Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase
Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase

Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase

by Timbuk2
We may earn a commission. Our picks remain independent. Disclosure

About the Product

The Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase is designed for travelers who prioritize durability and practical features in their carry-on. The shell is constructed from reinforced nylon with a molded ABS base, providing a balance of light weight (around 6.2 lbs for the small size) and solid impact protection. Multiple interior compartments, mesh dividers, and compression straps help keep your belongings organized and secure during travel.

One standout feature is Timbuk2’s lifetime warranty (for the useful life of the product), which covers defects in materials and workmanship. However, it’s worth noting that normal wear and tear, accidental damage, and issues with parts like wheels and zippers are generally excluded. Warranty claims are handled online, and while Timbuk2 covers repair or replacement and return shipping, you’re responsible for getting the bag to them.

In terms of repairability, some users have managed basic DIY fixes, but official spare parts like wheels and handles are not sold separately, making comprehensive repairs less convenient than on some premium competitors. The suitcase uses a two-wheel upright design rather than a four-wheel spinner, which may affect maneuverability for some users but does offer a simpler, potentially more robust wheel setup.

Overall, the Co-Pilot stands out for its thoughtful organization, accessible warranty terms, and practical materials. It’s a reliable option for travelers who value long-lasting, easy-to-use gear, though those looking for maximum repairability or spinner wheels may want to compare with other brands.

About Timbuk2

Timbuk2 is a San Francisco-based bag company with a legacy rooted in durability and repairability. Founded in 1989, the brand has spent decades building consumer trust through its commitment to making products “built to last a lifetime.” Timbuk2 backs its mission with a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects and offers in-house repair services, plus recycling and upcycling programs for well-used bags—a strong signal for shoppers who value long-lasting products and sustainability.

The company is widely recognized for its classic messenger bags and backpacks, and has earned a loyal following thanks to reliable performance and responsive customer support. While most reviews highlight exceptional product longevity and repair support, some newer lines have received feedback about not matching the legendary lifespan of earlier, locally made models.

Today, Timbuk2 remains active and stable, continually updating its collection and operating both online and through retail partners. Although now owned by Exemplis, the brand continues to focus on quality and consumer trust, making it a notable choice for anyone seeking gear designed to withstand years of daily use.

Product Score:   60.3

Mission & Values
Whether the brand explicitly commits to durability, repairability, and sustainability.
Ideal: Brand mission and actions clearly prioritize long-lasting, repairable products.
Confidence — HIGH
3 sources
90.0% (W 40%)
PRO
Timbuk2 openly commits to durability and repair, stating their bags are "built to last a lifetime."The brand offers a lifetime warranty for manufacturing defects and encourages repair over replacement, highlighting repair services as part of its mission.Promotes sustainability through in-house bag repairs, bag recycling/upcycling programs, and commitments to local manufacturing in San Francisco for several product lines.
CON
While the mission emphasizes sustainability and repair, only select products are locally made, and not all bag components may be user-repairable.
Track Record / Reputation
Independent history of reliability and consumer trust.
Ideal: Decades of consistent positive reputation from reviews, watchdogs, and experts.
Confidence — HIGH
3 sources
85.0% (W 40%)
PRO
Timbuk2 has operated continuously since 1989 and is widely recognized for reliable, long-lasting messenger bags and backpacks.The brand receives strong reviews from major outlets and long-term users for product durability and customer support.Known for standing behind its products, with a reputation for honoring its warranty and supporting repairs.
CON
Some user reviews cite issues with certain newer product lines not matching the longevity of older, Made-in-SF bags.
Corporate Stability
Financial and organizational stability of the brand or company.
Ideal: Established, stable company with low risk of discontinuing support.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
80.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Founded in 1989 and still active, Timbuk2 has sustained operations through decades of industry changes.Continues to launch new products, maintain partnerships, and operate both online and retail channels.
CON
Was acquired by Exemplis (parent of SitOnIt Seating) in 2021, representing a change from founder/independent ownership.
Coverage
Scope of what failures the warranty covers.
Ideal: Full coverage of defects and workmanship, including all major components.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
70.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the useful life of the product.
CON
Warranty excludes damage caused by normal wear and tear, misuse, or accidental damage; wheels, zippers, and other moving parts are not explicitly listed as always covered.
Duration
Length of warranty term.
Ideal: ≥10 years (lifetime where feasible).
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
100.0% (W 30%)
DATA
Lifetime (for the useful life of the product)
Ease
How simple it is to file and process a warranty claim.
Ideal: Clear online or phone process requiring minimal effort or paperwork.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
80.0% (W 10%)
PRO
Warranty claims can be submitted online via a dedicated portal with instructions provided.Repair status updates available through customer service.
CON
Customer pays to ship the item to Timbuk2; processing time and required documentation may vary.
Cost
Direct costs to the customer for warranty service.
Ideal: No cost to the customer, including free shipping and parts.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
60.0% (W 10%)
DATA
Customer pays inbound shipping; Timbuk2 covers repair/replacement and return shipping.
Exclusions
Limitations or carve-outs in warranty terms.
Ideal: Few or no exclusions; coverage applies to all core components.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
50.0% (W 10%)
PRO
Covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.
CON
Excludes normal wear and tear, accidental damage, misuse, and unauthorized repairs; consumable parts like wheels and zippers may not always be covered.
Transparency
Clarity and accessibility of warranty wording.
Ideal: Plain-language warranty document published openly online.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
100.0% (W 10%)
PRO
Warranty terms are publicly posted online in accessible language.
CON
Transferability
Whether warranty transfers to subsequent owners.
Ideal: Warranty fully transferable between owners with no loss of coverage.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
0.0% (W 10%)
DATA
Not transferable (only applies to original purchaser)
Shell Material
The primary exterior material and construction method used for the luggage shell.
Ideal: Thick polycarbonate, aluminum, or high-denier ballistic nylon with proven impact resistance.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
70.0% (W 30%)
DATA
Reinforced nylon fabric with molded ABS base
Impact Resistance
Ability of the shell and frame to withstand drops, crushing, and baggage handling abuse.
Ideal: Passes standardized drop or impact tests with minimal cracking or deformation.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
70.0% (W 25%)
PRO
ABS base provides extra rigidity and structure for impact protection.
CON
No third-party test results or standardized impact test claims found.
Wheel Durability
Resistance of wheels to wear, cracking, or seizure over repeated rolling cycles.
Ideal: Replaceable, sealed ball-bearing wheels made from polyurethane or similarly durable materials.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
60.0% (W 25%)
PRO
Wheels are described as 'multi-directional' and rugged for city streets.
CON
Wheels are not explicitly described as replaceable or made of polyurethane; no mention of ball bearings or specific durability tests.
Zipper Strength
Robustness of zippers under tension, overpacking, and repeated opening and closing.
Ideal: Self-healing or puncture-resistant zippers with reinforced tracks and pulls.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
70.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Main zippers are described as rugged and durable in user reviews.
CON
No claim of self-healing or puncture resistance; specific zipper specs not provided.
Wheel Replaceability
Whether damaged wheels can be removed and replaced without specialized tools.
Ideal: User- or service-replaceable wheels sold individually by the manufacturer.
Confidence — MEDIUM
2 sources
30.0% (W 30%)
PRO
Some users have reported successful DIY replacement with basic tools.
CON
No official replacement wheels sold by Timbuk2; not designed for easy user replacement; repair support may be limited.
Handle Repairability
Ease of repairing or replacing telescoping handle assemblies if they fail.
Ideal: Modular handle system accessible with standard tools and available replacement parts.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
40.0% (W 25%)
PRO
Timbuk2's repair team may replace broken handles under warranty if a defect is found.
CON
No replacement handles sold separately; not designed for end-user repair; repair requires returning product to Timbuk2.
Spare Parts Availability
Availability of replacement components such as wheels, handles, feet, or zipper pulls.
Ideal: Multiple core parts sold separately for several years after purchase.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
20.0% (W 30%)
PRO
Timbuk2's service may provide some repairs and replacement of parts under warranty.
CON
No evidence of spare parts being sold directly to consumers; parts availability appears limited to in-warranty service.
Repair Support Documentation
Presence of manuals, diagrams, or guides that support user or third-party repairs.
Ideal: Clear repair guides or exploded diagrams published by the manufacturer.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
20.0% (W 15%)
PRO
Warranty page describes repair process and return instructions.
CON
No published repair guides or part diagrams for user repairs found.
Wheel Configuration
Number and layout of wheels affecting stability, wear distribution, and maneuverability.
Ideal: Four dual-spinner wheels that distribute load evenly and reduce single-wheel stress.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
30.0% (W 25%)
DATA
Two-wheeled upright roller (not spinner)
Interior Volume
Usable internal capacity of the carry-on for packing belongings.
Ideal: Maximized interior volume within airline carry-on size limits, clearly specified in liters.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
80.0% (W 20%)
DATA
Approx. 42L (small size; not always clearly specified by manufacturer)
Handle Adjustability
Range and stability of telescoping handle height settings during use.
Ideal: Multiple lockable height positions with minimal wobble under load.
Confidence — MEDIUM
1 sources
70.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Handle has multiple extension positions and locks securely.
CON
Some reports of slight wobble; only two main positions.
Organizational Features
Built-in compartments and dividers that help organize contents and reduce internal strain.
Ideal: Durable internal dividers and compression panels that limit shifting and stress.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
90.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Multiple internal compartments, mesh dividers, and compression straps included.
CON
Some users find the compartments slightly limiting for larger items.
Empty Weight
Weight of the luggage when empty, affecting ease of handling and structural load.
Ideal: As light as possible without compromising shell thickness or component durability.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
80.0% (W 15%)
DATA
6.2 lbs (approximate, small size)

See details on our Scoring Method.

Sources

These references are living documents: our research team and community continually review and update them to keep product evaluations accurate and fair. When stronger or more up-to-date sources emerge, we re-score accordingly. If you know of a credible study, review, or technical resource we’ve missed, please share it below — every contribution helps strengthen the evidence base.

  1. Amazon.com: Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase : Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
    amazon.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Buy Timbuk2 Co-Pilot Luggage Roller Suitcase: Carry-Ons - Amazon.com FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases
  2. Amazon.com: Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller, Carbon Full-Cycle Twill, X-Large : Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry
    amazon.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Buy Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller, Carbon Full-Cycle Twill, X-Large: Backpacks - Amazon.com FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases
  3. Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack 2.0 Review
    packhacker.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Sep 9, 2025 ... The Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack 2.0 is a casual bag, no doubt. It will fit nicely in a classroom, on your back as you commute, and as a personal ...
  4. Review: Timbuk2 Scheme
    dumeril7.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Mar 30, 2024 ... Review: Timbuk2 Scheme. The Timbuk2 Scheme is a convertible briefcase/backpack targeted at business and tech-oriented commuters and travelers ...
  5. Question about attaching Maxpedition EDC pouch to the side of my ...
    reddit.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Feb 17, 2016 ... I am looking to add more organization and storage to my Timbuk2 Rogue using the side MOLLE straps so I can carry my EDC in style.
  6. Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe Review
    outdoorgearlab.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Mar 31, 2025 ... The Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is our favorite laptop backpack for daily use. It has all the pockets needed to keep our stuff well-organized ...
  7. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
    timbuk2.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Thank you Timbuk2 Teams. read more about contentMy New Bag is awesome!! I ordered. Published date. 12/14/25. Was this review helpful? ... Was this review helpful?
  8. Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack Review
    packhacker.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Sep 9, 2025 ... The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has a sleek design and ample space for gear; however, some design choices make it challenging to get ...
  9. Travel Backpacks Lifetime Warranty
    timbuk2.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Designed to make travel easier, Timbuk2 travel backpacks offer comfort & style, plus easy-access pockets for the essentials. FREE SHIPPING.
  10. How To Clean Your Timbuk2 Bag
    timbuk2.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    How To Clean Your Timbuk2 Bag · Bucket · Damp towel or sponge · Mild detergent (Do not use detergents with harsh chemicals as it will damage the fabric) · Cleaning ...
  11. Warranty & Repairs – Timbuk2
    timbuk2.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Submit for Repair Need help fixing up your bag? Submit a request to get it fixed. Create a repair / warranty claim Timbuk2's Lifetime Warranty Timbuk2 ...
  12. TimBuk2 Muttmover Backpack Review
    52hikechallenge.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Sep 12, 2017 ... I was given a Timbuk2 Muttmover Backpack for my dachshund Louie who loves hiking, but can tire out when it's warm.
  13. Opinions on Timbuk2 bags? : r/ManyBaggers
    reddit.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Oct 22, 2021 ... I've had a few of their bags. Construction quality is good and design is decent. Overall they are definitely above average. if Timbuk2 looks ...
  14. LPT: if you have a timbuk2 bag don't wash it in the washing machine ...
    reddit.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Sep 17, 2017 ... ... use the search function before making a request. The Mission ... Timbuk2 explicitly says not to do this on their website, as it voids ...
  15. Timbuk2 Scheme Convertible Briefcase Backpack
    timbuk2.com · Updated 2025-12-16
    Really nice bag, but came with a few loose strands I had to snip myself. ... Was this review helpful? ... This has been a great bag so far. I love the size and ...
  16. Travel Gear Brands With a Lifetime Warranty: 14 to Trust
    cheapestdestinationsblog.com · Updated 2025-10-28
    Sep 11, 2025 ... Honorable Clothing Brand Mentions (Sorta Maybe Guarantees). Tilley Hats used to all be guaranteed for life, back when the original owners made ...

Status

Created 2025-12-16 COMPLETE
Updated 2025-12-16 COMPLETE
Published PUBLISHED
Scored 2025-12-16 COMPLETE

Change Log

2025-12-16 UPDATED product metadata edits
2025-12-16 UPDATED product metadata edits
2025-12-16 UPDATED product metadata edits
2025-12-16 UPDATED product metadata edits
2025-12-16 UPDATED product metadata edits

Improve this Product

Know a trustworthy source we’re missing? See anything off in the scoring or data?