Rapide
Rapide
For Zac Speed
11 / 23
Designed for motorcycle accessory brand Zac Speed, known for its rugged, off-road products, the Rapide Commuter Backpack marks the brand's first venture into road riding. The challenge was to create a pack that took the joy of the weekend ride into the weekday, allowing for the performance and freedom of sports bike riding whilst still fulfilling the practical needs of daily office use.
Working with Zac's rider community identified one core design challenge. Road riders wanted a pack that was both rigid enough to ensure stability and comfort during high-speed rides and flexible enough to allow easy access and practicality for everyday use. The solution was found in the Rapide's innovative semi-rigid body, which combines rigid and flexible panels to enhance stability and comfort on the bike while offering practicality in the office.
The main body features thermoformed panels that provide a shell-like stability, ensuring no movement or flapping at high speeds. These panels are designed to balance the weight and maintain the aerodynamic profile essential for performance riding. Complementing these rigid elements are flexible sections crafted from high-grade, weather-resistant fabrics, which allow for easy access and expandability.
A standout feature is the Hyper Hinge lower back panel, designed to solve the common problem of carrying a laptop while riding. This innovative feature allows the pack to curve with the rider's posture, maintaining support and significantly improving comfort during rides.
As cities evolve towards more sustainable models, micro-mobility emerges as a crucial element in reducing congestion and emissions. The Rapide backpack addresses practical barriers that often discourage the adoption of new commuting routines. By offering a safe, comfortable, and convenient solution for carrying essentials on bikes, scooters, or other light vehicles, the Rapide makes it easier and more appealing for commuters to shift away from car use, helping to reduce urban emissions and promote cleaner air.
