Tom Bihn Marathon Messenger vs Tom Bihn Side Effect
Tom Bihn Marathon Messenger ($230) vs Tom Bihn Side Effect ($70) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right bag.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Tom Bihn Marathon Messenger | Tom Bihn Side Effect |
| Price | $230 | $70 |
| Weight | 740g | 195g |
| Weight | 740g (26.10 oz, Tom Bihn product page) | 195g (Tom Bihn published) |
| Material | — | Ballistic nylon |
Pros & Cons
Tom Bihn Marathon Messenger
- Dual-buckle flap
- zippered pocket under the flap
- in-flap pocket for phone, wallet and keys
- $230 is a considered purchase
Tom Bihn Side Effect
- Works as a bag or an organizer
- Five O-rings for tethering small items
- Under $75
- Only 1.7 liters
- Hip belt is sold separately
Tom Bihn Side Effect is the better value at $70. Both are part of our curated bag index — tap through to check current pricing.