Deuter Superbike 18 EXP or Revolution Stow Sport S2...?

[mrmacmusic]

I'm looking for a slightly larger backpack than what I've been using this week (Hydrapak Big Sur), and reckon I've narrowed my search down to 2 choices – the Deuter Superbike 18 EXP or Revolution Stow Sport S2. Both offer similar storage capacity, and although the Deuter is slightly larger physically, its' quoted volume is lower (18+4) than that of the Revolution (20+5). It seems that there may be more compartments for organising stuff in the Revolution – I'd like to be able to separate tools/tubes etc, where clothing and food would go in the main compartment.

Can anyone vouch for either backpack, or suggest why one might be better than the other? Thanks.

 

[Evilcat]

As I mentioned in another thread I have the Deuter and I'm very happy with it. The built in cover is great, the built in wind/rain poncho useless (have cut mine out), the size is fine for a complete change of clothes and the front pocket takes wallet, watch, two phones, keys etc. There is a sort of internal pocket where the poncho goes/went which I now put my rain jacket in. A spare tube and other related bits and pieces like batteries just go in a flat bag which sits at the bottom of the main compartment which is fine.

EC

 

[mrmacmusic]

Thanks EC Yes, I noticed your comment in the other thread, but thought it was a good idea to start a new post here.

I know it's subjective, but I'm trying to decide which of these 2 rucksacks has the better suspension system, and whether the compartmentalised main section of the Revolution is actually any more versatile. As long as the front pocket is big enough for wallet, iPhone and keys then the Deuter should suit me fine - I would have preferred a specific space for tools/tubes though (like what's available in my small Hydrapak Big Sur).

 

[Evilcat]

Yep, I put two smartphones, an oversized wallet, watch, keys and other bits and pieces in the front pocket of the Deuter. There is a zippable interior pocket inside which fits my personal HTC One X (the work phone mixes it with the other junk) and there is a clip to hang your keys on.

The only thing I would say is that the Airstripes ventilation doesn't really work, but then again I've never really found a rucksack which ventilates your back properly.

EC

 

[tincaman]

After several backpacks over the last 2 years I have settled on the Deuter Race EXP, its smaller than the one you are looking at 12+3, but i can get a change of clothes + pump and tube and tools + keys + lightweight waterproof in there easily. The Aircomfort back works well, keeps the main bulk from you back for ventilation. My commute is 15miles and 1200ft of climbing so this is the max I can get away with

 

[mrmacmusic]

Thanks again I think the Aircomfort system in the smaller Race EXP, or the Aeroflex system in the Revolution might just be a wee bit better than Airstripes.... Popped into the Edinburgh Cycle store today, but whilst they didn't have the Stow Sport on display, I did see the slightly larger Vaude Alpin 25 (which has 25% off making it the same price). I didn't buy it there and then because I think it's actually a bit big for my needs, although I did quite like all the pockets and storage options, and it was very comfortable to wear.

Happened to see a very similar bag in Mountain Warehouse for only £30 - IIRC it was 20+5L expandable with enough pockets and included raincover. Only thing is, it's not 'cycling specific', so there are no reflective markings or LED loop, and the raincover is black... think it's probably worth spending a wee bit extra for increased commuting visibility.

 

[mrmacmusic]

Update: ended up buying the Vaude Alpin 25+5 at the excellent sale price from Edinburgh Bicycle

I managed to see the Vaude alongside the Deuter options (in Evans as it turns out), and preferred the storage potential with the Vaude but more importantly felt that the Aeroflex mesh back thingy was more comfortable than the Airstripes system on the Deuter. Now that I've had my first commute with it I can say that I'm very happy – I didn't have a sweaty back, and with the adjustable strap length and hip-belt allowing me to fit the pack properly and take most of the weight on my hips, it turned out to be very comfortable, even when loaded. It will take me a few more rides to get used to the re-positioning of my centre of gravity though.

Now for my day-in, day-out all-weather commuter questions...

Firstly, whilst it has a rain cover, I'm presuming that the 420D polyurethane coated material from which the pack is made is waterproof to a degree? Would it be wise to put some form of waterproofing on top, and can anyone recommend a suitable product?

Secondly – and I may contact Vaude about this – won't that flap for poking your hydration hose through just let in rain, even if it's not chucking it down? It's just two overlapping flaps of material and I do think it's the only negative part of an otherwise well designed and thought-out bag. I don't use a hydration pack, so I'm considering sealing the opening, but not sure how best to go about it. Thoughts?