Through this joint adventure, accompanied by a amount of research that could rival a doctoral thesis , I have compiled a list of the crème de la crème of bike bags. Each one is a story of durability, functionality, and sometimes, pure style because, let’s face it, even the most rugged cyclists don’t mind a little flair. So whether you’re a seasoned pedaler or a casual cruiser, join me on this quest through the best bike bags out there. Oh, and if you need i the best bike racks o helmetswe also have guides for those.
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Each product has been carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.
The best travel bag for carrying a bike
Thule Roundtrip Road Bike travel case
The best travel bag for carrying a bike
Thule Roundtrip Road Bike travel case
This travel bike case is a great solution for transporting your road, gravel, or cyclocross bike easily and safely during long trips. Its integrated work stand not only guarantees the safe transit of your bike, but also facilitates hassle-free maintenance and assembly/disassembly. This case promises not only to carry your bike, but to protect and maintain every step of the journey.
The best bag for bikepacking
Apidura Expedition Full Frame Pack
The best bag for bikepacking
Apidura Expedition Full Frame Pack
Pros
- Large storage capacity
- Fully waterproof and lightweight fabric that is welded at the seams for a waterproof subject
- The material is light, but very resistant to tears
cons
- Requires hand washing
Apidura’s Expedition Full Frame Pack is the ultimate game changer in bike packing. Imagine you’re gearing up for a long run and you’ve got a load of stuff – think cooking gear, water bladders, tent poles, the whole shebang.
This ingenious package fits right into the main triangle of your bike, giving you tons of space without messing with your ride, thanks to its clever low center of gravity. It’s like the best friend for adventurers who don’t want to leave the essentials for those epic journeys. As it is designed, you can load it and keep your bike agile and easy to handle, no matter how challenging the trail.
This versatile pack becomes the perfect companion for those trips where you need a little more space to pack your essentials. Made with waterproof fabric, it will keep your things dry if you get caught in a downpour. It attaches perfectly to your bike using two solid attachment points and sturdy Hyperlon straps, which stay put no matter the terrain.
Plus, the quick-release buckles mean you can snap it in a flash. Do you need to see when the sun goes down? The reflective fabric is a neat feature that allows you to add lights, keeping you visible and safe. With a 2L main compartment complete with internal mesh pockets and a handy quick access pocket, it’s a compact yet powerful addition to your gear. And if the ride requires versatility, this pack turns into a shoulder bag, thanks to the additional strap.
Do you ever need the right bag for your daily trips, no matter the terrain or weather? This is your bag. It comes in two sizes, giving you the freedom to carry just the essentials or pack in a little more for those just-in-case moments, perfect for mountain bikers, road enthusiasts, or gravel grinders.
What really sets this saddle bag apart is its sturdy, waterproof ripstop fabric. Made from X-PAC material from Dimension-Polyant, it ensures that whatever you stash inside will stay dry and secure, even when you’re braving a torrential downpour or blasting through muddy trails. Plus, the bag features an integrated Bartacked Hypalon attachment loop, making it super simple to open and close, even when you’re on the move.
The best bike bags
Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Suitcases
The best bike bags
Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Suitcases
These Ortlieb Back-Roller bike panniers are built to withstand all weather conditions, thanks to their durable coated polyester fabric and roller closure that keeps water out.
You won’t have to leave anything behind, with a capacity of 40 liters. (That’s 20 liters each, for those keeping score.) There’s plenty of room for food, extra clothes, toiletries and other essentials. The QL2.1 mounting system makes attaching these to racks (up to a tube diameter of 16mm) a breeze and comes with adapters for even smaller sizes. Additionally, there is an internal pocket for smaller items, large reflectors for visibility, and a shoulder strap for easy bike transport.
Sold as a pair, these panniers are praised for their premium quality and design, with remarkably good latches and overall capacity.
The best bag for bike gear
Lezyne Flow Tool Caddy Pro
The best bag for bike gear
Lezyne Flow Tool Caddy Pro
Have you ever been riding a bike, rummaging through a pile of gear for your tube and tools, feeling the frustration growing? Well, say goodbye to those days with the Lezyne Flow Tool Caddy Pro. This tool bag is a game changer for cyclists who value organization and convenience. Its sleek, ergonomic design not only fits perfectly in your water bottle cage, but also offers easy access and smart storage while you’re on the go.
With internal compartments including a zippered section and a mesh pocket, this caddy ensures that your tube, CO2 canisters and multi-tools are well organized and always within reach. And when you’re dealing with an apartment next to the street, the full 180-degree zipper opening means you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips, hassle-free.
Most sought after bike bag
Moral Code Tide Vegan Backpack
Most sought after bike bag
Moral Code Tide Vegan Backpack
If you’re going for a quick trip around town and want to do it in style, the Tide bag is our pick. It is practical and elegant, making it a great choice for cyclists who appreciate form and function. With its waterproof capabilities, you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a downpour, and its durability means it can handle the rough and tumble of city life.
But what really sets the Tide backpack apart for us is the brand’s commitment to style without sacrificing sustainability. It’s made from recycled plastic bottles with vegan apple leather accents. The classic flap design gives you easy access to the main compartment, ensuring that everything you need is just a zip away. Plus, with extra pockets, your smaller essentials are always within reach.
What to look for in a bike bag
When diving into the vast sea of bike bags, it’s easy to be swept away by the sheer variety and advertised features. However, looking at a few key factors can help you navigate these waters.
Type of bike – For the rugged off-roader, durability and water resistance are your best companions. Urban commuters, on the other hand, may prioritize ease of access and reflective elements for twilight riders.
Capacity and Compartments – Think Mary Poppins’ purse, but for cyclists. You want enough space to stash your essentials, but with savvy compartments to avoid a chaotic treasure hunt every time you need your keys.
Attachment systems – A bag that fits well and securely on your bike is like a faithful sidekick, ready for any adventure without causing a ruckus.
material – Look for lightweight yet sturdy fabrics that can handle adverse weather conditions and keep your belongings safe and dry.
Why Trust Esquire?
We don’t have all the answers, but we’re certainly not slacking on the research front, and we make it a point to chat with the experts. Our circle includes a bunch of recreational cyclists who are always on the move, giving us the lowdown on which bike racks hit the mark and which ones miss by miles. Take our own in-depth research, and you’re looking for the best advice on the internet. We’re here to guide you through the dizzying array of choices, cutting through the clutter to highlight bike bags that truly excel in durability, ease of use and versatility.
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