We often overlook the weight of packs, considering it largely irrelevant once fully laden with kit, but we could immediately feel a benefit from the lightweight Syncro — it is more than half a kilogram lighter than most of the others on test.

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Of course, it doesn’t have a back protector, something that adds a fair heft to other packs, as Osprey have opted for an airy, suspended-back system. It pretty much guarantees a sweat-free jersey, but some testers reported that the hard edges can dig in, either at the neck or lower corners.

There are two back sizes available, so choosing the right one could help with this. The waist belt is tiny, too, just there to aid stability rather than transferring any weight to the hips. So when loaded up on longer rides we could feel the weight bearing down on our shoulders.

With a large main compartment, with sleeve for the reservoir of your choice (you could do far worse than Osprey’s own Hydraulics stiff-backed reservoir) plus a generous compartment for tools and spares, with spot-on tool organiser pockets, Osprey has got the storage just right.

A stretch pocket on each side is useful for holding wet and dirty gear you don’t want contaminating the internal contents, and this is all kept under tight control by excellent compression straps. In fact, the only storage boxes not ticked are some hip pockets for easy-access to bars and other trail regulars.