CYCLING BAGS
Choosing a cycling bag depends on what you want to carry. A rucksack can be sweaty and uncomfortable after a while so unless you are into cross country mountain biking or Polaris style mountain biking events, get a cycling bag that attaches to your bike. Let the bike carry the weight!
Cycling bags come in various types and can be fitted to different parts of your bike...
SADDLEBAGS
The most common type of cycling bag is a saddle bag fitted to the saddle rails and seatpost. You can't stuff much more than a light waterproof cycling jacket, some tools and an energy bar into the smallest ones. The larger type of saddlebags can fit in enough kit for a weekend away if you pack carefully.
A waterproof zip on your saddlebag is a good idea if you dont use mudguards. |
Check out Saddlebag Prices
at Wiggle UK |
BACKPACKS
A Cycling Backpack is the most convenient way of carrying stuff on short journeys.
A cycling-specific backpack should have waist and chest straps, a ventilated back and a compression system to stop stuff rattling around while cycling. Some cycling backpacks have a drinks bladder fitted so you can drink on the move.
Although for longer days on the bike, it is better to have a cycling bag fixed to your bike, for something like a day out cross country mountain biking a cycling-specific backpack can make the bike easier to ride in 'technical' conditions (mud and rocks to you and me).
| 
Check out Backpack Prices
at Wiggle UK |
If you need to carry more, such as on a cycling holiday, you might want to fit a rack to the bike.
This allows you to fit larger bags and therefore carry more kit. Buy the best rack that you can afford. Cheaper racks will 'sway' when heavy loads are carried and your steering can be affected.
A rack will either bolt to the frame or to the seat-post.
|
For a rear rack, there are two main types of cycling bag...
Check out Rackpack
Prices at Wiggle UK |
RACK PACK
A Rack Pack sits on top of the rack, usually attached by straps and velcro. A rackpack is conveniently out of the way. There is usually a main zipped compartment and pockets for bits and pieces. A small strap on the back of the rackpack will allow you to fit your back light to the bag.
With a rackpack you can pack enough for a weekend if you pack carefully. |
BIKE PANNIERS
The type of cycling bag that attaches to the side of a rack is called a pannier. It is more common to have a pair of panniers as having weight distributed evenly is better for the handling of the bike. Bike pannier size is usually measured by capacity (in Litres). Depending on what size you choose, you can pack enough kit for weeks or months of cycling.
Most manufacturers now produce their panniers with 'locking' fasteners to keep them attached to the bicycle over bumps or rough ground.
Altura produce a range of panniers called 'Urban Briefcase'. These include a padded laptop bag and are ideal for city bike-commuters.
The Ortlieb range of panniers and other cycling-bags are made from heavy-duty plastic and are completely waterproof - in fact, you can use them as buckets when camping!
Panniers and a saddlebag or a rack pack are a very commonly used combination by many cyclists.
FRONT PANNIERS
A special type of pannier rack, commonly called a 'lowrider', is available for the front of the bike. Front panniers affect the steering less than rear panniers and many cyclists prefer to use bags on the front of the bike in preference to rear panniers.
| 
Check out Pannier
Prices at Wiggle UK |
Check out Handlebar Bag Prices at Wiggle UK
| HANDLEBAR BAGS
A cycling bag on the handlebars is quite a handy place to carry stuff. Things are easy to get to - great for cycling photographers! Many incorporate a see-through map holder on the top of the bag, so no stopping to check where you are every five minutes!
When fitting a handlebar bag, make sure it does not foul your brake or gear cables! |
MESSENGER BAGS
A Messenger Bag or Courier Bag is great for carrying stuff around town and still looking cool when off the bike.
One strap goes over your shoulder and there is usually another to go round your waist when neccessary. Extra pockets for your mobile phone and other nick nacks make organising your life easy and reflective material helps to keep you safe from blind drivers at night. If you ride long distances or carry heavy stuff then a messenger bag is not the bag of choice but they are great for commuting and town-hopping!
| 
Check out Messenger Bag
Prices at Wiggle UK |
PEDALPOWER T SHIRTS...
If you enjoy your visit, then please
consider
recommending
this site to a friend
| 
