Mountain bike backpacks are as versatile as mountain biking itself. When searching for the right bike backpack, the area of use and your requirements determine which model is best for you. A multi-day tour with lots of gear? A bike park visit with back protector, hydration bladder, and essential tools? A quick evening ride with just a repair kit and a light jacket? There’s a suitable bike backpack for every occasion! These backpacks differ not only in volume but also in their features. Depending on the model, they may include a helmet holder, a protector mount, a compartment for a spare battery, a back protector, or a hydration bladder. For optimal comfort, an ergonomic carrying system with adjustable back length, comfortable chest strap, hip belt, and shoulder straps is essential.

“A good MTB backpack must sit comfortably and securely on your hips and have a mountain bike-specific fit,” explains Bjørn Altenhofer, Product Designer at Ergon. If the backpack bounces on your back while riding trails or causes pressure points or tension in your neck and shoulders, the ride won’t be enjoyable. “To prevent this, an ergonomic bike backpack should include an adjustable back length, a width-adjustable hip belt, a height- and width-adjustable chest strap, and shoulder straps that match your shoulder width,” continues Altenhofer. Take a look at our article on the topic of “Correctly adjusting your MTB backpack”.

Depending on the intended use, the ideal size and features of your backpack will vary. Choosing the right backpack size (measured in liters) ensures you have enough volume without overloading. Selecting the correct type of backpack ensures you have features tailored to your activity, such as specific pockets, compartments, straps, or mounts that make packing easier and more convenient.

To help you find the perfect backpack for your needs, mountain bike backpacks are available in a variety of designs. For a multi-day tour, such as an alpine crossing where you carry your gear, you’ll need a backpack with sufficient volume, a smart compartment layout, and a comfortable carrying system. For a day tour, you can opt for a smaller volume to save weight. In both cases, the backpack will be on your back for an extended period, so it must fit snugly and conform well to your body. Comfortable and well-ventilated back padding, a stable and well-padded hip belt that carries most of the load, and well-fitting shoulder straps are essential. A hydration system is ideal, as you’ll need plenty of fluids on your ride. Easily accessible hip pockets for snacks are also a convenient feature. Water-resistant materials and a suitable rain cover are must-haves for an MTB touring backpack.

If you frequently ride trails, a stable fit is crucial. Think carefully about what you want to carry: Is it usually a short evening ride on your local trails with just the essentials? Or do you also go on full-day mountain tours? Choose the right size accordingly – for short rides, a hip pack might be sufficient. All-mountain backpacks typically include helmet and protector mounts for quick storage of a second helmet, chin guard, or protectors. Many trail backpacks also offer the option to include a back protector, making them protective backpacks. For day tours, it’s wise to carry more than one liter of water and ideally choose a backpack with a hydration bladder. A dedicated compartment keeps the bladder secure and prevents it from bouncing around. If you ride an e-MTB and want to carry a spare battery, consider backpacks with specially designed battery compartments to keep it securely in place.

For racing, a lightweight backpack with minimal volume is ideal, offering space for a hydration system, essential tools, and possibly a light rain jacket. For bike park use, minimalist backpacks with back protectors are also available.

You should always carry the following items in your mountain bike backpack:

• Essential tools and spare parts to fix a flat tire, repair a broken chain, and tighten loose bolts. Depending on the length of your ride, you may need additional tools and spares.
• A rain or wind jacket, especially in the mountains. Even on short evening rides, the weather can change quickly, and you’ll be glad to have protection against cooling down.
• Plenty of fluids and snacks.
• Emergency cash, health insurance card, phone, and house or car keys should also have a secure place in your backpack.

Most backpacks – and all Ergon backpacks – offer various compartments to store these items. A well-organized tool compartment with small pockets and holders in the front makes it easy to find the right tool or spare part. A separate hydration bladder compartment prevents it from moving around. The main compartment holds a rain jacket and other larger items. A smaller, separate pocket keeps money and cards safe. Ideally, there’s also a key strap for extra security. A padded hip pocket can hold your phone, especially if you need to stay reachable during the ride. A separate compartment for the rain cover is also practical, allowing quick access when it suddenly starts to rain. Take a look at our article on “Packing your MTB backpack correctly”.

When buying your new MTB backpack, pay attention to the following:

• The carrying system should be adjustable to your size and back length, and all straps should fit your hip, chest, and shoulder dimensions.
• Ensure the backpack sits firmly on your hips and that your hips carry the main load.
• Select the right backpack size and type that suits your needs and intended use. This ensures all essential items fit and are easily accessible thanks to specific compartment layouts.

Now, enjoy your next ride!