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Timbuk2's Medium Classic Messenger Bag Reviewed

by Simon Helton

Timbuk2

SRP / SP:	$70 / $70
Requirements:	None
What's Hot:	Tough and attractive
What's Not:	Clasp controlling strap length; minor issues detailed below

Last week I reviewed the small version of the same bag. As many of the characteristics are common to both bags, it's worth reading in conjunction with this review.

As I wrote last time, Timbuk2's Classic Messenger Bags are exceedingly popular now, and have become a staple on college campuses and among urban hipsters. The bag I'm looking at today, the medium size of the Classic Messenger Bag, is the most popular model sold by Timbuk2. This model is also considered the most equivalent to a typical backpack for students, and with a capacity of 1474 cubic inches, that's a pretty generously-sized backpack. The medium sized bag will accommodate a 12" or 15" PowerBook, while the large bag is recommended by Timbuk2 for the 17" PowerBook.

Now, as with the small messenger bag, the material used for the exterial is either Cordura or ballistic nylon, both of which wear quite tough, and come in a number of colors. Inside the bag is a vinyl lining, which makes the bag very resistant to water, leaving my PowerBook dry even after spending significant time in the rain. Keep in mind that this bag is not padded for laptops, though Timbuk2 makes very similar pags with a laptop compartment. With a decent sleeve on your PowerBook, though, the bag feels plenty secure for an expensive piece of hardware.

For those who have considered the smaller messenger bag, but are concerned about its capacity, the medium messenger bag is nearly twice as large. Along with a PowerBook, there is room for several books, files, folders, notebooks, etc. While I cautioned against the smaller bag for students who need to carry a lot of text books, or professionals who must tote a lot of peripherals or folders, this bag should satisfy most users demands in the capacity department. Also nice is that the interior, and the exterior that is normally covered with the flap, contains a number of pockets, zippers, etc., giving plenty of places to store pens, pencils, ID, a cell phone, and an iPod.

While I was very satisfied with the construction of the bag, the materials used, and the storage features, the bag is not without its faults. As I mentioned in the last review, the shoulder strap is adjustable, but uses a unique clasp system to preserve the desired length of the shoulder strap. While this system is generally fine, the clasp occasionally comes undone, and if you don't notice it, the weight of the bag will pull the strap length out. One other minor quibble is that the vinyl lining in some cases was streaked with the colors of folders placed in the bag. This discoloration, of course, is not something that hinders performance, but is a little unsightly.

All in all, Timbuk2's Classic Messenger Bag is a worthy contender for the privilege to carry your PowerBook, and is worth a look if you're in the market.