After using my Chrome Bags Sultan for quite some time I was ready to try a somewhat smaller alternative. While I like the huge capacity of the Sultan, it literally gets in the way some time when I’m out only on an errand.

Considering how much I like the Sultan I decided to give one of their smaller shoulder bags a try. After several months of almost daily use, here’s my impression:

Design & Practicality: 5/5

At first sight, the bag looks rather unimposing. It is only after you open the main flap that the clever features shine through. Right on the front is a good-sized organizer section for smaller things like keys, cell phone and so forth. Behind that you find some larger pockets that are perfect for a U-lock, tools and a spare inner tube. There is also a document pocket behind it, large enough to accommodate my MacBook Pro in a protective sleeve and the power supply. Lastly you have the big main compartment, suitable for your bigger stuff such as groceries, your favorite adult beverages and so forth

Outside is a loop for a blinkie light and an attachment for a poster roll or a rainjacket.

Overall, I’d say it is a pretty perfect design

Materials & Workmanship: 5/5

As it is the case with the Sultan, materials and craftsmanship are first rate. Anyway you look at the bag it just oozes quality. All the buckles are prime quality and in standard dimensions, so should you ever break one (pretty unlikely, I’d say) you can pick up a replacement at pretty much any sports store.It is also worth noting that all Chrome bags come with a lifetime warranty.

Fit & Capacity: 5/5

While Chrome rates the Metropolis as smaller than the Sultan, it is still a very high-capacity bag. I have no problem to fit a week’s worth of groceries in it or a substantial amount of “Post-ride Rehydration Cylinders”. However, if it is only smaller things you carry, the bag will stay very flat and low profile and never feels bulky.

The carrying system deserves a separate mention: When ordering or buying one of these you need to specify if you wear it on your left shoulder or on your right. The main carrying strap is very generously padded; it also comes with Chrome’s signature “safety-belt” quick release. There’s also stabilizer strap that can hook into two different positions, depending on your preferences if you are riding with the bag loaded full.

Carrying comfort even with a full load is great and it is very easy to adjust the bag so it doesn’t move around. That being said, I feel that a backpack design in the same situation feels better. This is no fault of the bag itself; carrying 20+ pound on both shoulders rather than only one feels just better to me.

Summary

As far as shoulder bags are concerned, this is one of the best ones out there. Superb quality and great design make a great all-around bag that is very well suited for a do-it-all urban bag

In case you like the overall concept, but have no need for that much room, Chrome makes smaller bags in the same design and quality for less money

Click on the image for a larger view. All images are taken from Chrome’s website