Handlebar Bag

Handlebar bags are great for keeping a few necessities close by where you can easily access them. Generally, you don't want a large bag up high on your bike. It can throw off your balance and make you less stable if it gets too heavy. If they are too large, they can get in the way of other things, like your handlebar grips, a headlight, and so forth. If they don't fit properly, they can droop and rub on your front tire. Therefore, getting them mounted properly is important.

So pack up a few necessities but if you're going on a longer trip, save the heavy things for a saddle bag or some panniers.

Handlebar bags are great for keeping some items close at hand and accessible as you ride. When choosing one of these bags, there are a few things to consider:

1. Size.
Clearly you need to know what you'll want to be carrying to assure the handlebar bag you choose will be able to accommodate everything. Tools, bicycle tire pumps, cell phones, keys, wallets, a light jacket or cap, tissues, medications, sun block, sunglasses, energy bars, water bottles, a camera or binoculars, a first aid kit, and so forth are common items to take along on even a leisure bike trip.

Aside from size, consider how the bag is laid out. If you have a number of small items you may not want to throw them all into one large compartment. Having a few smaller compartments is good to make things easier to find and retrieve, and to prevent scratching or breakage.

2. Security.
You'll want to determine how the bag will attach to your bike. A secure fit is important. Most handlebar bags won't offer locked compartments but certainly zippered pockets versus open pockets are more secure. Being able to remove the bag and carry it as a shoulder bag or fanny pack will allow riders to take valuables along with them if they leave their bike for any period of time. A quick release mount can make this easier too.

If you want to be assured that your belongings are protected, a padded bag is important while water resistant fabric and/or a rain cover can be valuable as well. Heavy duty zippers (not plastic) will last longer and certainly are more secure than velcro. Durable cordura and 600D or greater nylon are pretty durable and reflective covering can help make you a bit more visible in low light or at night time.

3. Ease of access.
If you'll be wanting to retrieve items without stopping, a compartment that can be accessed from the top can be important. Pouches on the sides for water bottles can also be convenient.

If you'll be taking maps, having a clear sleeve or pocket for maps can save you from stopping frequently too.