It's made using an incredibly tough 1880D Recycled Nylon Canvas. This feels a lot like those old trusty canvas bags that refused to die but is better for the environment and looks a bit nicer, too. This fabric is also Bluesign-approved, meaning the people that make the fabric work in healthy conditions and the fabric itself is sustainable. To top it off, a PFC-free durable water repellent coating is applied to the fabric to repel light rain and snow. Safety should always come first. You should never skimp when buying bicycle gear because it could one day save your life. You (hopefully) would never cut corners on your helmet, so you shouldn’t act any differently to the rest of your gear.

Sometimes we aren’t always able to store a bike in a warm, safe place. People living in shared accommodation, student housing, flats or other types of arrangements may not be allowed to keep their bicycle in communal areas (where space is usually the biggest). Cycling to work is a very rewarding and physically stimulating way of getting to work. Beating the soul crush of driving and the busy crunch of public transport, cycling is great for the mind and the body. You might be a cycling newbie or a relative De-France competitor, but anyone can fall victim to the common buying mistakes when it comes to cycling gear. Unfortunately, while the internet makes shopping easier than ever before, it has also increased the difficulty for newcomers to discern the good from the bad. This season marks the latest milestone in our sustainability journey. For Archeon 24 have moved towards C0, PFC free DWR coating. The updated chemistry provides a sustainable yet high-performance approach to the hardiness of this series. The fabrics used throughout the Archeon 24 are all recycled and durable enough to stand the test of time. Tough metal componentry completes the durable design ensuring longevity on the trail. Whatever you might be buying for your cycling trips, it’s important to do your research. Afterall, cycling can be dangerous if improperly or inadequately equipped, so it’s vital that your gear is safe and high quality.Side tension straps are linked to the hipbelt. By tightening these straps you can stabilise the load but reduce the hipbelt flexibility. Where balance is critical tightening them can help you feel more secure. However, if you are striding out over easy terrain it’s better to loosen these straps to allow full hip flexibility.

Of course, this doesn’t mean buy the most expensive items, but it does mean to think about if the price tag has more to do with the bragging rights than the actual quality of the product. There are hundreds upon hundreds of brands in bicycling. From budget to billionaire worthy, the range in prices can vary significantly. The best part about cycling is that you need very little to get going. There are a number of must-have pieces of equipment such as a helmet, high visibility clothing and lights, but apart from this small group, you don’t need anything extra. Side sleeves can often be flimsy or undersized, but the Archeon's are great, with plenty of depth to securely hold a big water bottle, and a useful combination of a stretchy top section for easier access and a nylon bottom part for toughness (think trekking pole tips and the like). This is a very simple but very important question. You may have heard the old adage ‘all the gear and no idea’. This concept is very much applicable to new riders that want to make sure that they have everything they need before their first trip on the pedals.However, every product is different, and every brand has its budget products and big flops. Make sure to research the exact product you’re looking at to see if the quality is worthy of the brand it represents. Don’t go for the cheapest thing The twin side compression straps work well in their primary function, squeezing down a part-full load. I like the metal hooks here, and the elastic retainer neatly holding the spare webbing tail, but for attaching bulkier items like a foam rollmat a bit more length in the straps wouldn't have gone amiss. You might also want to get a bike cover if your bike will be open to the elements whilst at work, school or elsewhere. A cover will protect your bike’s surface from wear and tear, helping to keep it in the best condition possible. Spacious and practical, providing a safe haven as you embark on longer trips Osprey Archeon 24 (1-048) But what do you need to look out for when shopping for cycling gear? What are the best brands? What kit is really necessary? Do you really need it?

Eventually I found that a tall organiser pouch (in this case the Remote Equipment Org Kit) worked well within the main compartment, keeping my cables and small items tidy and easily accessible. I know Osprey intend the Archeon 24 to primarily work outdoors, but the urban functionality could be greatly improved here. What’s Perfect

Our Verdict

Before you go we’ve put together some top tips for you to consider when you’re buying any cycle products online. These tips can apply whether you’re a new rider or an experienced cyclist. How to shop for cycling stuff, smartly and safely.