Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024
Handlebar Bike Bags For Every Kind Of Cycling
April 5th, 2024
Home > Gear Reviews > Cycling
A handlebar bag is likely one of the first bike bags you’ll buy. After outfitting your ride with front and rear lights, and perhaps a small seat-mounted tool bag, a handlebar bag is the easiest way to carry snacks, a jacket, and assorted small items while riding.
Whether you’re looking for the best handlebar bags to get your burrito from the taqueria to the park, or to help carry your camping gear on a weekend trip, we’ve got you covered.
We looked at bike handlebar bags with versatility for both city riding and outdoor adventuring, and tested them on rides across the Bay Area and on bike camping trips to the Sierra and along the Pacific Coast Highway. With picks for heavy rain, commuting, bikepacking, bike touring, and running errands around town, here are the best options of handlebar bike bags for all sorts of cycling.
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Handlebar Bike Bags Comparison Table
| HANDLEBAR BAG | TREELINE AWARD | WEIGHT | VOLUME | WATERPROOF? | URBAN? BACKCOUNTRY? | CONVERTS TO SHOULDER STRAPS? | MADE IN US? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swift Bandito Handlebar Bag and Saddle Bag | Best Overall Read why |
8 oz | 3.2 L | Water-resistant | Both | Yes | Yes, made in Seattle |
| Road Runner Burrito Supreme | Best Road Bike / Best Gravel Bike Read why |
6 oz | 2.6 L | Weather-proof zipper/ water-resistant | Both | yes | Yes, made in LA |
| Revelate Designs Sweetroll | Best Backcountry Read why |
15.2 oz | 10 L, 11 L, 15 L | Fully waterproof with waterproof seams | Backcountry | no | Yes, made in Oregon |
| Ortlieb Ultimate Plus | Best Commuting Read why |
1 lb 4.1 oz | 6.5 L | Waterproof with transparent sleeve | Both | Yes | No, made in Germany |
| Oveja Negra Lunchbox | 5 oz | 3 L | Waterfroof fabric, not waterproof seams | Backcountry | No | Yes, made in Salida, CO |
For more of our favorite bicycle gear recommendations, see our most popular Gear Guide stories:
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags
Best Handlebar Bag: Swift Bandito Handlebar and Saddle Bag
Weight: 1 lb
Volume: 3.2 L
Waterproof: Water-resistant
Converts to carry bag with shoulder straps: Yes, accessories cost extra
Made in the US: Yes
What we liked: sleek, minimalist, made in USA by woman-owned company, versatility, works well on urban trips and camping trips
What we didn’t like: name
The Swift Bandito Handlebar and Saddle Bag is sleek, minimalist, and designed for function. Swift Industries makes bags in Seattle, Washington, and is a company focused on creating bicycle products for those who love to adventure on bikes. I use this bag for bike camping and found it to be incredibly easy to use.
What I love about the Swift is its versatility. While the Burrito Supreme (see review above) is strictly a handlebar bag, the Swift is a handlebar bag that can also be used as a saddlebag. It comes with an attachment strap for saddles with haul loops.
According to Swift’s website, the Swift was originally designed to use as a saddlebag for Brooks saddles specifically, but Velo Orange Saddle Loops can convert saddles that don’t have integrated saddle loops. It mounts using Voile straps that stay put over uneven terrain, and cyclists praise its ease of installation.
Compare Prices On The Swift Bandito
The Swift bag also doubles as a saddle bag.
At 3.2 L, the Swift is a good size. It can fit your snacks, layers, phone, and bike tools. When biking around the backcountry (or even around town), you’ll want a spare tube, multi-tool, and tire lever—and the Swift can fit all that plus your snacks, layers, and phone. Horizontal front daisy chains also allow you to use straps to attach a small hand pump to the outside for extra carrying capacity.
The Swift is large enough to carry essentials (multi-tool, spare tube, mini pump, tire lever, snacks, windbreaker, phone battery, etc. We were impressed by how easy it is to install—enough so that it can be moved from bike to bike as you switch from road bike to urban bike to bike touring bike.
The stitching is high quality and durability is impressive, giving us confidence on bike camping trips and overnight touring trips.
While we here at Treeline Review are not huge fans of the name—and that’s why we call it the “Swift” throughout this review—that is our main issue with this bag. The term “bandito,” shares its name with a mascot that was discontinued due to its portrayal of ethnic stereotypes and outlaws involved in violence. It’s an unfortunate name but it is a great bag.
Best Road bike Handlebar Bag: Road Runner Burrito Supreme Bag
The Road Runner Supreme Handlebar bag is available in nearly 10 colors. Here, it’s shown in black.
Weight: 6 oz
Volume: 2.6 L
Waterproof: Weatherproof zipper/water-resistant fabric
Converts to carry bag with shoulder straps: Yes, shock cord included. Can purchase straps to make it a messenger bag.
Made in the US: Yes
What we liked: Made in the US, stylish, liner supports shape, easily removable to turn into a messenger bag, lightweight
What we didn’t like: Price for the size
While many cyclists will put snacks and small items in their cycling jersey pocket, that can stretch out your jersey and can look unflattering. The Road Runner Burrito Supreme Bag is a perfectly sized handlebar bag for long-day rides that can fit all the snacks and small items you might be tempted to stash in your jersey. We don’t have a best gravel bike handlebar bag category, but if we did, the Road Runner Burrito Supreme is a great lightweight bag that works well while gravel riding, too.
Road Runner bags are crafted in Downtown Los Angeles, CA where they strive to build “quality products that are durable and reliable with function in mind.” The Burrito Supreme allows you quick access to your snacks, layers, phone, and bike tools on a ride of any distance. (Why is it called “Burrito Supreme,” you ask? It literally can fit a California-style burrito, and it’s shaped like one, too. Yum.)
Compare Prices On The Road Runner Burrito Supreme Handlebar Bag
Grace Anderson with the Road Runner Burrito Supreme handlebar bag. Photo by Jesse Squires.
When it comes to the basics, the Burrito Supreme is water-resistant, weighs only 4 oz, and has a carrying capacity of 2.58L.
It also comes in nearly 10 colors, so you can choose a look that works for you.
If you’re like me, you also want a bag that will retain its structure no matter what’s in it. The Burrito Supreme has a hard plastic liner that supports its shape even when the bag is empty. The reinforced lightweight velcro straps on the handlebar and stem make mounting and removing the bag relatively easy.
Another benefit of the Burrito Supreme is that it works on a variety of handlebars, from narrow drop bars to wide mountain bike bars—so you can switch the bag between bikes with ease. Some of Treeline’s editors have even seen people use the included shock cord to strap the Burrito Supreme to haul loops on a leather seat to use as a saddlebag—but I think the Swift (see below) does a better job of that.
The Burrito Supreme is likewise versatile off the bike: the shock cord makes it usable as a purse or carry bag, or if you prefer a more streamlined look, you can purchase a detachable shoulder strap to make it a shoulder bag or messenger bag.
Customer reviews of the Burrito Supreme are resoundingly positive. Users on the Road Runner website say that it “held up under weather extremes and maintained its shape.” Customers also find that it’s a “tough bag” that lasts a long time—and they like the size, too.
While Road Runner also makes the Burrito, a mini handlebar bag at 0.4 L, we like the size of the Burrito Supreme better. At 2.6 L, the Supreme is conveniently sized to carry layers without being extra.
The only downside of this bag is the price. But as a gear review website dedicated to reducing waste by helping you purchase only well-made items that we love, I believe it’s worth it. You get a bag that is well- and thoughtfully made in the US, can be used in any environment that you’d bike in, and is everything you need—nothing extra.
Best Bikepacking Handlebar Pack: Revelate Designs SWEETROLL®
Weight: 15.2 oz (11 L)
Volume: 10 L, 11 L, 15 L
Waterproof: Fully waterproof with waterproof seams
Converts to carry bag with shoulder straps: No
Made in the US: Yes
What we liked: waterproof, welded seams, can carry a lot of gear
What we didn’t like: weight, difficult to access contents of bag
The Revelate Designs Sweetroll Handlebar Bag is the go-to for someone looking for a solid handlebar bag for bikepacking adventures. Of course, you can use this bag in the frontcountry, but it really shines when in the backcountry. It’s 100% waterproof and even has welded seams, so it works like a dry bag for riding in town in the rain, too. The Sweetroll can hold up to 15L of all the gear you want at your fingertips. It does weigh 15.4 oz—more than the other handlebar bags we recommend—but being larger and essentially a bike-specific dry bag, that’s to be expected.
Like the Burrito Supreme, I like that the Sweetroll retains its structure no matter what’s in it. So when the bag is empty, or when you’re packing it, the Sweetroll’s hard fiberglass mount will support its shape.
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Revelate Designs Sweetroll
The author with the Revelate Designs Sweetroll. Photo by Jesse Squires.
Despite its elongated construction, you can access the Sweetroll from both the left and right sides via two roll-down closures, so you’ve got double the amount of surface storage.
While this is a plus for bikepacking and even camping trips, it’s less useful in urban environments. That's why our editor who also owns this bag recommends using it for bikepacking but thinks there are better options for commuting or bicycle touring. The main reason is that it can only be accessed from the sides. This is nice for waterproofing in the backcountry but annoying to have to dig through a bag to find your keys or wallet while in the city.
The quick-click mount release system makes mounting and removing the Sweetroll relatively easy. For bikepackers specifically, you can get a more secure fit with the four-point bungee system, since you’re likely to be on uneven ground. This handlebar bag also comes with spacers to reduce cable and lever interference, which further minimizes abrasion to the bag over the rocks and roots on the trail.
And if you still need more room, the Revelate Egress Pocket Handlebar Bag integrates with the Sweetroll, adding an additional 2.9 L of capacity. It’s also fully waterproof and easily turns into a shoulder bag when you don’t want to leave valuables on your bike.
Adventure Cycling writes that the Sweetroll has a versatile and robust design—the two reasons why I chose it as a winner for folks inclined towards bikepacking. They praise the dual-sided roll-down closures, and write that the bag “allow[s] for a wide range of load-carrying.” They also like that “the modular front system lets you add one or more pockets for more storage.”
A reviewer from Adventure Cycling likewise appreciates these qualities: "The Sweetroll is a 100% waterproof bikepacking handlebar bag that is highly versatile: dual-sided roll down closures allow for a wide range of load-carrying and the modular front system lets you add one of our pockets for more storage and are built with Radio Frequency welded seams.”
One potential downside: Revelate's website says it works for "Disk or V Brake only—NOT compatible with Cantilever or road style front brakes with a vertical exposed cable."
Best for Waterproof Handlebar Bag Commuting in the Rain: Ortlieb Ultimate Six Plus
Weight: 20.1 oz (for 7L version)
Volume: Available in 5L, 7L, 8.5L
Waterproof: Fully waterproof with transparent sleeve
Converts to carry bag with shoulder straps: Yes
Made in the US: No, made in Germany
What we liked: waterproof, clear transparent sleeve useful for storing phone, maps, or GPS
What we didn’t like: heavy
The Ortlieb Ultimate Six Plus is a waterproof handlebar bag available in 5L (size small), 7L (size medium), and 8.5L (size large) volumes. It’s a fully waterproof handlebar bag good for urban adventures in wet places. We like that this bicycle bag comes with a transparent sleeve for a smartphone, GPS, or maps. That’s another reason why Treeline writer Mike Unger, who owns this bag for bicycle touring, thinks it’s a good option for longer bike touring trips.
The Ultimate Six Classic is the handlebar equivalent of the popular Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic that we recommend in our Bike Touring Packing List and our Best Touring Bikes story. The Ultimate Classic uses the same polyester fabric as the Back-Roller Classic—and it’s still the most waterproof and durable fabric we’ve found. We also recommend the Ortlieb Six Classic handlebar bag in our Best Touring Bikes guide.
Compare Prices Of The Ortlieb Ultimate Plus Handlebar Bag
The Ortlieb Ultimate Plus handlebar bag uses the same fabric as the Ortlieb Back-Roller classic, seen here. Photo courtesy Grace Anderson.
The straightforward design of the Ultimate Plus makes it easy to use on long-distance adventures and while commuting around the city.
The Ortlieb handlebar bag shown set up on our indoor training bicycle. Photo by Mike Unger.
The Ultimate Plus easily clips on and off with a velcro strap and includes a removable shoulder strap so you can carry it around when you’re off your bike. The transparent sleeve can fit a phone or a paper map for commuting in the rain.
If the Ortlieb is too big but you still need a waterproof handlebar bag mostly to keep your phone dry, look into Topeak's Smartphone Drybag mentioned in our Bike Touring Packing List. It's a clear, waterproof handlebar bag that’s only big enough for your phone. If you have more gear than that, you’ll need another solution, but if your phone needs to stay dry in a cloudburst, this is a smaller solution.
Honorable mentions
Oveja Negra lunchbox
Weight: 5 oz
Volume: 3L
Waterproof: waterproof fabric, not waterproof seasms
Converts to carry bag with shoulder straps: No
Made in the US: Yes, in Salida, CO
What we liked: waterproof, rectangular shape allows for easy loading, daisy chains on outside for attaching more gear
What we didn’t like: not waterproof seams
The Oveja Negra Lunchbox Handlebar bag is worth your attention if you’re looking for a backcountry handlebar bag for bikepacking. This made in Salida, Colorado bag is waterproof and an impressive ultralight 5 oz. This is in contrast to our fully waterproof handlebar bag, the Ortlieb Ultimate that weighs more than 1 lb.
The Lunchbox has a non-traditional almost square-like shape, making it easier to pack certain gear items for bikepacking. It attaches with Velcro and has exterior gear loops for more carrying capacity.
The reason the Oveja Negra ended up bnot winning out over the Revelate Designs Sweetroll is that the Sweetroll comes with fully waterproof seams. Another benefit of the Oveja Negra is that it is one of the least expensive handlebar bags we considered. While there are less expensive handlebar bags out there, this is among the most affordable of those made in the U.S.
View The Oveja Negra Lunchbox
Weight: 2 oz
Volume: 0.4L
Waterproof: Weather-proof zipper/ water-resistant
Converts to carry bag with shoulder straps: Yes
Made in the US: Yes, made in LA
What we liked: Made in the US, stylish, liner supports shape, easily removable to turn into a messenger bag, lightweight
What we didn’t like: too small capacity makes it less useful
The Road Runner Burrito is the little sibling to the Road Runner Burrito Supreme that we recommend as the best road bike bag and also the best gravel bike handlebar bag. It has the same weather-resistant fabric, quality stitching, and stylish design.
However, with a capacity of 0.4 L, we think it’s too small to fit our essentials—like lunch, keys, a phone, spare battery, layers, multi-tool, spare tube, mini pump, and tire lever. We think that at minimum, a handlebar bag should be able to handle these items (well, maybe not the lunch). That’s why we think you’re better off with the larger Road Runner Burrito Supreme.
View The Road Runner Burrito
What are handlebar bags and how you can use them
A bicycle handlebar bag is a better-balanced alternative to biking with a bike backpack or bike hip pack. Handlebar bags are where you should store items you want to access easily.
Handlebar bags are accessories designed to be mounted onto the handlebars of bicycles. They serve as a convenient storage solution for cyclists to carry essential items and gear during rides. These bags come in various shapes, sizes, and designs to accommodate different preferences and purposes. Some common uses and features of handlebar bags include:
Storage
Handlebar bags offer storage space for a wide range of items, such as snacks, water bottles, tools, spare tubes, maps, smartphones, wallets, keys, and small clothing items. They provide easy access to these essentials during rides, eliminating the need to carry everything in pockets or backpacks.
Organization
Many handlebar bags feature multiple compartments, pockets, or dividers to help cyclists organize their belongings efficiently. This ensures that items are readily accessible and prevents them from shifting around while riding.
Navigation
Some handlebar bags are designed with transparent pockets or sleeves that allow cyclists to securely mount and view their smartphones or GPS devices. This enables riders to navigate routes using mapping apps or GPS navigation systems without having to stop or remove their devices from the bag.
Protection
Certain handlebar bags are constructed from durable and weather-resistant materials, providing protection for belongings against moisture, dirt, and minor impacts. Waterproof or water-resistant handlebar bags are particularly useful for cyclists who ride in wet or unpredictable weather conditions.
Versatility
Handlebar bags are versatile accessories that can be used for various types of cycling activities, including commuting, touring, bikepacking, recreational riding, and off-road adventures. They can be easily attached and detached from the handlebars, allowing cyclists to customize their setups based on their specific needs and preferences.
Buying advice / What to Look For in a Bike Handlebar Bag
Price, durability, versatility, and accessibility were all major criteria when considering handlebar bags. Photo courtesy Grace Anderson.
Material and Durability
Choose a handlebar bag made from durable and weather-resistant materials to protect your belongings from moisture, dirt, and wear. Look for features like waterproof fabrics, reinforced seams, and abrasion-resistant coatings for long-lasting performance. Unlike gear for other outdoor activities, a good handlebar bag is an item that will stay with you, even as you get more experience. Gear that will last many seasons decreases consumption and saves you money.
Compatibility
Ensure that the handlebar bag is compatible with your bike's handlebar configuration and other accessories. Consider factors like handlebar diameter, clearance, and mounting options to ensure a proper fit without interfering with other bike components.
Organization
Look for a handlebar bag with multiple compartments, pockets, or dividers to help you organize your belongings efficiently. Internal organization features keep items secure and prevent them from shifting or rattling during rides.
Visibility and Safety
Look for handlebar bags with reflective elements or attachment points for lights to enhance visibility and safety, especially when riding in low-light conditions or traffic.
Storage Capacity
Consider the amount of gear and essentials you need to carry during your rides. Look for a handlebar bag with enough storage capacity to accommodate tools, snacks, water bottles, maps, and personal belongings.
Most of the bags we considered are around 3L. That’s big enough to carry items you need for a long day ride, without throwing off the balance of your bike. The exception is our bikepacking winner, the Revelate Sweetroll, which is available up to 15L. We think that’s too big for urban environments but makes sense in situations where you need more gear, like when bike camping. Note, though, that even a bigger handlebar bag won’t ever be big enough to carry all your camping gear. If you overload a handlebar bag, it can impact the balance of your bike.
Weight and Aerodynamics
Many cyclists consider weight to be a major criteria when deciding bike bags. Photo courtesy Grace Anderson.
Balance the storage capacity of the handlebar bag with its weight and aerodynamic profile. Choose a bag that offers sufficient storage without adding unnecessary bulk or compromising your bike's aerodynamic performance, especially if you're concerned about speed or efficiency. This means the weight of the actual bag, but also how the bike, fully packed, may affect the balance of your bike. Many cyclists are conscious about the weight of their gear as there is an impression that more weight can reduce speed and ease of climbing, especially over longer distances. However, as I mentioned above, the weight of gear is often overemphasized.
Waterproofness
If you’re bike camping or commuting in the city on a rainy day, it’s important to have a waterproof handlebar bag. All of our bags are water-resistant, but only the Ortlieb Ultimate Plus and Revelate Sweetroll are waterproof. If you live somewhere very rainy, like Seattle or Portland, or are used to biking in the rain, waterproof bags may be more important for you.
Attachment Mechanism
Simplicity is your friend. Choosing a handlebar bag that is easy to attach and detach from your bike increases the chance you’ll use it. Having a bag that is easy to put on and take off also makes it so you can use one bike bag on multiple bikes, whether you own several bikes or share a bike bag with a friend or housemate. Many of these bags can also be used as satchels in urban environments. Ensure that the handlebar bag has a secure attachment mechanism that fits your bike's handlebars. Look for options such as straps, buckles, quick-release systems, or mounting hardware designed for stability and ease of installation.
Placement
One thing to be mindful of is that the handlebar bag should not impact your ability to safely use your bike. If it gets in the way of the brakes or shifters, use another bag. In addition, you'll need to make sure not to interfere with your front-facing light.
Secure handlebar mount attachment hardware
All the handlebar bags in this review come with all the attachments you need to get started, without needing any extra materials. While those attachments can vary from bag to bag—particularly those with mounts meant to work with different handlebar diameters—all of them are great at keeping the bag on the bike and your stuff secure.
Converts into Satchel
A few of the recommended handlebar bags come with optional or additional accessories that allow you to convert the bag into a satchel or messenger bag. The Road Runner Burrito Supreme, Swift, and Ortlieb Ultimate Plus all turn into bags.
Accessibility
Opt for a handlebar bag with convenient accessibility features, such as quick-access pockets, zippered compartments, or transparent sleeves for smartphones or GPS devices. Ensure that you can easily reach your items while riding without compromising safety or stability. One of the advantages of a handlebar bag over other kinds of bike bags is that your items are in front of you (instead of under or behind you), making them a good place to store your camera, phone, or keys. The Revelate Sweetroll, a bikepacking bag, is an exception to this rule, but the rest of these handlebar bags make it easy to access what you need.
Price
Let’s face it. Gear is expensive. Choosing to buy a bag for your bike is a big deal and one we intend to simplify for you. At Treeline Review, we believe that the best way to save money and decrease consumption is to choose high-quality gear that you will love the first time.
Versatility
Because gear is expensive, versatility is important. We looked for handlebar bags that are easy to use in the backcountry or in the city.
Ease of cleaning and maintenance
Choose a handlebar bag that is easy to clean and maintain. Look for materials that are resistant to stains and odors and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth or washed with mild soap and water.
Made in the US
Look for bags manufactured by small US companies. We want to support companies where sewers get a fair wage and good working conditions. (Editor’s Note: due to FTC regulations, these bags are labeled “made in the US of domestic and imported materials”).
The Road Runner Burrito was one of the models we considered.
Handlebar bag care and maintenance tips
Regular cleaning
Clean your handlebar bag regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris that may accumulate during rides. Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the exterior of the bag. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry completely before storing or using it again.
Avoid harsh chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or abrasive cleaners on your handlebar bag, as they may damage the materials or waterproof coatings. Stick to mild soap and water for cleaning, and avoid soaking the bag for extended periods.
Storage
Store your handlebar bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid storing it in damp or humid environments, as this can promote mold and mildew growth and may cause the materials to deteriorate over time.
Inspect for damage
Regularly inspect your handlebar bag for any signs of wear, tear, or damage, such as frayed seams, loose threads, or punctures. Repair any minor damage promptly to prevent it from worsening and compromising the bag's integrity.
Waterproofing maintenance
If your handlebar bag features waterproof or water-resistant materials, periodically reapply a waterproofing treatment to maintain its effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of waterproofing product and application method suitable for your bag.
Secure attachment
Ensure that the attachment mechanism of your handlebar bag remains secure and properly fastened to the handlebars at all times. Check the straps, buckles, or mounting hardware regularly to make sure they are in good condition and tightened securely.
Avoid overloading
Avoid overloading your handlebar bag beyond its recommended capacity, as this can strain the attachment points and may affect the stability of your bike. Distribute weight evenly within the bag and consider using additional storage options if you need to carry bulky or heavy items.
Follow manufacturer's instructions
Always follow the care and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer for your specific handlebar bag model. These instructions may include specific cleaning recommendations, storage guidelines, and maintenance tips tailored to the materials and design of your bag.
How we Researched
We relied on research of media and customer reviews as well as our own testing experience to come to our conclusions. Photo courtesy Grace Anderson.
To research handlebar bags, I read gear reviews from Adventure Cycling, Cyclo Camping, Gravel Bike, OC Brakeless community, and Evans Cycles.
I also scanned dozens of customer reviews from REI, Backcountry, Moosejaw, and Amazon. For some of the smaller brands, like Road Runner bags, we looked at reviews on the manufacturer’s website, or reviews from smaller gear stores like Campfire Cycling and Pure Cycles. To find if reviews were from real customers, we ran Amazon listings through Fakespot, a website that evaluates customer reviews for fraud.
Based on customer reviews and what expert outdoor media outlets had to say—as well as our own experience—we decided what criteria are important for your first handlebar bag. See below for what to look for in a bag and how we judged which bags to include.
FAQ
What is a handlebar bag supposed to carry?
It can hold your lunch, snacks, keys, phone, spare battery, layers, bike tools (multi-tool, spare tube, mini pump, tire lever), and even some of your camping gear. You can read more about picking bike tools in our Best Bike Tire Pumps guide and see a list of bike tools for bike touring in our Bike Touring Packing List or our Bikepacking Gear List.
How do I attach a handlebar bag to my bike?
Handlebar bags are far easier to reach than a frame bag or seat bag. Unlike other bike bags, most handlebar bags are easy to attach without special equipment—usually clamps or straps that come with the bag. That means you can easily remove the bag from your bike and use it as a messenger bag.
how do i choose the right size handlebar to get for my bike?
Most of the bags we considered are around 3 L. That’s big enough to carry items you need for a long day ride, without throwing off the balance of your bike. A handlebar bag should be big enough to carry essentials like keys, a phone, spare battery, layers, multi-tool, spare tube, mini pump, and tire lever. We also think it should be able to fit extra layers and lunch. A 3 L bag should fit on most bike frames.
About The Author / Why You Should Trust Us
The author, Grace Anderson, on her bicycle. Photo courtesy Grace Anderson.
I first got into cycling when I moved to the Bay Area in 2013 and noticed all the cool kids were doing it. For me, cycling started off solely as a method of commuting, but I soon found myself using it as a way to explore.
My first overnight trip took me down the picturesque Highway 1—also known as the Pacific Coast Highway—from San Francisco to Santa Cruz to meet some friends for a climbing trip (I also wrote the Best Climbing Harness review for Treeline Review.) I set off from the house in my old running shoes and panniers filled to the brim with snacks to last me a lifetime as well as gear to camp for the night. From then on, I was hooked on using bicycles to travel. Since then, I have bike-camped to climbing crags and ridden from San Francisco to Los Angeles. I’ve written for and been featured on the cover of Bicycling Magazine.
I have learned about my preferences and needs when it comes to cycling long distances. I don’t need my gear to be the lightest or most technical—versatility, affordability, and durability matter most to me, so keep that in mind as you read this review.
Please know that neither I nor anyone in my family is sponsored, nor are we ambassadors or employees of any of the companies mentioned here. Treeline Review also doesn’t host native advertising, nor does it accept sponsored content or paid reviews.
