Elops Speed 100 backpack review

Is the working-from-home bubble about to burst? Recent research from Microsoft suggests so, with two-thirds of workers “craving” more in-person time with their teams. Zoom’s loss could be cycling commuting kit’s gain, especially with public transport remaining an unattractive prospect to many.

Given its affordability and durability, the Elops Speed 100 will certainly be a draw to new cycling commuters, its broad appeal enhanced by being one of Decathlon’s in-store and website brands.

The 20L volume of the lean, 635g Speed 100 mirrors the Oxford Aqua V20 but is relatively low compared to the affordable commuter competition from Lomo (Lomo Hi-Viz Dry Bag 30L, £32.99) and dhb (Waterproof Rucksack 25L).

Yet the roll-top function of the Speed 100 means that the 20L capacity can be extended a touch, and I never felt wanting with the volume here, comfortably storing my lunchtime running kit, peanut butter sandwiches, copious snacks and a MacBook Pro.

The latter is accommodated by a sizeable laptop-specific internal pocket, but I’d still keep the laptop in a sleeve because the protection provided by the Elops is limited, particularly at the sides.

The light grey internal lining ensures that the main compartment doesn’t become a cavernous black hole of rogue socks and banana skins, and there’s a smaller internal pocket to provide a degree of separation between compartments.

What I really would’ve wanted, however, is a zipped pocket both internally and on the outside for valuables. The solo outer pocket is fine for a drinks bottle, but I wouldn’t trust my keys and valuables in it.

Onto the bike and, while the pack doesn’t have a waist strap, the one across the chest and two sizeable shoulder straps aid on-road stability and carrying comfort.

The latter is heightened further by two wedges of perforated foam that sit either side of the spine, which additionally help prevent that fear of commuters: sweaty-back syndrome.

While Decathlon only bills the Speed 100 as showerproof and not fully waterproof, I had no issues with water intrusion during testing.

The roll-top format and internal liner adds versatility, and I’ve used this for storing my open-water swimming kit. Further neat touches include reflectivity and its ability to stand up.