Axio Swift 2.0 Hardpack

  • $239.95 MSRP
  • Weight: 4lbs 15oz
  • External dimensions: 20”H x 14”W x 9.5”D
  • Room for a 17″ Macbook
  • Patented Aerodynamic shape
  • Molded polycarbonate hardshell with nylon trim details
  • Oversized padded shoulder straps with mobile phone pocket
  • Reflective badges for improved visibility
  • Ergonomic air mesh panel for comfort
  • Dedicated padded laptop compartment – fleeced lined
  • Large external back panel pocket for easy access
  • Holds a 17” MacBook Pro and 15” notebooks or smaller
  • Sporty contrast zipper stitching
A description of the Swift 2.0 from Axio’s website:

“Aerodynamics should be the last thing on your mind while lane-sharing your way through traffic. Our polycarbonate hardshell was designed with motorcycle riders like you on our drawing board. With its body-molded shape and padded integrated strap system, you’ll have a secure handle on your gear, as it rests quite comfortably in its roomy 1800 cubic inches of compartmentalized efficiency on your back. Room for a 17″ MacBook Pro and business of the day, all in our top-of-the-line neatly organized, extremely cool carrying case called Swift 2.0.”

FIT

I have been fortunate enough to spend over a week with this gorgeous bag. Performance, technology and design are definitely key characteristics in an Axio bag.  It’s definitely a headturner and commands immediate attention when you walk into a room.

I’ve had many many bags while commuting on my motorcycles. I’ve used Timbuk2′s commuter bag, a custom Timbuk2 messenger bag, various backpacks and a Rickshaw bag.  All the bags I’ve carried on my bike had to have some kind of laptop sleeve.  Or if it didn’t have one built in, I just put my laptop in a Timbuk2 sleeve and carried it separately.  The problem I’ve always had is that after awhile it would become uncomfortable or it always felt like it was pulling on my shoulder, or my arm or some other muscle I was unaware of.  I never felt perfectly comfortable carrying anything on my back/shoulder.  And when you’re riding, you certainly want minimal distractions. Anything that keeps your focus fully on the road can affect your reactions and ability to ride.

Even though the Swift is a little big on me, I definitely found it far more comfortable than any other backpack I’ve ever had to wear on my bike.  The one thing Axio did better than any other bag I’ve worn is that it designed a bag for someone riding a motorcycle.  In the past, I’ve always looked for something with a built in laptop sleeve so I wouldn’t have to carry an excess ‘bag’ in my bag!  I wish I could’ve tried an Axio before when I had an actual commute.  This would’ve been absolutely perfect.  As you can see above, there is plenty of room for up to a 17″ laptop, plus space for any other personal items you might need, including files, your wallet, cables, etc.  The hump provides even more storage in the front of the bag, for a sweater, documents or anything else you might need to carry as well.  I was surprised at how much I could fit in this thing without actually noticing the extra weight while on my back.

One thing I noticed immediately is that when riding and wearing the Axio, it didn’t even feel like I was carrying a laptop.  They’ve done an incredible job of redistributing the weight of the bag to the upper back/shoulders, without pulling or added stress on those muscles.  I thought I would desperately want/need a waist strap but not the case. The strap across the front is much better and feels really secure.  For really heavy bags, I’d always release the straps until the bag rested on my backseat. Then I wouldn’t have to ‘carry’ the weight.  The Axio feels completely different.   Keep in mind that this isn’t a waterproof bag, as the zippers aren’t sealed.  I’m sure it would protect everything inside if you’re caught in a light shower or sprinkle. But I wouldn’t wear this one in the rain if you can help it.

FEATURES

Everything about this bag was designed with functionality in mind.  There are pockets and sleeves everywhere for everything you need to carry with you to the office.

One feature that I like about this bag are the ‘grippy’ zippers. Sometimes you just need to grab something real quick out of a pocket or inside your bag and you just don’t feel like taking off your gloves to do that.

The straps are also noticeably tapered inward, so they are a little more comfortable than a standard backpack strap when your arms are out in front of you on the handgrips, a small but noticeably improved feature I noticed while riding.

Other details like the phone pocket on the right strap, sturdy handle on the top of the bag for quick pickup, and the extra storage pouches inside make the Axio Swift 2.0 an excellent commuter bag, especially for anyone looking for a secure, comfortable way to commute on your motorcycle with your laptop.

So if you’re looking for a commuter bag to carry your laptop, I would highly recommend an Axio. Especially if you’re on a motorcycle, or bicycle, you’re going to love what Axio has to offer.