The buycycle saddlebags review

Without this gadget you are only half equipped for the next bike ride: the saddle bag. It is an absolute must-have on every ride. Once the saddlebag is packed sensibly, it saves you time and nerves. Because with the right contents, the saddlebag can help you out of trouble in many unforeseeable situations. Here you can find out how the saddlebag becomes a savior in an emergency and which model is suitable for you.

What is a saddlebag?

A saddlebag is a small bag that is attached to the saddle of a bicycle. It is usually used to carry things that you need on a ride. They come in different shapes and sizes. Some can be rolled up, while others open with a zipper. At the same time, the saddlebag does not get in the way, it does not restrict you in your freedom of movement during the ride and offers more storage space than you would expect at first glance.

What do I need a saddlebag for?

In a saddlebag can be stowed things that are essential for a bike ride. During the trip, unpredictable situations such as a flat tire or injuries occur again and again. To be equipped for this, it is worthwhile to pack a saddlebag with useful contents and always leave at bike . So you save the annoying gathering of the useful individual parts before the next use of the bike. In addition, you do not notice the weight of the items when they are stowed in the saddlebag. If you were to carry the contents in a backpack, it would be different.

How big should a saddlebag be?

The ideal size of a saddlebag depends on the individual needs of the user. Usually a small saddlebag is enough to carry everything important in case of a breakdown. What exactly that is, you will learn further down in the text. However, those who go on a bikepacking adventure or want to carry larger tools with them, can resort to larger models. Many manufacturers offer nifty options for this. When bikepacking and longer tours you want to stow equipment on the bike that is needed for several days. Here, one usually falls back on additional bike bags such as the handlebar bag, frame bag, luggage carrier bag and other bikepacking bags. This creates enough space to carry the necessary clothing, food or camping equipment on long trips.

Can you attach saddlebags to any type of bike?

Basically, saddlebags can be attached to all types of bicycles, whether mountain bike, road bike or e-bike. Road bikes, with their narrow tires, tend to get flat tires. To be able to fix this problem on the road, it is worth carrying a saddlebag. However, before buying one should remember that especially when riding a road bike, the focus is on speed. Therefore, a small and narrow model that catches little wind and thus does not rob the bike of aerodynamics is recommended. In addition, the ideal bike bag for the road bike should have a tight-fitting attachment system. A saddle bag is also important for the MTB. After all, you quickly get so-called snake bites or other punctures, especially off-road. Here, too, the right tool is indispensable. When MTB driving a saddlebag can be exposed to a lot of dirt and moisture, which is why it should be particularly robust and in the best case water-repellent. It is also important that the saddlebag has no protruding loops or the like, with which you can get caught on branches on narrow trail descents. For e-bikes, all conventional saddlebags are suitable, no special model is needed. Since especially on the E-bike many kilometers can be covered easily, the probability of a breakdown increases. Therefore, the right equipment is also indispensable here. What exactly should be in your saddlebag, you will learn under the point "Saddlebag Essential".

How do I mount a saddlebag on the bike?

Mounting the saddlebag is quick and easy. Most models have fastening eyelets with Velcro. First, you attach an eyelet to the seat post, so that it can not fall off. Then the other fastening tabs can be attached from the inside to the saddle rails under the bicycle saddle. In doing so, you should not close the Velcro straps too tightly, so that you do not take away any storage space from the bag. In addition to mounting by Velcro, there are other variants of seatposts. For example, they can be attached by straps, thereby a similar procedure is required as with the Velcro fasteners. Also so-called click systems are becoming increasingly popular. If you buy a saddlebag with a fast-lock system, a detailed manual is included on how to attach the bag.

Saddlebag Essential: Pack these things for a bike ride!

The saddlebag offers capacity for items that can help in an emergency. To be prepared for the most common incidents, we have prepared a list of helpers that every cyclist should have with them on every ride.

Tire lever: If you want to fix a flat tire efficiently, tire levers are an absolute must. Because tire levers are a kind of levers that help you to leverage the tire from the rim bed or re-tension. Even if you have the strongest hands in the world, a tire lever will make your job a lot easier and save you a lot of time. They come in a variety of sizes, so make sure you pick a size that will fit in a saddlebag. Nevertheless, as with all levers, the longer this is the greater the leverage.

Spare tube: When you're on the road, a suddenly flat tire is the last thing you want. With a reliable saddlebag by your side, you'll be prepared for any situation that might arise on the road. pack a spare tube for this. When you take the tube out of the box, make sure to keep the rubber band wrapped around it so it stays nice and tight. If you've already used up your spare tube in the event of a puncture, here's a tip: There are vending machines on the front of many bike stores where spare tubes can be purchased. Make sure you buy the right size and the right valve that fits your bike.

CO2 cartridges or mini hand pump: Once you've replaced a punctured hose with a new one, it's obviously time to pump it up. CO2 cartridges are a convenient and quick way to inflate your hose. They're small and easy to carry, and the inflation nozzle is pretty compact, too. In seconds, you can get plenty of air into your tire without having to spend a long time using a bicycle pump. However, if you're looking for a cheaper and more eco-friendly option, we recommend a mini hand pump. However, you may then need a larger saddle bag.

Repair kit: If you're unlucky enough to suffer multiple punctures in one ride, a patch kit in your saddlebag can be a lifesaver. Also, if you pass another cyclist with problems on your ride, having a patch kit is often a big help, as unfortunately not all bike enthusiasts are as well equipped. These kits are small and easy to carry and can help you fix that punctured tube so you can ride again. Even if you don't plan on using them, it's better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them. If you ride tubeless, a tubeless repair kit is a great alternative to a patch kit.

Multitool: Even if your bike does not require a multitool to remove the wheels, it is still a good idea to have one with you on every ride. Because on the multitool are important tools installed, with whose help you could theoretically disassemble your entire bike. Common tools are, for example, the Allen key in various sizes, a chain riveter to be able to ream out broken plates, a Torx 25 insert as well as slotted and Phillips screwdrivers. There are countless components on your bike that can shift or come loose. A multitool is often the best way to fix these problems quickly and easily. There are many multitools available, so be sure to buy one that fits your needs and is compatible with the screws on your bike.

More extras: Besides these basic things, depending on the size of the bag, you can also pack a small first aid kit or some gloves or wet wipes in case you need to fix a chain that fell off. It's better to use these tools than to smear your bike and clothes with grease. Rations such as energy bars, power gel or similar are also handy on short tours. Depending on the liter volume can also stow a small foldable rain jacket. Saddlebags are also suitable for carrying valuables such as the smartphone or some cash. When you move away from bike , you should of course take these things out of the bag. Exactly which things you pack depends on your personal preferences and needs.

Which saddlebag is the best?

Here is a little buying advice for you, based on test reports. Depending on the application, your ideal saddlebag differ in size and shape. There are some practical things that must not be missing. For example, waterproof seams are important to be able to transport your multitool or cash dry even in the rain. Also, the saddlebag is so particularly durable. Reflective elements are also important, because in the place of the seatpost should normally be reflectors and a taillight is attached. Many suppliers have developed practical models. There are also models with integrated bottle cage, where you can easily grab your water bottle while riding. On multi-day tours, every water bottle you can carry on your bike counts more. If there is a luggage rack on your bike , you should make sure that the saddle bag is not attached too close to it. Among the most popular variants in the bicycle saddlebags Review are the brands Vaude, Ortlieb, Topeak, Klickfix, RockBros, Deuter, Evoc or Rixen & Kaul. Here we present the best saddlebags that many testers have found to be very good.

Small saddlebags

Vaude Race Light: In this saddle bag fits just the most necessary tools. It is therefore very light and is attached by Velcro. Designed for the road bike, the saddlebag can of course also be mounted on any other type of bike. It also includes a flashing light holder and reflective elements. It is water and dirt repellent.

Toepak Aero Wedge Pack Strap: This bag from Topeak has reflective stripes, a holder for an optionally available LED, a large opening and is attached by Velcro to the seatpost. It offers storage space for essentials such as multitool, spare tube and energy bar.

EVOC Seat Bag M: The saddle bag from Evoc is available in various modern colors. It is attached by a clamping system and is very light. Through a buckle it can be mounted. Here, too, has just the most necessary space, the bag is also very light.

KlickFix Micro Sport: This model is available in three different sizes. They include a reflector and a KlickFix saddle adapter. This allows the saddle bag can also be mounted on sports saddles. Through a click system, the bag is attached. The attachment is simple and fast.

Large saddlebags

Topeak BackLoader: This saddle bag offers 15 L volume for luggage. This makes it a good alternative to luggage racks and at the same time protects like a fender. The mounting system allows the pendulum effect during the ride is reduced and you hardly notice the movement of the extra weight while cycling. The saddlebag is water repellent with a waterproof inner bag. It is fastened by Velcro and has a rear light holding.

Ortlieb Saddle Bag two: The Ortlieb Saddle Bag Two is a bag with a lot of volume, 4.1 L to be exact. Thanks to an adapter, the attachment and attachment to bike are quick to make. If the bag should not be there times, so no holder must be dismantled cumbersome. For this, the bag has a practical click system. In addition, the Paddle Tag two is waterproof and has a roll closure. Reflectors are located on the side.

Ortlieb Seat-Pack: This saddle bag was created for bikepacking. It is spacious, waterproof, has a roll closure and is extremely robust. A total of 16.5 L fit in here. Cord suits on the top of the bag provide extra space for equipment. Due to the shape of the bag, it also serves as a fender and can mount on any bike with a fixed seatpost.