Ruroc Riding Backpack

RRP £49.00 with free delivery from ruroc.com

My old motorcycle rucksack had given me years of flawless service but had begun to resemble something from an apocalyptic wasteland. While it served me well, time and use had taken their toll - frayed straps, worn seams, and a general look of exhaustion. So, when Ruroc sent over their new Riding Backpack for testing, I was eager to see if it could live up to my old faithful. Spoiler, it’s been nothing short of a revelation.

 When I think about a bike backpack, I have a few non-negotiables: ample space, plenty of pockets, top-notch comfort, weather resistance, and most importantly, long-term durability. The Ruroc Riding Backpack checks all these boxes and more. With a generous 38-40 litre capacity, this bag offers more than enough space for all the essentials and then some. Whether it's my computer, tools, snacks, extra layers, or even a spare pair of shoes, this bag handles it all. Plus, with 4 external pockets, 2 zipped side pockets, 6 internal pockets, a laptop sleeve pocket and an easy-access front compartment, it’s a breeze to stay organised. No more rummaging around in a bottomless pit of gear; everything has its place.

Comfort On Long Rides

Let’s talk comfort, because when you're on the bike, this is the deal-breaker. The back panel of the Ruroc Riding Backpack is firm yet cushioned, ensuring you don’t feel the contents digging into your back. The shoulder straps are generously padded, fully adjustable, and have easy draw pulls to tighten and release the bag to your back. The chest strap keeps the shoulder straps in place, and this is a small feature that I feel makes a huge difference. The chest straps ensure the bag doesn’t shift while you’re riding, no matter the speed or how rough the terrain is. One of the clips that connects the chest strap has a clever whistle built in, so if the unthinkable happens and you end up in a crumpled heap, you can be heard and found.  And let's not forget the GoPro camera clip on this strap, which is secure, easy to use, and perfect for capturing your journey.

Rain? No Problem.

The Ruroc Riding Backpack is crafted from durable, water-resistant materials, all designed to keep the elements out. It’s marketed as 100% waterproof, and I put it to the test in a biblical rainstorm on my way through France. After several hours of heavy rain, everything inside stayed dry. That said, like most backpacks, some water might sneak in through the zips. But in my experience, it handles wet weather like a champ, keeping your gear where it belongs - on the inside and dry!

Design That Doesn’t Compromise

Ruroc has always been known for blending style with functionality, and this backpack is no exception. At first glance, it doesn’t scream “motorcycle gear,” even with its high-vis logos; instead, it feels like an extension of your riding kit rather than just another bag. I have put this bag through its paces with commutes, long trips, varying weather and heavy loads, and it still looks pristine with no fraying, no fading, and no signs of wear. It’s a bag that’s built to last and designed well. 

Performance, On and Off the Bike

Whether I’m embarking on a long-distance ride or commuting through city traffic, the Ruroc Riding Backpack stays securely in place, feels light, and most importantly, doesn’t dig into my back; it's very comfortable. I don’t just use it for biking, and on days when I’m not riding, this bag still gets a lot of use. The comfort and style translate seamlessly into everyday life, so when I ditch the bike and walk, this backpack still holds its own. It doesn’t look out of place, whether I'm hitting the trails or the coffee shop.

Final Thoughts

Ruroc has really knocked it out of the park with this one. If you're in the market for a backpack that combines durability, comfort, and versatility, the Ruroc Riding Backpack is hard to beat. So whether you’re navigating commuting traffic, enduring a long ride, battling weather, or simply carrying your daily essentials, this bag is built to handle whatever life and the road throw at it. If you want a backpack that looks the part and performs like a true companion, this one’s a winner at a great price.