Basil Flex Backpack
Basil · Hybride rugzak / pannier· €40.00
Our verdict
Unique hybrid at €40. Not the best backpack, not the best pannier — but the smartest compromise for riders who want both.
Detailed review
The Basil Flex is a remarkable hybrid that either rides as a backpack on your back, or hooks onto your rear rack as a pannier. For people with back-sweat concerns on warm days that's a real solution: hook it on the rack to work, wear it to the meeting.
The hook system fits virtually every standard Dutch rear rack. At €40 it's the smartest choice for commuters who occasionally want to escape the backpack. Downsides: not truly waterproof (water-resistant with optional rain cover), no padded laptop sleeve, and the pannier mode feels less stable than a proper Ortlieb Back-Roller.
For anyone drawn to the British Carradice-style hybrid concept without spending €100+, the Basil Flex is the accessible entry. Versus a regular backpack (Ortlieb €110) you gain flexibility, lose waterproofing. Versus a proper pannier (Ortlieb Back-Roller €60) you gain backpack mode, lose waterproofing.
Who is this for?
- Commuters wanting to avoid sweaty backs
- People who sometimes want to wear/not wear the bag indoors
- Budget-conscious hybrid seekers
What to watch out for
- Not waterproof — buy a rain cover separately
- Too tight for a 15-inch laptop
Specifications
Capacity
| Volume | 17 L |
| Laptop fit | Tot 13 inch |
| Waterproofing | Water-resistant |
| Weight | 750 g |
Materials
| Outer | Polyester |
| Pannier system | Hook-on rear rack |
What does the ART certification mean and which level do you need for your bike or e-bike? Compare ART-1 through ART-5 and the requirements of Univé, ENRA, Centraal Beheer and Unigarant.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hybrid: backpack and pannier in one — switch on the fly
- Hook-on system fits standard Dutch racks
- Cheapest in this comparison (€40)
- Dutch Basil brand with solid service
Cons
- Water-resistant, not truly waterproof
- No padded laptop sleeve
Use case fit
How well does this product fit different bike types?
| City Bikes | 92 |
| Electric Bikes | 85 |
| Trekking Bikes | 75 |
| Folding Bikes | 70 |
Where to buy
Amazon.nl
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