For quite a long time, I was debating whether or not to buy a cycling backpack. I had many requirements and was afraid that none of the backpacks would meet my expectations. Fortunately, the opposite was true, and I found exactly what I was looking for – an unobtrusive design, comfort while carrying, and compact dimensions, yet with plenty of space. This is exactly how the Deuter Speed Lite 20 cycling backpack could be characterized.
A great helper for cycling, but also for the city
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| + adjustable waist and chest straps | - everything shows immediately on the black version |
| + very comfortable and breathable shoulder straps | - basic back system |
| + hydration bladder pocket (or tablet/book) | - bottom of the backpack is not reinforced |
| + compact dimensions, yet plenty of space | |
| + reflective elements | |
| + side mesh pockets for a water bottle | |
| + unobtrusive design | |
| + side compression straps |
What, it only has one pocket?
The internal organization of this backpack is very simple, which is completely standard for a cycling backpack. The dominant feature is a large main pocket, which includes a separate compartment for a hydration bladder - if you use the backpack every day like I do, it becomes a pocket for a tablet or a book. The bottom of the backpack is a slight disadvantage as it is not reinforced in any way, and if you manage to put something expensive at the bottom, heaven forbid something glass (a perfume bottle slid down there), it makes an unpleasant thud when dropped or even just set down, and you immediately check what is or isn't broken.
Are you asking yourself what all you can fit into a twenty-liter cycling backpack? Know that it is really a lot. I use this backpack not only when cycling, but I wear it every day to work, or when I go to play football or badminton with friends, and it always serves me faithfully. I pack it the most before badminton, when I put in shoes, a t-shirt, shorts, spare socks and underwear, a towel, shower gel, deodorant, a liter water bottle, a tube for badminton shuttlecocks, a wallet, keys, a mobile phone, and finally the racket itself. When cycling, I usually take a pump, tools, a liter bottle, a jacket, and all of that fits into the Speed Lite without any problems! Well, tell me, isn't that a lot of things for a cycling backpack? I think it is.
Practical details are the foundation of success
Deuter Speed Lite 20, of course, does not only have a main pocket, but four other small pockets that will serve you perfectly. On top of the backpack is a classic small pocket for keys, a mobile phone, or a wallet. On both sides, there are mesh pockets for a bottle. On the front of the backpack, there is also another, relatively hidden pocket, where I usually put tissues or another bottle. The backpack also includes side compression straps, with which you can tighten the backpack to your desired size.
Comfort and safety first
One of the important factors I considered before buying was maximum comfort while carrying. And this backpack offers that perfectly. The padded shoulder straps are made in such a way that they give the person maximum comfort while moving. They do not slide off the shoulders during normal walking or cycling and hold perfectly in place.
The padded back is not solved in any professional way, but it performs its basic function of sufficient air ventilation while riding or walking perfectly. Moreover, the backpack sits very comfortably on the back so that you don't even feel it too much.
Adjustable waist and chest straps are almost a matter of course for cycling backpacks, and the Deuter Speed Lite 20 naturally has them as well. The straps are sufficiently wide in both the waist and chest areas, and the backpack holds great on the back when riding in terrain. The straps do not dig in, so you practically won't feel their presence, which I personally consider a big advantage.
A huge plus of this backpack is that it also thinks about safety. When riding or walking in the dark or in low visibility, it is equipped with several unobtrusive reflective elements at first glance (e.g., the "Speed Lite 20" inscription itself), thanks to which you will be much more visible in low light conditions.
Who will the backpack serve best?
Deuter Speed Lite 20 is a cycling backpack for undemanding cyclists who appreciate an unobtrusive look, enough space for things they want to have with them at all times, and do not intend to invest too much money. Thanks to its volume, you can also use the backpack for everyday commuting to work or for smaller trips. And if you are a modest person, you can even fit things for two to three days in it, and you will still have everything you need with you.
