Damn... didn't mean to make that one rhyme but it has now stuck as an adequate description! We wanted to call the bag something else similar to "Chunky Toad" which is also short and squat (urbandictionary worthy), but weren't sure you guys were ready for that! Regardless, the name seems highly suitable and has now stuck!
Design:
The Chunky Toad is designed as an everyday bag but with room for the occasional big haul. You would be surprised what you can carry inside the cavernous 42L main tub. If it doesn't fit, multiple clip points enable you to safely lash it down to the outside. The external pleated pocket comfortably holds your everyday kit; keys, drink bottle, wallet and phone with room to spare. There are two interior pockets, the rear doubles as either a hydration pouch or laptop sleeve.
The Chunky Toad also features our quick access D-lock sleeve, or with the optional hip belt two d-lock holsters. These holsters can be used to to run pouches including our Lovehandle. The hip belt can also be removed and used in conjunction with other pouches as a bum bag / fanny pack.
Chunky Toad Features:
Approx. 42L volume Removable HDPE frame sheet & back padding (so things don't stick into your back!)
D-lock sleeve
Pleated external pocket
Internal front pocket
Internal rear pocket (fits 15" laptop)
"Soft" construction (no billboard liner)
Pen pocket
Sternum strap
Top - side compression
Multiple clipping points for lashing oversized gear down or for pouches
Poster tube clip points
Side clipping points
Light clip points
Key clip points
Replaceable shoulder strap webbing
Optional Hip Belt Features:
Easily removable!
Dual D-lock holster which doubles as a pouch holder
Multiple clipping points for pouches. Can be used as a bum bag / fanny pack
Construction
Outer: 1000D High tenacity Air-textured nylon
Liner: 420D High Tenacity Nylon
Shoulder Padding: 10mm, 45kg density foam
Back Padding: 10mm, 45kg density foam
Webbing: Pebble weave polyester webbing
Buckles: ITW Nexus or reclaimed Duraflex
Hook & Loop: Bondex
I bought a Chunky Toad about a month ago. It's the best backpack I have ever used. It literally carries everything. I got 2 weeks worth of clothing and touring gear in it no worries, it helps with the shopping too. The hipbelt carries a lot of the weight; definitely worth getting if you're using this bag to it's full potential. To be honest I find it hard to find stuff to fill it with, as my bag before was literally 1/4 the size of the CT. I'm going backpacking in March, no prizes for guessing what I'm carrying my gear in. The BOgear dirtify me label is a cute touch, clearly made with a lot of love, and used with equal amounts. Thanks BOgear
Stevie T, 19th April 2011:
Just wanted to share: I was able to haul a 60cm frame today with my new generation BO bag. Worked beautifully thanks!
Rob H, 21st June 2011:
I love the shit out of this bag. It's exactly the right size for carrying everything you could ever want to carry on a bike. I've loaded it full of 20kg of veges, hauled 18 1L Fowlers Vacola Jars in it, carried bike frames around, taken it on countless weekend-away-type adventures, and even blew a tube once when I managed to fit a full slab of Cooper's Pale in it (bag was totally fine and quite comfortable, tubes were weak). Love the ability to load it full of gear and then easily slide a laptop or books in as an afterthought. I very rarely leave the house without it as I inevitably end up having to drag something cumbersome around with me on the bike. I am continually annoying the shit out of everyone by telling them how awesome it is. So yeah. Love it.
Des, 22st August 2011:
I've been using the bag for a while now and thought to give you some feedback . First of all, it's very comfortable to wear and very stable when riding. I'm glad you talked me into getting that waist belt. Two of my biggest loads are carrying the weekly groceries and laundry and this bag does the job beautifully. It's much better than my Crumpler Famous Wine Bar which the Chunky Toad replaces. Even though both bags have roughly the same space, the square-ness of the chunky toad makes it a lot easier to load stuff in quickly. One thing that I did wish for was a carry handle to pop up when the bag is open (under the flap) so I can still carry it and load/unload stuff. Otherwise, I'm really happy with it.
