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Best Handlebar Bags
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
In addition to the fabrics that have been utilized, you may also want to assess the weather resistance of any given model.
It all starts with the construction, does it not? And, while there are several different factors that come into play, the first order of business is assessing the main materials. Three of the most common ones that you will see for this type of product are nylon, polyester, and leather. Starting with the former two, nylon and polyester often get compared to one another. They are both fantastic materials but when it comes down to it, nylon is stronger. Now, they both are resistant to abrasions and most chemicals. Of course, and this will be touched on further, nylon is also more resistant to the weather and is often the preferred material for outdoor bags because of it. But, what about leather? Well, there is a fine line between cheap, fake leather and genuine leather. High-quality leather creates fantastic products, including handlebar bags, due to its abrasion resistance and durability.
Specifically for nylon and polyester, you also need to keep in mind the denier count. Denier itself is a unit of measurement that is used to determine the thickness of fabric (generally speaking). So, the higher the denier count, the thicker a fabric is going to be. Oh, and as far as waterproof properties, you may want to look for models that can handle some rain.
Features
What you want to look for here are the storage compartments. If you want enhanced organization, look for more storage options.
When you talk about storage compartments, what you really are talking about is organization and convenience. The reality is you may not want all your items stowed in the same location as this can make it much more of a hassle to grab a specific item. This is important because there are handlebar bags on the market that will only be designed with the main compartment. For the right users, this will be fine but if you prefer organization, you will find these designs more of a hassle than they are worth. Then again, an internal divider can help combat this issue but not all models will come with one included.
This means that if it concerns you, you will need to look for options that implement different compartments. Thankfully, several top-end models on the market will do just that. With just the addition of a few side zippered pockets and maybe even some mesh pockets, you will have convenient access to some of your essential items. Some models will even come equipped with a transparent pocket on the top and this can be a nice placement for your navigational devices to know exactly where you are going (if you like to travel on a bike).
Capacity
Even though most of these will not hold a ton of equipment, you still need to look for one that suits your needs.
When you are looking to buy a pack of any kind, it can be a little difficult to assess the internal capacity. Though some of you will be looking for the internal dimensions, you really need to reference the volume (which is typically measured in liters or milliliters). Some sellers, however, will list their model in cubic inches. This is okay but if you are looking to compare different brands, you will want the same metric to make things easier. So, for the record, there are roughly 0.02 (this number has been rounded up) liters in a cubic inch and you can use this as a conversion formula.
To give you a reference, most models will offer anywhere between two to eight liters of space to work with. Even eight liters is not going to be able to hold a ton of equipment so keep that in mind. In general, handlebar bags are not really made for heavy loads and this is primarily due to their placement on your bike. If they are too large and heavy, it can negatively affect your steering and, clearly, you do not want that.
Style
When referring to the style, this is really referring to the design of the mounting system.
The gimmick of this type of product is that it is designed to be attached on your bike. Without a suitable mounting system, you would need to hold the bag on your bike and that would simply be silly. But, you may be thinking; “won’t all mounting systems be identical and fit on my bike?” The reality is this is not true and it makes this section even more important. When it comes down to it, there are two important factors to keep in mind here. For starters, the mounting system needs to be compatible with your bike. Thankfully, this is not too complicated to figure out as the attachments simply need to be able to be secured on your handlebars and post.
In order for this to be possible, the clamps need to wrap around the base of your handlebars because if they can’t do that then the bag will not be secure. Secondly, you may want to look for a mounting system that can easily be attached and detached. This is why quick release systems are so nice as they typically take only a few seconds to remove and attach.
Advanced Features
Here, you can look for some additional features that can come into play.
Now that all the main features and design aspects are covered, let’s talk about some extra features that can add some more substance to models that are already well-designed. To start, you are probably going to be carrying your bag from time to time. In other words, it is most likely not going to stay fixed on your bike for your whole trip. So, you may want to look for models that come with carrying handles or shoulder straps to make it easier to carry them. In addition to this, do you like to ride your bike at night? If you do then you may want to prioritize bags that are designed with some sort of reflective accents or trim.
What reflective accents will do is improve your visibility at night to create a safer ride for yourself. Oh, and lastly, some sellers will provide you with an all-weather rain cover. Even if the model you buy is water-resistant, it may not be able to handle raging downpours (in the case the weather takes a turn on you). In essence, a rain cover can add additional protection.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST HANDLEBAR BAGS
1. IBERA
It is tough to find a place to begin when you talk about this product. About the only critique, you could have is the mounting system is optimized for thinner handlebars as the rest is pretty much gold.
Read moreDurability
In addition to the fact that this is made of water-resistant 1680-denier nylon fabric, the removable divider and sides have been padded to add protection to your items.
Features
Unlike some models which are simply comprised of one main compartment, this is loaded with them. It sports a few zippered compartments, a clear map sleeve, and also an internal divider.
Capacity
There are actually two sizes available (both a medium and a large). The medium size has a capacity of 4.4 liters while the large has a capacity of seven liters.
Mounting System Style
The quick release mounting system is well-designed but the clamp is not made to fit thicker handlebars. The reason for this is it will not open wide enough for them.
Extra Features
Not only is this designed with reflective trim for night riding and a padded shoulder strap for off-road use, but it also comes with an all-weather rain cover for protection.
Overall
Granted this fits on your bike, you are never going to look back thanks to the incredible combination of the build quality, compartments, and extra features that are included.
2. THULE PACK N’ PEDAL
It is worth noting immediately that this here is just the bag and you will need to buy the mount separately. Given how impressive the bag is, however, most of you will not mind going out of your way to purchase the mount.
Read moreDurability
The combination of the nylon fabric and the IP54 welded construction make this not only durable but also highly resistant to dust and water.
Features
Right in the front, there is a convenient phone pocket integrated that is transparent. Also, there are mesh side pockets that allow for quick access to some of your smaller items.
Capacity
With an internal capacity of 7.5 liters, this will be able to hold quite a few items. Unless you need a backpack’s worth of goods, this should be big enough for you.
Mounting System Style
Yep, the mounting system needs to be bought separately here. While this adds to the overall cost, it is also not going to break your bank.
Extra Features
There is a handle at the top which makes for convenient carrying. Additionally, there are reflective accents that allow for better visibility during darker hours.
Overall
To say that this is an impressive pack is a massive understatement. Even though the price is steep, the sheer quality that is present makes it worth every single penny.
3. BROOKS ISLE OF SKYE
Right from the get-go, this option may scare you off due to its steep price tag. Thanks to the rugged build and fantastic mounting system, however, you can count on the impressive quality.
Read moreDurability
Due to the construction alone, this model is unique. It is made of water-resistant, blue sign certified textiles and vegetable-tanned leather. This combination is about as good as it gets, folks.
Features
If you need a model that is equipped with additional compartments then you may be disappointed here. There is only the main compartment for this bag.
Capacity
The nine-liter volume of this model is quite large and is going to be able to hold several of your smaller items and valuables.
Mounting System Style
First off, the Ortlieb attachment system is compatible with Klick Fix. Secondly, the attachment system allows the pack to be attached and detached in mere seconds.
Extra Features
What is really nice is this comes with a detachable shoulder strap. So, you can detach it when it is not in use and then quickly attach it when you want to carry this around.
Overall
It makes sense if many of you are not willing to pay this sort of price for an item such as this. At the same time, however, what is there really to complain about quality-wise?
4. TOPEAK TOURGUIDE DX
When you get down to it, the only issue with this bag is the fact that it is heavy. In literally every other area, this knocks it out of the park which makes it an extremely compelling option.
Read moreDurability
Let’s just say that this bad boy is built like a beast with heavy-duty 1800/840-denier nylon. Oh, and the interior is fully padded for protection.
Features
First off, the main compartment is divided. Secondly, there is a top and front pocket for your smaller items. Thirdly, there are compartments on the sides to hold even more items.
Capacity
This has a capacity of 470 cubic inches (which works out to right around 7.7 liters) and is noted for being Topeak’s largest capacity handlebar bag.
Mounting System Style
The mount itself is brilliantly designed and can be removed with a simple push of a button. However, this is quite heavy and has a tendency to sag in the middle because of it.
Extra Features
Both a carrying handle and a shoulder strap are integrated for off-bike use. Additionally, there is a rain cover included and also a 3M reflective strip implemented.
Overall
When you are biking, you ideally want to keep the weight of your items to a minimum. While ranking this model sort of contradicts this concept, it really is worth it for the overall design.
5. TOPEAK TOURGUIDE
This right here is a bit different than the TourGuide DX and while some minor drawbacks have been documented by various users, the overall design is still great.
Read moreDurability
Much like the TourGuide DX, this is made of 1800/840-denier nylon fabric. In addition to this, the main compartment is also fully padded to protect your items.
Features
All sorts of storage compartments are integrated here such as a front pocket, two side pockets (with mesh) and also a clear pocket for your maps. Now, the mesh that is integrated into the side pockets is not very practical, admittedly.
Capacity
With a capacity of 305 cubic inches, this is a pretty small package. Thankfully, there are several compartments at play because the main one may not be suitable enough for some of you.
Mounting System Style
The QuickClick quick-release bracket allows for easy on and off but the issue is with the hardware. Many buyers have reported that this hardware is junk.
Extra Features
The TourGuide hits the mark in this area as it is built with a shoulder strap and a 3M reflective strip. Also, you receive a rain cover with your purchase.
Overall
The good news about the mounting hardware is you can still rig an acceptable solution. As a whole, though, this will not be large enough for some of you so keep that in mind.
6. TOURBON
From a visual standpoint, this might be the classiest handlebar bag on the entire market. Of course, this more than holds up on the quality end of things as well.
Read moreDurability
Do be aware that the straps are not made of real leather. Now, as for the rest of the bag, it is designed of waterproof waxed canvas and leather.
Features
This is going to fit a good amount of items, but here is the thing, there is only the main compartment. So, the organization you can achieve is severely limited.
Capacity
Clearly, this is not going to hold as much as your backpack would. Now, as alluded to, it will hold several items such as your keys, smartphone, water bottle, chapstick, wallets, and so on.
Mounting System Style
The versatility of this mounting system is awesome but the straps are really firm. What this means is there is very little wiggle room when you go to mount it on your bike.
Extra Features
On the back of this, there is an integrated opening that can account for your headphone wires (among other things).
Overall
Looking past the fact that the straps are really firm, this is a waterproof bag (outside of the exterior wire opening that can allow water in) that can fit several of your small essentials.
7. ROSWHEEL
If you are simply looking for a solution to carry a few of your essential items while you are biking then you should take a much closer look at this bad boy right here.
Read moreDurability
The U-shaped PE board in the interior adds protection for your items. As for the shell of this model, it is made out of 600-denier, water-resistant polyester.
Features
Even though each side is equipped with a zippered bag, they are fairly small and will not hold much. Also, this contains a removable single aglet.
Capacity
Quite honestly, “small” would be the best word to describe this option. It can hold some smaller items but it will not be a feasible option for everybody.
Mounting System Style
A very convenient and easy-to-use three-point mounting system is implemented here. For the record, each attachment point is designed with Velcro.
Extra Features
Because there are D-type buckles on each side of this, it can be used as a one-shoulder bag. Also, there is a safety reflection binding on both sides.
Overall
It is pretty clear that Roswheel optimized this for consumers looking for a small bag. When you take that into consideration, you then realize that their model is quite good.
8. BUSHWHACKER DURANGO BLACK
In a way, you may look at this bag and be under-impressed. The reality is while it does not overly impress in one particular area, it maintains a level of consistency throughout.
Read moreDurability
Being made of 600-denier polyester, this is not as durable as some of the other options on this list. In addition to that, this is not a waterproof model, either.
Features
As you can see from the photos, the large exterior pocket is really nice to have and is designed with a zipper.
Capacity
At only 235 cubic inches, there is no other way to say it other than this is quite small. For some of you it will work just fine but if you want to account for a lot of stuff, look elsewhere.
Mounting System Style
The three-point tension mounting system is not only easy to attach to your bike but it is also going to prevent swaying when you are riding at high speeds.
Extra Features
The addition of the reflective trim adds visibility in low-light conditions but a shoulder strap was omitted from this design (which makes this less convenient).
Overall
You know, this is actually a really good option for the right buyers. It may not hold up to everyday use and may not be big enough but for casual users, it could be phenomenal.
9. FUEL HELMETS SH-BARBAG
Leather is always an appealing type of material for just about any product and this product is no different. Then again, the leather implemented here is not exactly top-notch but when coupled with everything else, it makes for a strong design.
Read moreDurability
As mentioned, the leather is not top-notch here. Overall, many users have complained about this feeling and looking cheap. But, many claim it is somewhat justified for the price.
Features
With this, you get the main compartment but that is about it. For organization, this is not the best option on the market.
Capacity
With a capacity of 120 cubic inches, this is small and there is no reason to sugarcoat it.
Mounting System Style
What is nice here is the versatility as the universal fit dual leather loop straps will mount just about anywhere on your bike.
Extra Features
The buckles themselves are well-designed but they can be hard to work with when you are wearing gloves so be wary of that.
Overall
For what this is, it is pretty good. If you can understand its limitations and take it for what it is then you should be able to get great use out of it.
10. ARCENCIEL
If you are okay with a model that only sports the main compartment then you will probably be quite appealed to this waterproof handlebar bag.
Read moreDurability
Due to the fact that this model is made out of thick PVC net clamping cloth, it is both durable and waterproof for protection against the elements.
Features
This is another one of those models that really just supplies you with the main compartment for storing your items.
Capacity
Even though this is not incredibly large, it is unique in the fact that it can be adjusted from 2.5 to 3 liters. The reason this is possible is thanks to the roll top design.
Mounting System Style
This is easy to fasten thanks to the three straps on the back. At the same time, though, the Velcro that is implemented can struggle to support a lot of weight.
Extra Features
There are buckles on each side and also a shoulder strap. Beyond these features, there are also reflective stickers on both sides to enhance your visibility at night.
Overall
Truth be told, the full waterproof performance may be enough to sell you here. It also comes equipped with a shoulder strap for convenient carrying, which is a plus.
Sources
- , 19 BEST BIKE HANDLEBAR BAGS IN 2018 COMPARED, Review
- , Nylon vs. Polyester, Article
- , Best Bike Handlebar Bag For Touring – Waterproof Handlebar Bags, Review
