Biking backpacks are functional and light, but they can strain your shoulders if you carry them too long. Hence, bikers turn to attachable bags that click onto the bike rather than carry them on their shoulders. VAUDE is one brand that manufactures these well-designed packs for the same purpose. Unlike traditional packs, these bags hook onto your bike, and you do not have to carry heavy items. Let’s compare some of its popular designs- VAUDE Aqua Back vs Aqua Back Plus & Deluxe.
Vaude Aqua Back vs Aqua Back Plus
Commons
Since the bags are variations of the same model, it isn’t surprising that they share most of their features.
Each of them has a max carry-weight of 12.5 kg of items. It means you can put items weighing up to that capacity, not beyond. Heavier weights may damage the locking system of the pack, so be careful with the storing process.
For the back area, they feature the Hard Back 2.0 pannier. Since the bag is in contact with the bike, the shell absorbs the shock and reduces damage. Its non-slip base and other aspects ensure that no harm comes to the bags.
Along with weatherproof fabric, they also boast a roll closure. It helps you modify the size of the pack as you need. More importantly, it can seal the bag to prevent any moisture from seeping in.
The bags have shoulder straps too, which you can remove when not in use. But it allows you to use the bags as a backpack when needed. The shoulder straps in the bags are also usable as packing straps.
To boot, the bags share the QMR 2.0 (Quick Mount Release) locking system. The system features hooks to fit over the side rods of the bike. As the name suggests, the process is quick and convenient for the user. Moreover, you can lock the pack onto the bike if you wish to leave your bike unattended for some time to secure the bag.
The packs have an extra inside pocket for improved organization and storage options. The reflective elements in the bags make them visible and noticeable even in lower light.
Furthermore, the bags are compatible with multiple accessory bags such as the Toolbag, Addita Bag, etc. These packs improve the functionality of the bag and facilitate organization.
Differences: Aqua Back Plus vs Aqua Back
Apart from their dimensions and weights, not much about the backpacks is different. First of all, the Aqua Back Plus pack measures 37 x 33 x 31 centimeters. However, the Aqua Back has smaller dimensions of 37 x 33 x 19 centimeters.
The slight gap in these aspects ultimately leads to their capacity gap, as the Plus pack can carry up to 51 liters. However, the Aqua Backpack can only carry 48 liters. The difference may not be drastic, but it is still varying.
So, you may have guessed that the bags have varying weights too. And indeed, they do, as the Plus pack weighs 2120 grams. It is slightly more than the weight of Aqua Back at 1940 grams.
The Aqua Back model has PVC-Free 1000D Tarpaulin material made through climate-neutral manufacturing. The material is sturdy, highly water-resistant, and abrasion resistant.
On the other hand, the Plus model features a 1000D Embossed thermoplastic Polyurethane coated. It is a slightly better fabric, mostly due to a lasting coating and overall longevity.
Moreover, the Plus bag has an added feature- an outer welded pocket. The pocket is accessible outside and improves quick access to the bag.
The Aqua Back model retails for a higher price than the Plus bag. Though you must be surprised by the price, it is understandable as the Aqua Back comes in a set.
VAUDE Aqua Back vs Deluxe
Commons
The bags don’t have many differences in their properties as they have more overlapping features. Firstly, they have the exact dimensions of 37 x 33 x 19 centimeters. Due to having identical dimensions, they also have the same carrying capacity. They both can carry up to 48 liters in them. It is a considerable carrying capacity and gives ample room for storage.
They also weigh the same- 1940 grams. Since they will get stowed onto the bike, the weight is not too heavy either. Both bags utilize the same 1000D PVC-Free tarpaulin fabric for the body. The material is efficient and very sturdy.
The finish over it ensures that it repels water and keeps your bags’ contents safe. The brand uses climate-neutral manufacturing procedures for it which enhances its moral value.
Also, both have a 12.5 kg max weight limit for the objects stored inside. If you exceed that limit, you may end up damaging the bag, which is not ideal. As long as you stay under the limit, you’re good to go.
The bags feature the QMR 2.0 system to secure the bag over your bike. It is quick and efficient but provides a sturdy and slip-free grip on the bike. You can even lock the hook onto your bike to avoid getting it stolen while out of sight. They have a Hard Back pannier system to protect the rear side of the bag. It is shock-absorbant and damage resistant to keep the bag intact.
Moreover, they have a roll closure for perfect sealing of the bag. You can adjust the bag’s size if needed through the same mechanism. But it is most known to seal off the main compartment effortlessly.
The bags have removable shoulder straps that make them convertible. If you want to carry the pack like a backpack- you can use the straps. And if not, you can even use them as packing straps.
Moreover, they work perfectly well with the accessory bags like the Addita Bag or Toolbag Back. Additionally, they have reflective elements to increase the visibility of the bag in the dark.
Differences: Aqua Back vs Deluxe
The two differences between these packs are the fabric and an inside pocket only. The Aqua Back has an extra inside section, which is absent in Deluxe. And, Aqua Back has better fabric- 800D Mega Tarpaulin along with 1000D Tarpaulin while Deluxe only consists of 1000D Tarpaulin. This is why they have varying prices as the Aqua Back is a bit pricier.
Conclusion
Stowing bags are much simpler to carry on biking trips. Why should you carry heavy weights on your shoulder all day when you can simply attach them to your bike and cycle away? It lowers the hassle and makes your trip overall more comfortable. Though the Aqua Backpack is the most expensive, it comes with great fabric and is incredibly roomy. But the Plus model has better capacity and one added feature. While the Deluxe version is almost identical to the Aqua Back in features and comes at a lower price.
FAQs
Are VAUDE Backpacks Waterproof?
Most of the brand’s backpack designs feature a highly water-resistant fabric. In the case of the bags above, these packs are ultra-resilient and almost waterproof. They have zips and closure systems to provide a tight seal for the pack.
How To Use VAUDE Aqua Back?
The Aqua Back series is not a handbag or backpack, but an attachable bike bag. You can plug it over either of the back sides of the bike you will be using. It helps curb the load on your shoulder and keep carrying your stuff hassle-free.
How To Fit VAUDE Panniers?
The above bags come with a secure QMR hook. You can align the hook with the side rod and lock it. You should hear a clicking sound to know that it fits snugly into place and is ready to use.
