Aerostich Courier Bag

The dispatch bag I've used for 11 years and 50,000 miles has been replaced by a clean, bright, odor-free courier bag. The dispatch was great- unobtrusive, comfortable, and big enough for 90% of the loads I wanted to carry. I was even able to strap down a brand new full-length lacrosse stick using only the QR straps attached to the bag. The dispatch has been relegated to only bicycle duty, as several years of sweaty bicycle use has lent it a delicate bouquet that remains even after a good hosedown. The black fabric is faded, the reflective strip is...disreputable looking, but the velcro, seams and strap all remain strong and intact. The current overall appearance of the bag, to me, reminds me of the miles I've ridden, the lessons I've been taught, and how something old and obviously well-made and well-used will always be cooler than some brand new shiny thing that starts to deteriorate in a month.
The courier bag- bright blue, way too big for what I need, but still mighty handy. My complaint is the size, or rather the attributes that the size of the bag brings to its construction. The main culprit is the velcro- even when the bag is fully loaded the velcro is so strong that two hands are needed to open the flap- one hand to pull the flap, one hand to hold the bag down, as the velcro holds tenaciously and lifts the bag rather than separating. I have NEVER had a problem with the flap coming open on either bag. Perhaps more judicious use of velcro is in order?
The dispatch bag was small enough that it didn't fold or flop around like the courier bag does- it can be a struggle to get into the courier while riding, just because the bag contorts and bends funny when its wrapped around ones back. I have no solution for this, other than going back to a dispatch-sized bag.
Otherwise, magnificent construction and durability.

There are many, many things to praise about this bag. It's simple, functional, and stylish. The bright yellow interior makes it much easier to find stuff in it. Plus, you can get one of “their” courier bags anywhere. You can only get this one from Riders Warehouse.

Needed a solution for commuting and business trips - a mobile office.... And the occasional large item/purchase (shoe box+). Exceeds expectations. Very stable despite hanging off through esses on a ZX10r. Looks like it will leak at the flap top and some other bag designs fold this over e.g. North Face to avoid likelihood, but no water in so far. Good kit.

I have only been riding for about 11 months but I can honestly say that I think this is tied as the best investment I have made when it comes to gear. (a comfy helmet for my over-sized melon, being the other) I purchased the hi-viz version only a month after I starting riding and, every rider that I have spoken to about the bag, says they can see me coming in traffic. And while I do not ride to necessarily show off my gear, if the hi-viz bag or its shoulder pad wake up the phone-toting left-turning SUV driver to my presense, I am all for it. I have carried many things in this bag and most, if not all, of the time I never notice that is even there. As of today, I never leave home on the bike without this bag. Thanks, Aerostich, for an awesome product!