The Ergon pack uses a Flink ball joint between the carrying frame and the backpack itself. This results in greater movement for your upper body, putting the pack load’s centre of gravity on your hips.
The pressure of weight is distributed on your shoulders rather than on your the back, so the pack moves around less than usual on difficult trails. The carry system comes in two sizes and there’s loads of adjustment for different back lengths or carrying heights.
We tested the men’s BD1 12+4litre Team version. The rigid frame and waist yoke means it weighs a little more than many bike packs but you don’t feel that when using it. It’s comfortable, and comes with the usual inner pockets, a neatly stashed-away rain cover and a stretchy, strapped fully adjustable helmet carrying facility.