I've had my Chrome Metropolis for almost two years now. I actually purchased it used from a friend who owned and used it for five years before that meaning my bag is nearly seven years old.

Just think about that: when was the last time you had a backpack that lasted seven years?

In terms of condition, the red cordura outer is dirty, but still without a single hole. The inner truck tarp layer is dirty, but still waterproof as ever. The buckle and adjustment strap are still completely functional. The only thing that has shown any sign of aging is the velco. That said, every time I wash the bag, the velcro goes back to being strong as ever.

These are truly well made bags.

I've owned a metropolis for about 3 months now and its the best messenger bag i've ever bought. It fits everything i could possibly want to put in it, is waterproof, and is super durable. and it looks sweet.

at first i wasnt sure if i should get the "large size." I was afraid it would be too big but its actually not as big as the pictures on the chrome site make it seem. im 5'9 and the bag covers my entire back. and it sits on the upper part of my back when im on my bike. pretty comfortable on the road but when im walking around with it on it feels awkward.

And it is a little heavy. I took it on 60 mile bike ride to the beach once. had 3 water bottles, my ulock, some bike tools and a box of granola bars. It was a breeze for the first 40 miles but over time it started to wear me down. I know this bag wasnt meant for that type of usage but it still held up well.

there is no padding on the inner part of the bag so if you are carrying books or boxes it might shift over time and poke you in the back.

My biggest gripe about this bag is the lack of a lock holder. Chrome markets this bag to the bike scene. and if you own a bike you must own a lock. so every time i make a stop i need to undo the adjusting strap and pull out the lock. I know its not a big deal but it would have been nice to have an external lock holder.

Other than that this bag is perfect. itll probably last me for the rest of my life so i dont regret the purchase.

Whether you are a student or bike commuter this giant Chrome bag will hold your stuff and give you hipster cred to boot. Who knows, maybe you may even be included in the bike messenger gathering down the street :)

The seatbelt buckle is what really distinguishes the Chrome bags, but beware it is very tempting for people to press (definitely make sure the laptop is secure and padded). Of course not to say that I ever did this to anyone (sorry bro)