Gearing up for Adventure
Choosing the Right Bike Bag
Embarking on a cycling adventure brings excitement and the promise of new experiences. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country tour, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important aspects of preparing for your journey is selecting the right bike bag. Bike bags come in various types, including handlebar bags and saddle bags, and they play a crucial role in carrying your essentials while you're on the road. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of bike bags, discussing a couple of types, how to pack them efficiently, and how to install an under-seat bike bag. As always, Speedsleev is here to answer any questions you have about our bicycle bags to get you equipped with the right gear for your next riding adventure.
What is a Bike Bag?
A bike bag is a versatile accessory designed to carry your belongings while cycling. They are typically made from durable materials, most often weather-resistant, to withstand the rigors of the road, and come in various shapes and sizes. The two main types of bike bags Speedsleev currently offers are handlebar bags and saddle bags. Each has its own special features and capabilities. Oftentimes riders will pair 2 or 3 bike bags for maximum utility.
Handlebar Bags
Handlebar bags attach to the front of your bike's handlebars and provide easy access to your essentials. They are ideal for storing items you may need while riding, such as phone, keys, wallet, nutrition, even a map, or a camera. With the larger version of our handlebar bag, you can carry additional clothing – a gilet, arm and leg warmers, a wind breaker, or a light jacket. When choosing a handlebar bag, consider factors like capacity, attachment mechanism, and weather resistance. Opt for a bag that securely fastens to your handlebars without obstructing your view or interfering with your riding posture.
Saddle Bags
Saddle bags, as the name suggests, attach to the saddle (seat) of your bike. These bags are excellent for carrying tools, spare tubes, and other small essentials. They come in various sizes to accommodate what you find essential. Most people start by reviewing the size of the tube and the amount of gear they choose to carry. Speedsleev’s saddle bags are designed to be aerodynamic and minimize motion when cliched tightly to the rails of your saddle. We feature a quick and easy way to attach and remove your saddle bag for convenient access and hassle-free manageability.
How to Pack a Bike Bag
Efficient packing is key to ensuring that your bike remains balanced and maneuverable throughout your journey. Here are some tips on how to pack your bike bags:
Prioritize Essentials: Pack items you'll need during the ride in easily accessible areas like handlebar bags. This could include nutrition, phone/camera, Philly cheese steak, and/or your favorite IPA.
(More appropriate when discussing Panniers – which I don’t yet offer, and may never)
Organize Small Items: Our design includes “Sleev’s” to keep items isolated from each other to eliminate rattle and to provide for organization. My Grandfather used to say “A place for everything and everything in its place”. So, there is a Sleev for the tube, tire levers, CO2 cartridges, Dynaplug, etc…
Pack Tightly: Pack tightly to prevent items from shifting during the ride.
(All of our bags are made with weather-resistant materials.
How Do I Install a SaddleBag (under the seat)?
A saddle bag is a practical choice for carrying an extra tube, levers, CO2 cartridges, and/or a multitool. Speedsleev has made it incredibly easy to install your saddle bag, with secure Velcro straps, and a non-slip design. Here's how to install a Speedsleev saddle bag like the Ranger Or Ranger 2.0 in 4 simple steps:
- Hold the bag with the webbing or straps on the top. You are looking at the X stitching that holds the webbing to the bag.
- With the bottom of the bag facing the seat post, place one side of the strap through the space between the seat rail and the bottom of the seat. Place the other side of the strap through the other side in like fashion.
- Holding the bag to the underside of the saddle, take the Velcro on the drive side and wrap it under the bag. Hold the bag and that side of the webbing tight to the underside of the saddle. Now, take the Speedsleev labeled side of the webbing and pull it tightly under and towards the drive side and attach the Velcro.
- Test for Stability: Give the bike a gentle shake to ensure the bag is firmly attached and won't move at all during your ride.
Selecting The Right Bike Bag
Selecting the right bike bag is a critical step in gearing up for your cycling adventure. Whether you choose a handlebar bag, a saddle bag, or both, the goal is to efficiently pack your essentials. By following the tips mentioned in this guide, you'll be well-prepared to hit the road with everything you need conveniently stowed away in your bike bags. So, get ready to pedal towards new horizons and unforgettable experiences! If you love your Speedsleev bicycle bags or want to see more epic photos of our bags, head to our Speedsleev Instagram! (Follow our page for inspiration and cool new product launches Tag us with your photos @speedsleev to share your epic adventures!)