Strong messenger bags- Crumpler vs. Timbuk2...or others...have questions!!

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Aug 8, 1999
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Okay, I've been looking at some Timbuk2 messenger/shoulder bags and also at Crumpler...they both seem pretty cool. I have a Chrome bag- the thing's awesome, but it doesn't seem to fit me the way I like...so Chrome's out.
What I'm wondering about is if anybody here has a Timbuk2 or Crumpler- is the cross-strap removeable? (it's the thin strap that goes across the chest for holding the bag once you're bicycling for stabilization)...? How would you rate either of these for their pockets?
Also, anybody have any other good links for quality messenger/shoulder bags?
Thanks!
 
I have a 7 yo Timbuk2 that has been an excellent bag for me. The strap on mine is removable and the pockets have worked for my needs. It's been to 3 years of college and a few years on the job and it really shows no wear.
 
Thanks, Big Deeee (how many eeees were there?)...that's the main question I had, the cross-strap being removeable. I do bike, but I don't use one of these bags much for that purpose, so I only need the main shoulder strap.
 
I have two Timbuk2 bags and absolutly love them, especially my newer model. The newest ones have some great pockets inside that the older one didn't have. I like the cross strap when I'm on my bike but for other use I just tighten it up and have it run across the back of the bag. It is totally removeable if you wish though. I really can't recomend these bags highly enough, they are just great. I work at a bike shop and all of us employees use them and they can really take a beating. Plus, you get to design your own color scheme if you wish.
 
I been hit a FEW;) times at work in Portland and San Francisco, and no bag has stood up to pavement sliding, comfortability and the ever-important discerning tactical eye, like my Pac Bags(I have an 'ultimate' currently). They are made in Canada by this nice lady and ex-messenger, Pat. I am on my 2nd bag only because I wanted a smaller one(I use to rock the Ultimate OS. Check it out- they even have an EXTRA strap to make an 'X' across your body for backpack like support:eek::)!!! They are pricey though... I sadly bestowed my first messenger bag, a timbuktu, to one of my best friends, but retain the fond memories of it. My second favorite bag is my Chrome backpack(the BIG one), which I had to start using due to the loss of feeling in my left shoulder. It has since sorta returned, so I'm gonna use my NEW Pac 'ultimate'... for a bit. I have owned at least three of Chrome's messenger bags with the seatbelt buckles, but have either traded or given them away. I am a conniseur of messenger bags, and if you would like a truly custom messenger bag, by messengers, I would recommend getting a R.E.load(reload) bag from Elle, a really hip, fun, sorta-famous-in-the-world-of-messengers, wannabes, groupies(believe it or not we do have 'em) and punk-rock scene. I think she's hot too :o, and really nice to me. She or her associates, will put anything from a sword pocket, gun pocket, whatever color scheme or logo/ design, secret bazooka compartment, etc... whatever you want or can imagine:eek: :D One day I'll quit blowin' all my cash-money on knives and related items and take elle(she's so hot on her track bike...) out to coffee and cigarettes to discuss my end-of-the-world-messenger-bag:D If you get one from her, tell her Nacho sent you... heck if you get one from West coast chrome or Pac, tell 'em Nacho sent you... OK Ok ok, here are the links already:

If you want a tactical-live-on-your-bike sorta bag,
http://www.pacdesigns.com/shoulder.htm

If your ready to GET ready for the end-of-the-world... on your bike,
http://www.reloadbags.com/index.html

If you wanna use the common sense I lack and be able to WALK around with loads, and FEEL your shoulder after a while:
http://www.chromebags.com/messengerpacks.html

-I hope no one needs to even ASK if they are 110% waterproof...;) :D
-They ALL make right or left swing.
-Email me If anyone is interested in a Chrome Pack

EasEWryder
 
I love the Timbuk2 bags and the newest ones have some great pockets designed into them. I'd recommend them. I've used them since I was in college and they're great bags and super sturdy.

I also just got a Chrome bag and so far I like it better than the Timbuk2's except that it's not super friendly when you want to switch shoulders. It's comfortable though and easy to get on and off with that buckle (none of that over the head business). The pockets on it are really nice too, better than the Timbuk2's I have (all over 2 years old, the new ones are different and I think better but I haven't gotten to really use them so I can't say for sure).

I'm going to have to check out some of the other bags mentioned in this thread, they sound great.

Later,

Rob
 
Thanks to all!!
I checked out Courierware.com- those things look like they're bomb-proof! I also checked out the other sites listed....
I opted on buying a Timbuk2, the medium messenger bag. I would have bought a Courierware bag; the pockets on the Deluxe Messenger bag are really well thought out. The bag being all black with just one solid color on the front flap just didn't seem to suit me.
I didn't get a custom made Timbuk2 (maybe some other time). The one I bought was already in stock at Gearguys.com, it's silver in the middle with red on both ends/sides of the front. I think it looks pretty awesome.
Also, Gearguys is throwing in a free shoulder strap for more comfort when carrying heavier loads- pretty cool...
The final touch will be a NewSunGear G3 Clam hooked onto one of the D-rings of the bag, just to give me more options for "external" carry and quick retrieval of small items (I'm going to use my own Black Diamond locking carabiner- the same one that doubles as a wicked brass knuckles/kubaton type toy)...
Cool, new gear in-bound!!
 
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