tour bag for bike

The Best Bikepacking Bags for Every Adventure

If you’re heading out for the day or overnight, having the right bag makes everything better.

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The good news is more brands are getting on board to fuel this trend. Manufacturers are delivering options that make using your bicycle as a means to get away more accessible. Whether it's credit-card touring (eating in restaurants, staying in motels), overnight camping, or even just heading out for a day trip, you’ll need the right bag or bags to carry your gear.

With so many types of bikepacking bags available, it can be challenging to figure out which bag best suits your needs. My recommendations cover every possible scenario. So go ahead and get out there, and best of all, enjoy the journey by bringing everything you’ll need no matter the adventure.

The Best Bikepacking Bags

Best Overall

Ortlieb back roller classic panniers.

Evoc Boa Seat Pack

Most Durable

Topeak mtx trunkbag dx.

Best for Spaciousness

Ortlieb seat-pack saddle bag.

Best for Long Trips

Ortlieb fork pack.

Best for Easy Access

Blackburn grid handlebar bag.

Best for Mountain Bikes

Topeak backloader seat bag.

Best for Essentials

Restrap top tube bag.

Best for Organization

Revelate designs ripio bike frame bag.

Most Versatile

Evoc multi-frame pack.

The Expert: As a professional gear tester for more than 20 years, I’ve had the opportunity to see some amazing places. I’ve written for and contributed to various publications including Backpacker, Men’s Health, Gear Junkie, 5280, and Elevation Outdoors. I’ve been bikepacking for more than a decade and still aspire to traverse some of the country’s signature treks. My specialty is one-night missions from my home base in the National Forests surrounding my home in Colorado and other multi-day bikepacking trips around the West. I delight in providing the context and experience that will help you make great gear choices—and have more fun outdoors. Find me on Instagram @definitelywild .

What to Look for in a Bikepacking Bag

Types of bags.

The idea of a bikepacking bag is that it attaches to your bike—whether by fixed attachment points or straps with buckles or Velcro—thus eliminating the need to wear a heavy backpack, which can weigh on your back and shoulders and cause discomfort and fatigue over time.

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Bikepacking bags are designed to attach to just about every part of your bicycle—from your handlebar to frame to seat post—and each serves a unique purpose, whether it’s to keep small necessities within reach or larger gear out of your way.

Handlebar packs sit front and center for easy access and security so you’re able to keep an eye on your valuables. Top tube packs fit the same bill but are generally smaller and more accessible mid-ride. Fork packs mount onto either side of your bike’s fork legs within your line of sight but far enough out of the way to clear your pedals.

Frame packs offer the sleekest option, tucked into the space between your top and down tubes. In this category, you’ll find a couple types—half-frame bags leave room for water bottle cages and work with just about any frame. The other option is full-frame bags, which can be challenging to use on some bikes, as their triangular shape can be limiting in some frame configurations.

Seat packs hold the workhorse title since they’re able to carry the biggest loads without interrupting your range of motion, but these demand some extra attention to minimize tail waggle.

Short and sweet trips may come down to only one or two storage bags, maybe a hydration pack or fanny pack for good measure, in which case you’re free to pick preferred placements from the lineup of options. But extended backpacking adventures call for a solid packing strategy, combining multiple bags in a variety of placements to make room for it all and spread out the load.

Gone are the days of canvas panniers and unsightly plastic buckets that were common back in the day (yes, people literally bolted empty kitty litter buckets to their bike rack and forks!). Sturdy, weather- and waterproof fabrics are key for protecting your goods, especially items in close proximity to gears, pedals, and the rear wheel—which can kick up water, mud and grit from the road—while still remaining lightweight. Nylon and polyester are common materials, with polyurethane coatings for increased water resistance and ripstop weaves for added durability.

Once you’ve determined which type of trips, and therefore which bag or bags will best suit your needs, you often (depending on the brand) can then choose the size of the bag. Some, like the Topeak Backloader Seat Bag and Revelate Designs Ripio Bike Frame Bag, are available in a range of sizes, from small to extra large (indicated by capacity in liters). Other bag sizes are determined by their placement on the bicycle. Typically, you won’t upsize a bag so much as just add bags in other places.

How We Selected These Bikepacking Bags

Based on my experience as a cyclist who has done a lot of single- and multi-day bike trips, I chose the best bikepacking bags for every type of cycling adventure, from fast-and-light day trips to overnight treks. When evaluating, I considered the value of each bag on its own, as well as when paired with other bags to create a larger storage and travel system. My recommendations prioritize organization, accessibility, durability, sleek design, and ease of use.

To make your shopping experience even more fulfilling, I chose bags from reputable brands in the bikepacking space and ones that are readily available through online retailers.

The Ortlieb Back Roller Classic Panniers are a staple for any bikepacking setup. Compatible with 8 to 16mm racks, these panniers are easy to mount and remove with a pull of a handle using Ortilieb’s QL2.1 system. A hook at the bottom of these panniers also keeps them from bouncing around like other models.

The heavy-duty, rugged fabrics keep spray and dust away from your gear during long trips or bad weather. When day is done or you’ve picked up your necessaries, remove the bag and use the adjustable shoulder strap to carry your panniers inside or to your campsite.

This waterproof seat pack is an innovative addition to your gear closet. Complete with a BOA fit system that helps to keep the bag well-adjusted, secure, and snug to your seatpost, it also features a roll-top design. It thrives on long-haul shoulder season trips when you’re not sure what type of conditions to expect. Ready to ride? This bag fits most of your needs.

The Topeak MTX stands out due to a heavy-duty build and ease of use. Once the Topeak rack system installed is on your bike, the bag slides on and off without a fuss.

Its robust build with molded panels and varied pocket system make this suitable for both short and long strips, providing enough carry space for everything you need for a day trip, and for the bulk of an overnighter including water, layers, and extra snacks.

This seat pack is perfect for storing light but bulky items like clothes and sleeping bags. The Saddle Bag extends far enough beyond your seat to double as a fender in dirty trail or gravel conditions (with reliable waterproof polyurethane coating to keep your gear dry).

Compression straps and roll closures pack down airy gear as tightly as possible to take up just as much space as you need—no more, no less.

The Ortlieb Fork Pack makes good use of otherwise dead space on either side of your wheels, front and back. The Quick-Lock mounting system makes on-and-off transitions effortless while still keeping a reliable grip on the bags during a bumpy ride.

Despite the close proximity to dangerously muddy territory on your wheels near the ground, supreme water resistance and superior fabrics ensure your gear stays safe from the elements. The whole setup, mount included, adds up to only 10.2 ounces, to keep from throwing off your center of gravity too much.

The Fork Packs are best for the bikepacker who has everything, and still needs more capacity, as well as for smaller frames. It’s the only product like it in its segment.

Store quick access items in this pouch. The Blackburn Grid Handlebar Bag is a must-have addition for any bike setup with its low-profile and fuss-free access to your phone, snacks, tools, gloves, and more.

Internal mesh pockets keep the contents organized, and the bag’s padded structure keeps all of your stuff safe. The bag’s multiple attachment points also keep the bag secure on rough terrain, without making it cumbersome. Plus, its full-length zipper means there’s no fumbling with a roll-top or cinch.

Mountain bikes can be finicky for bikepacking since their shocks and frames create less free space for carrying items. This Topeak bag is lined with a waterproof interior barrier, keeping your gear safe from the inevitable mud and dirt that your tires will kick up.

This bag isn’t easy to open on the go, but it keeps your extra layers, sleep kit, and food out of sight and out of mind while you hit the trail for a multi-day adventure.

This top tube bag takes great advantage of otherwise dead space on your frame. The Restrap is small and unobtrusive with durable Cordura fabric and a waterproof zipper. The size is ideal for stashing your phone, keys, multi-tool, and gloves for a day or overnight ride.

The small capacity is to your advantage—it keeps you from stuffing it tight so there’s no need to sift through junk to get a hand on what you really need right in the moment. Put it this way: this bag is your home for all the small essentials that you’d prefer to keep within reach and eyesight the whole way.

This full-size Ripio frame bag for road and gravel bikes features three different zippered pockets, each with multiple dividers and straps to please even the most particular rider when it comes to organizing.

The various compartments will save you precious time and energy by eliminating all the pointless digging around for the one thing you need that always seems to sink to the very bottom of your bag.

There’s a designated place for everything you can think of, from bike pumps and hydration tubes to keys, tech, and layers. The full frame design takes advantage of every inch between top and down tubes to maximize storage space.

Small but mighty, the Evoc Multi-Frame pack lets every rider, no matter what bike they’re on, ditch their backpack for good. Built to sit inside your bike's frame, this pack is great for riders with XS bikes and full-suspension frames who otherwise can’t fit much between their shocks and water bottle.

The easily adjustable (but sturdy) hook and loop straps mean that finding the perfect fit is easy. Opt for the medium size pack for a hardtail setup. Stick to size small for full suspension set-ups.

Ready to Go? Expert Aaron Bible Shares Pointers on How to Pack for Your Next Bike Trek

BI: What’s the best bike for bikepacking?

AHB: Any bike you’re willing to pedal uphill fully laden. People use everything from road bikes to mountain bikes, but the most popular bikepacking bikes fall somewhere in between, such as a gravel bike with endurance geometry and 650B wheels.

BI: When do I need rack mounts?

AHB : Rack mounts are pretty common now on gravel bikes and bikes geared specifically toward bikepacking or adventure cycling. You don’t necessarily “need” them to accomplish any bag fitting goal on a bike, but if you do have them, it can make outfitting easier and allow you to use certain bags that are made to work with rack mounts.

BI: What combination of bags do you prefer and why?

AHB: My preference is a small handlebar bag, a small hydration pack, a larger seat bag, and a low frame bag...this just seems to be a good combination/balance for bike handling and capacity.

BI: Any tips for how to pack a bag?

AHB: Yes! But this could be a whole article. You want your weight down low toward your center of gravity; lighter, quick access items can go on the handlebar. Don’t carry any more food, water, or gear than you need before your next stop, and don’t wear a heavy backpack. Ultralight backpacking gear packed in ultralight stuff sacks is the way to go!

When it comes to gear, few have made a lifelong career of testing and writing about new products in the outdoor world the way Aaron H Bible has. With three decades of experience as a content specialist, creative director, and journalist, Bible is an award-winning writer, photographer, and multimedia producer. In addition to outdoor gear, Bible has written about everything from technology and home electronics to healthcare and home furnishings. He is a contributing writer, editor, and photographer to publications including SKI, Freeskier , Men’s Health , Sunset , Gear Junkie , 5280 , Elevation Outdoors , Vanish , Runner's World , Bicycling , and more. Bible holds an MFA in photography from the Savannah College of Art & Design, and has worked as a photographer, gallery director, and educator. A ski bum at heart, he lives with his family in the high-country of Colorado where he and his wife are raising two girls to love thin air, fresh pow, and the flow state.  

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Best bikepacking bags - Handlebar, frame, saddle and top tube bags to carry your gear

The best bikepacking bags to carry you through a multi-day trip whether it’s around the corner or across the continent

What you need to know about choosing the best bikepacking bags

When it comes to the best bikepacking bags, we are truly in a golden age. Early innovators went out in the world and did things on a bike other people didn't think was possible. They led the way and they inspired people. Those early innovators used what they had to and did whatever it took to ride their bikes in the way they wanted to., but as time went on, they looked for better and better tools.

One of the first tools that started to change was the bike itself. At one time, multi-day cycling tended to mean panniers and a touring bike, with bikes packed heavily and moving slowly, sticking mostly to paved routes. As roads have gotten busier and gravel bikes have gotten better, there’s been a shift to the best gravel bikes for multi-day adventures by bike. 

The shift in bikes necessitated a shift in packing strategy to go with it. Taking a page from the ultra-light backpacking segment, bikepackers have gone as light and small as possible. In the early days that meant custom bags sewn for those blazing new trails. These days, the pieces you need to get out on your bike exist and you don't need to know how to sew. 

We’ve tested dozens of bikepacking bags for ease of use, durability, compatibility, size and more, and we've put together a list, organised by company, of some of the best bikepacking bags available to help you through whatever adventures you’ve got planned. 

Best bikepacking bags available today

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Restrap Carry Everything

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

What started out as a one-man operation from a bedroom in Yorkshire, has since expanded into a brand which offers some of the best bikepacking bags available. There are options that cover everything from a daily urban commute all the way up to a multi-day race then they break the offerings up into collections based on the intended use. There is Adventure Race, Expedition, City, and the all-around Carry Everything line that we spent time with. 

We started with the Bar Bag in size small because at 14 litres, it's already voluminous. There are foam spacers to keep proper spacing with the handlebar and a holster system that holds a dry bag inside. For the frame bag, the standard Restrap option uses rubberised strapping to help it stay put and they are waterproof. There are three sizes to help fit your frame and your needs and the medium and large feature an extra pocket for better organisation. There's a cable slot so you can feed a charging cable inside as well. 

At the back of the bike the 14-litre, down to as small as 8-litres, saddlebag is another holster design. The outer piece attaches to the seatpost and through the seat rails for a secure connection to the bike. Unique to Restrap there's a foam spacer to help with spacing behind the seatpost and there's a magnetic buckle that secures the drybag into the holster. 

For accessories, Restrap has more options than most. The rear top tube bag is a really smart way to utilise space that a lot of systems leave empty. Then for the front top tube bag, there are plenty of options but one of them is a bolt on option that is rarer than you might expect given all the choices for gravel bikes with mounting points in that spot. 

Apidura Racing Series

Apidura breaks its bag range into different options to meet different requirements of bikepackers.  The Backcountry series is for off-road adventures and offers a more rugged finish for better durability. For ultra-distance and audaxers, the Race series and Expedition range use many of the same features but the race series is the most focused and streamlined. The race series is where we've had the most experience and with that in mind, that's what we are sharing on this list. It also makes sense because that's what Apidura has a reputation for. Keep in mind though, there's not a lot of room in any of these pieces. 

Apidura has been a significant player in the rise of bikepacking, from sponsoring events like the Transcontinental Race to supporting some of the biggest names in endurance riding like Sofiane Sehili and Jenny Graham who make huge demands of their equipment. They are also often the partner company when a brand with less experience wants to offer a larger range. 

All of the choices in the racing series use a totally waterproof material that's developed specifically for Apidura. They also all feature reflective details to help you stay seen when riding through the night. At the front of the bike is a 2.5-litre bar bag that's a lot closer to something you'd expect to see in a city collection than a bikepacking collection. The idea is to keep it easy to access and out of the way. It hinges away from the bike, so you can reach it while riding, and the closure is a simple spot of velcro. 

The 4L frame bag is, again, small and focused. The angle makes it so it's possible to still use water bottles on smaller frames and the connection to the bike is a collection of five straps. The straps along the top tube have two locations for the front and back so you can fit a top tube bag also. There's a zipper on either side that's both waterproof and hidden under a flap. There's no additional organisation inside the bags but each one leads to a different compartment. 

For the saddlebag, there are five-litre or seven-litre options, but neither is that big. The five-litre has proven, in our experience, to be the perfect size to carry enough gloves to handle seven hours of riding in heavy rain. It's the same waterproof material as all the other pieces, so no need for a separate dry bag, and it rolls closed just like a dry bag. Once closed, the rear face has reflective details and there's mounting points for a light. 

For top tube bags, Apidura offers both a long and short option as well as a strap-on or bolt-on. The smaller one-litre option uses a magnetic closure that's a joy when you have been riding for so long you can't think straight. It won't accidentally open but it's easy to pull open and it keeps things dry. There's a port for cables and it holds its shape even when empty. 

Topeak Loader

Topeak is better known for its tool ranges but it also has a range of bikepacking products. What it offers is an excellent entry point into bikepacking. It's not super specialised or expensive and it's easy to purchase from a variety of places.

For the frame bag, Topeak has gone with the harness system just like a lot of brands but they actually have something unique. While most of the time spacers are blocks of foam, Topeak uses rubberised stacking pieces. The system is a little more fiddly to figure out initially but with three provided for each side, you can decide how much space you need. 

For the Midloader frame bag, there are different options to fit your frame size but none of them feature the type of shape-holding angles you find on the Apidura solution. You'll want to size conservatively if you are also using water bottles. The connection to the top tube is three velcro straps that are very soft and protective. At the front and rear there's a strap with a buckle. They do a great job keeping everything from moving but you'll want to take care that the buckle doesn't scratch your frame. You'll also want to keep in mind that while a light sprinkle won't soak in, this is not a waterproof bag. 

Topeak's Toploader top tube bag has a lot of adjustability and organisation options. The bottom has five different places you can move the two straps between so you can find something that will work with whatever frame bag might be below it. On the inside there's thick padding and a moveable divider. It's a lot like the inside of a camera bag but it's not waterproof. If you need to keep the contents dry, you'll want to pull out the rain cover hidden in the side. 

The last piece we spent time with is the 15 litre Backloader. Like the Frontloader this is a holster system. What's unique about it is that the design works either with an included dry bag, or without. If you know for sure it's going to be dry you could leave the dry bag at home and fill up the internal storage as well as use the straps on top. If it looks like it might rain then Topeak includes a dry bag with an air release you can pack full and stuff inside. It means a little more complexity to the system but it gives you choice in how you use it.

Brooks Scape

If you've had any experience with the classic leather saddles Brooks built its reputation from, it'll be no surprise that the Scape lineup is similarly high in quality. These bikepacking options are incredibly well made and high-performance. They've served us well getting through long, rainy, miles and with that experience we put together a different selection than some of the other brands. 

At the front, the Scape Handlebar Roll is yet another holster and dry bag solution. The dry bag from Brooks isn't just a bag though. Instead, there are two compartments that are accessible depending on which side you open it. It works really well for a dry side and a wet side. Closing the bag into the system is a great introduction to the beautiful clasp and loop system that makes it fast when you are on the road or trail. 

Instead of then suggesting a frame bag, we've decided to take advantage of the modularity that Brooks offers and suggest the Handlebar Pouch instead. Frame bags can be a challenge to fit with water bottles and while the Scape option is excellent, you can get the same 3L as the smaller frame bag but it will attach to the front of the Handlebar Roll. It's still waterproof and if you want to use it on its own, that works also. 

Then, instead of the Brooks top tube bag option, which isn't available in a bolt-on choice, grab the Scape Saddle Pocket Bag. At 0.7L you only sacrifice 0.2L but you can strap the Pocket Bag in multiple locations on the other bags. There's even room for a couple if you want more than one option for small pieces. Just like everything else, it's waterproof. 

At the back, Brooks only offers one size of the Scape Seat Bag. It's a holster system that straps around the seatpost with velcro and then connects under the saddle rails. It won't move around and if you pack carefully there's enough room for overnight gear. The dry bag rolls up and has an air vent so it's easy to pack. Once packed the buckle and loop system is once again a joy to use. There's a spot to mount a light in the back as well.

Ortlieb QR System

It's difficult to know if this system should get accolades for being fast to remove or just being different. There are three pieces to highlight here and they are all completely unique in different ways. 

The Ortlieb Handlebar Pack QR uses a mounting system that is maybe not faster than a traditional handle roll system but it definitely will not rotate or come loose. Instead of velcro wrapping around the handlebar, there's a pair of cords that snake over, and under, the bars and stem from opposite directions. Tighten them up and they lock in place so they'll never come loose while riding. It also has the advantage of not being a dry bag and holster system but still being completely waterproof. 

The frame bag we included is not actually part of the QR system but it is also completely unique. Rather than being a zippered fast-access storage location Ortlieb uses a roll-top closure and keeps the whole bag completely waterproof as well as vertically narrow. First, the bag gets attached to the top tube with velcro straps like normal. Then the top gets rolled down and tucked alongside the top tube. When it's time to open it up, there is a rubber strap that connects to a catch. Opening and closing the bag doesn't remove it from the frame. It's still not going to fit every frame but if it does, there's a little more chance of it existing alongside your bottles. 

The last piece we had a chance to spend time with is the Ortlieb Seat-Pack QR. This one is actually a bit closer to a quick release system. There's a collar that attaches to the seatpost and acts as a stop to the base of the bag. Once that's installed, the connection to the seat rails also uses hard plastic and requires a bit of upward pressure to release. Let go of the pieces and they lock the back to the seat rails with gravity. There's an extra bit of velcro to steady the bag against the seatpost and everything is set. When it's time to release it, just push up on the seat rail connections and remove the velcro. There's no separate dry bag so the self-contained bag stays together once removed. The whole system is ideal for unloading your bike for exploration once you've set up camp. 

Blackburn Outpost Elite

Blackburn Designs is a company that makes rugged products usable on both mountain bikes and drop-bar bikes. If you've got a dropper post and suspension with a desire to head for the truly rugged locations, this series of products is what you want to look at. 

Upfront, the Handlebar Roll and dry bag combo start out with a basic silhouette that's not so different from stuff like the Brooks Scape series bag. If you ride on rough enough trails though you'll notice that the straps on that bag will loosen over time. To combat this, Blackburn uses a hard mount system that allows you to dial in the angle and won't move or come loose. It takes longer to set this up but once it's on the bike you can just remove the dry bag the same way other holster systems work. 

For the next piece, Blackburn offers a hydration bladder compatible full frame bag. It's totally waterproof and available in four sizes to fit whatever frame you've got. The zippers lack flaps over them but they are waterproof without the hassle and there's a small zippered compartment on the non-drive side as well as two zippers to the main compartment on the drive side. The main compartment is only one large space but there's a removable false shelf to help divide it. 

At the rear of the bike is another piece designed for rugged trips. The Outpost Elite Seatpack and dry bag is a lot like the front bag. It mimics the look and style of other holster solutions but it's got extra mounting features that allow it to work with a dropper post. Instead of attaching at the seatpost for stability, there's a rigid metal wing system that keeps the bag stable with only an attachment to the saddle rails. If you aren't using a dropper post you can still use a strap on the post for stability but there's no need. The 6.95-litre bag also does a good job of staying up and out of the way of the rear wheel because of the way the straps for the holster attach farther towards the rear of the bike. 

Bontrager Adventure line

The Bontrager Adventure Bags do have an eye on working with the latest model of the Trek Checkpoint but they work beyond that bike. They actually have some features that might make them perfect for anyone with a smaller frame. 

At the front, the Adventure Handlebar Bag is on the smaller side at nine-litres and uses a roll-top closure but only on one side. If you need to fit a bit more there is some space to strap items like a jacket to the front. The real trick of it though is a zippered front pocket designed for a hydration bladder. It's not included, so you can use what works, but it's designed around the 1.5L Osprey Hydraulics LT Hydration Pack Lumbar Reservoir. In general, putting a bunch of weight in the bar bag isn't ideal but for those with a small frame, this might make things a whole lot easier. 

At the centre of the bike, the Bontrager Adventure Boss Frame Bag is also unique. This is the piece that has a size designed around the latest Trek Checkpoint gravel bike. If you have that bike, then there are mounting points that will make sure it doesn't move. Even if you've got another bike though, the six different sizes mean there should be a size that works even for small frames. 

The last piece in the Adventure Bag lineup is the Bontrager Adventure Saddle Bag. Like the rest of the bags in this collection, it's not fully waterproof. It does have a roll-top closure though and like all bags with a roll-top, that makes it hard to get into quickly. To ease that pain, Bontrager put zippers on the sides. We wish more brands took this approach.

What types of bags are there?

We covered a range of different bags and different packing strategies but in general, bikepacking bags fall into three categories. These three are your starting point in most situations then there's some accessories you can as needed. 

Handlebar bags range from a couple of litres for a few essentials to enough space to swallow a tent. They come in the form of either a single piece bag that straps directly to the handlebars or a harness that will cradle a drybag.

Frame bags attach within the frame triangle using velcro or webbing straps. Half-frame bags take up the upper section of the frame either stretching all the way from the headtube to the seatpost or stopping part way along the top tube. With these bags you still need to carry water bottles but smaller frames will struggle. Side entry bottle cages will help but you might also want to just switch to a full frame bag. With a full frame bag you'll need to carry water in a bladder but you'll have the full space of the frame triangle to work out a packing that works best for you. 

Saddle packs are similar to handlebar bags in that they come in one piece or holster styles. Anchoring points use the saddle rails and seatpost to secure and stabilise the bag against sway and drooping. They pack down, and stay dry, with roll top closures. The bags are a great place to store the bulk of your gear as there's very little downside to carrying luggage in this spot. 

What bike limitations do I need to consider?

One of the big appeals to bikepacking bags is the fact they can be easily attached to any bike without the need for special mounting hardware. However, you'll need to consider the dimensions of your bike. Not all bags will work with all bikes and this is especially true for smaller riders where clearances are more compact.

Frame bags often come in different sizes and should give measurements to gauge the size you need. For handlebar bags, the clearance between the handlebar and front wheel and space between drop bars is the limiting factors. Saddle packs are more compatible across bike sizes although small frames such as 50cm and below may struggle with rear-wheel clearance. If you run a dropper post on your gravel bike, you will need to choose a seat pack designed specifically to work with dropper posts so that you don’t damage the posts stanchion.

Do I need frame protection?

When you load down a bag and subject it to the dirt and grime of a bikepacking trip, things rub. It could be just a small scratch, or two. If that's the case it's probably not that big of a deal and it will come down to your level of comfort with scratches. Some people will see those as reminders of the best adventures while others will feel it in their soul every time they look at their once perfect bike. Wherever you fall in that range of experiences things will work out. Sometimes it's worse though.

In some instances, the rubbing of a frame bag could mean expensive repairs. It can be startling how fast a misplaced strap can damage a frame. If your bike is aluminium, or titanium, you can end up with an impressively polished spot but if your frame is carbon things could be worse. It's possible to rub right through the frame wall of a carbon bike. With a steel frame you won't rub through the wall but rust can be an issue.

Instead of worrying about it, apply frame protection. The best time to do this is when the bike is brand new. You need it clean and it's unlikely a bikepacking bike will ever be as clean as it is new. Grab a role of helicopter tape and apply liberally. Think well beyond just where the straps fall.

What’s the best packing strategy?

A loaded-up bike is heavy and it handles differently. There's nothing you can do to fundamentally change that but there are important strategies for mitigating the effect. At the heart of it the idea is to keep weight low and central.

The three primary storage bags in a bikepacking setup are the frame pack, the handlebar pack, and the seatpost pack. The handlebar bag is a long thin bag that does well with bulky, but lightweight items. If you are using a drop bar bike the space between the handlebar drops is narrow so that will dictate shorter items.

The seatpost pack is another location where you want lightweight but bulky items. If you have longer items that won't fit between the bars then this is the place to put them. just remember that the farther something gets from the seatpost the more it will sway and move. Try to keep the weight as close in as possible.

For heavy items you want them in your frame bag. It's the most centrally located and the lowest to the ground but there isn't much space. Your legs and the frame create a boundary in every direction so this is your place for compact and heavy. Depending on your bike's setup, you might also consider a downtube mounted bag for heavy items.

What about food and water?

Water in particular can be tricky to find a good spot for. It's heavy, it's bulky, and there is a temptation to try and tuck it away. You might think it's easy to stop and pull it out for a drink but avoid the temptation.

It is true that it's easy to stop and locate food and water but that's not how people sometimes work. Riding is hard and once you get into the rhythm you might surprise yourself by your reluctance to stop. This is especially true when riding with other people or in a race situation. As time goes on you feel worse and worse and it then becomes hard to recover after the eventual stop.

Instead, avoid the whole situation and make it easy. Make sure you have food and water available while riding. Eat and drink before you feel hungry or thirsty and do it often. Keep your energy up instead of trying to recover from a dip. Keep this strategy in mind while packing and do what you need to make things easier than you think necessary.

How did we test the best bikepacking bags?

Testing for the best bikepacking bags begins with the unboxing. We immediately try to figure out the bags, the straps and various mounting brackets to get a sense of how intuitive they are to use. Then we check the instructions and see what - if anything - we missed.

Next up, we fit the bags to our bike - in this case, the Niner MCR full-suspension gravel bike - to get even more of an idea of how easy they are to use. 

Then we do a trial run of packing up a selection of bikepacking gear . We use the same kit list for each bag, and this allows us to compare the available space within, and how the capacity compares to the capacity claimed by the brand. 

The final test is the real-world use, and we tested these bags by taking them on a mix of the most epic adventures we could think of. We also tested bags doing things a little less epic. Sometimes you need a set of bags to take you across a continent and sometimes you need a bag to take you on a mellow weekend. We did the hard work of adventuring on our bikes and we are proud to bring you the best options we found.  

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Josh hails from the Pacific Northwest of the United States but would prefer riding through the desert than the rain. He will happily talk for hours about the minutiae of cycling tech but also has an understanding that most people just want things to work. He is a road cyclist at heart and doesn't care much if those roads are paved, dirt, or digital. Although he rarely races, if you ask him to ride from sunrise to sunset the answer will be yes. Height: 5'9" Weight: 140 lb. Rides: Salsa Warbird, Cannondale CAAD9, Enve Melee, Look 795 Blade RS, Priority Continuum Onyx

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Best bikepacking bags 2024 — how to choose lightweight luggage for cycling adventures

This article contains links to retailers. Purchases made after clicking on those links may help support road.cc by earning us a commission. Find out more about road.cc buyer's guides .

The best bikepacking bags

Honourable mentions, everything you need to know about bikepacking bags.

If you plan to travel fast and light, or just don’t like clutter, bikepacking bags are the modern alternative to panniers for multi-day rides. They strap on to various parts of the bike — the saddle, top tube and handlebars are favourite — swerving the need for racks. We've thrashed laden bikes over the hills of Wales, Scotland and England, and slept in woods, fields and ditches to find these, the best bikepacking bags you can buy.

• Best seatpack system: Wildcat Tiger Drover Saddle Harness — Buy Now for £72.00 from Wildcat | Find out more
• Best one-piece seatpack: Topeak BackLoader 10-litre seat pack — Buy Now for £44.99 from Merlin Cycles | Find out more
• Best frame bag: Ortlieb Frame-Pack Toptube — Buy Now for £89.00 from Spa Cycles | Find out more
• Best frame-filling bag: Apidura Backcountry Full Frame Pack — Buy Now for £144.00 from Condor Cycles | Find out more
• Best bar bag: Route Werks The Handlebar Bag — Buy Now for £165.00 from Route Werks | Find out more
• Best value bar bag: Topeak BarLoader — Buy Now for £32.99 from Amazon | Find out more
• Best small bag: Restrap Top Tube Bag — Buy Now for £32.00 from Sigma Sports | Find out more
• Best fork bag: Free Parable Gorilla Clip, Cage and Bag system — Buy Now for £63.00 from Amazon | Find out more
• Best top tube bag: Apidura Racing Long Top Tube Pack — Buy Now for £72.00 from Condor Cycles | Find out more
• Best money-no-object bikepacking bag: Tailfin AeroPack Carbon — Buy Now for £299.00 from Tailfin | Find out more

By limiting the amount of stuff you can carry, bikepacking bags force you to travel light; you can't take the kitchen sink if there's nowhere to put it.

The most common bikepacking bag is a large saddlebag; capacities go up to 20 litres. Top-tube bags and handlebar bags are also common; the latter is a popular spot for a sleeping bag. You can add small bags as necessary for snacks and sundries.

Tests strongly suggest backpacking bags are aerodynamically better than panniers because they don't increase the frontal area of the bike.

Best seatpack system: Wildcat Tiger Drover Saddle Harness — Buy Now for £72.00 from Wildcat

The Wildcat Tiger Drover Saddle Harness is designed to hold a drybag securely beneath your saddle, and makes for an incredibly secure and lightweight bikepacking setup. The design makes packing easy and quick, although the initial setup can take a while.

Tester Matt writes: “With everything installed, the overwhelming impression is how secure the bag is – there's virtually no side to side movement. Even when riding and purposefully trying to initiate some sway, it stays completely solid.

“With regular saddlepacks I usually remove the whole bag from the bike to pack effectively, but being able to leave the harness in place really speeds things up. Packing can be several minutes faster.

“When bikepacking there is little more frustrating than a saddle bag that is constantly swaying, and the Wildcat Tiger Drover Saddle Harness has that completely under control. It's a system that works well, makes packing easier and makes for a usefully faster getaway too.”

Pair it with the Wildcat Tapered Drybag and you've got a low-weight, sensibly-priced and brilliantly easy-to-use system.

Read our review of the Wildcat Tiger Drover Saddle Harness

Best one-piece seatpack: Topeak BackLoader 10-litre seat pack — Buy Now for £44.99 from Merlin Cycles

It's likely that a saddle bag is the first bit of kit you're going to look at buying if you want to get into bikepacking or light touring, and Topeak's BackLoader would be a good investment. It's a versatile piece of luggage that will serve you well when attached to a racing, commuting, touring or mountain bike.

The BackLoader is really easy to use and its simple hook and loop attachment helps to keep weight down. It has its cons, but is certainly worth considering for a credit card tour or the like, and it's excellent value.

The BackLoader is available in three different sizes: six, ten and fifteen litres. All come with an internal waterproof bag with a valve so you squeeze out surplus air.

Read our review of the Topeak BackLoader 10-litre seat pack Find a Topeak dealer

Best frame bag: Ortlieb Frame-Pack Toptube — Buy Now for £89.00 from Spa Cycles

Ortlieb's Top Tube Frame Pack offers four litres of space and the high quality, fully waterproof design you expect from Ortlieb. It has lots of adjustment for fitting and makes a good option for riders looking to keep their bottle cages accessible.

Ortlieb is renowned for waterproof bags, and this one is seriously waterproof. It meets the IP67 standard, which means it gets the highest possible dustproof rating and waterproofing that totally resists 30 minutes in one metre of water.

Bear in mind anything meeting the IPX5 standard is also 'waterproof,' but that only involves three minutes of hosing. In other words, IP67 is impressive, especially for something with a zip.

Read our review of the Ortlieb Frame-Pack Toptube Find an Ortlieb dealer

Best frame-filling bag: Apidura Backcountry Full Frame Pack — Buy Now for £144.00 from Condor Cycles

The Apidura Backcountry Full Frame Pack is an excellent way to carry a lot of gear. It's easy to fit and use, is made from bombproof materials, is fully waterproof and carries a lifetime warranty – the price is high, but it's fair.

Tester Mike writes: “Loading it with an overnight's worth of water bladder, cooking gear, food and a jacket produces no noticeable bulging, despite the lack of an internal divider. As it's only 313g, I didn't bother removing the pack from my gravel bike for a few months. It gave me a huge amount of space for tools, clothing and food for day rides - popping to the shops for a litre of oatmilk, some wine and crisps never felt so much like going bush.

“If you want to keep a lot of kit stable, dry and secure no matter how long or arduous the journey, the Apidura Backcountry Full Frame Pack is a serious contender. The price is high end, but so are the performance and quality.”

Read our review of the Apidura Backcountry Full Frame Pack Find an Apidura dealer

Best bar bag: Route Werks The Handlebar Bag — Buy Now for £165.00 from Route Werks

The Route Werks Handlebar Bag is a fabulous – and fabulously expensive – way to carry a plethora of stuff within easy reach on your bike. With great attention to detail, this is the benchmark by which all other bar bags must be judged.

With its volume of 3.2L and a max weight of 4kg, you can fit plenty of stuff in and on the bag. A metal frame and fittings holds a polymer lid and canvas body. Weighing 677g without accessory mounts fitted, it doesn't add much to your bike and at 235mm wide tucks in nicely between the hoods on the narrowest of drop bars.

Tester Mike writes: “My testing comprised many months bashing about the central Highlands, mostly at high speed with increasingly scant regard for the sensibilities of doing so on a bike with a loaded handlebar bag. I run 2.1in tyres and a 700mm-wide drop bar, so basically full-on rigid mountain biking, and the Route Werks bag just asked for more, please. Packed with jacket, gloves, food, tools, phone, GPS, lights and pump, everything stayed put and silent. I got so used to having absolutely everything in the bag and not in my pockets or on the bike's frame, I'm now ruined for any lesser luggage carrying setup.”

Read our review of the Route Werks The Handlebar Bag

Best value bar bag: Topeak BarLoader — Buy Now for £32.99 from Amazon

Lightweight and waterproof, the Topeak BarLoader is easy to fit, has an impressively rugged build and keeps all your valuable gadgets/dry clothes/best biscuits safe yet easily accessible.

Usefully, this 6.5 litre bar bag is designed to work either on its own, or alongside the Topeak's 8L FrontLoader bag. Consequently it either straps to the bar directly with simple Velcro straps, or onto the larger bag with longer straps.

It's made from a super-tough, sonically-welded and waterproof TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane to its friends), with a roll-top closure for maximum weather protection. Inside, there's a simple main compartment with front and rear zipped mesh pockets.

Read our review of the Topeak BarLoader Find a Topeak dealer

Best small bag: Restrap Top Tube Bag — Buy Now for £32.00 from Sigma Sports

The Restrap Top Tube Bag attaches to your bike at two points – a two-inch-wide rubberised Velcro top tube strap at the rear, and a three-quarter-inch Velcro strip at the front around your head tube. It slopes from front to back, starting out about 6cm tall and ending at 3cm. Inside it's about 3cm wide, and with careful packing doesn't bulge to knee-swiping dimensions. In practice, the fully-loaded Top Tube Bag stayed put over the roughest of terrain. The straps were easily adjusted and once set stayed put.The most-used feature of any top tube bag will be the zip. Restrap has used a waterproof YKK zip – surely the Rolls Royce of such things.

The Restrap Top Tube Bag isn't the cheapest forward-mounted luggage option – you can get them from around a tenner – but it has to be one of the best.

Read our review of the Restrap Top Tube Bag Find a Restrap dealer

Best fork bag: Free Parable Gorilla Clip, Cage and Bag system — Buy Now for £63.00 from Amazon

Free Parable's Gorilla Clip, Cage and Bag system allows anyone without mounts on their fork legs to attach gear there. It comprises a plastic cage, velcro straps, zip ties, a plastic mount and drybag. It’s easy to fit, secure and perhaps the most well thought out way to get stuff on your fork if you don't have the right mounts.

Read our review of the Free Parable Gorilla Clip, Cage and Bag system

Best top tube bag: Apidura Racing Long Top Tube Pack — Buy Now for £72.00 from Condor Cycles

The Apidura Racing Long Top Tube Pack squeezes two litres of flexible storage into a slim form factor with rock-solid fixings. Featuring a charging cable port and a two-way waterproof zip, it's hard to beat if you need to max out your storage for going fast, far or in between.

Tester Mike writes: “At 45cm, this is one of the longest top tube bags around. I ride an XL frame and most of the top tube gets taken up with its quick-access goodness. A potential downside of this is hitting your knees when full, but at 4.5cm wide it's in the Goldilocks zone for storage vs knee clearance.

“For an ostensibly simple item Apidura has packed in a number of tasty features to aid stability and usability. Out on the bike it doesn't disappoint, staying firmly put even when knocked by a wayward knee. The zip is stiff when new, and does loosen a bit, but remains firm and in place no matter the load or terrain. With a full load over the roughest of terrain at the fastest of speeds, there was nothing to distract me from rattling eyeballs and puckering trousers of impending doom. When excessive body language was required to keep things upright, on occasion a leg would contact the pack, but the secure fastening and stiff sides meant things returned to where they should be without issue.”

Read our review of the Apidura Racing Long Top Tube Pack Find an Apidura dealer

Best money-no-object bikepacking bag: Tailfin AeroPack Carbon — Buy Now for £299.00 from Tailfin

The Tailfin AeroPack is about the neatest solution for adding some storage space to pretty much any bike. It'll appeal to a wide range of riders: bikepackers, ultraracers, credit-card tourers, audaxers, and anyone with a posh bike that they want to carry stuff on. Yes, it's expensive. And no, it's not as versatile as some other setups. But it does the job it's designed to do extremely well, and it's a lovely thing that's a joy to use.

Tailfin's main claim for the AeroPack is that it's 'The fastest way to carry gear – on any bike'. Partly that's an aerodynamic claim. The AeroPack design means that the bag is tucked away in the dirty air behind the rider, and the parabolic carbon arch that supports it is designed to cut cleanly through the air too. So it's more aero than a pannier sitting on a standard rack, and similar to a standard fabric seatpack.

Does that matter to you? In all probability, the answer is: not really, unless you're an ultra-racer and Tailfin isn't going to make its millions selling them just to ultraracers. WHere the Aeropack appeals is as a bag for your posh bike. There are not many bags of any size you'd want to attach to your posh road bike. For a start, your posh road bike maybe doesn't have rack mounts, so a rack is out. Even if it does, it's a pain to be taking a rack on and off if you do want a bit of luggage space. You might be tempted by a bikepacking-style seatpack, but they have their issues: they tend to swing about as they have very little structure, and they require careful packing to minimise that. Also, they don't really hold that much stuff.

The Aeropack scores on all counts here. There's the carbon arch keeping everything steady laterally, and inside the bag there's a lightweight alloy frame to give the whole thing structure. When you're riding, the AeroPack sits there anonymously. It's entirely rattle-free and impressively stiff. There's no lateral movement at all when you're out of the saddle, and most of the time you forget it's there at all. In terms of the experience of using it as luggage, it's easily better than a seatpack or a pannier on a standard rack.

Read our review of the Tailfin AeroPack Carbon

Restrap Saddle Bag Holster and 14-litre Dry Bag — Buy Now for £95.00 from Spa Cycles

If you need to carry up to 14 litres of luggage but don't want to use a rack, the Restrap Saddle Bag Holster is an excellent choice. Unconstrained by frame design or bottle cage placement, it will work for just about any bike.

Assuming black is the new black (again), the Holster is bang on the minimalist, pseudo-military-utility trend in adventure kit. Made from 1000D Cordura wrapped over a plastic hardshell to maintain its shape, swathed in nylon webbing and held together not by stitching but instead tough cord through metal eyelets, the Holster looks like it will take a real beating year after year. At well over half a kilo it's definitely no lightweight, but what price durability and peace of mind?

Read our review of the Restrap Saddle Bag Holster and 14-litre Dry Bag Find a Restrap dealer

Wildcat Double Ended Drybag — Buy Now for £40.00 from Wildcat

Drybags are commonly used while bikepacking, allowing you to keep kit separated but also dry and they are available in a wide range of sizes and usually for not much money. The Wildcat Double Ended Drybag takes things a further and it is essentially two drybags inside each another. The bag features a double-ended opening and each end accesses a different bag section.

Each end accesses its own internal bag which is not joined to the other and is the same size or thereabouts as the outside at 13-litre. This means you can stuff a sleeping bag like the Alpkit Pipedream 600 in one end and use all the space conventionally or you can stuff a smaller bag , beanie and insulation jacket in one end AND a bivvy bag in the other. You don’t need to worry about packing each side evenly as they push up against each other as long as you make sure you have rolled the ends up securely to take up any excess.

Tester Matt writes: “I tested it with the Wildcat Lion handlebar harness. When mounted within the harness the extra thickness of the fabric is a big plus when riding through any trail obstructions such as brash or brambles that have the potential to damage or rip thinner drybag fabric. Despite the weight and cost disadvantages over regular drybags, it turns out to be incredibly useful. Once you have started using it, you’ll struggle to move away from it.”

Read our review of the Wildcat Double Ended Drybag

Vel Seat Pack 7L — Buy Now for £65.00 from Sigma Sports

The Vel Seat Pack is very well made, user friendly, and stable on the bike, and has a nifty air purge valve to make the most of its capacity. It's constructed using a tough Hypalon material, the same stuff that rigid inflatable boats are made from, and is highly durable and totally waterproof. It works really well.

Tester Stef writes: “I've found the pack really useful for carrying extra spares, tubes, clothing and food on winter rides; it's perfect for carrying an extra jacket for warmth at the coffee stop. It would also cope with an overnight B&B stop on a two-day credit card ride in summer; I loaded it up with the same items I took for a two-day ride I did in July last year, stuffing in a full set of summer cycling clothes, plus shorts and T-shirt for wearing in the evening. The air purge valve really helped to squeeze as much in as possible.

“I found the Vel Seat Pack to be a very user-friendly and well-made seatpack. It's ideal for long day rides, carrying extra food and tools, or wanting to take spare clothes or a jacket for a coffee stop, and has just enough space for a credit card overnighter in summer. I think it would stand up to years of use, and for £65 is really good value.”

Read our review of the Vel Seat Pack 7L

Brooks Scape Frame Bag — Buy Now for £85.00 from Wiggle

The Brooks Scape Frame Bag is a high-quality, waterproof pack that best fits slightly larger frames (think medium and upwards). It can carry plenty, making it ideal for day trips or longer bikepacking adventures, and there are plenty of pockets for separating items. A neat finishing touch is the handy cable port on the interior tech pocket, along with a port on the front of the outer fabric for charging or hydration.

We've reviewed and liked pretty much the entirety of the Brooks Scape range. This, the all-important frame bag, is the party piece if you're bikepacking, but it's also versatile enough to be useful for touring, day rides or commuting. It’s an excellent option for the money. If you're on the lookout for a top-quality frame bag with good carrying capacity that doesn't take up much frame space (and your frame is capable of accommodating it), then it's a great piece of gear.

Read our review of the Brooks Scape Frame Bag Find a Brooks dealer

Wildcat Ocelot Frame Bag — Buy Now for £105.00 from Wildcat

The Wildcat Ocelot Frame Bag is a light, high quality bag available in a useful range of sizes. It's great in bad weather, the elasticated attachment works brilliantly and the whole thing has a premium, handmade feel. You won't get it on or off that quickly, though.

The Ocelot fixes to the top tube using an elastic cord that feeds through all the looped attachment points. It takes about 10 minutes to set up the first time, and it's not really a design for taking on and off on a regular basis. The benefit is excellent support – it doesn't sag like some bags with Velcro straps – and this in turn makes the zip really fluid and easy to use. Zip garages keep the pullers out of the way as you ride.

Tester Matt writes: “The Wildcat Ocelot for me outperforms many of its rivals by virtue of its elastic attachment, and also, to some degree, in its choice of fabrics. I really enjoy using it, and the clever fitting is a big part of that. If you're after a high quality, feature-packed frame bag that's at home in any weather, the Wildcat Ocelot is absolutely worth checking out.”

Read our review of the Wildcat Ocelot Frame Bag

Straight Cut Design Bagel Bar Bag — Buy Now for £70.00 from Straight Cut Design

The Straight Cut Bagel Bar Bag is small, perfectly made (by hand) and uses Voile's excellent Nano straps to give a rock-solid setup. The double zip is different from most similar bags and works really well.

Tester Matt writes: “The Bagel Bag has multiple attachment points and can be placed low enough to allow the use of out-front GPS mounts. It also has an elastic cord for looping around the head tube, although – unlike many similar bags – it's so secure on the Voile straps you may not need it. What really marks the Straight Cut Bagel Bar Bag out is its double zip opening. I was initially skeptical about what it would add, but was won over – Straight Cut says it allows easy access for left or right-handed riders, but found the zips generally very easy to open.

“The Bagel Bar Bag might be small, but it is the best handlebar bag I have used to date.The Voile straps give a solid fit, the fabric is strong and durable, and the zips are great. It's a great bag, and ideal for gravel bikes with limited space on the bars.”

Read our review of the Straight Cut Design Bagel Bar Bag

Miss Grape Cluster 13 Waterproof saddlebag — Buy Now for £137.50 from Westbrook Cycles

The Cluster 13 Waterproof is a very strong and durable saddlebag that’s ideal for the toughest and longest adventures. The 13 litres of space is easy to pack, and it’s easy to secure to thanks to good buckles. There is a lot to like, but at £135 you would expect so.

The biggest sections of fabric with the dotted pattern are 420 denier nylon, which is thicker than most bags use and fully waterproof. It’s light though, as well as very strong – 420 denier was originally designed for parachutes.

That thickness (and some plastic reinforcement) gives the roll-top Cluster a great shape that doesn't crinkle or fold. This, plus the large opening, makes it really easy to pack and unpack.

Read our review of the Miss Grape Cluster 13 Waterproof saddlebag Find a Miss Grape dealer

Miss Grape Trunk bag — Buy Now for £49.99 from Westbrook Cycles

The Trunk bag from Italian bikepacking aficionados Miss Grape is a 4.5 litre stuff sack that can be fitted to a number of areas on the bike. It is strong, waterproof and versatile.

Bikepacking bags don't come much simpler than a stuff sack, and they work particularly well on handlebars and forks – though they're versatile enough to attach in all sorts of places.

This one's designed to work well with an 'anything' fork cage. There are three vertical webbing attachment points, and they're well-judged for popular straps such as those from Voile, while Miss Grape sells a TrunKit bar mount separately for £15.

Tester Matt writes: "The bag holds 4.5 litres of cargo, and I was impressed with just how much can be stuffed inside. Repeatedly ramming in sleeping bags and the like showed the bag to be extremely strong, too."

Read our review of the Miss Grape Trunk bag Find a Miss Grape dealer

Alpkit Kanga handlebar harness — Buy Now for £47.99 from Alpkit

The Kanga handlebar harness is a secure and convenient platform for lashing luggage to your handlebar and – unlike most bar bags – it sits away from the bar and leaves it fully usable. With multiple attachments and simple Velcro strapping it fits almost anything, and the lightweight fibreglass reinforcement makes it very stable. There's only one size and it could do with some strap tidies, but those are the only niggles.

It uses a waterproof, tear-resistant nylon fabric for its main section, and hides a pair of (removable) fibreglass struts that run all the way down to the fork. They work extremely well, keeping your pack really stable even of rough ground.

The Kanga offers multiple attachment points on its webbing ladders for the Velcro straps, and it's versatile. It can also hold luggage higher than the bar, unlike traditional bags, which is a bonus for anyone short of space above the front wheel.

Read our review of the Alpkit Kanga handlebar harness

Apidura Racing Bolt-On Top Tube Pack — Buy Now for £52.00 from Apidura

The Apidura Racing Top Tube Bag is a slimline model aimed at those who want to ride fast rather than haul loads of kit. Attention to detail is excellent – and there's no reason not to use it on slower jaunts if you really wanted to.

This bag, as the name suggests, is designed to bolt directly to the bosses on the top tube – an increasingly familiar sight on gravel bikes. It comes with two 3mm stainless Allen bolts, featuring rubberised washers to isolate against shock and prevent loosening. Capacity is a litre and is totally open plan and spartan, save for a closed-cell foam bottom to protect phones and other sensitive electricals from vibration and bigger bumps.

It's incredibly easy to flick the flap, reach in and close again, even when riding at 20mph plus. Careful packing helps, but the foam 'flooring' seems to play its protective part well enough too, with minimal rattle over washboard surfaces and scabby tarmac. It's also plenty water-resistant, fending off three minutes with a hose and presenting no issues in wet, showery conditions.

Read our review of the Apidura Racing Bolt-On Top Tube Pack

Restrap Race saddle bag — Buy Now for £105.99 from Restrap

The Restrap Race Saddle Bag is a quick-fitting, lightweight and stable way to carry bulky items on your bike. Less than half the weight of Restrap's own standard saddle bag whilst retaining the features needed to perform, it's a great bit of kit at a good price. Quality is excellent too – in fact, its sole problem is a poorly designed light strap.

This is the stripped-back Race version of the Restrap Saddle Bag Holster and Dry Bag. The Race comes in at less than half the weight, despite only losing 1L of capacity and nothing in the way of functionality. The seven-litre Race attaches with simple straps and buckles, and it works fine across a variety of bikes and saddles, with no noticeable swaying – even with the included 7L drybag stuffed to the gunwales.

During a month's battering about Highland gravel roads and rough estate tracks, the Restrap Race Saddle Bag stayed put, out of the way of the back of my legs despite deliberate attempts to provoke sway. It didn't move an inch unless told to, and when you do want it out it's quick. I got to the point of being able to fit it from scratch and ride away in 60 seconds.

Read our review of the Restrap Race saddle bag Find a Restrap dealer

LifeLine Adventure Frame Bag — Buy Now for £14.99 from Wiggle

The Lifeline Adventure frame bag fits 2.1 litres of storage beneath the top tube. It's a simple design with a single zip and one large storage area, while its 300D ripstop nylon fabric and welded seams mean it's both light and impressively waterproof. It might not be a looker, but it's cheap, simple and effective.x

The broad Velcro straps prove easy to use, and secure with no decrease in strength after multiple uses. They're long enough to fit around all bikes, from skinny steel tubing to wide carbon frames, though as they're unadjustable they may interfere with your cablestops. At 155g all up, it's light too.

The design is simple: a single waterproof zip opens on a single storage area. The zip copes well and stays smooth even with the bag bulging and needing some force to close it, and when closed it sits in a small zip garage, which stops it from rattling around.

Read our review of the LifeLine Adventure Frame Bag

Restrap Race Top Tube Bag — Buy Now for £64.99 from Restrap

The Restrap Race Top Tube Bag is a large, stable bag with innovative fixings that should attach to any bike. The zip cover is going to divide opinion, but apart from that, it's a cracker.

The Race Top Tube Bag, has some genuinely useful features to make this staple luggage item a long-distance winner. Firstly, the size: at 1.5L this is possibly the largest top tube bag on the market. Extending way past halfway along the top tube, even on an XL frame, at 37cm this is one loooong bag. Add in the 10cm height and 4cm width, and you can fit a lot of kit inside.

The biggest challenge with top tube bags is vertical stability. To keep the Race Top Tube bag steady, Restrap has come up with a stiff fabric collar that is held in place against the stem by a loop of thin bungee cord. It works, even with very low stack set-ups which are usually difficult for top tube bags to handle.

Read our review of the Restrap Race Top Tube Bag Find a Restrap dealer

Vaude Trailframe frame bag — Buy Now for £49.00 from Tweeks Cycles

Vaude's Trailframe bag is a tough and waterproof roll top bag, with a side access zipper that keeps your gear easily accessible. It's a simple design that's stable, functional and easy to fit and remove, though the straps can be a bit of a faff.

The Trailframe proved stable and happily took plenty of scuffs, rough trails and bad weather. Time will tell how it fares long term, but it's not shown any scuff or wear marks in a period when other bags have done. The ripstop-style fabric is reassuring to minimise any possible tears or nicks.

The Trailframe isn't the cheapest of frame bags, but the build quality, simplicity, waterproofness and the environmental standards really make it stand out – and if all that's missing for you are eyecatching visuals, it's also available in bright green.

Read our review of the Vaude Trailframe frame bag Find a Vaude dealer

BBB Front Fellow handlebar bag — Buy Now for £47.65 from Active Sport

The BBB Front Fellow is a handlebar bag that combines a harness that mounts to the bike plus a removable 10L separate dry bag with a useful carry strap to give a decent load capacity for bikepacking. It mounts solidly, works well and it's decent value too.

Read our review of the BBB Front Fellow handlebar bag

Apidura 14-litre Saddle Pack — Buy Now for £126.00 from Apidura

Smartly-positioned internal reinforcements stiffen this pack from British bikepacking specialists Apidura, so despite its large capacity, it barely sways when you're riding even if it's not fully loaded. Despite being pretty light for a saddlebag this size, the areas of high stress and abrasion appear to be well reinforced and able withstand the rigours of life on the (off)road.

The roll-top closure and side straps make for a very flexible system that can accommodate a wide range of loads – from the full fourteen-litre capacity down to around six litres – without too much excess fabric flapping about.

There's also a bungee cord some bungee cord webbing on the of the pack – useful for keeping a spare layer close to hand – and two rear light attachment points that can be used depending on how full the bag is. All in all, the quality of construction and the thought that's gone into the details is very impressive.

Read our review of the Apidura Mid-size Saddle Pack Find an Apidura dealer

Ortlieb Handlebar Pack — Buy Now for £97.00 from Spa Cycles

This easily mounted sausage-shaped roll pack is perfect for a lightweight off-road tour, offering 'complete element protection' and quick access to kit. It's ideal for a sleeping bag or substantial spare kit, while the optional Accessory Pack provides easy access to valuables and detaches quickly to double up as a handy shoulder bag.

It's very similar to the Apidura Handlebar Pack, but Ortlieb's is designed to be suspended slightly from the bar using spacers. They share the same limitations regarding use with drop bars; both are better suited to flat-bar touring bikes.

Find an Ortlieb dealer Read our review of the Ortlieb Handlebar Pack

Restrap Bar Bag Holster & Dry Bag & Food Bag — Buy Now for £109.99-£119.99 from Restrap

With the new improved Food Bag topping a well-thought-out design made from super-strong materials, there really isn't anything to fault on the Restrap Bar Bag Holster/Dry Bag/Food Bag ensemble. For £110 total you get a system that will quickly fit pretty much any modern bike, carry as much kit as you'd really want up front short of using proper panniers, and will no doubt last you many, many adventures on and off the road.

Read our review of the Restrap Bar Bag Holster & Dry Bag & Food Bag Find a Restrap dealer

Apidura Expedition Frame Pack 5.3l — Buy Now for £92.00 from Condor Cycles

The Apidura Expedition Frame Pack (successor to the Mountain Frame Pack) is designed to sit inside your bike's main triangle, maximising storage space by running the full length of the top tube while still allowing two water bottles to be used. It works well, although you might need to change to side-entry bottle cages.

With all the straps tightened, the pack is rock solid, and even when heavily loaded doesn't negatively affect the bike's handling. At 227g it's not a huge weight penalty, which makes it something you can just leave attached to the bike all the time.

Read our review of the Apidura Large Mountain Frame Pack Find an Apidura dealer

Topeak Midloader 4.5-litre frame bag — Buy Now for £40.00 from Merlin Cycles

The Midloader comes in three sizes: a three-litre version (£27.76); this four and a half litre option, which holds a surprising amount of kit securely and sturdily; and a whopping six-litre bag for kitchen sink bikepackers.

The 4.5-litre Midloader is 12cm deep, which leaves just about enough room to get at a down tube bottle when fully loaded. Access to the Midloader is via a long zip on both sides which is protected from the elements by a storm flap. The whole thing takes just a couple of seconds to fit thanks to its hook and loop fasteners with two large straps on the top tube and thinner straps for the seat tube and downtube. Even when the going gets really rough the bag doesn't move one bit and doesn't affect the handling of the bike at all except in really strong crosswinds.

Read our review of the Topeak Midloader Find a Topeak dealer

Deuter Energy Bag — Buy Now for £12.35 from Amazon

This is a decent, inexpensive example of a top tube bag; it doesn't bring anything dramatic to the party, but it does the job.

Find a Deuter dealer Read our review of the Deuter Energy Bag

Salsa Anything Cage HD — Buy Now for £35.00 from Bikemonger & Anything Cage Bag — Buy Now for £32.00 from Bikemonger

We haven't reviewed this combination of bag and rack, but it's unarguably both intriguing and clever. The rack mounts on a fork that has Salsa's trio of bottle cage bosses, while the bag straps in place, providing 4.5 litres of extra storage. The system's been well-received in bikepacking circles.

Find a Salsa dealer

Alpkit Stem Cell — Buy Now for £25.99 from Alpkit

Almost every bag maker has something like this in its range: a simple drawcord-topped cylinder that'll take a water bottle, a compact stove, extra snacks, a phone or whatever else you want to keep easily to hand. This one's made in the UK and gets extra props for the name.

Revelate Designs Jerrycan — Buy Now for £49.00 from Bikemonger

A top tube/seatpost bag, filling probably the last bit of spare space on your bike.

For decades the standard way for travelling cyclists to carry gear has been in panniers: bags that hang on racks, usually have internal reinforcing, and stick out from the sides of the bike.

In the last few years a new category of bike luggage has emerged out of the long-distance racing and off-road touring scenes. These bags strap directly on the frame, seatpost or handlebar and sit in line with the rider. They mostly rely on their contents to give them shape, though a few have minimal internal reinforcement.

Both off-road touring and long-distance racing need bags that are light. Off-road touring inevitably involves unrideable sections. Manhandling a bike across a boulder field is much easier if the combination of bike and bags is as light as possible. Long-distance racers want kit that’s as stripped-down as possible because every gram has to be carried up the mountains where organisers inevitably put checkpoints.

With no racks, very little in the way of attachment hardware and the bare minimum of internal reinforcement, bikepacking bags are substantially lighter than panniers.

Bikepacking (CC BY-SA 2.0 8bar Adventures - Morocco - High Atlas|Flickr)

For racers taking part in events like the TransContinental, aerodynamics is another significant advantage. Sticking out of the sides of your bike, panniers increase the frontal area of rider and bike. In wind tunnel tests, Jan Heine of Bicycle Quarterly found that reducing frontal area is far and away the most effective way of reducing drag . Heine didn’t test bikepacking bags aganst panniers, but his results are consistent with constant-power riding tests performed by Alee at cyclingabout.com, who found a consistent increase in speed using bikepacking bags rather than panniers .

The total capacity provided by a set of large bikepacking bags is about the same as a pair of rear panniers: around 40 litres. That’s plenty of space for ultralight camping gear if you plan to use a bivvy bag as your overnight shelter, and you should be able to cram in a lightweight tent if you choose the more luxurious camping option.

If you prefer your accommodation to have four walls and a roof, then you’ll have more than enough space for clothes and toiletries, and almost certainly won’t need a full set of bags.

What you don’t have is enough space for an ‘everything and the kitchen sink’ camping style. If that’s how you roll, then stick to regular panniers. You might still find bikepacking bags useful to redistribute weight around the bike or to add extra capacity.

There are four main locations for bikepacking bags: under the saddle; on the handlebar; in the frame’s main triangle; and along the top tube. A few manufacturers also offer small bags that fit in handy niches such as the fork blades or under the down tube. Let’s take a look.

Specialized's Burra Burra Stabilizer Seatpack 20 includes an aluminium frame for stability

Roadie purists look away now: a large seatpack is the hallmark bikepacking bag and the available packs cover the full size range from big to frikkin’ enormous.

Most bikepacking seatpacks attach to the saddle rails and seatpost with Velcro straps, have roll-up closures to seal out the wet and provide size adjustability, and have extra straps to cinch them down if they’re not completely full.

A key design aim is to stop the pack from swaying and sagging, especially when you’re out of the saddle. Internal reinforcement with stiff plastic sheets also helps, and a few designs go the whole hog and include an aluminium frame for support and rigidity.

Seatpacks often have extra straps and bungee cords so you can carry a jacket and the like on them, attachment points for pockets and loops for rear lights. Capacity ranges from six litres to twenty litres.

Handlebar bags

The handlebar is a favourite place to carry light, bulky items like a sleeping bag, bivvy bag or the fabric parts of a lightweight tent. Bikepacking bar bags are usually tailored for this and comprise a waterproof stuffsac with some way of attaching it to the bar. Look out for valves for squishing out excess air and extra pockets so you can keep cash and passport easily to hand.

Some bar bags simply strap to the handlebar, others have built-in spacer blocks to make room on the bar top for your hands, while still others have a separate bag and ‘holster’ so the bag can be easily removed from the bike.

Handlebar bag sizes range from three litres up to twenty litres.

There’s plenty of space between your knees in your frame’s main triangle, but it’s impossible for bag makers to make one bag that will fill every possible frame. Almost all of them therefore offer a range of sizes, and generally advise that you should choose the smaller if it looks like two sizes will fit. It’s better to have a bag that sits tightly in place than one that can flap and move around.

Some frame bags only use some of the space under the top tube to get around the issues of fitting the whole frame. This can be a good compromise that still gives a useful amount of storage space.

Since a frame bag is a relatively simple shape, some bikepackers make their own so it completely fills the available space. If you’re not handy with a sewing machine, Alpkit will make you a custom frame bag with a range of optional extras including a port for a water bladder so you can drink on the go, replacing the water bottle mounts the bag covers.

Off-the-peg frame bags come in sizes from three litres to around ten litres.

Top tube bags

Rather than hanging under the top tube, these small bags sit on top of it, just behind the stem. Triathletes have been using bags like this for years, but don’t let that put you off; they’re a handy way to carry snacks, gels and the like so you can fuel without stopping.

Limited space means top tube bags can’t be large; they typically have a capacity of around a litre.

If you can find a bit of unoccupied volume anywhere on your bike, chances are someone makes a bag that’ll sit there. The most common location is the fork legs, at least on bikes that have the appropriate mounts, but there also stem bags, that sit at the side of the stem, and Revelate makes a small bag that sits in the space between your top tube and seatpost.

Who makes bikepacking bags?

Here are some of the brand names you should keep in mind when shopping for bags

Alpkit : Direct-to-customer outdoor equipment company has a keenly priced selection of bags

Altura : UK-based clothing maker has a small range of bikepacking bags. Zyro-Fisher

Apidura : UK company with a wide range of bags, founded by an experienced endurance racer

Arkel : This Canadian bag maker mostly focuses on conventional panniers, but its range includes two large seatpacks with aluminium frames

Blackburn : Known for racks, lights and a vast range of other accessories, Blackburn recently launched a suite of bikepacking luggage

MissGrape : Italian-made bags; range includes a whopping 20-litre saddle bag. Ison Distribution

Ortlieb : The renowned German maker of bomb-proof panniers makes similarly tough bikepacking bags. Lyon Equipment

Passport: Value-for-money accessories brand with a small range of bags. Ison Distribution

Restrap : Hailing from Leeds, Restrap makes a range of strappy outdoorsy softgoods including well-regarded bikepacking bags

Revelate Designs : Based in Alaska and arguably the daddy of bikepacking bag makers. Pannier.cc

Salsa : A huge range of bags and other bikepacking equipment from the adventure bike specialist. Charlie the Bikemonger

Specialized : Some clever designs from bike manufacturer that has embraced adventure riding with its AWOL, Diverge and Sequoia bikes.

Topeak : The accessory giant has a tidy range of bags in various sizes. Extra UK

Wildcat Gear : From Perth, Scotland comes this range of British-made bikepacking bags.

Read more: How to go bikepacking: A beginner's guide to getting started

Explore the complete archive of reviews of bags and luggage on road.cc

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John has been writing about bikes and cycling for over 30 years since discovering that people were mug enough to pay him for it rather than expecting him to do an honest day's work.

He was heavily involved in the mountain bike boom of the late 1980s as a racer, team manager and race promoter, and that led to writing for Mountain Biking UK magazine shortly after its inception. He got the gig by phoning up the editor and telling him the magazine was rubbish and he could do better. Rather than telling him to get lost, MBUK editor Tym Manley called John’s bluff and the rest is history.

Since then he has worked on MTB Pro magazine and was editor of Maximum Mountain Bike and Australian Mountain Bike magazines, before switching to the web in 2000 to work for CyclingNews.com. Along with road.cc founder Tony Farrelly, John was on the launch team for BikeRadar.com and subsequently became editor in chief of Future Publishing’s group of cycling magazines and websites, including Cycling Plus, MBUK, What Mountain Bike and Procycling.

John has also written for Cyclist magazine, edited the BikeMagic website and was founding editor of TotalWomensCycling.com before handing over to someone far more representative of the site's main audience.

He joined road.cc in 2013. He lives in Cambridge where the lack of hills is more than made up for by the headwinds.

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24 comments.

Just courier it ahead to the next campsite. I understand there are services which will erect your tent and have a full-course meal with silver service awaiting your arrival after a hard day's climbing on your lightweight racer.

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A 'lightweight racer' is a bicycle designed for road racing. It tends to have a lightweight carbon frame, drop handlebars and derailleur gears. It can be particularly suitable for climbing duties.

What's that got to do with the article or the weird thing about couriers and tent erection services ?

Okay, now you're fleshed-out your question, we can get to the meat of it.

It's simple: a courier is an alternative to carrying your luggage on your bike when going on a road trip. It stands to reason that someone is going to offer a value-added service where they erect your tent for you at your next destination  (if you like camping, that is) and have a hot meal waiting for you.

Alternatively (if you don't like camping), the courier could just deliver the luggage to your next hotel.

It means you can concentrate on (and enjoy) the cycling rather than hauling all that luggage over every moutain top along the way.

Ah - I see. I thought you trying to make some point beyond the obvious, inane one. My mistake.

Alpkit's Exo-rail system provides a welcome reduction to the amount of sway you get with the Koala and similar seat bags. 

I used to have a Union 34 bag, which clipped onto an L-shaped device mounted to the saddle post. When you took it off, it doubled as a rucksack. It was perfect for a change of clothes and a bunch of other useful stuff. Sadly it got stolen when our house was broken into a few years ago and you can't seem to buy them any more.

Planet X have a good range of Podsacs frame and handlebar bags. They're great value, great quality (I used a seat pack to ride from London to Paris two summers ago and it was ideal) and they currently have an additional 30% off some of the bags at the moment. Worth a look!

Surely the new Tailfin should be on the list. I bloody love mine. Would never go back to standard seat pack. 

bristol2brisbane wrote: Surely the new Tailfin should be on the list. I bloody love mine. Would never go back to standard seat pack. 

Are you using the tailfin aeropack by any chance? How is the ride with it unloaded?

I ask because there will be times I'll leave with it empty to fill it up on the way back.

JF69 wrote: bristol2brisbane wrote: Surely the new Tailfin should be on the list. I bloody love mine. Would never go back to standard seat pack. 

Yer its fine, It has an internal frame so does not flap around at all. By all means pull the straps tight to reduce the size, but its protected by the rider so you dont even know its there. Honestly cant rate it enough. 

Forgot Vaude? They do very decent seat packs, stable and easily clipped/unclipped. I would not trade their system for velcros.

These types of bags are also great for everyday use. Switched to an oversize seat post bag a year ago for commuting having previously used a backpack. So much nicer to ride without a bag on your back and no lower back pain.

Dunno about you folks,but my knees run pretty close to the toptube,and anyway you're better off wrapping stuff up in bundles and taping it to the bike. Make sure you carry a knife! You can buy a lot of electrical tape for the price of one of these bags!

I've the Apidura saddle pack, which is fantastic when full, and when empty you can roll it right up to a squishy ball (eg if you're off to the shops and want to fill it with goodies). I've found the issue is when it's only got a few bits in - the thing sways about like a sail, it works best when it's crammed full as the straps pull everything up to the saddle - less full and it doesn't seem to pull up so well. I've learned through trial and error that the best way is to pack the heaviest items right at the front (ie, by the seat post) and get progressively lighter towards the opening, stops excess sway-age.

The light straps are a bit rubbish really - they're placed so that they're only useful if the bag is between half full to completely full. They're no use if the bag is empty, and as the pack takes up your whole seat post you'll need to fix a light to a seat stay or somewhere else. Also,  as most lights nowadays are shaped to sit on a round seat post it's a bit of a bodge to get them to sit on right. I'm forever looking over my shoulder to check the light is still pointing backwards and not straight down to the wheel. 

On a retro whim I bought one of Caradice's 'Nelson - Longflaps'*  & a Bagman support  - It's turned out that it's one of the best bits of cycling kit that I've ever aquired.

* Does anyone [know/care to admit that they know] of any performers in the errotic arts who go by the name of 'Nelson Longflap'? 

HowardR wrote: On a retro whim I bought one of Caradice's 'Nelson - Longflaps'*  & a Bagman support  - It's turned out that it's one of the best bits of cycling kit that I've ever aquired. * Does anyone [know/care to admit that they know] of any performers in the errotic arts who go by the name of 'Nelson Longflap'? 

Not quite but I did once meet a man who's surname was Whatsize who allegedly worked in that industry.

On the subject of Carradice bags I had a longflap (can't remember if it was a Camper or a Nelson) that did sterling service for years until I stored it in a damp garage for too long and it got a serious case of mildew which it never recovered from. Fantastic bags if looked after properly.

I'm leaping onto the bikepacking bag bandwagon and have bought a frame bag and a handlebar harness/drybag combo but I'm struggling with the huge seatpack idea. It just doesn't seem like a good place to mount a big bag. You get the weight high up (surely bad for balance) and you can't slide off the back of the saddle on the rough stuff.

I remain unconvinced that hanging a sausage long enough to need an internal frame for stability off your seatpost has any significant advantage over strapping a dry bag to the top of a rack, even if you need P-clips or similar to fit the rack. A rack does take a while to fit and take off if you don't want it fitted all the time, but if you need a bag that size, presumably you're using it for more than a short day trip.

(On a typical road/touring/gravel bike or hardtail. Obviously rear suspension makes a rack trickier.)

armb wrote: I remain unconvinced that hanging a sausage long enough to need an internal frame for stability off your seatpost has any significant advantage over strapping a dry bag to the top of a rack, even if you need P-clips or similar to fit the rack. A rack does take a while to fit and take off if you don't want it fitted all the time, but if you need a bag that size, presumably you're using it for more than a short day trip. (On a typical road/touring/gravel bike or hardtail. Obviously rear suspension makes a rack trickier.)

I'm with you on this one, partly due to perceived issues with the thing swaying around and the awkwardness of packing a cone

I'm therefore sticking with a drybag on a rack - hell of a lot cheaper, even if it is a bit heavier!

dafyddp wrote: Bah - young upstarts! Tha' wants Carradice Super C, lad, made in Nelson, Lancashire from cotton, leather and wood. Waterproof, bombroof and timeproof

you don't want the Super C, lad, it's a modern abomination with plastic clips. The Camper Longflap is what you want. My Super C fell apart at the seams on its first trip to France; the Camper LF is a much better design and make, and so venerable that there are pictures of them on prehistoric cave walls.

Does anyone know if the 8 litre and 14 litre restrap seat packs are identical except for the dry bag?

IE could I buy the 8 litre, then in the future buy a 14 litre drybag and use it in the same harness?

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Bicycle Panniers – A Complete List of the 25 Best Bike Panniers

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Are you looking for a high-quality set of bicycle panniers for running errands near your home, cycling to the office, or for use on your bicycle tour around the world?

A pannier is a backpack-sized bag that attaches to your bicycle (via your bicycle’s front or rear rack) and is used to store and transport your personal belongings with you on your bike as your ride.

Some of the pannier brands I recommend are:

• Arkel (<– best for off-road riding)
• Axiom (<– good quality + cheap)
• Ortlieb (<– THE BEST: My personal favorite)
• Vaude (<– popular in Europe)

Panniers are usually sold in sets of two (one for the left side of your bike and one for the right) although those wishing to conduct a self-supported bicycle tour may purchase two sets of panniers for their bicycle (one pair to be used on the bicycle’s rear rack, and the other to be used on the front rack).

The main benefit to using a set of panniers for bicycle touring (or local commuting) is that the weight of your gear (food, clothing, bike tools, etc) is placed onto the frame of your bicycle and not onto your back, neck, shoulders or body (which tends to cause pain, redness, sweating and discomfort). Other major benefits include a low center of gravity (which makes controlling your bicycle easier) and a compact means of transporting your gear (in comparison to a trailer, for instance, which can double the length of your bicycle). In essence, if you have something you want to carry with you on your bicycle as you ride, one or two sets of panniers is a great way to do it!

While there are other methods of carrying your personal belongings on your bike (such as with a trailer, backpack, or basket), panniers are the most popular means of transporting your things on a bicycle tour – whether that be a short bicycle tour near your home or a long-distance bicycle touring adventure on the other side of the world.

On this page you will find a list of all the companies in the world currently producing bicycle panniers of some kind. The pannier companies shown here have been listed in alphabetical order.

Altura Dryline Panniers are long established as a great all-rounder that are ideal for touring, commuting or leisure use. Key Features include 56 – 32 liter capacity (per pair), waterproof Dryline construction, front pocket organizer on the larger Dryline 56 pannier models, Rixen-Kaul KLICKfix fittings, highly durable mini rip fabric and reflective trim.

Arkel’s bicycle panniers offer unmatched performance and durability in two distinct design categories: roll top, sewn and taped seam waterproof technology, and triple stitched, breathable cordura bike bags with layered waterproof protection. The Arkel difference includes an ironclad lifetime warranty, a patented Cam-Lock® hook system – on and off in seconds, no rivets, all aluminum and serviceable with one tool – multifunctional pockets, internal aluminum frames and the full-length heavy duty zippers that give you complete access to your gear. It’s hard to wear out an Arkel pannier whether using it for world expeditions, bike commuting or lighter weekend tours.

Avenir panniers are designed to hold everything from groceries to books to bicycle equipment. The panniers are made of tough 600-denier nylon, with adjustable nylon strap mounting systems that keeps them securely fastened to the rear of your bike. The panniers’ main compartments are large enough for water bottles, clothes, food, and a host of other items. Other details include 420-denier ripstop nylon outer pockets, integrated ripstop nylon rain covers with drawstring tops and fully taped seams, generous reflective stripes for dimly lit days, and a rear light attachment clip on each bag.

Axiom Performance Gear

This 25+ year-old company makes products that are designed and tested by avid cyclists, so every minute detail is painstakingly considered before a final design is approved. The end result is a lineup of superior cycling accessories that meet the specific, everyday needs of people who ride bikes. Axiom ’s panniers are quality bags that work well as either touring or commuting bags.

Because of the small size and odd shape of Brompton folding bicycles, bags designed for use with Brompton bicycles are small and usually meant to be carried on the front and rear ends of the bike. While the Brompton handlebar bags and rear rack packs are the most popular bags available, there are a few smaller panniers made for use with Brompton folding bikes.

Brooks England

Named after a famous cycling routes that traverses the length of Britain, Brooks’ Land’s End and John O’Groats  Panniers are designed for Britain’s incremental weather. This means a waterproof, light, and durable pannier that expands to fit your gear via the roll-top design. For weather resistance, Brooks constructs their pannier from a waterproof synthetic fabric that’s tough and durable for long miles on the road. Their bags attache to standard rear rack designs and have gear loops for simple lighting attachment points. The panniers are sold individually and come in two colors: Desert and Slate.

Panniers are the most energy efficient way to carry your luggage on your bike… and Carradice panniers offer a low centre of gravity tha aids stability. Available in a wide range of styles and sizes – choose the ones that are right for you. Built to last, Carradice choose the fabric, fastenings and fixings for their durability and functionality. Plus, high-visibility reflectors and mounting points for LED lights are included with each bag, which will help to keep you safe on the road.

Dry, simple, solid and waterproof. The route isn’t always smooth and the sun doesn’t always shine. Crosso panniers were created for the toughest routes and the heaviest rains. You’ll appreciate these bike bags when you’re in your tent at night, knowing that your things are safe andy dry inside your Cross panniers. Made in Poland, Crosso panniers are available in both a waterproof roll-top design and a lid-top design made of water-resistant Cordura fabric.

The panniers made by Detours will fit securely on a rear rack using the adjustable four-point attachment system. A front zippered pocket and outside mesh side pockets combined with a spacious main compartment provide plenty of storage space. Contents in the main compartment are protected with a drawstring closure and a removable rain cover keeps gear dry. Each pannier features an adjustable, four-point attachment system suitable for most rear racks. Large front pocket and mesh side pockets (available on some models) help with organization. Diamond ripstop nylon is water-resistant and panniers include waterproof rain cover. Solid construction with rubberized touch points and Scotchlite reflective details for visibility.

A compact bike pannier with a rigid, washable back plate and a universal fit system. With a high front pocket and slender shape, the Deuter Rack Pack is the perfect storage luggage for cycle tours and local outings.

Inertia Designs

Need to carry lunch for 12 and the kitchen sink? Then get the Inertia Designs Expedition Touring Panniers! The big brother of the company’s top-loading Touring Pannier, they feature reversible fanny pack hoods, horizontal and vertical compression, and modular reflective strips. Used in conjunction with the Cam Excursion or Cam Touring panniers you have enough room to take on a serious back country trip or an around the world tour. A 20° cutaway at the front of the bags maintains maximum volume and load placement while retaining sufficient heel clearance on any frame geometry.

Jandd Mountain Panniers are designed for those on off-road cycling adventures and is made with versatility and rugged durability. The narrow profile of Jandd panniers allows them to work equally well as front or rear panniers, and the ease with which they convert to hand-held bags contributes to their versatility. Features: Rear mount only, horizontal and vertical compression straps. Large main compartment with hood pockets and gusseted side pockets. Can be used on either the front or rear rack of your bicycle.

Lone Peak has been making the finest quality packs since 1979. Today the company is still making packs in the USA that are tough, reliable and functional. Lone Peak designs and manufacture packs for bicycling, communications, as well as medical and custom applications. The company utilizes the finest materials available, superior design and construction to manufacture the best packs available. Every component of a Lone Peak Pack is chosen to contribute to the functionality, durability, and visual appeal of the packs.

These heavy-duty Madden cycling panniers give you a great way to carry your essential gear on long excursions.  Claw Suspension system uses two rolled steel hooks on ABS plastic support back. Bungee cords extend from both hooks and attach to S-hooks at bottom. S-hook with Delrin® buckle/nylon strap at the bottom of the pack attaches to strap running vertically from hook to top. Buckle-closing rain hood over togglecord closure protects main compartment from road debris. Mesh outer pockets. Approx. 19 x 10 x 5“, 950 cu.in each. 4 lb. Made of Polyester.

Mainstream MSX

Mainstream MSX panniers are a contemporary product line built with modern, lightweight technology.  Made in Germany, these rugged panniers are both waterproof and built to last. Optional outside pockets allow for easy access to smaller items you wish to access frequently while touring or commuting locally with your bike. Plus, the large inner pocket on each pannier is perfect for safely storing your gear and keeping it dry on any cycle outing.

Mountain Equipment Co-Op

These tough, top-of-the-line panniers make nomadic life easier and more efficient. On the road, universal hooks attach the bags securely to regular or oversized racks. Spindrift collars and floating lids let you overload them with the delicious baked goodies or farm-fresh produce you’ve bought along the way. In town, you can grab your U-lock from the custom pocket, and then pair the pannier handles together for carrying. Or clip the optional MEC Shoulder Strap into the built-in attachment points and sling them over your shoulder.

Showing up at the end of your commute or touring day only to find soggy sandwiches, cellphones, clothes, and shoes is the bummer of all bummers. Avoid this cycling fiasco with Nashbar’s waterproof bicycle panniers. They are made with rugged 400 denier nylon, which is scuff, puncture and tear resistant. Plus, the panniers are treated with an EPU coating on the inside which seals the deal -literally. A roll-top closure on some models makes it impossible for water to work its way in – you pretty much have to throw the panniers in a river to get your stuff wet. With liters of capacity, you can hit the road for days or months with these inexpensive bike panniers.

If your bike’s gonna replace your car, it’s going to need a trunk to haul your goodies – groceries, schoolwork, a change of clothes for when you get to work, etc. The Novara Gotham Panniers (formerly from REI) have got a lot going for them. Water resistant zippers keep moisture from leaking into the main compartment and top pocket. There is a side pocket that holds a rain cover for when the weather heads south. It’s easy to slip over the pannier, and has a reflective Novara logo for added visibility.

German-made Ortlieb panniers are some of the highest-quality and most popular bicycle panniers in the entire world. Constructed with welded seams for strength and designed with easy access closures, these panniers are perfect for local commuting or bicycle touring around the world. Replaceable, adjustable, quick-release mounts the panniers quickly and easily on your bicycle’s racks. Lifting the pannier’s carrying strap automatically releases the QL1 system security catches, while releasing the strap causes latches to lock in place on your rack. Ortlieb panniers are usually sold as a pair containing both a left and a right pannier.

Pacific Outdoor Equipment Co-Op

Pacific Outdoor Equipment is a Montana-based company producing high-quality, environmentally conscious bicycle and outdoor products. Their waterproof bicycle panniers are of high-quality, featuring secure rack fasteners, a rugged design material, optional organizational pockets (on some pannier models), and a variety of unique colors. While sold mostly in the United States, this brand is growing in popularity outside of North America and can be found in Europe, as well as other bicycle-friendly locales.

Rixen & Kaul

Practical, waterproof all-around panniers that can be used as front or rear panniers thanks to their smaller design. Wet clothes are easily stored in an outer compartment with net material for air access (on some models only). The panniers’ main compartment is designed with a proven roll closure, central tension belt, side reflectors and robust edge guard. Includes the patented KLICKfix Modul Rail for standard bicycle racks/carriers.

Inexpensive panniers available in both large and small sizes – made for oversized or overflowing gear. Drawstring enclosure and mesh side pockets (on some models). 3M Scotch lite reflective banding and light hangers on each pannier for added safety. Rigid back panels reinforce panniers for easy mounting. Attach to bicycle with two top hooks and a quick-release clamp, a Velcro strap and an adjustable bottom hook.

These extra large rack mounted bicycle panniers by Trek feature a basic attachment system with Tightrope safety cord that easily secures the pack to the rack. Fits most front, rear and low-rider type bicycle racks. 2,520 cu. in. capacity per set, with a built in rain cover.

German-made Vaude panniers are perfect for riders who like organisation. These bike bags have a big main compartment with a top lid closure that keeps all your travel essentials neat and tidy. There is also a zippered outside pocket for more storage space. It has a hard back pro back plate for a stable and secure bag that can be easily attached to your bike. The reflective details make being seen in the dark easier for other road users.

Velo Transit

You can rest assured your gear will remain dry in a Storm-Proof Metro 20 Pannier. The modular design lets you add additional front and side pockets for more volume and organization. Side compression straps keep your load secure and a Front stash pocket is a perfect place to store your lock. Side blinker mounts let you light up your bags for great visibility. The KlickFix self-adjusting mounting hardware will mount to various racks with 8-16mm tubing. The Velo Transit Metro pannier is sold as a single piece and can be mounted on either the right or left side of your bike rack.

How Do Panniers Attach To Your Bicycle?

Panniers attached to the racks on the front or rear of your bicycle with two small hooks at the top of the panniers and (sometimes, but not always) an attachment of some kind at the bottom of the bag. The hooks at the top of the pannier allows the bag to rest its weight on the rack, while the attachment at the bottom of the pannier keeps the bag from wiggling around while you ride your bike.

Higher quality panniers will not only have a locking mechanism of some kind on the hooks at the tops of the panniers, which helps to ensure that your panniers will not bounce off your bicycle racks when you ride in rough terrain or cycle over a large bump in the road, but they also allow the hooks on the top of the panniers to be moved forward or back, so that they can be adjusted to fit whatever type of rack you might be using on your bicycle. Being able to move your panniers forward or backward is important if you want to have your panniers fit properly on your bicycle. Proper fit ensures that your panniers will not fly off the bike while in motion, but also allow the panniers to be adjusted forward or backward if you find that they are hitting your toes or heels while you ride (a common problem with larger panniers and/or people with big feet).

On the bottom of most bicycle touring panniers there are two common attachments. The attachment found on the bottom of each pannier is either a bungee cord with a small hook on the bottom of it, which attaches to the metal rack by simply hooking onto the bottom portion of the rack… or it is a plastic or metal slide that slips around the backside of the rack in order to hold the pannier in place while you ride.

Inexpensive bicycle panniers will have no attachment of any kind at the bottom of the bag. Medium grade panniers will usually have a bungee attachment of some kind, but this bungee is usually unmoveable and can quickly wear out or break after just a short period of time. This is why the higher quality panniers have either a thick bungee cord attachment at their base or a thick plastic or metal slide, which can be adjusted into multiple positions for the best possible fit.

To attach a pannier with a bungee attachment at its base:

• Engage the bottom wire-hook of the pannier to any part of the rear rack near the wheel axle.
• Lift the pannier’s carry handle upward above the top of your rack and hook the pannier on your rack’s outer railing. Then release the pannier’s carrying handle. At this point, some panniers will lock to the rack automatically, while others will need to be locked and secured in place manually.
• Then make sure the hooks are well seated and that the bottom attachment is firmly in place.

Attaching a pannier with a plastic slide at its base is very similar:

• Slide the plastic attachment at the bottom of the pannier behind the rack near the wheel axle.
• Then make sure the plastic attachment at the bottom of the pannier is still in place behind the metal bike rack and that the hooks at the top of the pannier are firmly in place.

Note: Panniers that have a bungee attachment at the bottom are better for riding in off-road conditions, while those panniers with plastic or metal slides are better for on-road riding.

How Many Bike Panniers Do You Need?

Traditional touring bicycles are built to carry four panniers – two in the front and two in the rear. But just because a bike is built to carry a full set of panniers doesn’t necessarily mean you have to use that many bags. In many cases, using a full set of panniers is overkill and that’s where deciding between the use of two or four panniers can be difficult.

Like many things in the world of bicycle travel, there is no correct answer here. Deciding between the use of two or four panniers will depend on the size of your panniers, the length of your tour, the amount of money you are willing to spend, and any number of other factors.

That said, here are some guidelines to help you decide between the use of two or four panniers on your next bicycle tour.

• If you are planning to be on the road for one week or less, you can probably figure out a way to carry everything you need in just two panniers.
• If you are going to be traveling for more than a month, you will probably want to opt for four panniers.
• If you are going to be carrying a stove, fuel, and all the food and water needed to cook you own meals, then four panniers is likely your best bet.
• If you are bringing your computer with you, you might need the extra room provided by a full set of panniers.
• If you want to carry your tent, sleeping bag and/or sleeping mat inside one of your panniers (something I recommend), then having four panniers is ideal.
• And if you want to ensure that the weight of your gear is distributed equally across your bike (something that is very important), then four panniers is the way to go!

But if you can fit everything you need into just two panniers, then by all means, use two panniers.

If you are planning your tour well in advance, I recommend purchasing two rear panniers and then attempting to pack everything you will need for your journey on your bike. If everything fits (and isn’t overflowing onto the top of your rear rack), then you don‘t need to worry about purchasing a set of front panniers. But if you can‘t make everything fit on the back of your bike with just those two rear panniers, then you will need to go out and purchase a set of front panniers (and a front rack).

The key here is to do this with plenty of time before you leave on your journey. Due to the fact that bicycle touring is still a relatively small and unknown activity, getting your hands on a specific set of panniers at the last minute can prove to be difficult in many parts of the world.

Pannier Types: Roll-Top vs. Bucket

There are two major styles of panniers – each with its benefits and drawbacks.

Roll-Top Panniers

Many waterproof panniers come in a style known as “roll-top,” which allows the panniers to be rolled together and secured in place at the top of the bag. This design feature makes the pannier 100% waterproof. As long as the pannier doesn’t have any defects, you can drop a bag of this type in a river and the items inside would not get wet. This is a major advantage when traveling through parts of the world where rain and snow are common, or where there is a chance your bicycle might fall into a lake, river, pond or ocean.

The disadvantage to this style pannier, however, is that they require more material to make, because the fabric has to roll over itself several times at the top of the bag in order to become waterproof, so these types of panniers are usually heavier than their bucket-style counterparts. Roll-top panniers are also a little harder to get in and out of because the top of the pannier has to be unlocked, unrolled, rolled back up and then locked once again each and every time you need to get into the pannier.

Bucket Style Panniers

Bucket style panniers, on the other hand, can be waterproof or water-resistant, but they are not 100% waterproof in the way that roll-top panniers are. If a bucket style pannier were dropped in a body of water, everything inside the panniers would eventually be wet, as water would quickly seep in through the opening at the top. However, waterproof panniers of this type are technically waterproof when you consider that most panniers are not dropped into solid bodies of water, but are instead dropped on from above by rain and snow.

The advantage to bucket style panniers is that they are relatively easy to get in and out of. You just unzip or unbuckle the top flat of the pannier, roll back the fabric, and then reach inside to get whatever it is that you need. When you conduct a long-distance bicycle tour you will find yourself getting in and out of your panniers dozens of times each day, so the bucket style pannier allows this to be done with minimal effort.

What Size Panniers Do You Need?

Bicycle panniers come in a number of different shapes and sizes. Larger panniers are typically carried on the rear rack of your bicycle, while smaller panniers are carried on the front.

Sizes for panniers are usually listed in both liters and cubic inches.

Rear touring panniers typically come in sizes ranging from 40 liters (2441 cubic inches) to 60 liters (3660 cubic inches), although sizes in the range of 40-45 liters are more common and are recommended in most instances. 60 liter panniers are massive and are meant only for the longest and biggest of bicycle touring adventures.

Front panniers, on the otherhand, are much smaller and are usually between 25 and 30 liters (1526 and 1830 cubic inches).

If you opt to ride with only one set of panniers, then you’ll likely want to purchase a larger set of rear panniers (maybe 45 liters?). But if you are going to be touring fully-loaded with both a set of front and rear panniers, then you may opt for slightly smaller rear panniers (40 liters) in addition to the panniers you would be carrying up front (25 or 30 liters).

But again, the size of the panniers you purchase depends on what your goals are for your trip. If you are going to be carrying a bunch of camera gear, sports equipment or personal items, you might choose to purchase much larger 60+ liter panniers, and there is nothing wrong with doing that.

For most people, however, sticking between 40 and 45 liters for rear panniers and 25-30 liters for front panniers will be ideal.

If you’ve used any of the panniers listed above, what do you think of them? How could they be improved?

Also, if you know of a company making panniers that should be added to this list, leave a comment below with the name of the company and a link to their website… and I’ll be sure to add them to the list.

Darren Alff

My goal as the "Bicycle Touring Pro" is to give you the confidence and inspiration you need to travel by bicycle anywhere in the world. I'm here to help you plan, prepare for, and execute your first bike tour and remove all the guesswork, wasted time and frustration that plagues so many first-time bicycle travelers.

78 thoughts on “ Bicycle Panniers – A Complete List of the 25 Best Bike Panniers ”

Hi Darren, sounds like all is going well out there in the Balkans. We have just taken delivery of our Montbell Panniers. Good construction, not to heavy and roomy to boot. You might like to add them to your list.

https://en.montbell.jp/products/goods/list.php?category=541000&brand_id=&sk=&sp=&sw=&sg=&sn=&s_trgt=1&top_sk=&page=2

Cheers Gavin

How about Banjo Brothers? https://www.banjobrothers.com/

Their stuff is probably the most affordable, but not as good for touring as my Ortliebs.

Crazy awesome list. I had no idea there were so many different bags to choose from. It really is a bit overwhelming when you think about it. Few of them look very good, however.

I use Arkel gt-54 as rear panier and gt-30 (older model now the gt-18)in front as well as their big bag for the handlebar.I can’t say enough how much I love the bags!Extremely well made and durable. This is a small company of about 15 employees and the bags are all made by hand.Paniers are the only thing that they make and it shows. I’m from Quebec so i’m a little bias,(the company is in Sherbrooke Quebec)but if you want the best paniers this is definitely one of the brand to consider.A bit expensive but you pay for what you get.

Don’t forget Swift: https://swiftindustries.wordpress.com/

I second the Banjo Brothers stuff. Very affordable and more than adequate for commuting and “grocery getting”.

https://www.banjobrothers.com/

I’m a big fan of Detours B-49 panniers. Compared to a lot of bags in their price range they are well constructed, have great clips, and are very roomy. All you need is a rain guard, garbage bag, or some scotch guard and you’re set to ride in any conditions.

I have the Axiom panniers (pictured above; left). Only used them once, but found them to be good quality and a great value (compared to Arkel, which are big $$$) The mounting system is not a good, however. I’ve touring w/ a BOB trailer, but might try panniers again, just to see if they really are more convenient and work better for me.

Chris Kat: I would go w/ a sturdy waterproof pannier if you’re commuting everyday w/ books. Wouldn’t want to get all that paper wet! (Ortlieb if u can afford; but Topeaks are cheaper…I’d read the reviews first)

Chris Kat: http://www.bikebagshop.com (They only carry Ortlieb, Arkel, Vaude…but all quality bags) Since your going to be using panniers everyday, I get something sturdy, with a solid & convenient mounting system…check out the Ortlieb line or Arkel’s “dolphin” or “commuter” bag. All a little pricey, but probably about the same a few college textbooks these days

Ortlieb just came out w/ a new line of panniers and racks:

https://www.racktime.com/

(I think maybe they are only distributed by Ortlieb and made by Tubus)

Racktime is a German brand for bicycle carriers for urban use. The company behind Racktime – Tubus Carrier Systems

Your link to Robert Beckman Designs (panniers) does not work. I suspect he is no longer in business. I could not find a working link on the web.

Awesome gear!! I got myselft a Vaude. It is great!

ORTLIEBS ! for travelling I used them for 5 years almost, and never had problems °! Love them ! I think thta they are reallu the best , they never fell from your bike, they are absolutly waterproof ! expensive but the best !

Velo Orange – classic style bags that are reminiscent of Brooks bags but not made of leather.

I have used CROSSO panniers (rear and front) from Expert series for already 3 seasons.

TOP QUALITY, REAL WATERPROOF.

Good job CROSSO!

I’ve put close to 9,000km on these Summit Gear panniers on various trips. I’ve used them in conjunction with some Ortlieb panniers, and found them to be great, lots of space so I could even put a full loaf of bread in the top when I needed:

https://www.summitgear.com.au/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=20_87&products_id=27 cheers!

I pick up beautiful nicely made, rugged and durable panniers Voyager from cycles Lambert . Just wish if all panniers today on the market match this quality .

I’ve used Lone Peak panniers for touring and for daily bike commuting. I have one set that are over 20 years old. I’ve had some hardware replaced/upgraded for attaching to the rack and I replaced a broken buckle at either no-cost or very low cost. Books and binders to go to school, no problem. My only problem with the panniers was due to a raccoon that put a slice into my wife’s pannier quickly repaired by Lone Peak. They are made in Salt Lake City.

Does anyone know what ever happened to Robert Beckman Design (Panniers)? Did Rob retire? I still have two sets of Beckman panniers that we use on our touring tandem. I have yet to see panniers that were better made!

Hi all friends, I have just got one Arkel back rack pannier and it has worked very well. It is the Arkel “UB” Utility Basket. It has been very useful regarding keeping my stuff and taking them somewhere. Alos, these got quiet enough space to fill thestuffs. When you look for price then they are bit expensive, but trust me, its worth spending that much money.

You might want to add Bushwhacker to your list. Their website is:

https://www.bushwhackerbags.com

It’s rather hard to find anything on these guys on the web. I spoke to a guy at the main office in Utah, and you can call them and order direct. I’ve noticed these bags are somewhat small to average-sized, like the mid-80’s stuff, but seem to be good quality.

I had the same experience with Inertia Designs. The guys at that place had no idea who their retail dealers were, as they deal with distribution points, so there again you can order direct. Their bags are much larger than most, while being made with a medium-weight, tighter weave denier.

I used my black Axioms (pictured on above/left) for another weekend tour. They did the job, but the mounting system kinda sucks. Probably why affordable price. The bags are good quality, but the mounting hooks cannot be adjusted, and are too close together, which makes for an unstable ride. They wobble on rougher roads, and even droop toward the rear tire when loaded. My rack has legs that run right down the drop-outs. This could be a real problem.

On the positive, I found a good a deal on a Large Arkel handlebar bag, and it’s awesome! Rock solid, huge, built like a tank, but a bit heavy…

This is a great list! I just bought a cruiser at http://www.villycustoms.com and the Brooks England one would match it perfectly! Thanks for the list!

I live in the Pacific Northwest (United States) and there are so many great small companies making handcrafted, custom bags out here! So much more character, durability and thoughtfulness in their bags than something off the shelf!

Here are just a few examples:

Swift Industries: https://www.builtbyswift.com/

Black Star Bags: https://blackstarbags.wordpress.com/

North St Bags: https://northstbags.com/

I’m sure there are other crafty people making these all over the place. Support your local bike-bag artists!

i liked 2 i had years ago, big Cannondale, and Kirkland,( i dont see either anymore since ming got stolen with bikes) my Trek didnt lock onto rack and 1 fell off, i got othr replacemant but for groceries bag, now i latch together and use bungie cords to hold onto rack better, but the oftne come loose and get wound up in wheel, i wish i can aford the better/best, large, sturdy, no woble or going into spokes, tall, long ,deep but rack back so i dont kick with my heels. in Phnx a fire fighter mad special ones for bike cops and rescue, red almost rubber, for 1st aid etc.here i though bike pro msut have gone out of business

Here are 3 more manufactures to check out. I’ve only seen them online and not used any of them personally, so I offer them in the spirit of making a complete list, not as personal endorsement. (Personally, I endorse Arkel, altho Ortlieb is growing on me.)

Basil: https://www.basil.nl/

Bontrager: https://bontrager.com/products/accessories/bags

FastRider: https://www.fastrider.nl/downloads/Fastrider%20brochure_EN_Lowres.pdf

Enjoy your ride!

Gilles Berthoud makes awesome, classic panniers.

https://www.peterwhitecycles.com/berthoud.asp

What an outstanding list you have put together, wish we had it when we started. We used dog food containers but quickly switched to Blackburn bags around 1978, these were the first bags we had ever come across that were separate which work well but finally fell apart around 1992. Second set were waterproof axioms which also did their job better then the first set. They also gave use a number of years of service but finally died last year. We replaced them with waterproof Ortlieb bags with a kayak bag on top of the rear, we also did away with the larger handlebar bag and replaced it with a frame triangle bag which doesn’t bounce around as much. These bags should last until we can no longer tour. Each time we replace the bags they are better quality and better designed. BTW – We generally only tour off-road.

this is an awesome list. wish i had stumbled on this before spending hours googling panniers!

Amazing list. just came back with my Ortlieb front and back rollers from a 3 week vacation (bicyle tour) in Germany & Austria – which was in total 1015 km along the Danube river from the source in Donaueschingen to Wien/Vienna (Austria) – partially with a german-irish-french group. I have Orlieb since my first bicycle tour to Ireland more than 20 yrs ago. They are absolute Irland & waterproof. Was also in southern Spain (Andalusia) in spring time and on Kreate Island (Greece) in autumn. Last year also on a bicycle trip on the Danube to Budapest (Hungary). My Orlieb bags are now more than 20 years old as well as the Brooks saddle. I would not exchange them for other products.

CANNONDALE (pre 1994, check old catalogs at http://www.vintagecannondale.com ) KARRIMOR panniers (UK made pre 1996 then company sold) PAKIT panniers (UK made pre 1990 then brand disappeared) TIKA panniers (New Zealand made pre 1995 then company shutdown) MACPAC panniers (New Zealand made pre 1995 then discontinued) AVANCE panniers (Australia made pre 2000, check Abbotsford in Melbourne) SPORT ARSENAL (Czech Republic made) https://www.sportarsenal.cz/ SERRATUS panniers (Canada made pre 2004, brand owned by MEC then discontinued) SCI CON (Italy brand, panniers product line discontinued) FERRINO (Italy, short-lived panniers product line made in china) INVICTA (Italy, short-lived panniers product line made in china) CINELLI (Italy, short-lived panniers product line made in china) AGU (Netherlands) http://www.agu.com

Used to use beckman’s , now im totally Arkel . the problem with beckman is time , took me a year to get the rear rack and 6 more months to get the panniers and bar bag . The construction and attachment of the Arkels is far superior . The beckmans are now used for day jaunts .

Here’s another brand manufactured in the Pacific Northwest, USA

“Velo Transit”

https://www.velotransit.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=VLPNMT20

https://www.timbuk2.com/tb2/shop?q=panniers

Green Guru Gear:

https://www.greengurugear.com/ -They use recycled/upcycled bike tubes’n’ such to make gear

Yup, panniers win…their center of gravity is higher so less of a drag, and I have used both. I much prefer panniers over trailers. Trailers hold more, but when weight is equal, I go for panniers. Love em. I use trailers for grocery shopping, panniers for traveling. And get good panniers, Doite for example makes a great pannier, better than Ortlieb. Lots of space, outer pockets, durable, waterproof, visible, expandable. Gems! Thanks,Allison

https://www.ostrich-az.com/

hi there all

i’m new in cycling and i just gotten myself a folding bike (Ori Bike). I’m looking for suitable pannier to be fitted on my bike. I had the rear rack installed but unsure if all brands have the universal fit.

i also notice most brands listed are not available in my country, Malaysia.

would appreciate if you could provide some tips on obtaining a handlebar bag n panniers.

many thanks!!

More USA made panniers:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/hansbagworks

https://duluthpack.com/outdoor-gear/biking/pannier-bag-bike-bag.html

https://www.frostriver.com/bike_bags/bikebags_menu.html

And yet more USA-made panniers:

https://www.ironweedbp.com/index.html

https://www.laplanderbags.com/

https://www.philosophybags.com/

[Sourced from https://joecruz.wordpress.com/usa-made-cycling-gear/%5D

I had Ortlieb bags for many years and thousands of km, they did the job, it is a good manufacturer but since I bought Arkel bags, I would not go for another company, there are the best! More expensive? Yes but considering the quality, they are not.

I bought all kind of paniers in my life, 40 years of touring (sevreal weeks / year + commuting). Ortlieb paniers are perfectly waterproof and Axiom’s products are also very good but for the last 10 eayrs, my first choice, by far, are the Arkels. So well made, the design is perfect, Arkel’s people are taking in considaration all the needs we have. Also, Arkel’s quality is TOP. They are worth the price, really.

Hello everyone!

Thule now also have Bike Bags & Racks. Would appreciate your feedback if any of you have tested them 🙂

https://www.thule.com/en/ro/products/luggage-and-bags/bike-bags-and-racks

Here’s a made-in-Australia pannier:

https://www.rondswan.com/products.php?p=1&desc=Ron-D-Swan-Commuter-Pannier-Canvas-Bike-Bag

Simple and tough.

Mine have been in many countries on 3 different bikes.

styley , strong and versatile handmade from Athens, GA!

Tiny Tank Tech handmade bicycle panniers http://www.etsy.com/shop/tinytanktech http://www.facebook.com/Tiny-Tank-Tech-handmade-bicycle-panniers

Hi we are travelling with 1 x hard tail mtb (no lugs for pannier racks), and one Dual suspension MTB no lugs, please give me some advise for racks and panniers, we are travelling Danube in May and need a good size water proof pannier set for each bike.

This is the approximate route I traveled while I was in South Africa http://bicycletouringpro.com/my-plans-for-bicycle-touring-in-south-africa/ Not exactly, but relatively close.

https://www.konnix.com/

I have 26″ dual suspension and hardtail MTb 26 ” and need a pannier rack for each bike, both bikes have no attachments or holes for traditional mounted racks. have done so much searching and have not found any suitable racks that will beable to hold the panniers.

Karen, if your bicycle does not have the mounts for front or rear racks, you need to to a trailer or you need a special full-suspension rack like this: http://bicycletouringpro.com/freeload-rack-review/

Another good photo of these racks in use can be found here: http://bicycletouringpro.com/3-things-i-learned-from-my-first-mountain-bike-tour/

Another “Made in USA” pannier, these convert into backpacks:

https://www.convertiblebackpacks.us/home/

I am looking for bike panniers that are large for books, a nice durable material, come with weather-proof gear, are stylish, and come with straps.

Reply to me please

thanks for all the help we have gone with the Thule bike rack and the Panniers, now we are looking forward to a great vacation. Once we have done the tour, we will report back to the site.

i just got back from a trip from Colorado to Florida and i used Arkel Gt 54 rear and Gt 18 Front and i liked them. They worked well the zippers all worked perfectly they held everything i needed i like the tent roll. i fit my tent and bed roll in it. I loved how fast they came off when i needed to go inside or i use to throw them in my tent. i think the strap sewn to the bag for the lower hook was kind of a pain it alway got stuck and made it a bugger to get back on the rack especially with the weight of the rears. it could have been sleeved so the top of the hook that meets the bungee didn’t catch the elastic. And the pull handles to unclip the top cams kept falling in so i had to fish them out of the racks they could have been sewed into some kind of a keeper so they stayed at the top of the bag. I bought the big bar bag and right before i left i was trying to save weight so i took it off. Looking back i didn’t need it i would have been nice but not worth the weight. i took everything out of it and put it in my Arkel trunk bag i used that for everything. I love the bags could tweak a little and they would be perfect but i would still recommend them they road well, wore well and kept my stuff dry.

I have had (literally) dozens of different makes and models of pannier. And one Carradice saddlebag. I sold or gave away all the others.

The Carradice carries all my stuff apart from stove, sleeping bag and tent (which get strapped to my minoura front rack) and a few things I want to get to quickly which go on a barbag. It’s enough for any touring I would want to do.

Not waterproof like the Ortleib stuff I had before. But then, a couple of plastic bags fix that. Not as tough either – I have seen them with holes worn in the sides where they’ve been leaned against walls. But then, Carradice offer a repair service. Does anyone else?

Another Made in USA Pannier:

Carsick Designs – https://www.carsickdesigns.com/collections/panniers

Wig Bags – https://wigbags.com/?product=panniers

Great article as usual and one that I wish I had read 20 years ago. I have 3 sets of panniers. I have my initial set of panniers which are Axion. they are small, inexpensive and useful. I paid $29 for them maybe 20 years ago. I usually use the Lonepeak set. They are my medium size ones. They cost me about $109. I bought them maybe 15 years ago. I also have the Arkel Tandem panniers. These are very large, very well made and about $500 about 8 years ago. I have front and rear racks. If I am buying groceries I use the 2 big sets. I can load about $60 to $120 from Walmart for a return trip home. I sometimes even carry a 20 pound watermelon or a 50 pound bag of popcorn. Keep up the good work.

I plan on buying two rear Penrith Panniers by Carradice and attach to a SS Velo Orange rear rack attached to a Chainless Sonoma Dynamic Bicycle. Not aware of any superior rear rack to Velo Orange nor any superior waterproof rear pannier to the Carradice Penrith (prefer bucket type over sealed). Wanted to post this comment for any pertinent , knowledgeable guidance or insight.

I have just purchased Blackburn Barrier panniers for an upcoming trip to Europe. They are waterproof and lock into the Blackburn rack, which seems like a nice feature. Does anyone have any experience with them. I am also touring on my Trek 7.3 purchased in 2012. Hope that works on both rode and some dirt tracks.

Waterproof and water resistant panniers are marketing hype. They are heavy, expensive, inconvenient, and frequently leak. Get lightweight sturdy inexpensive panniers with side pockets. Then put your stuff in plastic zip lock bags. They are light, cheap, do not leak, and are the perfect way to organize your stuff because you can see what’s inside. They also keep your stuff organized and easy to find – socks in this bag, undies in that one, camera here. They come in sizes from 5 gallons down to sandwich and are readily available even if the LBS is closed, nonexistent, or out of stock.

Hi, I will be introducing a new style of panniers in the near future and will run a crowd funding campaign in Indiegogo.com in a month, please stay tune and I promise this will be the ultimate pannier with no hype just beauty and function.

I’m not really sure how much of Vaude’s bags are made in Germany. Because on their website they clearly say their production is global. That most likely means their products are made in China… See it yourselves:

https://www.vaude.com/en-GB/For-People-Nature/Social-Responsibility/

Two Wheel Gear makes hybrid pannier bags for biking to work.

Classic Garment Pannier (for taking your suit): https://www.twowheelgear.com/pages/classic-garment-pannier-story

Pannier Backpack: https://www.twowheelgear.com/collections/pannier-backpacks

Thanks for this awesome article on Panniers. So many options out there!

Definitely would appreciate you checking us out, we’ve got some awesome handmade / American made panniers from bag makers around the US. Some are waterproof, others are not, but great for commuters and tourers.

https://nymb.co/collections/bike-panniers

I just bought the Ortlieb Sport Packers. Cost me $280 Canadian. They are Over-Engineered! Too much finicky stuff to deal with. The top clips must be fitted with inserts to fit a specific rack size. If you have to shift from one bike to another with different racks sizes, do you have to change inserts? The bottom clip is a plastic pivot arm that is designed to fit any angle of rack. It rattles (even when screwed on tight), and has to be re-adjusted every time the pannier changes to a different bike and different rack.

My old CycleTec panniers had heavy-duty springs, weather-proofed with a heavy plastic sheath, and big ring at the bottom to fit the bottom hook, and big open aluminum hooks to fit anywhere on any rack. Snug and secure! Easy on, easy off!

German engineering of Ortliebs, has yet to convince me!!

I am looking for bike panniers for commuting, a nice strong material, come with weather-proof gear, have a good design, and come with straps.

I have two sets of used bicycle panniers for sale right now. Maybe these would interest you? http://bicycletouringpro.com/sale-used-touring-bikes-panniers/

I shop owner I knew back in the early 2000’s turned me onto this company when I told him I wanted the biggest/best panniers. He said nothing comes close to Jandd expedition packs. I bought them and yes they’re a bit pricey, but they make every other pannier look child sized. If you want to hold gear for days this bag is insane. 112 Liters or expanded up to 162 Liters. Grocery shop all you want, it’ll fit. https://www.jandd.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=FMEP

Hi Darren, Just reread this article I had read some time ago. Still super. Saw my last comment. Did have one thing that might add something. How about a pic of the sets of panniers for each manufacturer on a bicycle. Might add a little. For sure the Axion bags would look different than the Arkel Tandem on the bike.

My friend who owns several cycle shops used placed pannier bags and other related bike bags from a very good China supplier. We would like to recommend here: http://www.falybags.com/products/bike-bags/

Years ago I did some 4 bag riding. Loved the solid feel it gave to my ride. I just finished 4 weeks touring in Europe (hotels) using a cheap pair of ROC panniers with attachable top bag, which were pretty doable. I had to remove the bags every night so Velcro straps to the lower rack spars are worthless. I used a bungie up and over the whole kit. My recommendations: take less stuff. Avoid rollers because I suspect it’d be tedious to stick everything down that hole every night. More pockets means more places to look in for that one lost item. Seems to me most of the panniers are overly wide leading to more wind resistance. (hotel biking requires less stuff). Wear a helmet. Oh yeah… stellar website.

Thanks for the great review. I continue to be interested in the Mainstream-MSX bags. However, I am not able to purchase them on their website as they do not seem to ship to the U.S. Thoughts?

Would be great to have a pannier that I can lock up. I fear people opening them, but not as much as people putting crap inside of it.

Some of these bicycle panniers were so great that the one I bought in 2016 after a link from this site is still there. It was a great review then and I am planning to get one today to ensure that my bicycle rides are great. Keep up the good work

Britain has “inclement”, not “incremental”, weather, although I am sure that there are times where the weather is incrementally inclement. Not to be incriminating but also not incredulous. In conclusion, although, perhaps, inconclusively, I am not increasingly inclined to say more. (Laugh, if you have the inkling!)

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The Essential Gear For Bicycle Touring

When planning your first tour on a bicycle it is very easy to go crazy about buying all sorts of bike touring gear for it. You don’t want to miss anything. We know it. We’ve also been in that situation and yes, we made the mistake of buying too many things.

There are many great resources out there explaining every piece of gear that is useful when traveling on your bicycle but not so many about what is really important. Obviously, it will depend on your personal preferences but there is certainly some equipment that is considered essential, others things that are important to have while the last ones will make your life easier on the road.

This article will explain just that. What gear you can’t forget to bring on your first bicycle tour.

THE BICYCLE

Believe or not, there are people out there cycling around the world on very cheap bikes. My friend Salva Rodríguez has been touring around the world for 9 years on a bike he bought for $300 in Namibia. So you don’t need a brand new touring bike for your first trip. But if you are thinking on a long distance tour, then it might be worth it to invest a bit more especially if you are not a very good mechanic like myself.

What I do recommend is to invest in certain accessories. The most important one is, without any doubt, a good saddle . The majority of the bicycle tourers I’ve met use a leather one, which can be hard at the beginning but once you break in, the saddle adopts your shape and you won’t even feel it. I use and recommend the Brooks B17 .

Other important components are the bike racks . Make sure you get a steel one, so it can be easily welded in case it gets broken. I wouldn’t recommend to go very cheap here. I’ve seen people breaking brand new racks after 4-5 days of cycling. No matter what model you chose, don’t forget to pack extra screws in case you lose some due to the vibrations of the road. In some countries, it’s very difficult to find good quality ones.

My personal choice is the Tubus Logo model. It’s a top of the line rack, a bit expensive, but performs really well. It hasn’t given me any problems to date, which it’s very good considering I carry over 60kg of weight on my bike.

The next important items to consider are the waterproof panniers . Keeping your gear dry is essential to enjoy a cycling trip. This is one of the very few things that most of the cyclists agree on the same brand. Ortlieb panniers are German made and they’ve been around for over 30 years. They are 100% waterproof, durable and affordable. Just make sure you get a repair kit and check for holes regularly.

Installing a mirror on your bicycle is probably the best thing you can do to keep you safe on the road. There are many models in the market to suit your preferences and, if you don’t like it on your handlebar, you can try this model  attached on your helmet or sunglasses.

Depending on where you plan to go on tour the size of wheel-tyres can be important. If you are not planing to cycle in Europe, USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, then I strongly recommend to use the 26” size. 700cc tires are becoming more popular but I’ve met quite a few cyclists stuck in one place waiting for new tires to be sent from home as they cannot be found locally. 26” tires can be found almost anywhere and will make any breakdown a lot easier to solve in developing countries.

TOOLS AND SPARE PARTS

You don’t need to carry a whole workshop with you when traveling by bicycle, but there are some basic tools and spare parts you should always have in your panniers. The minimum tool kit should include some Allen keys (different sizes), spanner, screwdriver, spoke tool, chain breaker (if not using master links), tire levers, patches, duct tape and scissors. Important spare parts to have are inner tubes, spokes and a tire (only if going on a long-distance tour). Remember that in the worst case scenario you can always hitch a ride to the next town and find a mechanic there.

CAMPING GEAR

Unless you are planning on a “credit card” tour, you will need camping gear. Apart from saving money, bringing your own sleeping equipment will provide you the freedom you need to explore the more remote regions, normally the best ones for bicycle touring.

When choosing your tent (or a camping hammock like these ones )  think about the climate of the area you plan to travel to. A high quality four-season tent would be great if you plan to cycle in altitude like the Andes or Himalayas, but it would be too hot to camp in the tropics. Some things to consider are the following:

• I strongly recommend getting a free standing tent so you don’t need the pegs to make it stand. This is very useful when sleeping indoors or when setting your tent on the concrete.
• Being able to set your tent without the fly is also very useful, especially in the tropics where the humidity is very high and the nights are hot.
• If you are going to share the tent, having 2 doors is immensely useful and functional, as you don’t need to wait for the other person to get it/out or to organize your gear.
• Make sure you pack a repair kit . Having a tent-pole broken is one of the hardest things to fix without the proper spare parts.

In our case we use the MSR Mutha Hubba tent and we love it. It’s the 3-person version so we have a bit of extra room which is very appreciated when spending long hours inside in rainy days. It’s free standing, has 2 doors, and you can set it up without the fly. It’s a great option for most of the climates except for high altitude. For more information on tents, check out our guide tents 101 . 

You will also need a mattress to sleep on. There are many models out there to chose from, but there are mainly two types: inflatable or foam mattress. The first ones tend to be more comfortable and pack down small, but they are more expensive, heavier and less durable. The second ones are less comfortable and bulkier, but they are cheaper, lighter and very durable. We use the Thermarest Z-lite and are really happy with it. It’s a cheap foam mattress, bulky but very light, and almost indestructible. Check out sleeping pads 101 for more info. 

To keep yourself warm you will need to get an appropriate sleeping bag . There are also many models in the market depending on the area you plan to travel and your budget. I recommend to invest in a good sleeping bag as it’s a piece of gear that will last you for years to come. We use the Exped Lite 700 , which is rated to -11º C, and keep us warm even at high altitude. Check out Sleeping Bags 101 for more info. 

I also find it very useful to bring a sleeping liner with you. You can use it as sleeping bag when it’s too hot or inside the sleeping bag when you are dirty after a day in the saddle and aren’t able to have a shower. It’s easier to wash a sleeping liner and keeps your sleeping bag clean. We use and recommend the Sea to Summit Silk liner . Our article sleeping liners 101 has more detailed information. 

COOKING GEAR

To be able to cook your own meals on the road, you will need to invest in a good stove . Most of the cyclists carry a multi-fuel stove that can run on propane gas, white spirits and/or petrol. The first two can be hard to find in some areas so being able to cook with petrol is highly recommended.

We own the PRIMUS Omni-Lite stove . It has a few advantages over the other models as you can regulate the flame and it’s very clean, but we find it very inconsistent and have had several problems with it in the past.

The most popular model among bicycle tourers is the MSR Whisperlite Universal stove . This model is cheaper, but you can’t regulate the flame and you will get your hands dirty using it. Although we don’t have experience using it, we’ve met many cyclists who are very happy with it. Check out camping stoves 101 for more information and different stove models. 

Choosing clothing for your bike trip is a very personal choice. Everyone has their own system that seems to work, but there are some items you need to bring.

Rain Gear: rain jacket, over-pants and shoe covers.

A good jacket is mandatory while the other two are optional. If cycling in the tropics, I prefer to put my swim shorts on rather than over pants but that’s a personal preference. Over-pants and shoe covers become more useful when raining in cold weather.

Cycling Gear: shorts, t-shirts.

This is totally up to you. I even cycle without padded shorts sometimes. I prefer to wear normal clothes rather than lycra, so I don’t look like an alien when stopping in small towns.

Cold Weather Gear: beanie, arm warmers, leg warmers.

If you plan to cycle in cold weather, you will need to carry some extra equipment like a beanie, arm warmers and leg warmers.

Apart from the previous essential gear, there are other pieces of equipment that, even though they are not compulsory, are highly recommended and can make your first bike trip more enjoyable.

Camera: Like in any trip, you shouldn’t forget your camera to capture your experiences that will feed your memories for years to come.

Torch: When camping or during a power cut (very common in some countries), a head torch will make your life much easier. Check out headlamps 101 for more info.

Water Purification System: If planning to cycle on developing countries, bringing a purification system can save you a lot of money. We carry our beloved Steri-Pen Ultra (UV system), but there are other options available like water filters or purification tablets.

Hat: When cycling in the sun, a hat is one of the items I can’t go bicycle touring without .

For more of our top bicycle touring gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Touring Bikes

Bike Handlebar Bags

Touring Tires

Panniers for Touring

Touring Saddles

6 Responses

Hi! Love your stuff….. when I can read it. I have difficulty accessing your articles. Maybe I forgot my username/password. Can you offer any assistance? Thanks!

Hi Frosene, Sorry to hear that. We changed the program for the access login as we were getting too much spam, and that might have created some trouble with your account. I sent you a verification email to your inbox, so you can access from there. If you still cannot see the article, try refreshing your browser (CMD + R on a mac , F5 or CTRL + R on windows). Please, let me know if you still have trouble to access.

I’m having the same issue. Logged into the main site under my user name and password but can’t access these articles (on my android smartphone)

Hey Darren, I just sent you an email.

If there is anyone having problems, remember that to unlock the articles you must register through the link that is provided within the welcome email once you subscribe.

Make sure to check your inbox to confirm you subscription. Once you are registered you can log in by clicking on the icon at the top-right corner of the navigation menu or by clicking the log in button on any of the restricted articles. If you are logged in and still cannot see the articles, you might need to refresh your browser ( CTRL + R or F5 on windows, CMD + R on mac).

Wow! Glad to hear your sharing! It is a great experience and i actually like this article. Thanks!

Thanks for sharing , I am new to touring ( self assisted only ) and found this article very helpful. I am planning to to a coast to coast in the US next may from Everett W A to Long Island NY, any advice would be greatly appreciated . Yours in touring Padraig

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TOPEAK TourGuide Handlebar Bike Bag with Rain Cover

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• Fully featured medium capacity handlebar bag
• Fully padded divided main compartment
• Front zip plus two side pockets for extra capacity
• Clear pocket for maps; Quick Click handlebar mount for easy on/off
• 10 by 7.1 by 9.1 inches (L x W x H); capacity of 305 cubic inches

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Top Brand: Topeak

From the manufacturer.

TOURGUIDE HANDLEBAR BAG

A full featured medium capacity handlebar bag with a QuickClick mount and shoulder strap that makes it easy to take it with you. Fully padded, divided main compartment plus front zip and two side pockets keep gear organized. Perfect for extended touring, day trips and commuting. Rain cover included.

Product Description

• QuickClick quick-release clamp makes removal and installation easy
• A special space to mount your cycle computer
• Features a clear map cover
• 3M reflective strip and safety light mount for increased visibility after dark
• Included rain cover provides additional protection
• Includes shoulder strap for off-bike use
• Divided main compartment
• Front zip pocket
• Two side zip pockets
• Bag Attachment: QuickClickv(Fixer 8)
• Shoulder strap
• Carry handle
• 3M reflective strip
• Capacity: 305 cubic inches
• Maximum Load: 11 pounds
• Protection: Fully padded
• Material: 1800/840 denier nylon
• Dimensions: 10 by 7.1 by 9.1 inches (L x W x H)

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To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, compartments, stability, and ease of installation of the bicycle bag. For example, they mention it's well-made, has lots of pockets, and holds most everything they need while riding on the trails. Some appreciate the ease of release, value, and weight. That said, opinions are mixed on fit.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the vehicle bag. They say it's well-made, functional, and well-stitched. They also appreciate the tape and shims, saying they're rock solid. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and functionality of the bag.

"Both my husband & I purchased these. Very pleased , Roomy, Handy to remove easily & has handle on top so easy to carry...." Read more

"...+ The bag is well made and quite sturdy.+ Both the handle and shoulder strap work well for off-bike carrying...." Read more

"...I have used it twice on some bumpy trails and it has held up well --no slipping forward on the mount...." Read more

"...Mounting to the handle bars is fairly easy and it is solid . The bag goes on and comes off easily. This is not a big bag, but that is fine for me...." Read more

Customers like the compartments of the bicycle bag. They mention that it has lots of pockets to store stuff, the compartment sizes are perfectly sized, and it holds most everything they need it to while riding on the trails. The bag is very padded, so the internal space is less than you think. It's the perfect size to carry all the gear, and has two side pockets. The large folding map pocket is excellent for maps and cue sheets, and there is a top compartment for credit cards and misc smaller things.

"Both my husband & I purchased these. Very pleased, Roomy , Handy to remove easily & has handle on top so easy to carry...." Read more

"...The bag has lots of little pockets to hold just about everything you can imagine needing on a bike hike; spare tire and tools to change a tire,..." Read more

"...+ It is just right for carrying those little things that you want handy...." Read more

"Very well constructed bag. Many compartments to make organizing your stuff easy. Mounting to the handle bars is fairly easy and it is solid...." Read more

Customers like the stability of the vehicle bag. They say it mounts securely to the handlebars, has a solid mounting system, and the shoulder strap is secure when attached. The bag clips securely on the handle bar mount and stays put.

"...etc. The bag mounted easily to the handlebars and was very secure once on the bike ...." Read more

"...it twice on some bumpy trails and it has held up well-- no slipping forward on the mount ...." Read more

"...The mounting system is solid , and a separate plastic mount is included so you can mount your bike computer since the bag mount likely used up the..." Read more

"...Once affixed I like the mount very much - it seems very secure and has stood up to rides over very rough ground...." Read more

Customers like the ease of installation of the vehicle bag. They say it's easy to put on, mount, and un-attach. Some appreciate the quick attachment to the handlebars and the bag snaps easily on and off the bracket. Overall, most are happy with the ease and convenience of installation.

"... Mounting to the handle bars is fairly easy and it is solid. The bag goes on and comes off easily. This is not a big bag, but that is fine for me...." Read more

"...All the little stuff fits well. The quick attachment to the handlebars works well , but was a bit of a pain to put on initially...." Read more

"...The bag snaps easily on and off the bracket . It has lots of pockets and compartments, and a very handy clear vinyl window on the top for your maps...." Read more

"... Easy to put on my bike , seems durable...." Read more

Customers like the value of the vehicle bag. They mention it's a great bag for the price, and well worth it.

"...We had it recommended from another rider, who also loved it. Great price , well worth it. And, I have extra set of brake..." Read more

"...a bit more expensive than the others I looked at, but the secure mount is worth the price --I definitely did not want to mess with velcro straps..." Read more

"...it's a bit smaller and less roomy in the main compartment, it is a great value ...." Read more

"...Even if it hadn't broke, it wasn't a great bag ...." Read more

Customers find the vehicle bag easy to release. They mention that it detaches with the push of a button and can be carried with them.

"Both my husband & I purchased these. Very pleased, Roomy, Handy to remove easily & has handle on top so easy to carry...." Read more

"...It popped off easily enough with the quick release feature , which was handy when making stops at the beach or at a visitor center or the restroom...." Read more

"...The bag goes on and comes off easily . This is not a big bag, but that is fine for me. I don't like having a really big bag strapped to my bars...." Read more

"...The entire map pocket attaches to the bag with velcro so it's very easy to remove for loading stuff into the pocket...." Read more

Customers find the vehicle bag fairly light in weight, easy to carry, and sturdy. They say it's a good low-volume bag with superior map pocket and lots of other features. Customers also mention that it'll keep the weight off their lower back during day trips and that it can also be carried as a shoulder bag.

"...Very pleased, Roomy, Handy to remove easily & has handle on top so easy to carry ...." Read more

"bought this for a bike camping trip and have found it the ideal for carrying a wallet , cell phone, keys, gum, sunscreen, etc...." Read more

"...Summary: A good low-volume bag with superior map pocket and lots of other well thought-out pockets...." Read more

"...use this as an alternative to a small backpack, and it's great for keeping that weight off of my lower back during day or multi-day trips, while..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the fit of the vehicle bag. Some mention it's perfectly sized and organized to carry all those little things. The mounting bracket fits fine on their handlebars, but the screws were not long enough for the size of their bicycle. This is a perfect sized bag for day trips, and small enough not to distract or get in the way. However, others say that it was a little smaller than they expected, takes up a lot of space in all the storage compartments, and the clear map pocket can be too small.

"...elasticized waterproof cover when rain came unexpectedly, & it fits nicely all around & over bottom of pack, where wheel would..." Read more

"...The bag goes on and comes off easily. This is not a big bag , but that is fine for me. I don't like having a really big bag strapped to my bars...." Read more

"...etc. The bag mounted easily to the handlebars and was very secure once on the bike...." Read more

"...The mounting bracket fits fine on my handlebars , but the screws were not long enough for the size of my handlebars...." Read more

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April 27, 2015

Baggage restrictions for the TD Five Boro Bike Tour Presented by REI

If you suspect that one or more of the criteria at top applies to your bag, do not bring that bag. If you do, you run the risk of having your bag and personal belongings contained therein confiscated. Bike New York is not responsible for confiscated property. Confiscated property will not be returned under any circumstances. Keep in mind that there are plenty of Rest Areas and Water Stops along the route to keep you fed and hydrated, and that you can fit a lot of stuff in the back pocket of a bike jersey. Lastly, if you want to bring a bag but you don’t have anything that meets the requirements, our presenting sponsor, REI , has plenty of gear for sale, both online and in store—as well as at their booth at Bike Expo New York (so if you wait until the last minute, we’ve got you covered)!

Related Posts

Oh, the places you’ll go a team #somenerve update, td five boro bike tour photographed by jacob slaton, mark your calendars.

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The Tahoe Twirl: Nevada to California and Round Again

% singletrack, % rideable (time), total ascent, difficulty (1-10).

• 7 Climbing Scale Strenuous 103 FT/MI (20 M/KM)
• - Technical Difficulty
• - Physical Demand
• - Resupply & Logistics

Contributed By

Cass Gilbert

While out riding.

Straddling both California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is, quite simply, a glorious place to be. This vast body of water comes complete with a ring of snow-capped peaks and a network of sweet singletrack, weaving between its signature jumble of granite boulders and the mossy woodlands that surround it.

The route covers a wide variety of terrain. There are hot and exposed desert jeep tracks that spiral upwards from the fringes of casino-studded Reno, followed by the abandoned, overgrown roads that parallel Mount Rose Highway and its forlorn summertime ski resorts. There’s certainly no shortage of primo singletrack either; from the classic Flume Trail, complete with lofty views of this vast body of water, to extended segments of the Tahoe Rim Trail’s technical singletrack, endlessly weaving between chicanes of rock and pines. By way of respite, the route links various remote alpine lakes set high in the Sierra Nevada and skirts the gorgeous but populated waters of Lake Tahoe itself on car-free bike paths. The last day, the return leg from Truckee into Reno, offers a different appreciation of the area, via forest and gravel roads that hurdle Heness Pass into remote Dog Valley, before making use of Reno’s signposted bike paths to return to the heart of the city free from fast traffic (see Trail Notes for details of the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail alternate, running from Truckee to Verdi).

Striving to remain as rideable as possible, the Tahoe Twirl doesn’t string every last piece of singletrack together, come hell or high water. But it does strike a very satisfying balance between primo trail and relaxing shoreline bike paths. For this reason, it bypasses the infamous Rubicon Trail and surrounding areas, littered as they are with deadfall. For the most part, this ride avoids the busy paved roads that heave with summer traffic, bar a short stretch around the tourist honeypot of Emerald Bay.

Click here a great video series, from Ryan Van Duzer, on tackling the Tahoe Trail!

Route Development

Many thanks are due for this route! To Andy Forron for joining me on this ride and sharing the task of route-finding our way around the lake in the most bikeable manner. To Joel Swenson and Arron Domeier at Surly for laying out the groundwork and (wisely) suggesting we avoid the harrowing pitfalls of the Rubicon Trail and surrounding areas. To the many local riders who helped point us in the right direction along the way, and to the friendly folks at Olympic Bike shop for steering us onto sweet trails that connect Tahoe City to Truckee. And lastly, to local rider Matt C. (who organises the epic Ride the Tahoe Rim bikepacking race) for his suggested bypass around Highway 89.

This route has been awarded an 8. The singletrack along the Tahoe Rim Trail is often testing but almost always rideable, bar the odd push and shove and a few short hike-a-bikes around Star Lake. There are significant, extended climbs throughout, and altitude will add significantly to their challenges, especially for those coming from the lowlands. On the other hand, regular resupply points and good access to water ensure logistics are relatively straightforward, allowing riders to run a light and nimble rig. Sections of easy going bike path, forest tracks, and gravel roads provide some welcome riding downtime.

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Trail Notes

• Riding extended sections of the sublime Tahoe Rim Trail
• Enjoying far reaching views  of Lake Tahoe from the classic Flume Trail
• The cool, translucent waters of alpine Star Lake
• Stopping for regular, refreshing dips in Lake Tahoe and other bodies of water
• Climbing out of the desert that surrounds Reno in the more lush and forested Tahoe National Forest
• Abundant, beautiful camping in Tahoe National Forest
• You’ll need a mountain bike for this ride: 2.3″ or larger tires and front suspension is highly recommended, though a rigid setup will work too, especially if it’s with Plus-sized tires.
• Allow for afternoon monsoon storms – make sure you have waterproofs and plan your attack on passes accordingly, hunkering down where need be.
• Hang your food  to avoid the unwelcome attention of bears and critters.
• When to ride: summer through to fall are the most reliable times to ride this route. September is perhaps best; warm in the day, not too cold at night, typically dry and bug-free, and cooler temps in and out of Reno. Above 8,500 feet, snow doesn’t fully melt off until mid-June, or even July on a heavy winter year. The mountain trails are usually clear until mid-October. If considering this loop on the shoulder seasons, check for local conditions, as snow can linger or come early.
• Always keep a keen eye on the weather; drop down out of the mountains if any storm approaches.
• Getting there: Amtrak runs to both Reno and Truckee from San Francisco and Oakland, though not all trains take bikes. The Greyhound offers an affordable service too but isn’t especially bike-friendly.
• Bring a water filter; water sources are abundant, clear and inviting.
• Note that the Tahoe Rim Trail Association requests that mountain bikers only ride the section from Mt. Rose to Spooner Lake on even-numbered days of the calendar. Please do your best to work this into your planning.
• Looking for a more direct return to Reno to save some time? A fantastic all-dirt bypass – the Tahoe- Pyramid Trail – has now opened. It runs along the Truckee River from Truckee to Reno and offers an alternative to riding north/the Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail to Stampede Reservoir. See Trail Notes for more info.
• Much of the ride passes through the Tahoe National Forest, so there is no issue camping. As always, please leave no trace.
• Being a popular tourist haven, all resupply points have accommodation options, though weekend/summer can be busy.
• Camping in the woods can be a little buggy; bring repellent or find more open, exposed spots where it’s more windy.
• Depending on the year, water is relatively abundant in Tahoe National Forest.  Two or three water bottles should be sufficient throughout the day. The driest areas include the climb out of Reno, the climb out of Tahoe City, and the forest roads beyond Heness Pass. See map for relatively reliable water points.
• Within a few miles of dropping off Mount Rode Summit, water becomes more prevalent, with numerous streams, springs, and lakes.
• Food can be acquired every day , be it from large supermarkets in South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, and Truckee, to mountain grocery stores, bars, restaurants, or gas stations.

We rode this route in 4-5 days. We started in the late afternoon in Reno, making it to the top of Mount Rose Summit by the end of the day. It took us three days of predominantly singletrack riding to get to Truckee, at a pace that allowed for photos, picnics, and swimming. The last day from Truckee to Reno is easy going but can be more exposed and hot. Luckily, you can cool off in the Truckee River at the end, right in the heart of Reno.

Note that we dropped down after Armstrong Pass, via Armstrong Connector – Sidewinder – Corral Trail – Powerline to Meyers/South Lake due to bad weather. But you can climb further along the Tahoe Rim Trail and descend Mr Toad’s Wild Ride/Saxon Creek as well.

Diehard singletrack lovers can work in more trail to the route; check out Trailforks and MTB Project for options.

Tah0e-Pyramid Trail

Looking for a more direct return to Reno? A fantastic traffic-free bypass – the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail – is in the process of being built and as of 2019, the sections between Truckee to Reno are now finished. Running alongside the Truckee river, the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail provides an excellent, traffic-free alternative to returning more directly to Reno and from what I’ve heard, it makes a very scenic ride. See the website linked above for segment distances and access points.

The access point in Truckee is shown on the map/gpx file. It reconnects with the Tahoe Twirl in Verdi and is 12 miles shorter. It follows the river rather than forest roads/trails and saves some 1300+ feet of climbing.

Additional Resources

• There is lots of general information is to be found at the main hub of the Tahoe Rim Trail
• To ride the full loop of Lake Tahoe on almost exclusively dirt and trail, see the awesome (and considerably more demanding) Ride the Tahoe Rim .  This gpx file is maintained by local rider Matt Cor and is also run as a self-supported race. Be prepared to hike a hike across the infamous Rubicon Trail! The Tahoe Twirl is definitely a lot more mellow.
• Check out Bones to Blue for another, singletrack-weighted option. This 250-mile event can also be raced in mid August.
• Meriwether’s account of riding the Tahoe Rim Trail
• If you have more time to explore Tahoe’s vast trail network unladen, there’s lots of great local info on MTB Projects and Trailforks
• The Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association has a useful FAQ section

Terms of Use: As with each bikepacking route guide published on BIKEPACKING.com, should you choose to cycle this route, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines . The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. BIKEPACKING.com LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following this route.

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32nd Annual OATBRAN - One Awesome Tour Bike Ride Across Nevada

Sunday - saturday, sept 24 - sept 30   , 2023, register for oatbran, further ride details:, tour training and preparation (and sag/bike limitations):.

You and your bike should be in good shape before you attempt this ride. We average 80 or so miles per day. This tour should not be your training ride, but a culmination of your training effort throughout the year. Be sure to have your bicycle checked by your local bike shop prior to your departure. If needed, OATBRAN participants may ride a SAG wagon forward to the next rest stop or night's destination. Our SAG (and bike transport) capabilities are generally limited to standard single rider bikes, which can be mounted on a standard roof rack; any participant who wants to ride a bike that is not compatible with this limitation (i.e., tandem, recumbent, etc.) must obtain our concurrence prior to the event (E-mail [email protected]).

Please "Like" our Bike the West Facebook Page for updates: www.facebook.com/bikelaketahoe

Safety/Bicycle Rules of the Road:

It is imperative for your safety, and the safety of all cyclists participating in OATBRAN, that the bicycle Rules of the Road are followed. Please review your "SPIN - Safe Pedaling In Nevada" pamphlet in your welcome packet to familiarize yourself with Nevada's Rules of the Road. TGFT Productions/Bike the West reserves the right to expel participants unwilling to ride in a safe manner. Nevada State Highway Patrol monitors the ride and puts in many hours to assure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders. Remember, they will issue tickets to those who violate the Rules of the Road. This applies to both bicyclists and motorists.

Rest Stops/Meals:

Rest stops and lunch will be set up daily on the course, approximately 20 miles apart. It is important to drink water at regular intervals, before you feel thirsty, to prevent dehydration. Lunch will feature fresh fruits, pasta and potato salads and make-your-own sandwiches. A variety of breakfasts and dinners are prepared and served by local area service clubs and nonprofit organizations from each of the host communities. From pancake feeds to outdoor barbecues, you'll sample the true flavor of Nevada. Please indicate some of your food preferences and/or any special dietary needs, gluten free, non-dairy, or allergies; whenever reasonable we like to accommodate the needs of all riders but riders with special needs should be prepared to bring any special foods which they may require. Please call us to discuss any special dietary concerns you may have.

You are limited to 60 lbs. total luggage, and no bag over 35 lbs. All of your luggage must be marked and kept together for loading, unloading and transporting. All luggage will be self loaded and unloaded at the overnight locations. We suggest that you do not bring valuables and it is your responsibility to assure that anything breakable is adequately padded and protected. DO NOT tie pieces together or use plastic garbage bags or ice chests as luggage. It may be helpful to put your clothing inside a plastic bag in case of rain. There is a nearby laundry facility at the motel Eureka. Please pack light! Thank you in advance from our crew!

$2000.00 Total Fee (Registered and Paid-in-full by August 27, 2023)

A late fee of $200 may apply for late registration and/or late payment. a 10% discount will apply for returning oatbran riders..

Includes: 6 Nights -- with overnight accommodations, based on double occupancy (single occupancy available +$350). Security Vehicle parking for the week at Lake Tahoe (at the Bally's Lake Tahoe Casino Resort Valet Parking). Ride limited to 40 riders.

• 17 meals -- from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on return day - plus all food & beverages at 19+ rest stops and daily after ride snacks & beverages
• OATBRAN Ride Jersey/Water Bottle
• OATBRAN welcome packet & goodie bag
• Prizes, awards and an "I Survived" OATBRAN T-Shirt at the end of the ride
• Full Sag and Tech Support
• Return transportation
• A memory stick of over 500 images, shot daily throughout the tour, by famed Nevada Photographer, Larry Burton, offered at a nominal fee.

Changes, Updates, and Coming Attractions:

Sometimes we have to make minor changes to the ride to deal with changes in circumstances, so our attorney says we have to give you the standard caveat: Ride details subject to change without notice. Please check this webpage periodically to get any changes or updates to the ride details. Also, we’ve normally given a 10% discount to Returning OATBRAN riders not just because we like seeing them again, but also because of the help they give to the crew and the new riders; Also, if you are interested in being part of our crew to work and ride at a 50% discount (limited availability), please email [email protected].

Additional:

Hotel lodging is available at the Bally's Lake Tahoe Resort prior to the start and at end of the tour. Make arrangements directly by calling 800-648-3353. Identify yourself for a pre or post OATBRAN room package reservation.

Airport/Gateway:

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is your gateway airport served by most major carriers. Ground Transportation is available on the South Tahoe Express or by rental car at the airport.

Bicycles can be shipped via UPS to Tahoe Sports Ltd., located one block from our host hotel. The shipping address is: 4000 Lake Tahoe Blvd., Ste. 7, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. Call 530-542-4000 for details. Their staff will receive it, unpack it, rebuild it and do the same for shipping back to your home for a nominal fee. Tahoe Sports Ltd. may also have rental bicycles available -- call them if you are interested in renting a bicycle for OATBRAN.

As for weather, generally it is perfect. Overnight lows are generally in the upper 30's and daytime highs are generally in the 70's. Skies are mostly clear to partly cloudy, and winds are generally prevailing tailwind. However, we've experienced headwinds, rain, overnight snow, morning temperatures well below freezing, and highs into the 90's, so be prepared for any type of weather.

Partial Ride Option:

For participants with schedule problems, we may be able to provide the option to ride only some days of the ride (at a reduced rate to be determined depending on the particulars). Anyone riding only part of the ride is responsible for their own transportation to their start point and/or from their finish point; we only provide regular return transportation from the normal end of the ride at the Utah border back to Lake Tahoe (or to your start point on the route). Please note that there are neither buses nor any other form of public transportation along (or near) the ride route.

|| TOP OF PAGE ||

Join Sierra Adventures for a wild mountain biking ride on the Peavine Roller Coaster, a jaunt on world-famous bike trails at Lake Tahoe, or for a leisurely bike tour around Reno. Whatever level you and your group ride at, we have a biking adventure to meet your needs. And if you need gear, check out the rentals at our shop.

The local mountain biking hot spot is Peavine Mountain, looming over Reno to the northwest. It is chock full of bike trails, some developed and some worn from use. Many of these can be pieced together to make your own unique bike ride. The guides at Sierra Adventures know the peak intimately and can take you on exciting bike rides, right in Reno's backyard. Some of the bike rides include Keystone Canyon, Peavine Mountain climb, Evans Canyon, Miner's Loop, and Cow Canyon. And if you need bike rentals and shuttles, call Sierra Adventures to set it up.

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Geraint Thomas’ cycling shoes, our Tour de France guide, Silca Grinta bikepacking bags and a flat-pack bike stand

Plus the latest news and reviews

Stan Portus

Happy Friday. Later today, we will be announcing the winners of our Bike of the Year mega-test.

Bike of the Year is our most comprehensive test, covering everything from budget road bikes to Tour de France superbikes – and the latest, gravel trail, enduro and electric bikes.

This year, our reviewers have tested more than 50 bikes, logging thousands of miles in the UK and abroad.  

Stay tuned to find out which bikes are crowned our overall road winners and mountain bike winners later today, with further winners announced over the weekend – and all the reviews published over the coming weeks. 

Elsewhere this week, we covered all the latest tech from Fort William. The opening round of the downhill World Cup saw aerodynamics return to downhill , an ebike without a motor and a host of prototype bikes .

Our video team also hit up the Traka in Spain, sharing a gallery of the competitors' gravel bikes .

Back at home, Ashley Quinlan told us why alloy wheels can be faster than carbon and Simon von Bromley covered a new Shimano patent that reveals a potential move to 13-speed cassettes and fully wireless groupsets . 

While recent weeks have seen a spate of bike releases, this week was much quieter. However, we did learn of the new 3T Strada Italia. Completing the brand’s made-in-Italy collection, the new Strada can fit 35mm tyres and has adopted SRAM’s Universal Derailleur Hanger, which is uncommon in the world of road bikes. 

With the sun finally beaming down and nearly as radiant as Jack Luke after he's snagged another tandem frame on Facebook Marketplace, we updated our pick of the best cycling jerseys . We also continued publishing reviews from our recent cycling shorts group tests, including the men’s Q36.5 Gregarius Pro shorts and the Rapha Women’s Core Bib Shorts . 

Quoc M3 Air cycling shoes

Earlier this year, Quoc launched its M3 Air shoes in partnership with Geraint Thomas, who has signed a two-year sponsorship deal with the brand. 

The M3 Air shoes knock the Quoc Mono II off the top of the brand’s road shoe range and cost £60 more.

The M3 Air has the same unidirectional carbon sole as the Mono II, but this is paired with a more ventilated and lighter upper. 

One of the more notable features of the upper is the translucent mesh panels in the front and side of the toe box for “maximum aeration in high-intensity conditions”. 

I’m sure cycling’s favourite Welshman will welcome the vents while trying to keep on Tadej Pogačar's wheel, but I imagine he’ll be glad Quoc has released M3 Air toe covers for when he’s back on home roads.

The upper also has a striated pattern in the TPU upper and is finished with the Brogue-like stitching of the Mono II. 

The shoe closes with two dials that tighten the two parts of the upper. The upper doesn’t have a tongue to avoid any “structural obstructions”. 

Designed with professional athletes in mind, Quoc says the M3 Air has a slightly racier fit than its other models.

The M3 Air weighs a claimed 232g in a size EU42. 

Official Tour de France Guide

We may only be a week into the Giro d’Italia , but the build-up to the 2024 Tour de France has already begun.

The UK’s only official Tour de France Guide is available to pre-order now, with free UK delivery.

This 204-page race guide is packed with profiles of every team, along with details on all stages, maps, route profiles and itineraries, so you’ve got a compendium of facts and stats to supplement your watching. 

It also has exclusive interviews with key contenders in the men’s race and the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. 

To top it all off, the guide comes with a Tour de France and Tour de France avec Zwift double-sided A2 wallchart and beer mats showcasing last year’s general classification, points and mountain winners. 

• Pre-order the Official Tour de France Guide now for £11.99 

Silca Grinta bags 

Silca’s saddle bags are often considered to be more of a discerning choice among riders, thanks to the sleek, classic designs and the brand’s history. 

Now, Silca has expanded its cycling bag selection to include bikepacking bags . 

Called 'Grinta', which roughly translates from Italian to grit, determination or tenacity, the range should open up more opportunities for stylish cycling.

Silca Grinta 2l handlebar bag

The Silca Grinta 2l handlebar bag has a Ballistic Nylon construction that offers “superior weatherproof protection”.

Water is also kept at bay thanks to a YKK AquaGuard zip, which runs along the 23cm length of the bag and opens to provide access to the two-litre storage space. 

There is a reflective logo on the front and hoops to which you can attach a bike light. 

The bag attaches to your bar with TPU-coated straps and there are “magic-slide buckles for maximum grip combined with a fast installation and release”.

• £109 / $95 / €109 / AU$169

Silca Grinta 2-5l roll-top saddle bag

Like the brand's smaller saddle packs, the Silca Grinta roll-top saddle bag uses Boa dials to attach to your bike. 

Silca promises “effortless attachment” with the Boa dials, so you can save all that determination and tenacity for your pedalling rather than your packing.

The saddle bag can fit between two and five litres thanks to its internal structure, while maintaining security and stability.

The roll-top design is said to keep water out and an air bleed valve means you can get all the air out of the bag to minimise bulk.  

• £179 / $160 / €180 / AU$289

Rimpact Ultra Portable Bike Stand

Rimpact describes its Ultra Portable Bike Stand as a “sleek, light and intelligent solution to maintenance at the trail head, in the garden or in your shed".

The bicycle workstand packs down flat without the need for tools. It can be easily stored at home, or in the back of your car or van. 

The stand slots into the hole of a crank arm so you can clean your bike and lube your chain. 

You can use the stand with a hollow crank spindle, so it’s worth checking your groupset before you buy.

Rimpact says the stand means you can avoid leaning your bike against posts, fences or your vehicle.

The stand has a five-year guarantee, and is made from aluminium and stainless steel. It also uses bushings from the plastics company Igus, which sells parts to a variety of bike brands and created a bike from recycled plastics .

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Cloudy, wet mix around NYC this weekend — see outlook for 5 Boro Bike Tour and more

By lauren maroney • published may 3, 2024 • updated on may 4, 2024 at 11:44 am.

The weekend is upon us and there are plenty of outdoor events happening around the city and beyond. Unfortunately, the weather is going to be a mixed bag. 

Here is what you need to know:

5 Boro Bike Tour

The 5 Boro Bike Tour is this Sunday. Sadly, it's going to be the worse half of the weekend weather-wise.

Get Tri-state area news and weather forecasts to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York newsletters.

Expect a cool, soggy, and breezy day. We should be enjoying temperatures in the low 70s in early May, but across our region temperatures will be locked in the 50s all day. Dress accordingly.

When the first wave of the tour begins at 7:30 a.m., temperatures in the city will be 50 degrees and rain will already be falling. It will not be too heavy, but it will remain consistent throughout the day.

If you are participating, plan for slick roads and lots of puddles along the route. Make sure you have all your rain gear with you before heading to the starting line, especially a pair of cycling glasses. You probably don’t want the rain getting in your eyes on your ride.

Long Island Marathon Weekend

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If you’re more of a runner than a biker, you may want to head to East Meadow for the Long Island Marathon Weekend.

Marathon weekend events extend from Friday evening through Sunday. The main event, the half and full marathons, will kick off in East Meadow Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. Early morning temperatures will be in the upper 40s with spotty sprinkles or light rain.

Steadier rain moves in as the first runners start to cross the finish line. Don’t expect any downpours, but the showers will be enough to dampen the post-race festivities.

Thankfully, the entire weekend is not a washout. Friday and Saturday will be better for runners.

Friday night’s 5K fun run will have temperatures in the mid-50s under partly to mostly cloudy skies. It will be a nice way to kick off the weekend festivities, but be sure to wear a warm jacket or sweatshirt to beat the chill.

Expect great running weather for Saturday morning’s 10K. Temperatures will be close to 50 degrees at daybreak under mostly cloudy skies and no rain. Highs on Saturday will be near 60.

Tigers at Yankees

If you’re not a big fan of biking or running, there’s always baseball! The Tigers are in town to take on the Yankees.

Friday evening and Saturday afternoon will both look great for baseball, although temperatures will be on the cool side. Take the opportunity to break out the Yankee jacket that you normally reserve for postseason play.

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