Updated: 17th March 2024
Dive into the wild world of handlebar bags! Whether you’re navigating the endless choices in size, style, or how they cling to your bike, the quest for the perfect handlebar bag is as varied as it is exciting.
Venturing through the web jungle in search of top-tier handlebar bags might lead you to a sea of generic options that barely scratch the surface of quality. It’s like finding a needle in a haystack — except it’s not just any needle you’re after, but a shiny, unbreakable one!
Sure, grabbing a bargain bin bag might do the trick for a quick fix or a spontaneous outing. However, for those intrepid bike travelers, whose journeys stretch over the horizon, only the cream of the crop will do. You need gear that laughs in the face of rugged trails and long, winding adventures.
This list is your treasure map to the crème de la crème of handlebar bags, crafted with bikepacking and bicycle touring wizards in mind. Yet, if you’re just dipping your toes into the cycling world or your daily commute is the extent of your cycling expeditions, fear not! There’s something here for every level of cyclist. Let the adventure begin!
Do handlebar bags affect steering?
Absolutely, the world of handlebar bags brings its own twist to steering dynamics, but let’s dive into the nitty-gritty without getting lost in the weeds. Picture this: you’ve just strapped a shiny new handlebar bag onto your rig, filled with all the essentials for your next bikepacking adventure. The excitement is palpable, but so is the question hanging in the air – will this addition turn my steering into a wrestling match?
Here’s the scoop: Handlebar bags can indeed influence your bike’s handling, but it’s all about how you pack and mount them. Imagine your handlebar bag as the frontman of a rock band; it needs to harmonize with the bike, not go on a solo riff!
- Weight Distribution: It’s a balancing act. Overloading your handlebar bag can make your front end feel like it’s trying to steer a parade float rather than a nimble bikepacking setup. Keep it light and right, focusing on lightweight items that won’t turn your steering into a tug-of-war.
- Size Matters: Go for a bag that fits your bike like a glove. Too large, and you might find it interfering with your cables or even your ability to see the front wheel. This can translate to steering that feels more like guesswork.
- Mounting Mastery: Secure attachment is key. A wobbly bag does no favors for your handling. Ensure your bag is snug and secure, minimizing sway and keeping your steering sharp and responsive.
- Low and Go: Heavier items should sit lower in the bag if possible. This helps keep the bike’s center of gravity closer to the ground, making for a more stable ride where steering feels less like you’re piloting a boat and more like you’re carving through the trails with precision.
- Adapt and Overcome: Like any seasoned bikepacker knows, adaptability is part of the journey. Your steering might feel a tad different at first, but you’ll quickly adapt to the nuances. It’s all part of the bikepacking charm, turning every ride into a new adventure.
What are the benefits of handlebar bags?
Ah, the noble handlebar bag: a bikepacker’s trusty front-row companion on the open road (or trail)! Let’s peel back the layers of this versatile piece of gear and uncover the bounty of benefits it brings to the bikepacking ensemble. Picture yourself gearing up for an adventure, handlebar bag at the ready, and dive into why this isn’t just an accessory—it’s a game-changer.
- Accessibility Supreme: You’re cruising along, and you’re hit with a sudden snack attack. No problem! Your handlebar bag is the superhero of snack storage, offering unparalleled access to treats, tools, and tech without the need to dismount. It’s like having a magic pouch at your fingertips.
- Weight Distribution Wizardry: By placing weight at the front of your bike, you’re not just packing; you’re performing a balancing act that enhances stability and control. A well-loaded handlebar bag can counterbalance rear-heavy loads, making your ride smoother than a buttered breadcrumb trail.
- Space Maximization Maestro: In the Tetris game of packing a bike, the handlebar bag is your straight-line block. It utilizes the prime real estate of your handlebars, offering extra storage without demanding more bike real estate. Perfect for when every square inch counts.
- Sleek Aerodynamics Ambassador: Positioned neatly in front, a properly sized handlebar bag can actually streamline your setup, cutting through the wind like a hot knife through butter. Who said practicality can’t be aerodynamic?
- Adaptability Ace: From light day trips to full-blown bikepacking expeditions, the handlebar bag adapts faster than a chameleon on a disco floor. Whether it’s a mini bag for essentials or a larger unit for camping gear, there’s a handlebar bag fit for every adventure.
- Protection Paladin: Many handlebar bags come armored with waterproof materials and zippers, shielding your valuables from the elements like a knight in shining polyester. Rain or shine, your gear remains as dry as a well-told joke.
- Style Savant: Last but certainly not least, handlebar bags come in an array of designs, colors, and materials, allowing you to express your personal style while keeping functionality front and center. It’s the accessory that says, “Yes, I’m practical, but I’ve also got panache.”
Are handlebar bags aerodynamic?
When the conversation steers towards the aerodynamics of handlebar bags, it’s like opening a debate about the best tailwind: opinions might vary, but let’s cut through the air on this one. Mentioned briefly in our ode to the handlebar bag’s many virtues, these handy accessories can indeed play a surprisingly sleek role in your bikepacking setup.
At first glance, strapping gear to the front of your bike might seem like waving a flag in the wind, yet it’s all about how you pack and position. A well-chosen handlebar bag, snugly secured and not bulging at the seams, can actually mimic the streamlined shape of your bike, helping to slice through the air rather than catching it. Think of it as the difference between wearing a fitted jacket versus a billowing cape while running.
Now, it’s worth noting that not all handlebar bags are created equal in the wind-tunnel tests of life. The slimmer, more compact models are naturally more aerodynamic, particularly those designed with a teardrop shape that mirrors the bike’s frontal profile. These designs minimize drag, making your ride smoother and slightly more efficient, especially at higher speeds.
For the speed demons out there who’ve tricked out their bikes with aero bars and are on a quest for the ultimate aerodynamic setup, fear not. We’ve also got an article diving into the world of aero bar bags. These specialty bags are designed to snugly fit within the confines of your aero bars, offering an even more streamlined option for carrying essentials without compromising on speed.
In essence, while a handlebar bag may not turn your bike into a missile, a thoughtfully packed and well-designed model can indeed keep the aerodynamic drag to a minimum.
Why have a handlebar bag?
Handlebar bags stand as indispensable allies in the realms of bikepacking and touring, not only providing robust storage solutions for camping gear but also serving as the perfect stash spot for personal items during your daily commute.
These versatile accessories grant you immediate access to essentials without ever needing to dismount. Imagine effortlessly pulling out your camera for a quick snapshot or snacking on the go—all possible with traditional designs crafted for easy opening while in the saddle.
Beyond convenience, handlebar bags excel in balancing your load, expertly distributing weight across your bike for a smoother, more stable ride. This blend of practicality and accessibility makes them an invaluable component of any cycling adventure.
What do you keep in handlebar bag?
In the art of bikepacking, the handlebar bag is not just a storage unit; it’s your cockpit’s co-pilot, carrying the essentials that you need quick access to or those that you use frequently throughout your journey. Packing a handlebar bag is a strategic endeavor, blending accessibility with necessity. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to keep in your handlebar bag, informed by the collective wisdom of seasoned bikepackers.
- Navigation Tools: Your GPS device, compass, or map takes priority in the handlebar bag for easy navigation. Quick access to these can make all the difference between a smooth journey and unexpected detours.
- Snacks and Nutrition: Energy bars, gels, nuts, or dried fruits are perfect for on-the-go refueling. Keeping your snacks within arm’s reach encourages regular energy intake, crucial for maintaining stamina on long rides.
- Hydration Solutions: A small, flexible water bottle or a hydration flask can be a lifesaver, especially on routes where water sources are scarce. Quick access to hydration supports endurance and performance.
- Camera and Electronics: For those breathtaking moments you simply must capture, having your camera, smartphone, or action cam handy is essential. Alongside, pack any power banks and charging cables to keep your gadgets powered up.
- Lighting and Safety Equipment: A headlamp or bike lights, along with a small set of tools for quick repairs, ensure you’re prepared for unexpected mechanical issues or changes in riding conditions. Don’t forget a compact first-aid kit for minor injuries.
- Personal Items: Your wallet, ID, and a small notebook or journal, perhaps. These items should be easy to reach but secure, as they’re critical for any stops along the way or to jot down thoughts and directions.
- Weather Protection: A lightweight, packable rain jacket or an extra layer for warmth can be lifesavers when the weather turns. Similarly, a small tube of sunscreen and lip balm protect against the elements.
- Quick-Access Repair Kits: While the bulk of your repair tools might be stowed elsewhere, having a multi-tool, tire levers, and a patch kit in your handlebar bag means you can address minor issues without unpacking your entire setup.
The golden rule? Keep it lightweight and balanced. Overloading your handlebar bag can affect bike handling and steering. Therefore, prioritize items based on the specific demands of your route and personal needs, ensuring everything has its place for both efficiency and ease of access.
Different Types of Handlebar Bars
The world of handlebar bags is vast and varied, brimming with options to suit every style of ride and rider preference. Let’s embark on a journey through the different types of handlebar bags, spotlighting a few of our top picks along the way.
Rando Handlebar Bags – For That Classic Retro Touring Experience!
Step into the time machine with Rando bags, the handlebar accessory that screams retro chic with a modern twist! These bags aren’t just a feast for the eyes, harkening back to the days of classic cycling gear, but they’re also a powerhouse of functionality.
Picture yourself cruising with a clear map case perched on top, a nod to the traditionalist navigators and their rando bikes, or slotting your GPS-equipped phone for a blend of old-school meets tech-savvy guidance.
Dive into the cavernous interior, where the possibilities are as vast as the open road. Pack that chunky DSLR or any other gear you can’t leave behind; these bags are ready to haul. Unlike the snug fit of a traditional handlebar bag, Rando bags strut their stuff on a rack, shifting the load from a precarious perch to a more grounded, stable position. This setup not only lets you bring along the kitchen sink but also keeps your ride smooth by lowering the center of gravity.
Sure, you might notice a slight difference in steering, but it’s a small price to pay for the freedom of carrying more, with far less sway than a bag that’s clamped directly to your handlebars. Just make sure your bike’s front-end geometry is ready to join the party.
The latest Rando bag designs are shaking things up with detachable pockets and feed bags cozying up to the stem, like the stylish Velo Orange Rando bag. Perfect for road touring, gravel grinding, or simply making your commute a bit more adventurous — these bags are about throwing in your essentials and setting off without a second thought.
However, fitting these beauties onto a bike that wasn’t born for them can be a bit of an adventure itself, needing a specific setup of eyelets or some creative clamping to secure the necessary rack. And while the initial investment might seem steep, considering the rack and the bag, the versatility and capacity they offer are worth their weight in gold.
Rando bags may not have hit the mainstream bikepacking scene yet, often requiring a treasure hunt through small producers for that perfect find. And while snagging one from your local bike shop might feel like chasing a unicorn, the hunt is part of the charm.
Though they’re rugged, the odd tale of a rack giving way on particularly gnarly trails does emerge, so these bags are happiest on gentler gravel and paved paths, ready to accompany you on road tours or daily commutes. In the world of Rando bags, it’s all about embracing the journey, the gear, and maybe a little bit of the unexpected.
*If you want to buy any of these handlebar bags, doing it via the links gives Cycle Travel Overload a small commission which goes into creating more great resources for the bike travel community.
Editors Pick!
Swift Industries Ozette Randonneur Bag
“The lightest traditional randonneur bag on the market”
Swift is on a mission to revolutionize your ride with what they boast as the featherweight champion of traditional randonneur bags. This particular gem, designed to snugly attach to your bike via a front rack and secured with a decaleur, is all about marrying style with efficiency.
Crafted from the robust X-Pac™ fabric, the Ozette doesn’t just bring durability to the table; it adds a layer of adventure-ready toughness with its abrasion resistance and rip-stop grid. It’s the kind of bag that laughs in the face of rugged escapades and daily grind alike.
And when we talk size, we’re talking the grandeur of rando bags that know no bounds—available in small, medium, and large to suit your every whim. The largest size boasts a majestic 15.5 L capacity, all while maintaining a svelte figure at just 1.6 lbs (0.73 kg). It’s not just a handlebar bag; it’s a cavernous treasure chest ready to accommodate your every need, from the essentials to the just-in-cases.
Wait what about Basketpacking?
There’s something undeniably charming about the sight of a bike equipped with a front basket. It conjures images of bygone eras and leisurely rides through the countryside, exuding a retro, old-school vibe that’s hard to resist. But don’t be fooled by its nostalgic appearance; this setup is far from being a mere relic of the past.
At first glance, equipping an adventure bike with a basket might raise a few eyebrows. It could seem like an odd choice, especially when modern bikepacking trends lean heavily towards sleek, aerodynamic gear. Yet, the basket offers an unbeatable combination of versatility and practicality that can stand up to even the most challenging off-road and technical terrains.
Basketpacking isn’t just about adding a quaint accessory to your bike; it’s about embracing the limitless possibilities that come with having a reliable, easily accessible space for your gear. Whether you’re navigating rugged trails or cruising city streets, the basket becomes a testament to the ingenious ways cyclists can adapt their rides to meet their adventure needs.
Harness and Dry Bag / Roll Bikepacking Handlebar Bags
Merging distinct flair with function, I’ve grouped these beauties together for a reason. They’re the reigning favorites among the bikepacking community, with virtually every setup boasting a roll-top dry-bag handlebar bag. Chosen for their unparalleled popularity and the enthusiastic nods from seasoned bikepackers, these bags are the go-to gear for adventurers on two wheels.
Given their typically broad design, these bags are a perfect match for bikepacking-friendly handlebar setups. These handlebars also excel in keeping you in a very upright position, ideal for those lengthy and demanding journeys.
Salsa EXP Series Anything Cradle Side-Load Kit
The Salsa EXP Series Anything Cradle Side-Load Kit introduces an innovative handlebar roll system that elegantly secures your gear in front of your bars without any entanglement with your cables. This comprehensive kit comes packed with the Anything Cradle, a Side-Load Dry Bag, the EXP Series Front Pouch, and a pair of 30″ Salsa EXP Series Rubber Straps for a snug fit.
Thanks to its thoughtfully designed mounting cradle, this system effortlessly positions the bag away from the bars, ensuring your cables remain unhindered.
Ideal for MTB bikepacking adventures, this setup promises exceptional stability for your handlebar bag, making it a trustworthy companion for navigating those challenging off-road terrains.
Revelate Designs Sweetroll with Revelate Egress Pocket
Dive into the world of bikepacking with the Revelate Designs Sweetroll, a standout dry bag and harness combo. Offering a generous 14 L of storage in the dry bag alone, and an additional 2.9L when you include the Revelate Egress Pocket, this setup delivers a total storage capacity of 16.9 L.
Crafted from 210-denier thermoplastic urethane-coated nylon, which is RF-welded, the Sweetroll is your fortress against the elements, ensuring everything stays dry no matter the weather. With a total weight of 24 ounces (680 grams), it’s designed for efficiency and protection.
Packing and accessing your gear is a breeze thanks to the dual entry system, allowing you to load from either end. The quick release system ensures the dry bag can be attached or detached swiftly, enhancing convenience. The bag secures to the handlebars with a robust 4-point bungee system for a tight fit and is even compatible with the Jones Loop H Bars.
Retailing at $110 at REI, the Sweetroll is a solid investment for adventurers. The accompanying Egress Pocket, available from REI, adds versatility with its removable foam padded liner – perfect for safeguarding electronics. This liner comes with a small zippered pocket for extra security. Waterproof and adaptable, the Egress Pocket can transform into a shoulder bag or a hip carry, thanks to the included strap and webbing slots.
With a roll-down top closure and a slightly curved side profile, the Egress Pocket is designed to snugly contour around the main dry bag, providing streamlined storage that’s both practical and stylish.
Ortlieb Handlebar Pack
This gem of a bag offers the perfect nook for tucking away your sleeping bag, apparel, and other essentials into a secure, watertight bundle. It’s designed to not only keep your belongings dry but also to enhance the weight distribution on your bike for a smoother ride.
Crafted from a durable, lightweight polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon that’s PVC-free, this bag is built to last without weighing you down. An internal stiffener is thrown into the mix to beef up stability, ensuring that your gear stays put no matter how bumpy the ride gets. And with a generous capacity of up to 5kg (11 lbs), you’re well-equipped for your next adventure.
Worried about wear and tear on your bike’s frame? Fear not! The bag includes eight foam straps for the handlebar and fork, providing ample protection against rubbing. Plus, if you’re in need of a more compact solution, smaller sizes are available. Alternatively, you can simply roll the bag to adjust its size to precisely what you need, making it as versatile as it is practical.
Restrap Bar Bag
Working with Restrap has been an incredible journey; they’re a group of exceptionally talented individuals committed to creating quality products. My personal bag, the handlebar bag of choice, comes equipped with a 17L dry bag and a handy pouch bag, perfect for keeping those smaller, easy-to-reach items secure. It’s been my reliable companion on many cross-country escapades, standing strong without a single hiccup.
The thoughtful inclusion of two foam spacers, positioned on either side of the handlebar attachment point, ensures ample space to comfortably navigate the drops without any issues. The generous 17L capacity is a game-changer for extended adventures, offering ample storage space. However, it’s worth noting that the dry bag might slip out of its designated spot if not secured correctly, a minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar experience.
Looking for some harness mounts for your dry bag?
Small Handlebar Bags / Burrito Bags
These nifty little handlebar bags are your go-to pals for stashing just the essentials, whether you’re out for a spontaneous day adventure or tackling your daily 100km ride. They’re like the pocket-sized heroes of storage, perfectly suited for when you need to carry just enough to keep the ride smooth and enjoyable.
Ideal for those who appreciate a sleek, minimalist setup on day rides or a more streamlined bikepacking experience, these small handlebar bags work wonders in elevating your setup. By lightening the load up top, they significantly enhance your bike’s handling and control, making every ride smoother and more enjoyable.
I’ve delved into a variety of small handlebar bags that are fantastic for everything from tearing up some gravel to casual commutes into town. They strike that sweet spot between being easily accessible and not overdoing it on the bulk.
And for those gravel grinders looking to optimize their ride, these handlebar bags are a match made in heaven with flared gravel bar setups. If you’re in the market for some flared gravel bars to elevate your standard drop bars for that extra comfort and stretch, pairing them with one of these bags might just be the perfect upgrade to your gravel bike ensemble.
State Bicycle Co All-Road Handlebar Bag
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed testing the All-road Handlebar Bag from State Bicycle Co., who kindly sent it over for a trial. It’s turned out to be the perfect companion for all my rides that don’t involve long-distance touring.
Ideal for keeping snacks, gloves, or tools within easy reach, it also ensures your wallet and phone are always at hand. Equally effective for off-road adventures as it is for cruising around town, it’s an excellent buy at under $40. With a 1.7L capacity and made from durable 600D polyester (while I’m not certain about its waterproofness, the zips certainly are), it’s a robust option for carrying your essentials.
Rapha Bar Bag
The Rapha Bar Bag is a versatile, rainproof handlebar bag with a cleverly stowable cross-body strap, allowing it to double as both a handlebar and wearable bag. It’s available in four adventure-inspired colors: dark yellow, dark olive, black, and stone, and even has a unique touch with the motto “Pack light, travel far” on the interior.
Constructed from waterproof materials, it ensures your belongings stay dry. The bag is securely attached to the bike with durable straps and quick-release buckles for easy removal. Safety features include attachment points for lights and reflective webbing for enhanced visibility at night.
Internally, the bag sports a bright pink color for improved visibility, a quick-access pocket for essentials, and two internal mesh pockets for organized storage. It has a 2L capacity, with dimensions of 23.5cm in width, 11cm in height, and 8cm in depth.
Offering great value, it stands out with its reflectivity, light attachment points, and the added convenience of converting into a shoulder bag. However, be cautious of the mounting straps’ plastic clamps, which could potentially scratch your bike, and note that it’s best accessed when stationary.
Dyed In The Wool Bar Roll
This bag is the ultimate companion for any day out, seamlessly transitioning from bike rides to on-foot explorations.
As a compact handlebar bag, it’s ideal for packing all your essentials for those adventurous day trips. And when you’re ready to park the bike and continue on foot, simply attach a long strap, and voilà, it transforms into a stylish cross-body bag.
How do I choose a handlebar bag?
Selecting the perfect handlebar bag can feel like navigating a maze of options, each with its unique features and benefits. Here’s how to streamline your decision-making process based on your biking needs and preferences:
Consider Your Riding Style
First, ponder the primary purpose of your bag. Whether it’s daily commutes into town, weekend touring escapades, rugged bikepacking adventures on trails, or embarking on a globe-trotting bike tour, your intended use will greatly influence your choice.
Key Features to Look For
Size and Organization: Assess the bag’s volume – they range from compact few-liter models to expansive 20L versions. Consider organizational features like internal dividers and extra pockets, which are invaluable for keeping your gear sorted.
Design Variations: Handlebar bags are not one-size-fits-all. From the common burrito-style bags with top zippers to bikepacking bags with side roll closures, and even traditional touring and randonneuring options, there’s a plethora to choose from based on your aesthetic and functional preferences.
Mounting Mechanisms: The way a bag attaches to your bike varies. While touring bags might use a clip-on system for easy detachment, bikepacking variants typically secure with velcro straps. Larger capacity options, like Rando bags, may need an additional front rack for support, highlighting the importance of compatibility with your bike’s design, especially concerning handlebar space.
Waterproofing: While many bags boast waterproof capabilities, ensuring your essentials stay dry is key. Even if a bag isn’t fully waterproof, options for keeping items dry, such as using ziplock bags or pairing with waterproof panniers, can work well.
Stylish and Practical Picks
My curated list of favorite handlebar bags prioritizes quality, durability, functionality, and, importantly, style. After all, the handlebar bag is the face of your bike. A visually appealing bag not only complements your bike but also enhances your overall riding experience.
Bonus Features: Waterproofing
Though not a deal-breaker, waterproofing is a significant plus, offering peace of mind during adventures. For items that absolutely must stay dry, consider additional protective measures or rely on other waterproof gear you may have.
By focusing on these aspects, you can choose a handlebar bag that not only meets your practical needs but also reflects your style and complements your biking adventures.
Some more handlebar carrying solutions you should check out?
No handlebar bag, no problem!
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