Timbuk2 Classic Review

The Timbuk2 Classic is an iconic messenger bag that is durable, weather-resistant, reasonably comfortable, and offers a ton of space for the weight.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

The Classic performed fairly well in terms of comfort for having a generous shoulder strap and sitting more vertically on the back.

We appreciated that this bag carries like a messenger bag should — resting between the shoulders and waist at a diagonal angle rather than sitting horizontally at the waistline. This feature is essential for maximizing comfort while cycling and gives the bag a low-profile feel that is much more comfortable than the alternative. That said, the Classic does have a boxier design and it doesn't conform to the body as well as other messenger bags in our review. When you pack it with a laptop or books, you can feel some space between the bag and your back. Additionally, the Classic is designed for left-shoulder carry, which is ideal for right-handed folks but not for lefties. However, you can request a custom right-shoulder carry bag from Timbuk2 if you are so inclined.

Packing & Organization

The Classic covers your primary needs for organization and packing without a ton of superfluous extra pockets to grapple with.

Underneath the front flap, there is a zipper pocket for small essentials that has a long keeper strap for keys, a cargo pocket for a phone, and a side zipper pocket for a wallet or anything else you need to access easily.

On the back side of this panel, there is a longer zippered pocket, as well as four slots for pens, headphones, etc. Then there is a slightly padded divider that creates two compartments — one for up to a 15" laptop and the other for your clothes, jacket, lunch, or workout gear. In the larger compartment, there are also holsters on either side of the bag for a water bottle or travel mug.

Electronics

The Classic provides some of the lowest levels of protection for carrying a naked laptop, which is why it received a lower score in this category.

The back compartment does have a lightly padded sleeve for carrying a laptop, but there is no additional padding on the back or bottom of the bag. However, if you're the type of person who prefers to stow your laptop in a padded carrying case, then this need not be a deal breaker. Even if you use a padded case, we appreciate the isolated storage area for a laptop, as it means you're less likely to spill food or coffee on your electronics.

Ease of Use

To score this metric, we consider the ease of packing and unpacking, whether or not the bag's design is intuitive to use, and how easy it is to put on, take off, and pick up. The Classic performed above average in this category thanks to its simple design and one-hand adjustable shoulder strap. The downside is that the bag's pliability made it somewhat more difficult to pack compared to others.

While there is a learning curve to using the cinch-adjustment strap on the Classic, it makes for easy adjustment once you get used to it. It's easy to tighten with one hand, though you'll be left with plenty of extra strap flapping around, and can be loosened with one hand as well by pinching the cinch buckle together. If you don't frequently adjust the strap length, the strap-minder helps keep excess strap material from dangling like limp pasta while using the bag.

Previous reviewers tested this bag on the right shoulder, but we found this to be too uncomfortable as the metal cinch buckle mechanism sits on the shoulder rather than the padded shoulder strap. If you're a lefty, we recommend contacting Timbuk2 to make you a custom bag with right-shoulder carry. Beyond the straps, we do love the intuitive design of the bag and storage features, as well as the top handle for picking it up like a briefcase and the strap for affixing a bike light on the bottom of the pack.

Construction Quality

The Classic earns high marks in this category because it is designed with longevity in mind and made with burly materials that are abrasion and water-resistant.

The face fabric of the Classic is made of Cordura, a durable nylon fabric, and is lined with thermoplastic polyurethane or TPU, a plastic coating used to resist water and protect the fabric from abrasion. While this bag is not as waterproof as other bags in our review which feature a dual liner, it does resist wetting out and will protect your gear in a light storm. This round, we tested a three-toned green and black bag, which did not show marks or signs of wear throughout our time with it. However, lighter colors do show some markings with use, though they are merely aesthetic, and, in our experience, the Classic can withstand years of use with minimal effect on the bag's overall integrity.

Should You Buy the Timbuk2 Classic?

While many cyclists have transitioned to carrying backpacks or panniers for their daily commute, the messenger bag still appeals to folks who prefer the look of a briefcase or laptop bag with more functionality for getting to and from work or school. The Timbuk2 Classic strikes an ideal balance between durability, style, comfort, and affordability. You can customize the features, shoulder carry, and colors, but this can quickly drain your bank account if you aren't careful. If you're looking for a bag that can carry a ton without breaking your back or the bank, this bag is a great option.

What Other Messenger Bags Should You Consider?

If you're in the market for the best bag out there, the Chrome Buran III is a great option. The Buran delivers top-notch comfort, durability, and spacious organization features. Another option, ideal for the electronically and digitally connected nomad, the Timbuk2 Especial Stash is ideal for protecting fragile and electronic items from the weather. The whole bag is water-resistant, and it has a waterproof laptop sleeve. Along those lines, if your electronics tend to be photography equipment, the Peak Design Everyday Messenger was a standout performer with photographers in mind. All the above are quite serious messenger bag options. If you're not sure that's your style, we recommend something like the Oiwas 15.6" Laptop for the casual commuter or someone just trying out a messenger bag for the first time. It still has plenty of organization features and is relatively comfortable for your commute.