When Hannibal crossed the Alps back then, he probably didn't have to worry too much about his luggage. More than 50,000 men and 37 elephants marched in his entourage back then - so there must have been someone to carry his change of clothes. When mountain bikers make their way to the other side of the main Alpine ridge today, the route is far less arduous and not nearly as dangerous as it was back then. But even before the first turn of the pedals, they are faced with a logistical mental exercise: an entire corner shop's worth of belongings has to fit into a rucksack that should be no bigger than a supermarket shopping bag. And in the best case, it should weigh no more than seven kilos. Only nine manufacturers have a Transalp-compatible model in their range that is suitable for such an endeavour. We tested them and found out which bike backpack is best suited for a multi-day tour in the Alps.
You can find these MTB backpacks for Alpine crossings and long tours in the test:
- Cube AMS 30+5
- Dakine AMP 24
- Deuter Attack Tour 28 (BIKE Tip: Comfort)
- Ergon BX4
- Evoc Explorer 30l (BIKE Tip: Handling)
- Jack Wolfskin Rock Surfer 30.5
- Osprey Escapist 25
- Shimano Hotaka 26
- Vaude Bike Alpin 25+5 (BIKE tip: test winner)
The Packing list for a Transalp fills an entire A4 page and half a day later takes up almost the entire floor of the test office. The most difficult part of the task follows: stowing the extensive equipment in the rucksack is like undoing the Gordian knot - you start all over again countless times, only to realise in frustration at the end: The frequently required compass map is lost somewhere in the endless expanse of the main compartment. Everyone has their own idea of organisation. That's why it's important that the organisation of your bags corresponds to your personal idea of order. Nevertheless, a few basic compartments have proved particularly useful: a spacious main compartment with a separate bottom compartment; a well organised tool compartment, easily accessible compartments on the sides and hip straps and a flat compartment for cards, smartphone or wallet. The rest is a matter of taste.
The models from Cube, Jack Wolfskin, Osprey and Vaude in particular are clearly structured. Evoc takes bag management to perfection. Not even the national football team is better organised. Although the Deuter lacks a separate bottom compartment, the main compartment can be opened so wide that it is easily accessible right down to the last corner. According to the manufacturer, all models offer enough space for a week in the Alps. However, Dakine and Jack Wolfskin are a little tight. We couldn't fit more than 24 and 23 litres of packing volume into the two models with the best will in the world. Here, renunciation instead of gluttony is the order of the day. If you compare the weight of the backpack with the packing volume, three models stand out in particular: Osprey and Vaude use very light materials, which of course has a positive effect on the weight. The AMS from Cube stands out due to its huge volume alone. At Deuter, solid materials and the integrated protector add to the weight. The difference between the lightest and heaviest models is 862 grams - a world of difference in this category. However, with Deuter you could leave out the back plate if necessary and save 300 grams.
Crossing the Alps means doing without. However, a high level of carrying comfort is essential. This is the first point you should check when buying a rucksack. If the back system does not fit the wearer, pain is inevitable after a few days in the saddle at the latest. You should therefore always try out the rucksack in the shop with the weight you intend to carry. A climbing rope is a good test weight for this.
Hip belt, chest strap and shoulder strap - all models in the test can be extensively adjusted. Cube, Deuter, Evoc, Osprey and Vaude can also be made more compact on the back by adjusting the position on the shoulders - for technical descents, for example. The back length of three models can even be individually adjusted. This is a great advantage because Ergon, Osprey and Vaude can always be positioned correctly on the hip bones. As a rule, most of the weight should rest on them - the shoulder straps merely hold the pack in position. Wide hip straps should be part of the basic equipment for rucksacks of this size anyway. They stabilise the heavy load and ensure that you are not suddenly carrying your luggage on your stomach at the end of the descent.
Incidentally, when Hannibal arrived on the north side of the Alps after 16 days, he only had one of his 37 elephants left - and probably no change of clothes.
With the right bike rucksack, you still have to lug your luggage over the mountains yourself, but you are guaranteed to arrive at your destination more relaxed.
Packing correctly - you could easily take a separate seminar for this. We show you how to best utilise the pockets of your MTB rucksack for your belongings.
You can tell whether a manufacturer has really thought about the design by the practical details.
Interview with Peter Brodschelm, tour guide and founder of Fahrtwind:
"Comfort always comes before weight!"
What should be the maximum weight of the Transalp rucksack?
Of course, this depends very much on the rider's height. As a rule of thumb, however, the rucksack should not weigh more than six to seven kilos. With good equipment, however, you can easily get under that.
What are classic packing mistakes?
Weight distribution is usually the biggest problem. Heavy things belong at the bottom. A low centre of gravity is simply safer on the trail. But if you get back pain in the lumbar region, you should distribute the load over your shoulders.
What should you avoid when packing?
Many bikers are travelling with absolutely high-tech equipment, but then pull a pair of heavy jeans out of their rucksack in the evening - which of course makes no sense. If you're travelling for several days, every hundred grams really does matter.
Is there a trick to keeping your rucksack tidy?
Discipline. This means you can keep almost any rucksack organised. This is more difficult with toploaders than with models with a bottom compartment. It is best if the main compartment can be opened completely. A change of clothes for the day goes on top, with a plastic bag underneath for the evening. This protects them from moisture and odours.
What does the perfect Transalp rucksack look like?
Comfort is more important than weight. Good rucksacks are already very light these days, but if in doubt, I would always go for something more comfortable and start with equipment that is as light as possible. Too many compartments are only for frequent travellers. If you only need a rucksack for one Transalp a year, you will get lost in the variety of pockets and will only be searching. However, there should still be easily accessible compartments for tools, a first aid kit and food. A volume of 25 litres is enough for me.
Water bladder or water bottle, what do you recommend?
I only recommend hydration bladders for frequent drinkers. However, always in conjunction with a bottle on the frame. Filling up a hydration bladder at a source can be quite annoying.
Do I have to get used to the rucksack before the start?
If you have the time, you should definitely break in the rucksack with the appropriate weight. You have to adapt your riding technique to the weight, especially on trails. The setup on the bike also needs to be changed due to the increased weight. In particular, bikers who are out and about without a rucksack after work often have problems with this
CUBE AMS 30+5
Price/Info 149,95 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1291 gram / 30 + 5 (35) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Rain cover, tool bag, helmet holder, protector straps, volume extension, map compartment / not available
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 9 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION Cube's space miracle tempts you to pack more than you need. The backpack manufactured by Deuter is very comfortable to wear and is well ventilated. The layout is well organised and the removable tool roll is clever. Some of the compartments could open a little wider. The large AMS can easily bump into the helmet on steep slopes.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
DAKINE AMP 24
Price/Info 119,95 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1086 gram / 24 (19) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Helmet holder, zipped side pockets, optional rain cover (20 euros) / 3 litres: 20 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 6 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION Small volume, short back - the AMP is more suitable for small bikers, and even they have to pack sparingly for multi-day tours. The front compartments are well organised, but the main compartment can be opened wider - there is no separate bottom compartment. The back system cools very well, but is a little bulky, especially on the shoulders.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
DEUTER Attack Tour 28
Price/Info 199,95 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1845 / 1511 gram / 28 (27) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Back protector, rain cover, helmet holder, mobile phone compartment on the side, tool compartment / hydration bladder compartment 2 / 3 litres: 29.95 / 32.95 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 10 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 10 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 6 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The Deuter is perfectly structured - all compartments open completely. Even without a bottom compartment, you can keep an overview. Carrying comfort and fit in the terrain are excellent, the hip wings take a lot of weight off the shoulders. Extremely robust, clever details and a protector - which of course puts pressure on the scales. A good alternative to the classic Trans Alpine.
BIKE judgement³ SUPER
ERGON BX4
Price/Info 129,95 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1199 gram / 30 + 5 (31) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Length adjustment, rain cover, hydration bladder compartment, tool compartment, front drawer / 2 / 3 litres: 29.95 / 32.95 Euro
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 7 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 6 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 6 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 5 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The BX4 fits perfectly thanks to its adjustable back length. It offers plenty of storage space, but unfortunately there is no compartmentalisation in the main compartment. The tool compartment is somewhat difficult to access. The back system only rests on points and is well ventilated. However, the narrow straps and inflexible back panel cut into the shoulders. Poorly finished seams and straps spoil the impression.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
EVOC Explorer 30l
Price/Info 140 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1274 gram / 30 (29) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Rain cover, helmet holder (also for full-face helmets), hydration bladder compartment, tool compartment, map compartment / 2 / 3 litres: 33 / 37 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 9 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 10 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION A rucksack could hardly be designed more clearly: All compartments open wide and are superbly organised. The workmanship is also excellent. Thanks to its wide design, the Explorer sits securely on the hips - even in rough terrain - but restricts the freedom of movement at the shoulders somewhat. Very comfortable to wear, but somewhat poorly ventilated on long rides.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
JACK WOLFSKIN Rock Surfer 30.5
Price/Info 149,95 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1109 gram / 30.5 (23) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Neoprene hip belt with Velcro, shoulder strap pocket, rain cover, helmet holder, tool compartment / 2 litres: 29.95 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 6 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 9 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The Rock Surfer is clearly laid out and easy to pack, but somewhat difficult to access when fully loaded. In general, it takes up considerably less space than stated - on long tours, space is at a premium. The wide hip belt sits securely, but the shoulder straps offer little support. The soft padding sits comfortably on the back, but is sweaty and the back panel bulges slightly.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
OSPREY Escapist 25
Price/Info 100 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 983 gram / 25 (26) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Rain cover, hydration bladder compartment, helmet holder, tool compartment, length adjustment / 1.5 / 2.5 litres: 26 / 28 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 9 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION Lightweight, well thought-out and well organised: The Escapist offers many useful detailed solutions and a successful pocket layout. The carrying system can be adjusted in length and sits very comfortably and securely on the back. The weight distribution is not quite optimal, so the Osprey wobbles slightly on the descent. When fully loaded, the back can bulge out. The compartments could open a little wider.
BIKE judgement³ VERY GOOD
SHIMANO Hotaka 26
Price/Info 109,95 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 1043 gram / 26 (26) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Rain cover, first aid kit, shoulder strap pocket, front pouch, helmet holder / 2 / 3 litres: 27.50 / 29.95 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 7 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 6 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 8 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The lightweight Hotaka offers just enough space for multi-day tours. The organisation of the pockets is somewhat unfavourable: there is no structured tool compartment and the subdivisions in the main compartment are hardly usable when fully loaded. The carrying system is comfortable, but also a little sweaty. The hip wings sit a little high. The first aid kit, goggle holder and front compartment are useful details.
BIKE judgement³ GOOD
VAUDE Bike Alpin 25+5
Price/Info 110 Euro
Weight / volume¹ 992 gram / 25 + 5 (26) Litre
Equipment / hydration system Length adjustment, rain cover, helmet holder, tool compartment, volume extension / 2 / 3 litres: 35 / 37 euros
Bike rating
Wearing comfort (35 %) 9 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 9 out of 10 points
Weight² (20 %) 10 out of 10 points
Equipment (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
CONCLUSION The lightweight Vaude impresses above all with its carrying system, which can be adjusted in length and ensures good cooling thanks to the airy straps and hip wings - making the rucksack extremely comfortable to wear. The pocket layout is also very successful, the Bike Alpin is easy to pack and clearly organised. When fully loaded, it stands a little far away from the back and can wobble slightly on the descent.
BIKE judgement³ SUPER
¹BIKE measured values: measured volume bolded
²Weight in relation to the measured packing volume
The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Stefan Frey
Editor
