Decathlon DIY Brompton Touring Backpack

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We used a 40cm x 30cm (both old and new C-Bag type) frame. We also tested a 40cm x 26cm (S-Bag type), and it works as well. Having an (older) frame model with integrated top handle is more practical to carry the bag (when not in backpack mode that is)

[@chrisw3327]

Thanks for sharing your fantastic and creative thoughts and clever inventions. Although I have not yet tested it, I am about to buy a Chrome Barrage backpack (which is on sale, at 45% discount!) and try that with the Brompton 40cm x 30cm frame. It looks like the frame will fit nicely, either on the front or the back of the backpack, using the pair compression straps (4 QR buckles). Also, when off the bike, the frame could easily be stowed in the "cargo net" part of the Chrome Barrage backpack when it's being carried off the bike. If I have any major problems with this setup, I will report back in the next few weeks. I might also augment this with a stiffener to spread the pressure from the small contact area of the ledge of the Brompton carrier across the side edge of the backpack, when it's carried in landscape orientation on the bike. I'm hoping that I can do this without needing to fix the stiffener to either the carrier or the backpack, so that I can stow it in a pocket in the backpack when not used. I recently bought 4mm thick sheets of twinwall polycarbonate for reinforcing the sides of the Carradice Carry Case for Brompton Bike before I take my first flight overseas with my bike. The twinwall polycarbonate sheet can be cut (v. carefully!) with a utility knife (e.g. Stanley knife) and is very impact resistant, lightweight and strong when the ridges are oriented in the same direction as any bending force. I think this material is very similar to that which is used for "For Sale" and political campaign signage, which you mentioned using for packaging in one of your previous videos. I'm a scientist, so have a special appreciation for your analytical and experimental approach to cycling puzzles. I just bought my first Brompton a couple of weeks ago, having previously owned a Tern Verge D8i folding bike (which I sold, because it was a bit too heavy and too large for my needs, although a solid choice for others I suspect.)

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@chrisw3327, Looking at images from the Chrome Barrage, it seems indeed the side compression straps would adapt well to a 40x30 cm frame. With any luck, you may not even need edge support. The front webbing/net seems quite versatile. Enjoy your new Brompton. Wishing you smooth roads and tail winds.

[@carlatraini8804]

Hello, this is an amazing hack! would it work as well on a 30x26 frame? Can you put a laptop in te zipped pocket?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

30x26 should work with the 20L bag, but not the 30L. The zipped pocket is too small for a laptop.

[@carlatraini8804]

@@2Bikes4Adventure Thank you very much!

[@woomichen1378]

Love this. Cheap and useful. That's a good combo. The Brompton mod market is full of scammers who want to sell you expensive things you don't really need. Breath of fresh air here.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

A Brompton + some imagination can go a long way !

[@tomaszbrylski1608]

Hi, I am one of the ‘scammers’ from the Brompton market. I have to chime in as the "scammer" name hurt my feelings a bit :). Firstly, I would like to thank @2bikes4adventure for the whole chanel content and this particular topic, what to do when things are needed but money is an issue. That's actually a reason why we ventured into bike bags biz. I think I am one of those expensive ones but I'd like to point out a few things. We manufacturers strive to build things to last a life not a season (against today's market trends) Our goods are not vital, we don't produce medicines (where pricing practices are more debatable) or bread, and we don't twist anyone's arm to buy our stuff. We make everything with our own hands (again against the market) but we like it, so we don't complain. We don't buy components in mega quantities, we buy little so it's expensive. We build slowly (one person has to be highly skilled to do all the sewing of the different types, designing, troubleshooting, fitting, the whole process is on you) We design and create things to reflect the aesthetics we like, which is risky as often is against current trends, so again something against the grain (I'm still not complaining :) There is plenty other matters but what is most important, we produce Xsmall quantities, because we really believe that less might be more, for ourselves and for the greater good. Deslaimer - I love Decathlon stuff for the egalitarian way they introduce a whole spectrum of sports for those (like me in Poland years back) who can't afford specialized brands (and the whole new discusion starts again :D) OMG it's long and boring, but it's the internet and I couldn't resist having my 5 minutes :) Happy cycling, bromptoning and problem solving to you all Tomo

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@tomaszbrylski1608 Hi Tomo, Many things you mentioned about running your small enterprise could have been written by Andrew Richey decades ago when he started manufacturing Brompton bicycles. Good luck in your endeavour.

[@tomaszbrylski1608]

Thank you guys for your kind words and thanks for mentioning Andrew Richey, it led me to read his story, very uplifting. I can't wait to see more on your channel All the best T. ​@@2Bikes4Adventure

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@@tomaszbrylski1608 Sorry we misspelled Andrew Ritchie's name 🙂. Stay tuned for more videos coming up.

[@laptitereinventerie]

I loveeeeeee it!!!! So cool idea! I bought a little bag from Decath and I bought the small mount to put at the rear and boom that's it, ready for spring. Bravo les amis!

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

On trouve de tout chez Decathlon (sauf les bonnes cartouches de gaz en Espagne)

[@laptitereinventerie]

@@2Bikes4Adventure 🤣🤣🤣

[@leandrobueno9243]

Fantastic solution. I'm one of your fans. I love your videos. They are always very useful to me. Thanks a lot!

[@TheRocketyaourt]

Thanks for the idea and test ! I had a frame around that fitted the aliexpress-nose-hook on my gf dahon, it works perfectly, she loves it and says that it's confortable enough as a backpack to walk with for an afternoon. Cheap, light, 20L volume and confortable enough to carry on you shoulders !

[@devjon123]

Thank you Pam and Gilbert, a really useful post. Coincidentally my wife and I were just discussing a trip to our local Decathlon. Although we already have too many Brompton bags ( if that's possible ) I do like a project.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We probably have too many Brompton bags ourselves (if that is possible). We considered this one as being more than just another Brompton bag (a multi-sport waterproof bag if you will).

[@parlibell7362]

Great idea! Thanks for sharing your experience and Ideas. I got the 30l bag and it works really well. With the 30l bag I could fit all that’s needed for camping as well as everything else needed for touring during the warm season. I usually bring a small gas stove but I’ll leave it behind this time as I’m often to lazy to use it.

[@yantoyan-l8y]

I would to really thank you Pam and Gilbert. I hadn't even thought to try this technic for replace my large Borough Waterproof which is nice but not really confortable with a long shoulder carry for visit somethink. Decathlon also sell a trek duffell bag (duffel 500) which have been create with idea to be charged on vehicule or animal and it's seems to be use with this techniques and have more place to be attached. I think i will try this technic with this one.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Keep us posted

[@oexli7019]

Thank you for the suggestion! I was already thinking about buying this backpack as a waterproof piece of luggage when paddling. You gave me the idea of ​​using it as a bag on my Brompton. Bought!

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Enjoy your new bag (on and off water)

[@oexli7019]

And of course also under water! Depends on the situation... 🤓

[@martinkiefer6733]

Smashing ideas with beautiful sizilian views.On a test ride ride i take my bis discgolf bag in front and fixed it at the steering by the breast belt..these bags are often cheap avaiable , i prefer those with hard bottom and comfortable straps.

[@etreni]

I did this with vincita carrier frame and elops messenger pannier bag, its a win for me. It has a clip for rear rack but it fits in my carrier frame, 20Liter and waterproof too, didn't disappoint me. Also, I removed the aluminum support of the frame carrier, its gonna snap to heavy load of the bag, replacing it with an angle bar steel to stand even heavier loads.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

The Elops Messenger bag seems like a great solution

[@etreni]

@@2Bikes4Adventure but still lacking some extra slots for others. Its only good for daily commute, but for longer day touring, its not.

[@lazylonewolf]

Anything from Decathlon gets my upvote. I'm not into touring quite yet (though I've been thinking of doing the tour + "stay in a motel" thing for convenience), but that's a sweet setup!

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Try a micro (or S24O (Sub 24-hour Overnighter)) adventure by cycling to a B&B not far away from town and come back by commuter train the following day. You (and your Brompton) will enjoy it.

[@lazylonewolf]

@@2Bikes4Adventure I don't have a Brompton nor trains here (outside of Manila) here in the Philippines, but yeah those aren't gonna stop me if I went for it 😊

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@lazylonewolf You may have to cycle both ways (or take a Jeepney?). Enjoy the ride, no matter which bicycle it is. P.S. The Philippines are on our wish list.

[@lazylonewolf]

@@2Bikes4Adventure yeah I don't mind that. My foldie is just gonna get in the way of other passengers in the jeepney haha. Most of the buses though have "trunks" under the bus, but they're not the spacious kind like you guys have over there so I can't take my foldie with me in the passenger area, and I'm concerned about leaving it in the storage area unguarded. Yeah it's nice here. I suggest visiting in December-February when it's cool and dry, or March-May when its hot and dry. The rest of the year is average to rainy.

[@etreni]

Eeyyy im a (not actually a) brompton rider here in Manila, if u gonna visit Philippines, u may do other modes of transport, trains are very limited inside manila, but there is provincial train in the southeastern part of luzon island (if going to Mayon volcano) or ferry to nearby island in visayas region. If going north of the luzon mainland, actually many bikers doing it literally by biking, depending the route, sometimes even to the northernmost point, even making a loop. Both ways are easy if decided to go with bus for faster travel.

[@jonathanleach3914]

Very helpful. I have a Borough backpack as in your film. It’s fine for daily commuting but it’s too small for anything more. I recently had to get my old T bag out as I was away a few nights and needed to carry more. Using a Decathlon bag is an interesting alternative as it is useful to put the bag on your back when using public transport. Thanks again for the film - food for thought.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

With a Borough Backpack and the old T-Bag, you are all set to face any scenario.

[@effyleven]

Wow... but Pam and Gilbert certainly get around! I envy them that Sicilian trip.. I have fancied a visit ever since watching all those episodes of Montalbano... Oh, and err... yeah. Great backpack solution.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We were pleasantly surprised by Sicily. Places like Ragusa Ibla and Modica… will put you right back in the Montalbano spirit. Oh… and the Decathlon DIY setup worked perfectly.

[@robhabgood3088]

I bought the bag and a smaller mount (same width as bag) and fitted the bag vertically instead so it’s easier to access the contents without taking it off. Love these bags so got two and they are my new go to Bikepacking kit.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Using the same Itiwit 20L bag but mounted vertically ?

[@robhabgood3088]

Yes it works great on the same set up as on the video but is accessible too. I don’t know why they didn’t do that.

[@Robert_Thomas832]

Thanks for the info 👍I adapted a 15 L military field pack. Not fully waterproof but I travel light as a result.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Is it held in position using straps through the molle webbing?

[@Robert_Thomas832]

Yes, exactly that. Plus plywood and 3D printed connector rather than the usual alu frame. Cost £35 sterling. Holding up ok so far - not as robust as yours though. Thanks 👍

[@civilinattention]

Thank you for sharing this great DIY solution! I like the idea to carry the bag as a backpack when it's not attached to the brommie.

[@alfredgene4450]

I already bought ITIWIT bag from decathlon and follow the steps its awesome!

[@HolgerNestmann]

This is a great video thank you. I honestly have the same problem with the existing bags. For multi day tours, I am yet to pack slim. So with a rack bag, and a T-Bag / Bourough large one has so much dangeling around. I found a used Lumabag Bromfort, which falls under the expensive category. I like it so far. Next tour in march along the cote d'azur.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

The Bromfort is a very nice bag indeed (and, yes, expensive). Do you have some kind of rain cover for it or use internal waterproof bags?

[@HolgerNestmann]

@@2Bikes4Adventure No, the seller offered one, but the bag is waxed and supposed to be water repellent, so I did not buy it. I didnt have the joy of cycling in pouring rain yet, but I guess I will pack a trash bag or use a dimpa bag if rain is expected and will report back

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@HolgerNestmann Côte d’Azur shouldn’t be too wet

[@HolgerNestmann]

@@2Bikes4Adventure thats the idea. Fuel up on some sunshine already a bit early ;)

[@philippniessen6408]

Try the Ortlieb Vario 26 Liters with the Brompton rack. For me it works perfectly and is also a pricy, but elegant option. Generally, I prefer a rucksack for exactly the reasons you mentioned. Carrying/maneovering the Brompton with a shoulder bag is sometimes annoying. The Lumabag Brompfort is also a nice option.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

May we ask how you mounted the Vario on your Brompton? The Bromfort is indeed great but, unfortunately, so is its price.

[@philippniessen6408]

It is the same quick release system like the Ortlieb bag you have in your video.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@philippniessen6408 Mounted horizontally (landscape mode)?

[@philippniessen6408]

Yes, in landscape mode.

[@edwardhirst6027]

Nice video, thanks for sharing. I did this with a Waymark Gear Co. 28 liter Mile backpack. It only weighs 16 oz. It's not waterproof, but I use a nylofume pack liner to make it waterproof. It's not as cheap as your Decathalon bag. Nice idea to add a bottle holder.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

The Waymark Mile is a very nice ultralight backpack. We assume you also use it for hiking?

[@edwardhirst6027]

@@2Bikes4Adventure Yes, you are correct. I do use it for hiking.

[@tbear4291]

Great contribution to consumer need. Thanks very innovative and helpful. How you used your brain... I wish i could think like you.

[@moniqueviau2702]

I really enjoy (love) all your videos ❤ Thank you.

[@PaoloRosatto]

you guys are great!! big fan

[@zmzeng12]

Wonderful idea! It seems any backpacks with compression straps are suitable for this DIY with not much effort.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Indeed, compression straps is the key element to look for.

[@jonathanmellish4439]

Interesting viewing your thoughts. I went to look at these bags (30 & 20) and ended up with 20 litre version. Like you I am puzzled by the side clip to top clip scenario. Seems like a design flaw to me.

[@DanD7253]

I am recently retired and new to long distance cycling but fairly fit and active. Can you share a bit on what is your longest tour? … most km per day? …most days in a row of cycling? My wife and I are considering bicycle touring as an active travel option. Thank you!

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We just completed a 1000km / 25 days tour from Bruges to Berlin, averaging about 50km to 60km/day. We may do more km/day if wind and elevation are favorable (or if no closer accommodations were found) We stay in Hotels/AirBnB, so we travel relatively light (about 7Kg each, no camping gears). We book all accommodations prior to departure. This (now dated) video may give you some ideas how we plan: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYasiHmaitOKrc0si=x3CtGFUYxkjMxF39 We favour 3-4 weeks tours if oversea travel is involved. We do shorter tours (2-5 days) locally (Canada/USA), ex.: taking the train one way, returning by bike. Enjoy your retirement!

[@volodymyrpetrov9677]

I still haven't found my perfect solution for the bag. I'm leaning towards an aftermarket Borough Medium bag, maybe with an added zipper. Also, I look at some bags and packs that could work alternatively. But to pass the esthetics and functionality test there's still room for improvement and a journey to the ultimate solution. Love your channel! I loved it even before I bought my Brompton. Thank you for what you do and keep up the good work!

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Stay tuned for more 😀

[@Mr0kYn]

I'm glad for this vdeo because I was exactly on the lookout for a budget solution like this one. Could you please remind us what the exact model name of the luggage/bag frame is ? And if possible name (or link) the Decathlon products in the video description ? Thank you so much for your ever instructive content.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We used an old C-Bag type luggage frame (40cm x 30cm) but the S-Bag type (40cm x 26cm) which is more easy to find (ex.: Amazon) also works. The bag is the ITIWIT Waterproof 20L Backpack. Here’s the link on the UK site: www.decathlon.co.uk/p/waterproof-backpack-20l-black/_/R-p-149215?mc=8387664

[@jackoh4_8]

all seem to be out of stock in UK but great idea to use for other similar packs-- if I can find one wirh straps @@2Bikes4Adventure

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@jackoh4_8 The straps are the key. Hopefully, Decathlon will restock.

[@andriikashliev9759]

Thank you - fantastic video. What was the sea bag that you referred to at the end as one that you will keep using?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

The Brompton C-Bag, unfortunately discontinued by Brompton in 2020 and replaced by the Metro Messenger (slightly smaller). kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZe4moCoft10ntksi=NUz4xwsj9BLN3_FW

[@andriikashliev9759]

Thank you! I am a big fan of your videos - they are by far more thoughtful and detailed and comprehensive than any other content on bromptoms.

[@georgepayne9506]

I brought the 30 litre today looks good just worried about It sagging down to the front wheel but we will see!

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We didn’t experience sagging with our 20L bag, but it could become an issue with larger bags. We discussed this subject in a previous video ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/apCkoaGgr6iZmrcsi=KNRji06AAJXH0hQc ) when building a 32L DIY waterproof bag. Adding an external (or internal) stiffener could prevent sagging.

[@karlprince9741]

Did the 30liter sag

[@georgepayne9506]

@@karlprince9741 it did I did a hack from one of their other videos seems to work :)

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@karlprince9741 30 litres will sag

[@gordonmculloch4904]

Great option. Thanks for uploading.

[@curiouspenguin6887]

Cool idea. Could also use the bag for paddleboarding. Don't have decathlon stores in my area.😢

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Decathlon has more than 2000 stores in 56 countries, one is bound to show up next to you eventually 😉

[@curiouspenguin6887]

@2Bikes4Adventure unfortunately they closed the pilot stores in my general vicinity, and I read they are closing all USA stores in favor of online US sales only. I looked up the comparable bag, and it was $100.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@curiouspenguin6887 The 20 Litre bag was on sale at $US40 on Decathlon.com a few weeks ago, looks like they sold out. The 30 Litres at $US100 is overpriced, it’s $US63 ($CDN85) in Canada. We are looking into alternatives on Amazon. If we find something that works well, we will do a followup video.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

This bag on Amazon.com would probably do ($US55) amzn.to/3UT8Suq

[@curiouspenguin6887]

@@2Bikes4Adventure Thanks for the info. You folks go the extra mile for your viewers!

[@小花-h5n]

Love this idea !

[@john3892]

Well done. Very ingenious

[@direxxion]

Hi great video For the frame where did u buy it or what’s the frame size? Thank u

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We used an old C-Bag type luggage frame (40cm x 30cm) but the S-Bag type (40cm x 26cm) which is more easy to find (ex.: Amazon) also works. Frames with top handles are more practical when carrying the bag.

[@tktoro]

What is the size of the luggage frame please? There are so many different. Is it 40 x 30 cm or 40 x 25 cm?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We used a 40x30 (both old and new C-Bag type). We also tested a 40x26 (S-Bag type), and it works as well. Having an (older) model with integrated top handle is more practical to carry the bag (when not in backpack mode)

[@wildhogget69]

Very, very nice, wow How can i find out about that scicily bike route, it looked amazing.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

The SIBIT trail is in poor state in some sections, but it’s easy to bypass the worst parts. Here’s a PDF file concerning the trail www.sicilycyclingtours.club/_files/ugd/486c41_206a36344fb046a18b213b6157c69af3.pdf

[@alvinlim4162]

Wow very useful information. Thanks.

[@Jackplumz]

thanks for this great idea

[@KavanOBrien]

Have you ever considered doing a review of the Chubby trailer made by Radical Design = probably the best trailer for the Brompton, I think it was actually specifically designed for the Brompton, I’ve personally not seen one better or even comes close to it , not only good for camping but you can fit the Brompton inside it for travelling.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We briefly mentioned it in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIPbY2Vsp82inLM but never had a chance to try one in real life. A well-known local Brompton owner @Laptitereinventerie made a video on the subject: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXKcZZyuireYa5Ysi=rFlu8_HQLrRLKeKF

[@KavanOBrien]

@@2Bikes4Adventure sorry I got called away before the end of your video, so you know about the trailer already, I’ve also seen that lady with the trailer before and her videos are also good like yours , good reminder to watch the complete video of yours before I make a comment, take care you two = me.

[@laptitereinventerie]

@@2Bikes4Adventure Manyyyy thankssss 🤩🤩!

[@laptitereinventerie]

​@@KavanOBrien thank you also for the good words about my Chubby video 🙏 if you have questions about the trailer don't hesitate, I love this trailer for long distance.

[@KavanOBrien]

@@laptitereinventerie Life is a long distance = life is a marathon not a sprint , have been looking around for a trailer , don’t think there’s a better one on the market unless with your experience you would suggest others for me to look at.

[@tandago7281]

I wonder what do you think of using a cargo trailer, like the burley travel, for touring?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We briefly mentioned trailers in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIPbY2Vsp82inLM but never had a chance to try one in real life. We like to travel light, use local public transport (train/bus) and bring our bikes with us in the hotel room. Having to tow a trailer in such a scenario would likely be more a liability than an benefit. Travelling with a minimum load can be very liberating.

[@a.w.thompson4001]

Some Bike Friday owners use a Samsonite suitcase to take their bike on a plane. The suitcase converts into a trailer. It seems like that could be made to work with a Brompton.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@a.w.thompson4001 The closest off-the-shelf solution is the Radical Design Chubby Trailer. We briefly discussed about it in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIPbY2Vsp82inLMsi=bvdjx2sA1iIUyR2K

[@Flysarse]

Very well considered. Say 30ltr is the sweet spot

[@K1989L]

That bag looks a lot like my Ortlieb backpack. Though mine cost ~140€. I have had one before and it last a long time.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We have a few Ortlieb bags, they do last for ever. It will be interesting to see how long the Decathlon bag last, but then again, it is only 40Euro.

[@22joek]

Have you tried the Ortlieb vario PS? Also a good backpack for the bike. But I don’t know if it fits your bike.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We were told it would work if mounted sideways (landscape).

[@seahyongsen5670]

😊😊😊good idea for this!!!

[@Omerta61]

Do you know where I can still get an old frame with handle in 40x30?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

We purchased ours on AliExpress for about $30US

[@velovan11]

Another great video but for now I'll stick to my T-bag. I like the easy accessibly and pockets. Interesting you took your Bromptons to Sicily. In April we'll ride the perimeter of Sicily with our Bromptons as well. Looks like an interesting trip. Will there be a video of your trip?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

The T-Bag certainly offers more room and easier access to contents. Keep it, it’s a collector’s item now. We initially were thinking of doing the entire circumference as well, but poor reviews concerning cycling conditions in the northeast of the island made us reconsider. Ultimately, we opted to follow more or less the Sibit trail (Trapani to Catania). We really enjoyed our trip (except for Sicily’s problem with garbage management). Places like Erice, Ragusa Ibla, Modica, Noto, and Ortigia are worth a detour. Have a good trip ! PS We were thinking of doing short videos to discuss our favorite destinations, discussing the route followed, accommodation, logistics, best seasons, cost, etc…. Stay tuned.

[@velovan11]

Two years ago we rode from Naples to Siracusa. The section from Catania to Siracusa isn't that exciting with lots of industrial plants. So on the way back we took the train from Siracusa to Taormina bypassing Catania, then rode to Messina. This last section going north was actually quite pleasant.

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

@@velovan11 South of Siracusa, it gets a lot more quiet (pleasant) on the road for cyclists.

[@HaploPrime]

How does this mount to the bike?

[@2Bikes4Adventure]

Most Bromptons come with a front luggage block already installed. A new one cost about $30.

[@markifi]

heavy