Backpack shoulder strap for carrying Brompton

As you know those Brompton bikes, they're all about making it easy to carry and move around.  

They even come with this handy rear carrier that's supposed to make life easier.

But here's the kicker: in Japan, thanks to JR's rules and all, you got to fold up your bike nice and neat into a bag when you're taking it on the train - no leaving any bits sticking out, mind you.

And that means when you're inside, like on the platform or in the station, you can't just wheel your Brompton around using that carrier or the wheels.

So, what do you get to do?

Well, you either have to lug it around by hand or sling it over your shoulder.



My go-to bag for this is the DIMPA from IKEA.

It's so perfectly designed for fitting a Brompton nice and tidy inside, that you'd almost think it was made for it.

Plus, the shoulder strap is long enough to sling it comfortably over your shoulder for hauling around.

But let's be real when it's got some weight to it, just using the shoulder strap can start to feel like a pain, especially on long journeys.



That's why I've started using a fabric handle cover that wraps around the shoulder strap, giving some extra padding for those long hauls.



Anyway, I've been making do with this setup for a while now, but lately, I've been thinking there's got to be an easier way.

There are Brompton travel bags and cases out there that promise to fully enclose the bike for storage and still allow it to be rolled around, or even worn as a backpack.

The problem is, they come with a hefty price tag – not exactly my style.

But then, while browsing Amazon, I stumbled upon a backpack strap that seemed perfect for Brompton travel.

It's designed to be used with carry bags, so it should work as a treat for the Brompton too.

The part that rests against your back seems to have some decent padding, so if you strap it to the smoother side of the folded Brompton, it should be pretty comfortable to carry around, almost like wearing a backpack.

I ordered one, and it arrived in just a day!







Length adjustments on the mounting and securing straps mean it fits the Brompton just right.



I gave it a test run with a provisional setup.



Not bad at all.

The metal rear carrier frame provides good support from underneath, so it stays stable even when lifted and jostled.



This thing works like a charm!

Sure, it might be a bit oversized as a backpack, but as long as you're careful, you should be able to move around stations and platforms without causing a nuisance to others.





With this strapped on, along with my homemade, small front bag and the IKEA DIMPA, I've got plenty of space covered.

Now that the weather's getting nicer, it's time to enjoy not just cycling trips but also hopping on public transport with ease!