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The Backpack label Unit 1 is positioned in the field of functional everyday and mobility solutions with a focus on sophisticated design and technical integration. In German: For fashion-conscious cyclists and hipsters. With the Torch model, the brand is aimed in particular at commuters in urban areas.
We took a close look at the Unit 1 Torch. The backpack is available in five colours.
Unit 1 Torch: Casual, functional, safe but expensive
The rucksack combines a minimalist appearance with practical functions. These include an integrated lighting system, which is designed to improve visibility in low light conditions and can be recharged - we think that's great. The concept is complemented by robust, waterproof materials that keep out showers well.
The manufacturer claims a volume of 22 litres - however, we measured just 15 litres, which is easily enough for the essentials. At 1527 grams, the rucksack is on the heavier side.
Bag management: more bags are hardly possible, storage space is limited
The Torch 1 is a real space miracle, even if the manufacturer has cheated a little on the volume. The 15 litres we measured are enough for a laptop, notepad, change of clothes and smartphone. Good: there are pockets on the side for bottles or tubes. The hook fastener of the main compartment takes a little getting used to at first, but then quickly becomes a favourite. The zip can be opened all the way down on one side, which makes handling easier.
In addition to the laptop compartment, there are several small pockets with waterproof zips. Super! We award big points for pocket management - it's all very good.
Wearing comfort & safety: grade 3.5 & grade 1
Wearing comfort is okay. The side pads are very soft and compress when fully loaded - this also affects the ventilation. The centre padding is rather firm and rests on the spine, which not everyone likes. There is no chest or waist strap - which is fine considering that the pack is designed for more urban use. In short: the back system is okay, but nothing spectacular - and therefore the only criterion where the Torch loses points.
In terms of safety, however, it comes out on top. The magnetically integrated rear light is really bright and can be recharged - unfortunately not via micro USB. Super. The lack of reflective elements is therefore not a problem. Grade 1.
Conclusion
The Torch from Unit 1 is super stylish and has first-class pocket management - albeit with a small volume. Thanks to its waterproof zips and robust material, the rucksack survived even heavy showers during the test. The detachable rear light, which can be charged via micro USB, is particularly noteworthy. The backpack is only average to slightly below average when it comes to the carrying system: there are no chest or waist straps. Oh yes, and the price is steep.
Name: Unit 1 Torch
Volume*: 15 litres (BIKE measurement)
Weight*: 1527 grams (BIKE measured value)
Price: 229 Euro >> available here
BIKE EVALUATION: (School marks)
Carrying system (40%) 3.5
Handling (30%) 1.5
Safety (10%) 1.0
Weather protection (20%) 2.0
Overall grade: 2.4
This is how we tested
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 definitely 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
