Deuter Superbike SL Women's Backpack

Deuter have been in the backpack game for quite some time, over 100 years in fact. They are represented in over 45 countries worldwide and have the experience and reputation to develop products for niche markets, women's specific cycling for instance.

The new SL-WOMEN'S FIT system was introduced into their hiking range in 2006 and now in 2007 they introduce the SL into the Superbike range. The biggest differences in the SL womens fit, compared to the mens style, is the shorter back length, closer set, narrower, shorter shoulder straps, smaller buckles and narrow tapered strap ends and curved waist belt wings.

These are a lot of features to change but all together make this backpack extremely comfortable to wear.

H2O Drinking System

The pouch for the bladder is large enough to fit the largest bladders on the market. I used a two litre Camelback bladder and found that there was a lack of adequate securing of the bladder. There is a Velcro strap at the top, however, these are designed for deuter bladders, thus the camelback bladder I was using, slipped from the Velcro strap and fell to the bottom of the bag.

The hole for the bladder hose is large and easy to use. The hose is held on either of the shoulder straps by one fixed Velcro strap. I found this was not enough as the hose was either hanging too low hitting my knee or hitting me in the face. A movable hose fixture would be a great addition, however the breast strap can be used to hold it in between slurps.

Extra volume

Fourteen litres is the perfect size to take clothes to work or overnight or even get the odd bit of shopping done. There is no strain on your back or discomfort with such a small size. As we all know, the bigger the bag, the more stuff we manage to fit in it and not necessarily needed stuff. However, for those times when you do need a little extra, an extra four litres is obtainable on this backpack by a zip that runs along the whole edge of the bag. Very handy!

Helmet holder

The helmet holder is a tuck away stretchy mesh that secures on a couple of keyhole piping fixtures. It is a great secure storage for a dormant helmet. However, a slight downside is that with the helmet in place, it makes the bag unexpectedly deep. It can cause some embarrassing apologies when in crowded spaces.

Windshield & Cover

There is a reflective, fluorescent yellow, waterproof windshield integrated into the backpack. It comes out of a zip on the top of the bag and fits over the head and a waistband secures it onto the wearer. It is not something that I would think necessary, or even that attractive, however it could be handy on unexpected occasions. It would be great if it was detachable because it gets in the way of the bladder.

Another handy feature is the waterproof cover. This has saved me many times in the past couple of weeks. It covers the pack from road grime, mud, water, or anything that may flick up from the road, keeping your backpack clean and dry.

Overall comfort

All of the changes deuter have made with this backpack compliment the key physiological attributes of a woman. Out of all of the backpacks that I have used, this one is ultra comfortable.

The length of the back is the first thing I noticed. Instead of resting on the upper and lower back, as other makes do, this sits close up against the back, resting in the curve of the back comfortably. The waist straps are actually at your waist and not your hips and the chest straps are adjustable. The shoulder straps do not dig in, with the new rounded edges and soft padding.

Not only is this backpack handy for on the bike, with the shorter back and ability to secure it on the wearer, it is perfect to run with. I often run with a backpack and when fitted and adjusted correctly, there is no movement of the backpack whilst in full stride. If it is perfect for running, then there is no way your precious cargo will move on the bike.

The small pocket at the front has a clip for keys and separate compartments for your mobile, purse, ipod, camera, etc.