthy. Depending on the weight distribution in the backpack, the Brompton may not stand on its own at all or be more prone to falling over.
It may not seem like it in the main picture, but the pass-through places the backpack quite symmetrically in reference to the bicycle frame. See the last two pictures.
The bolts provided with the Trigo extender are of terrible quality, and I would suggest going straight for replacements to avoid having stripped heads midway through the installation.
by Veganfloyd
1 Comment
This post comes at such a perfect time for me. I’m also in search of front carry solution for my work backpack and slowly coming to the realization that I need something narrow, roughly equivalent to the suitcase telescopic handle, so that I can slide my backpack in just like how I do it at airport.
My eBags backpack has the suitcase sleeve and it’s in both directions horizontal and vertical. By measuring the sleeve opening I think I need something around 20cm width.
Your post literally confirmed everything i was planning to do.
Could you share the ali link for the trigo 20cm rack?
Thank you so much