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The days when bike backpacks were used solely as storage space are long gone. Enduro riders and freeriders are not the only ones who know this: A rucksack primarily protects the spine in the event of a fall. Without one, many bikers feel naked and unprotected - and not just since Evoc launched the first backpack with an integrated protector on the market.
Protector backpacks protect against impacts from the outside, but also against injuries caused by objects inside the backpack. But what about the protective function when the rucksack also has to accommodate a heavy spare battery? Three backpack manufacturers have taken up the challenge and developed special packs for e-MTB riders. We have extensively tested the three models in practice.
The difference between the needs of normal mountain bikers and e-mountain bikers is therefore the spare battery. If this is left unsecured in the backpack, it becomes an incalculable danger in the event of a fall - the bolide, which weighs between two and three kilos depending on the model, can stamp unhindered into the rider's back in the event of a fall. The built-in protector is therefore a must for a special E-MTB backpack. This simply distributes the pressure over a larger area and thus protects against injuries. All three E-MTB backpacks have this back protection, which can also be removed if necessary.
But even the best protector is of little use if the battery is not sufficiently secured. And this is where the three manufacturers take different approaches. Evoc offers a particularly solid system. Here, the battery sits in a padded pocket that is closed with Velcro. Another wide Velcro strap sits in the centre and is firmly attached to the back of the rucksack. Even large batteries can be securely fastened here. The battery can also be easily secured in the Ergon rucksack. However, this is a little more complicated and not quite as space-saving as with Evoc. In addition, only the classic small batteries from Bosch and Shimano fit here. Even with the new Bosch Powertube system, the Ergon has to fit for space reasons. The Amplifi, on the other hand, does not secure the charge sufficiently. The battery sits in a flexible neoprene sheath and is held in place with undersized, equally stretchy Velcro straps. These have no connection to the back section. The force does not even have to be great to throw the battery around inside the rucksack.
The test results of these three backpacks with an extra battery compartment can be found on the next page:
In addition to the safety-relevant aspects, we analysed the backpacks for their suitability for touring. Capacity, organisation, handling - how well can the equipment be stowed away? We have put together a list of things that we think you should have in your luggage for a one-day tour. Whether you need a charger is up to you to decide. In any case, all the items on our list found their place in all the rucksacks. Although the Ergon BA3 is the smallest of them all, it turned out to be a real packing miracle.
The bottom line is that Evoc and Ergon are particularly suitable for E-MTBs. Both are very well made, safe when transporting the spare battery and have sufficient volume. The Amplifi model offers plenty of space, good organisation and high carrying comfort, but has weaknesses when it comes to securing the battery.
Equipment for the tour: We have tested this packing list:
The test results
Amplifi E-Track
Price 200,00 Euro >> available here
Weight 1657 grammes
Volume¹ / Sizes 23³, 17 litres / one size fits all
Equipment Back protector, attachment for protectors, key holder, rain cover, tool compartment, goggle compartment, helmet holder, whistle, hip belt pockets
Drinking system No own drinking system
Battery compartment size Fits all battery sizes
EMTB rating
Wearing comfort 5 out of 6 points
Ventilation 5 out of 6 points
Handling 4 out of 6 points
Safety² 3 out of 6 points
Conclusion The biggest of them all. Still very comfortable to wear. The tool pocket is on the outside and is easily accessible. The two pockets on the hip belt are also great. Plenty of space overall. But: A little fiddly to pack because of the hooks on the straps and because the main compartment cannot be fully opened. And: The battery cannot be lashed down tightly enough.
Ergon BA3 E Protect
Price 179,95 Euro >> available here
Weight 1485 grammes
Volume¹ / Sizes 15 + 2³, 10 litres / one size fits all
Equipment Back protector, attachment for protectors, rain cover, tool compartment, goggle compartment, helmet holder, optional camera chest mount (19.95 euros), hip bag
Drinking system 1.5 litres: 32.95 euros
Battery compartment size Only suitable for smaller batteries
EMTB rating
Wearing comfort 5 out of 6 points
Ventilation 6 out of 6 points
Handling 5 out of 6 points
Safety² 6 out of 6 points
Conclusion A real space miracle. There is also just enough space for a two-day tour - with a small battery and small hydration bladder. The ventilation works great, the padding presses a little on the pelvic bones. The tool compartment is not freely accessible, but this is not a problem thanks to the click fasteners. Universal size S to XL (adjustable), small and handy. Good workmanship.
Evoc FR Trail E-Ride
Price 220,00 Euro >> available here
Weight 1456 grammes
Volume¹ / Sizes 20 litres³ / S, ML
Equipment Back protector, display compartment, key holder, rain cover, tool compartment, glasses compartment, mobile phone pocket, helmet holder, whistle, charger holder
Drinking system 2 or 3 litres: 35 / 37 euros
Battery compartment size Fits all battery sizes
EMTB rating
Wearing comfort 5 out of 6 points
Ventilation 4 out of 6 points
Handling 6 out of 6 points
Safety² 6 out of 6 points
Conclusion Well thought-out, clearly organised and very high-quality backpack. Offers an additional holder for the charger in addition to the battery compartment. Unfortunately, the hip pockets are missing and the drinking tube routing at the bottom is not ideal. The tool compartment is also concealed by the straps, but is still easily accessible thanks to the click fasteners.
Manufacturer information
²This is how securely the battery can be lashed down.
The greased volume was tested
