Review – Carradice Bikepacking Handlebar Bag

Think of Carradice, and images of the classic Nelson Saddlebag probably come to mind—the original waxed cotton canvas bag found on audax bikes for decades. The British brand have also been quietly creating a range of bikepacking saddlebags and handlebar bags though; using their knowledge of fabrics, and timeless trustworthy design; they have created some simple but superbly made pieces of bikepacking luggage.

The Carradice Bikepacking Handlebar Bag is a 3.5 litre cannister style handlebar bag, made from 1000 denier military grade Cordura® fabric.

The handlebar bag is simple in design: it has one main compartment with a water-resistant zipper, and a buttoned flip-over lid to keep out the worst of the weather (this bag is not fully waterproof). There is an additional zippered pocket on the top of the lid for smaller valuables. The bag attaches to your handlebars (road or mountain bike) using strong webbing straps with foam spacers to avoid it interrupting your grip on the bars.

Additional features include reflective panels on the sides, a reflective logo on the lid, and an LED light attachment loop on the front of the bag. There is also a third optional strap included to attach the bag back onto the head tube or cables to prevent it bouncing around on rough ground.

The bag is robustly made, and it stayed mounted securely to my gravel bike handlebars even on rough off-road escapades. It is larger than most 'compact' handlebar bags and offers enough storage capacity for tools, snacks, spares, a mini-pump, waterproof jacket, gloves and even a compacted down jacket. The zippered pocket on the top is ideal for items you want to keep close to hand.

Carradice has been producing bike bags since the early 1930's, and they are known the world over for their quality and longevity. This Carradice Bikepacking Handlebar Bag seems to hold those values true to form—proving to be durable and capable, with timeless style. A great handlebar bag for everyday adventures or month-long bikepacking tours.

>> Shop the Carradice Bikepacking Handlebar Bag at Carradice.co.uk

Disclaimer: Carradice UK supplied a Carradice Bikepacking Handlebar Bag for test and review