Let me start with an explanation of this review. The Viking 32L Trident backpack is a sissy bar backpack designed with motorcyclists in mind. I've not ridden a motorcycle since my accident in '92. So why am I reviewing a motorcycle backpack? Well, Viking Bags asked me to and I saw this backpack as an urban/travel pack that could work well for me when I travel on business. So, this review is done from that position, is the Viking 32L Trident a good urban/travel backpack? Let's get started.
First some details:
Material: Cordura
Dimensions: 12" x 6.5" x 19" (L x W x H)
Storage Capacity: 1952.76 Cubic Inches
Lid Opening: 12" x 6"
Includes 3 front pockets
Padded Laptop Sleeve
Top Fleece Pocket
Separate compartment for shoes
Weight: 3lbs 9oz
Price: $119.99
For my testing of this pack I stuffed it full with two sleeping bags in the main compartment and in all the other compartments, I stuffed in socks, t-shirts, etc., until the pack was stretched out to it maximum capacity.
I then headed out to a local open air mall precisely because it was raining. I wanted to see if the items I'd put in the bag would get wet. They didn't, but I suspect in consistent rainfall they would.
The shoulder straps are well padded and have a small mesh pouch on the left strap. My Samsung S12 fit into it snugly. There's also a sternum strap to keep the straps from sliding outward. The backpack doesn't have a waist strap, which I like to have. Nonetheless, fully packed, the pack is very comfortable to wear.
The stitching is doubled in all the stress points and bar tacked in others making for a pack that can handle a good deal of abuse.
The zippers are high quality and the three velcro pouches aren't the usual skinny strips of velcro. These are two inch wide strips of velcro to ensure the don't open too easily.
The interior is a bright orange which I really like as it makes finding things a lot easier.
The bottom 'boot' compartment is separate from the main compartment and has a small grommeted hole to let out water. This would be perfect to put dirty clothes when traveling on a one or two night trip.
After wearing the Viking 21L Trident pack around for a while, I decided it was time for the drop test. So from the second story level of the mall I tossed the pack up into the air and let it hit the ground. My reason for this is that I want to see if any seams, threads or material split or tore. Viking makes some tough packs and this one is no exception. I couldn't find any burst seams, no torn threads, and no fabric tears.
This is a very functional pack with a lid compartment, two sleeves for laptops, five pouches, two side mesh pouches and a 'boot' compartment that's completely separate from the main compartment. I'll be using this on my next business trip.
You can check out my review on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/VtwzxCnLbJA
If you want to check out the bag at Viking Bags, go to: