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The label was founded in California in 1974 and has been producing backpacks for outdoor enthusiasts ever since. In past tests, Osprey products have always shown that a lot of thought and attention to detail goes into their development. The Metron series is available in various designs, shapes and volumes. We have the Metron 24 Pack, which clearly has the look of an MTB rucksack.
Osprey Metron 24 Pack: Is this a commuter or already an MTB backpack?
With the Metron, Osprey has opted for a rain cape instead of a fully waterproof outer material. There is nothing to be said against this: the material keeps out short showers. If it gets heavier, you can take the orange rain cape out of the bottom compartment and put it over the rucksack.
We were unable to achieve the stated volume of 24 litres - not even close. In practice, the rucksack holds around 17 litres. Nevertheless, the necessary commuter equipment can be easily accommodated. The flanks and straps on the sides are striking: If you open them, the main zip can be opened completely.
At 170 euros, the rucksack is in the upper price segment. It is also available in black, e.g. available here.
Bag management: lots of bags, lots of overview
The orange-coloured inner material is striking and ensures good visibility. If you want to open the rucksack completely, you need to undo the two straps with click fasteners at the front. The zips can then be opened all the way to the bottom of the backpack so that it can be opened like a suitcase. This is practical, but handling the two "wings" is a little unusual.
The main compartment has two compartments for a laptop (fits most 16-inch laptops) and notepad. On the opposite side, there is another compartment with a zip where you can store shoes, for example - a nice feature, but one that we didn't have any use for in practice.
The tool compartment offers enough space for all kinds of utensils, while four small pockets hold additional bits and bobs. There are two additional compartments on the outside: one with a zip for a smartphone and one without, ideal for quickly accessible items such as a wind waistcoat.
In short: lots of compartments, manageable storage space. We didn't use the shoe compartment, but it doesn't get in the way when not in use. Too bad: there are no side pockets for a water bottle. A helmet or jacket can also be attached to the outside.
Wearing comfort & safety: Good & solid.
Osprey has developed a curved back system that is surrounded by a mesh to improve air circulation between the rucksack and the back. In practice, the rucksack is comfortable to wear, but the ventilation suffers when fully loaded. More profiling or additional padding on the lower back section would increase the distance to the back and improve the air supply.
The rucksack has two simple waist and chest straps, both of which are detachable. In terms of safety, more reflective elements could be integrated - at least the loops and eyelets are currently reflective.
Conclusion
The Osprey Metron is more of an MTB backpack than a commuter backpack. The Metron 24 offers slightly less volume than stated, but is still perfectly adequate. There are also plenty of pockets to stow equipment neatly. The carrying system is solid, although there are other models with better ventilation. A rain cap is hidden in the base of the rucksack.
Volume*: 17 litres (BIKE measurement)
Weight*: 1043 grams (BIKE measured value)
Price: 170 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
BIKE EVALUATION: (school marks)
Carrying system (40%) 4
Handling (30%) 2.5
Safety (10%) 3
Weather protection (20%) 1
Overall grade: 2.9
This is how we tested it:
We tested each rucksack for at least 60 kilometres, mostly with a medium load and rather fresh to mild temperatures of 3 to 13 °C. We didn't rely on the manufacturer's volume specifications, but instead filled the backpacks with specially filled bags - there were certainly deviations. In addition, the rucksacks were weighed and tested for their reflective elements; there is still room for improvement in almost all models. Most of the rucksacks are made of waterproof outer material. Some materials only have a water-repellent effect - we tested these under the shower head.
Laurin Lehner
Editor
