With their first bike rucksack with integrated back protector, the product developers at Osprey are focussing on Tried and tested, such as the practical Lid-Lock helmet mount and wide hip wings with large storage compartments. On the other side, a lightweight protector plate made of D3O foam, a durable aluminium buckle and a roll-out tool compartment are used.
Osprey Raptor Pro: Info and prices
- Fastening options for standard and full-face helmets
- Integrated roll-up tool wrap for tools
- Weight: 1308 grammes
- 335 gram lightweight D3O CE Level 1 back protector
- 18 litre storage space
- Bladder compartment and magnetic holder for drinking tube
- Main compartment and goggle-compatible goggle compartment
- Ergonomically shaped shoulder straps
- Breathable AirScape foam back system
- Price: 240 Euro (incl. protector)
Features and structure of the Osprey protector backpack
Osprey pursues the most sustainable approach possible with its products. It is therefore not surprising that the robust 210D nylon used by the developers for the outer shell of the Raptor Pro Protector rucksack is Bluesign certified, PFC-free and complies with the guidelines of the Global Recycled Standard. Osprey goes its own way with the design of the MTB backpack. For example, the hydration bladder is conveniently located in a separate compartment, making it easier to refill on the go. The drinking tube is concealed over the shoulder and held securely on the chest strap by a magnet. However, you are restricted to the right-hand side when routing the drinking tube.
The brightly lined and wide-opening main compartment has room for a change of clothes and various accessories in three separate compartments. There is also a zip pocket for keys, small change etc. The goggle compartment at the top front is scratch-free and can also hold a pair of goggles. The Osprey Raptor Pro does not have a tool compartment on the front, as offered by many other manufacturers. Instead, there is a special tool compartment in the base of the protector backpack, which contains a removable tool roll with a small storage area. Although this offers sufficient space for the most necessary tools, it is noticeable from the first time you fill it that the eyelets for the mini pump are too tight, even for slim models.
Osprey Raptor Pro with ergonomically shaped shoulder straps
Osprey has slightly widened the contact surface of the ergonomically shaped shoulder straps for optimum support even on steep descents. The hip wings are nice and large and enclose the hips comfortably and securely. Large storage compartments provide quick access to bars or similar accessories. The metal buckle on the hip belt increases durability and should withstand even the hardest impacts. However, you have to get used to the somewhat awkward handling. In contrast, the magnetic fastener on the chest strap is again particularly practical and intuitive to use.
A sturdy cover on the front serves as an additional drawer for a jacket, shirt etc. and as a holder for the full-face helmet. There is also the tried-and-tested Lid-Lock mount for normal open-face helmets, which is simply threaded through the ventilation opening of the helmet and reliably holds the helmet on the MTB backpack.
For the back system of the Raptor Pro, Osprey uses a structured foam panel. On the one hand, this ensures a stable fit close to the body, but on the other, it should also allow sufficient fresh air to reach the back. Hidden behind the back system is the 335 gram protector plate made from flexible D3O foam. This means that you should be ideally equipped for bike park use and optimally protected in the event of a fall.
Osprey Raptor Pro - load up and go
Integrating the tool compartment into the base of the bike rucksack is actually a clever idea. It ensures a low centre of gravity close to the body, which has a positive effect on the carrying comfort of the Osprey Raptor Pro. However, the tool roll is quite compact, so there may not be room for all your equipment. This is particularly problematic for the pump and spare tube, as the compartments are simply too small. Access itself is also somewhat awkward. Before you can even get to the tools, you have to open the bottom compartment and unroll the tool wrap. This is quicker with classic tool compartments.
The large, brightly lined main compartment, which also has three additional drawers, deserves a positive mention. However, there is also some criticism here, as the compartment can only be opened after the compression straps of the outer drawer have been opened - small details that can be a bit annoying in the long run. The zips with their large eyelets are easy to grip and run smoothly throughout.
The large pockets on the hip wings of the Osprey Raptor Pro are also practical because they provide quick access to mini-tools or bars without having to take off the MTB backpack first. However, there is no room for a modern, large smartphone in the side pockets. The handling of the hydration bladder compartment is equally impressive. The zip cover runs over the shoulder and not only protects the hydration tube. It also opens the compartment enough to allow the bladder to be easily removed for refilling. There's no fiddling around like with backpacks where the hydration bladder is integrated into the main compartment.
The Raptor Pro MTB backpack on the trail
The Osprey Raptor Pro backpack can be adjusted to the wearer's back in just a few simple steps. Thanks to its wide shoulder straps and flared hip wings, it immediately feels secure to carry. However, this is also partly due to the close-fitting back panel. Although this hardly allows for much ventilation, in practice it ensures that the Raptor Pro hardly bounces even when shaken. Four lashing straps allow the protector backpack to be additionally compressed and adapted to the respective filling.
Even if the handling of the metal buckle on the hip belt is a little unfamiliar at first, you get the hang of it quite quickly in practice. The metal eyelets then impress above all with their stability. The direction of pull when adjusting the hip belt is also practical. The adjustment loops are attached to the hip wings so that you pull forwards instead of backwards to tighten the belt.
Conclusion Osprey Raptor Pro
Osprey's first protector backpack, the Raptor Pro, scores points with its high level of comfort, secure fit and clever details, such as the Lid-Lock helmet holder, the extra hydration bladder compartment with magnetic holder for the hydration tube and clean-running compression straps. The storage of tools in the bottom compartment is refreshingly different from the usual candidates on the market, but not quite thought through to the end. Although the tool roll lowers the centre of gravity, it doesn't offer enough space for comprehensive touring equipment, let alone a mini pump. Thanks to the robust materials, the Raptor Pro bike backpack should survive many a fall and, with D3O Level 1 protector, also protect the wearer from injury. At a price of 240 euros, we would definitely have liked to see a rain cover included in the equipment. The new Raptor Pro will be available in stores from spring 2023.
Stefan Frey
Editor
