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Safety on the trail is usually not a cheap pleasure. Protector backpacks in particular can easily cost 200 euros or more. Decathlon thought it could be cheaper and has come up with the Defence 21 has launched a fully-fledged MTB backpack complete with D3O back protector. Price: 89.99 euros. Wow! Compared to the competition, that's a real bargain. But how good is this supposedly "cheap bag"?
The most important points at a glance
- 21 l MTB backpack for Trail, Enduro & E-MTB
- removable D3O protector certified to EN 1621-2 Level-1
- Stable, close-fitting carrying system with wide stretch hip belt
- Features: Recco reflector, hydration bladder compatible, separate tool compartment, small zip hip pocket, rain cover
- Multisport approach: compression straps for helmets or skis
- Weight: 1380 grammes
- Price: 89,99 Euro >> available here
Solid equipment, clean finish
At first glance, it has everything bikers need: A spacious main compartment with dividers, a wide-opening tool compartment and even a soft padded compartment for goggles. This means that all touring equipment can be stowed away well organised. All zips run smoothly and easily - they are also equipped with robust plastic hooks. A rain cover, full-face holder, drinking tube clip and drawer for wet laundry complete the equipment.
The French have copied the stretchy neoprene hip belt from the competition - which is perfectly legitimate, as it holds the rucksack securely in position on the downhill and doesn't constrict in any way. The hip pocket on the right-hand side keeps mini-tools or bars within easy reach, but is too small for modern smartphones. In addition to the multi-impact and flexible D3O protector, a Recco reflector increases passive safety. Decathlon pulls out almost all the stops when it comes to protection. Almost all, because the back armour is only certified to the light level 1 of EN 1621-2 and only covers the middle of the back, leaving the shoulder blades unprotected.
Practical test of the Rockrider Defence 21
On the trail, the high level of comfort and stable fit are particularly pleasing. The wide shoulder straps rest softly without pinching. The back padding is also very comfortable. Even on steep descents, the Rockrider sits stably and without slipping into the neck. On longer climbs, however, the sweat quickly starts to run because the ventilation system is not very sophisticated and the heat also builds up under the neoprene belt. Small flaws that can be generously ignored at this price.
The Rockrider also has hardly any real weaknesses when it comes to handling. The compartments open wide and provide a clear view of the entire contents. One small drawback: the compression straps have to be opened before the compartments can be opened. At least the tool compartment should be freely accessible. On the other hand, the large and softly padded goggle compartment is great.
Advantages and weaknesses
Plus points
- removable, certified level 1 back protector
- Sensible 21-litre size for day trips
- Clearly organised compartments
- snug fit in the terrain
- Multisport approach and suitability for everyday use
- unbeatably favourable
Disadvantages
- poorly ventilated back system
- Low coverage of the protector, no level 2 protection
- small hip bag
- Access to compartments made difficult by compression straps
Our conclusion on the Rockrider Defence 21
With the Defence 21, the French have once again developed an exciting product at an unbeatable price. The workmanship and features are absolutely impressive. It is also very comfortable to wear, even if it is a little sweaty on hot days. If you're looking for criticism, you'll find it in the somewhat narrow Level 1 protector and the slightly awkward pocket handling. But if you're honest with yourself, you have to ask yourself the question: Why should you invest more than 200 euros for a protector backpack when it can be done much more cheaply?
Market & competition: Who is playing in the same league?
The Rockrider Defense 21 operates in a highly competitive segment of the Protector backpacks. The most important competitors include:
- Evoc FR Trail / FR Enduro Blackline - For a long time, the Munich-based company was the market standard with a particularly lightweight Liteshield protector and excellent organisation. Now a little outdated. Price: 240 Euro >> available here.
- Deuter Attack 20 / 22 - Completely new for the 2026 season. The Attack is very comfort-orientated, has TÜV/GS-certified protection and now features the fully degradable Re Zro protector. Price: 230 Euro >> available here.
- Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 (here in the test) - Protector backpack with a strong focus on hydration systems. The H.A.W.G. is extremely robust and has an adjustable back system with a very snug fit. The protector must be purchased separately. Price: 199.99 Euro (49.99 Euro protector) >> available here.
- Scott Trail Protect 20 - Exciting model with D3O protector integrated into the back system and decent ventilation. Price: 219,95 Euro >> available here.
Stefan Frey
Editor
