Osprey Talon 22 rucksack review

What the Osprey Talon 22 lacks in internal storage it more than makes up for in comfort

Cycling Weekly Verdict

If you commute without a laptop then the Osprey Talon 22 is worth your consideration for its comfort, although you'll also need a rain cover.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Very comfortable

  • +

    Figure hugging and well balanced

  • +

    Pockets on waist straps

  • +

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Lack of internal storage

  • -

    Lack of waterproof cover

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Despite its slim looks, I found the Osprey Talon 22 backpack capable of gobbling up all of my clothes, a notebook, coffee cup, food, tools and keys.

Space inside the diminutive backpack is maximised thanks to the lack of laptop storage, although this omission could make or break the pack for those, like me, whose working week is a mixture of office work and working from home. However, if you work from an office five days a week I can't see it being a massive issue.

Besides, what the backpack lacks in laptop storage it more than makes up for with comfort, and it's one of the most snug packs I've commuted with. Its figure hugging design and slight bend in the backpack allows it to conform to your riding position, and wide waist straps offer support around the middle of your body. There's no wobbling when the packs is on your back either, and you can even adjust the length of the torso which allows you to get the best fit.

Read more: Best riding bags

Osprey Talon 22

The panelling on the Osprey Talon 22 is very comfortable

Inside the bag there's just the one zipped compartment where I store my pump, multi-tool and tyre levers, leaving the pack feeling a little short on internal organising space.

Happily there are more pockets on the outside, including a big zipped pocket at the top of the bag and on both waist straps there are two zipped pockets which offer easy access to keys and train tickets. On both sides of the bag are two compression pockets and there's a mesh pocked on the back as well as a clip for attaching your bike helmet.

Read more: Top tips for commuting to work by bike

However, the Talon 22 could be improved with a rain cover which isn't included as standard and leaves you feeling a little vulnerable to the elements.

Ultimately, the Talon 22 is a great pack for those who don't need to lug a laptop to and from work and the comfort of the Talon makes it a great pack to ride with.

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