You make a very compelling case for what looks like a really user-friendly bag and thanks for the input. ^ I gave up checked luggage several years ago and have been trying to find that perfect bag for how I travel but have yet to find it.

My B&R 231X carry-on bag is sturdy and well laid out but even with a Tom Bihn absolute strap makes for a heavy little square brick when fully packed and a strain on my shoulder on long haul flights with connections and is why I was considering something with wheels.

I may wait until I'm in Chicago in Oct. to visit an REI or other brand store so I could at the very least see, touch and try out a few different bags and if there's one I like save on the S&H to Canada.