A lightweight companion for your rides: The Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14 – a review

For a long time, the German outdoor equipment supplier did not stock any specialist cycling rucksacks. With the MTB 14 Bike Backpack Has that changed now? The 14-litre rucksack with a mesh back system has a rather simple design and is aimed primarily at classic touring cyclists who prefer less technical terrain.

For the back system, Tatonka has opted for a frame construction with stretched mesh, which should ensure good ventilation. Although the rucksack has a hip belt, it lacks larger hip wings, which could improve stability on descents. A tool compartment with a few dividers and a padded glasses pocket holds small items and tools, whilst the main compartment has no additional compartments. The lining could be a little lighter in colour for better visibility.

​>> Comparison: 9 MTB rucksacks for touring, trail riding and enduro put to the test

>> How to adjust your cycling rucksack correctly: 5 tips for optimum comfort

On the outside, the Tatonka features two classic mesh pockets for water bottles, as well as a drawer that can also be used as a helmet holder. A rain cover is also included.

​​We tested these 9 mountain bike rucksacks:

• ​Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 >> available here
• ​Deuter Compact 14+3 >> available here
• Evoc Stage 18 >> available here
• Osprey Raptor 14 >> available here
• Rockrider MTB Hydration Rucksack 12 L >> available here
• Scott Trail Rocket 20 >> available here
• Tatonka MTB 14 Bike Backpack >> available here
• Thule Rail eMTB 18L >> available here
• Vaude Trailcontrol 20+ >> available here

Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14 – Details & Price

• Price: 140 euros >> Available here at a reduced price
• Weight: 1006 grams
• Back system: stretched mesh back
• Facilities: Rain cover, front drawer, full-face helmet holder
• Hydration bladder: no / not available
• Volume measured / stated: 13 / 14 litres

Limited space and a lack of visibility

The Tatonka isn’t exactly a space wonder – more like a VW Golf than a VW Bus – and that becomes clear very quickly when you’re packing. If you don’t like to limit what you take with you, you’d be better off choosing a larger rucksack. Especially with a hydration bladder, things quickly get cramped and a bit of a mess in the main compartment. The layout of the tool compartment is fine and offers plenty of storage space, but the individual pockets overlap, which makes it tricky to use. What’s more, both compartments only open halfway – so you have to feel around for anything lying further down in the rucksack.

Without hip wings, of course, there are no hip pockets either, where you could at least stow a few small items for quick access. You won’t find any straps for protective gear either, but with a bit of ingenuity, knee pads and a full-face helmet can also be attached to the attached drawer.

​​>> MTB rucksacks then and now: the Deuter Bike 1 rucksack from 1991 vs. the Deuter Attack 2024​

>> Deuter Rogla 5 hydration vest: a vest-style rucksack for gravel bike and MTB tours

>> Handy MTB accessories: all-rounders – these items fit in any rucksack

Light and airy, but not very supportive

Thanks to its pre-tensioned back system, the Tatonka offers clear advantages when it comes to ventilation. There’s always a hand’s breadth of space between the pack and your back, allowing air to circulate properly. This is a particular selling point for the MTB 14, especially on long climbs and on hot days.

A drawback of the system is that the load sits slightly further away from the back and is more likely to shift about. The fact that the Tatonka does not have hip wings exacerbates this effect, as the thin hip belt struggles to keep the rucksack in place when things get going on the trail. Furthermore, the strap presses slightly against the stomach.

Particularly when sitting in a slightly more upright position, the frame of the back support system can press slightly against the hip area – which isn’t entirely comfortable over time. Due to its short design, the Tatonka is better suited to people of small to medium height. An additional loop on the shoulder strap to guide the hydration tube would be desirable, as the tube currently rubs against the neck whilst cycling.

Review & Verdict – Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14

Conclusion: Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14

The Tatonka is a simple touring rucksack with a tensioned back system that provides excellent ventilation; however, without hip wings, it doesn’t sit very securely and tends to sway, particularly on technical terrain. Limited storage space, a less-than-ideal layout and compartments that only open halfway make it difficult to use. The metal frame can dig into the hips. Best suited to smaller riders and leisurely touring trips. Also available in a 28-litre version.