Regarding the direction of zipper closures, the bottom side pocket is designed to keep things in, if the zipper opens a little bit, exactly for what you mentioned. If it closed on bottom then a small opening could allow things to spill out. Gravity does not impact those nearly as much as bumping or jostling. So, close in the up position is most logical there. And for the main zipper, the only way around the cinch strap getting in the way would be to have the side cinch straps route on the inside of the pack, inside of the zipper and only come out by the ends, which eliminates being able to use those cinch straps to hold a jacket or something else on the outside. It also would introduce 4 holes (two on each side) for the main compartment, which is likely undesirable. So, I think that design for the zippers is pretty logical.

The battery compartment is for a spare e-bike battery. The back sleeve is for an optional spine protector.

One of the best reviews on this backpack. Thanks for the effort and the detail. Just wanted to know which short you're wearing. Keep it up!

I saw this and thought ‘16+mins for a bag review??’ Then I watched the entire video haha! Thank you for such an excellent video! It was very helpful

I have used Mil-Spec CamelBak for all of my hydration bladders and packs, they are built stronger and use more durable materials than the civilian products. I use a M.U.L.E. pack for day hikes and bike riding.

The big pocket inside the hydration pocket is for a back protection plate so you dont have to wear one on your body.

thanks for this review! this helped my get my bag together for the first ride with it.

Thanks mate, great review

I think the pockets in the hydration compartment is for adding ice packs to keep your fluid cool.

Really detailed and well presented review. Covered everything I wanted to know about the bacpack, good job!

Much appreciated, needed to replace my much loved 2014 Camelbak Luxe, this review had all the info I needed, ordered from bike24 for the win!

nice vid, nice backpack & nice ride!

Very useful vid, thanks

Nice review.

Good review.

Very good review !

very good explain. Thanks a lot

vov super video

Yes, the bag has big compartments but as soon as you fill one it also takes away the space of the others so really you might aswell have just one huge compartment

when you bought this, did you get that pack for water too?