How to Choose the Right Bicycling Bags

How to Choose the Right Bicycle Bags Whether you're planning a quick ride across town or an extended wilderness tour, our vendor partner REI has the bicycle storage bags you need. They carry a wide selection of storage options for cyclists—from small "essentials" bags that fit under your seat to gear-swallowing packs that can handle a week's worth of touring gear. Step #1: Consider Your Options Panniers—These roomy, rack-mounted storage bags keep equipment loads low and centered over your wheels for good balance and control. They're typically sold in pairs, and come in a wide range of sizes and styles, most of which are designed to attach to either your front or rear rack. Some models can be attached to either. Handlebar bags—These bags attach directly to your handlebars and store essential gear like gloves, maps and snacks within easy reach. Handlebar bags are available for both drop- and straight-style handlebars. Some models fit both types. Underseat bags—These small-to-moderate capacity bags attach underneath your bike saddle for out-of-the-way storage. Small-capacity models are great for essentials like tire repair kits, keys or extra energy bars. High-capacity styles can handle larger items like an extra clothing layer or a lightweight jacket. Many underseat bags are expandable to handle a variety of gear loads. Rack trunks—Rack trunks attach to the shelf on top of your rear rack. They're perfect if you're looking for lots of storage space without a lot of wind resistance. Rack trunks are sleek, roomy and they fit into your slipstream for low-drag storage as you ride. Hydration packs—These hold your water supply comfortably on your back so you can drink without taking your hands off your handlebars. Some models include extra storage space for other cycling gear—up to 900 cu. in.! Specialty bags—REI also offers a number of unique cycling storage bags that don't fit into the general categories above. These include items like bike messenger packs, cycling duffels for transporting all of your cycling gear and cycling-specific backpacks with special features designed for cyclists. Step #2: Consider Your Cycling Plans Base your storage bag selections on the kinds of cycling you have planned. If you're going day touring, choose a small, out-of-the-way storage bag for essentials like your keys or your wallet. If you're planning a week-long tour in the Rockies or a long ride on a cold day, choose larger-capacity bags to handle the gear and clothing you'll need. Also consider the kind of riding you'll be doing. If you'll be crossing rough terrain, choose storage bags that clamp on tight to your bike and keep your center of gravity low. If you're planning a long, exposed route with lots of headwinds, pick aerodynamic bags that won't add too much wind resistance. Finally, if you're into fast riding and/or training, choose a small, out of the way bag that doesn't interfere with your cycling. Step #3: Consider Design and Function Within each category of bike bags, our vendor partner REI offers a lot of options. To choose specific models, consider: Compatibility—Make sure the bags you choose fit on your specific bike! Not all bags work on all bicycles. Carrying capacity—Base your bag selections on the kinds of gear you want to carry with you. If your gear load changes from ride to ride, look for storage bags with capacity-altering features like expandable pockets, dividers or compression straps. Or collect a number of different bag styles so you can pick and choose before each trip. Accessibility—The more gear you bring with you, the more important it is to stay organized. Look for storage bags with useful features like multiple compartments, dividers and pockets. Try a few styles out before you buy to see how easy different designs are to load up and unpack. Water/impact protection—Choose storage bags that protect your gear from water and impact. Look for models that are well-built, made from reliable materials, and have features like storm flaps over the zippers, openings that are protected from wind and rain, and padded sections to protect important gear items. If you're planning long tours or rides through rainy areas, make sure the bags you choose are fully rain-proof, or buy reliable rain covers to protect them. Special features—Many of the bike storage bags that our vendor partner REI carries have useful extra features like removable fanny packs, water bottle pockets, outside mesh pockets (so you can dry out wet gear as you ride) and more. Some bags double as day packs or briefcases. Be sure to compare your options carefully before choosing. top of page