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    Saddlebags Essentials

    Sophia Willmes
    Sophia Willmes
    Mar 4, 2024 3 min
    Saddlebags Essentials

    You pack this for your next bike ride in your saddlebag!

    A saddlebag is a small bag attached to the saddle of a bicycle. It is usually used to carry small items needed during a tour. Saddlebags come in different shapes and sizes, which is all good, but what should go in there anyway? This blog post has answers.

    • Tire levers: If you have a flat tire, it is easier for even the strongest hands.
    • Spare tube: Even the perfect tire levers are tube When you take the tube out of the package, make sure that the rubber band stays wrapped around the tube to hold it tightly together, which firstly saves space in the bag and secondly protects the tube better from scratches. How exactly you can easily replace a hose, you will learn here.
    • Mini pump/CO2 cartridge/inflator: If you've replaced a punctured hose with a new one, you'll need to inflate it before your tour can continue. CO2 cartridges are a convenient option; they're small and easy to carry, and the inflation nozzle is relatively compact, too. But they are one-shot wonders, so be extra careful when putting them on; you only get air out of them once.
    A small hand pump is a cheaper and much more environmentally friendly alternative. This does not fit every saddlebag, but you can often clamp it at the frame. - Alice Huot @ buycycle.
    • Repair kit: If you're unlucky and suffer from two punctures in one ride, an extra repair kit in your saddlebag is your salvation. These kits are small and easy to carry, and it's always better to have one and not need it than to need one and not have one. If you have a tubeless tire, an appropriate alternative is necessary.
    • Multi-Tool: Again, better safe than sorry. Countless components on your bike can shift or come loose, and a multitool is often the best way to fix these small problems quickly and easily. Many different multitools are available, so pick one that suits your needs and is compatible with the bolts on your bike.
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    We also have an article with the selection of the best road bike saddles currently on the market.

    If there is still some space left in your bag, we recommend that you also pack the following items:

    • Extra Cash: It's always a good idea to have some cash on you for emergencies or even for a sneaky espresso.
    • Wet wipes: They're not essential, but they're better than grease on your bike and clothes when you need to fix a chain that has fallen off.
    • Band-Aids: Accidents happen, so it's good to have a band-aid handy for minor scrapes and cuts.

    These are our buycycle suggestions for your following saddlebag packing list. Exactly what items you pack will depend on your personal needs and preferences. You can also take a cue from our 20 bike Gadgets Tips for inspiration... For your next bike tour, we wish you Happy packing and cycyling!

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