Osprey Syncro 3 for racing and most rides. Almost the same water capacity as the Mule, but small and sleek on the back with a few small pockets for necessities.
Camelbak Mule for longer bike days to carry spare clothes, rain jackets, food, picnic, whatever. I have hiked with it in Maine with both the bladder in and out.
Which pack are you using?The bladder removal is super easy , I will never own a camelbak again .
Go OSPRAYView attachment 50779
The one in the picture , not sure the model . The manta 20 I believe . The bladder is by far what I like about it plus I like the magnet that is on the chest strap for easy drinking
I use it for everything , I have done 1/2 day rides with it .
I carry a lot of tools and a shell , spare tube . One hitter , lighter and a safety j
I have had a hand gun as well and bear spray . And air horn .
It doesn't feel large when it's on , I like the breathable back as well , unlike my shitty camelback
View attachment 50797 shimano Unzen 10
The Shinano looks good but one thing I like about the Ospreys are the webbing on the back panels and the sausaging of my Mule is another reason I was straying from anything without an internal frame.
I think I'm going with the Synchro 15. Manta 20 is nice but it may be too big for my daily rides.
I have an burnt orange Osprey Raptor 14 for the winter/longer rides and a blue Osprey Raptor 10 for the summer/shorter rides. Also use a green Osprey Talon 22 for expedition/5+ hour days. All are great. If I had to choose one, it would be the Raptor 14, which has worn like iron.
The amount of stuff (including trail tools most of the time) that I have in the packs is definitely on the high side, but I have used it all at times over the years.