The Perfect Handlebar Bag

Why did I sell that thing, why?!?! I don't recall the brand, although it was 13 years ago and probably doesn't matter but I had the best handlebar bag and I can't find anything similar.

It was about the size of an old school rectagle lunch box, soft sided, had a plastic protected map window and a strap to use it as a fanny pack. It was ideal for long rides where you want to take a small wallet, camera, sunscreen and have room for a layer or two as you peel them off over the course of the day.

Can anyone recommend anything remotely similar??

Maybe?

http://www.rei.com/product/765949?vc...HP_CYCLING_TOC

Thanks for the link. I looked at that one at the store the other day and its much larger than I want. There's another at REI that is the size I want and has the map pocket but it doesn't have a strap. I'm thinking I could rig something up. hmmmm

I've ordered this one (second down) and it should be in today or tomorrow. It doesn't have a map pocket, but has a shoulder strap and looks easily detachable. I bought it for the commuter beast.

I'll let you know how I like it.

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Originally Posted by ummbnb

Thanks for the link. I looked at that one at the store the other day and its much larger than I want. There's another at REI that is the size I want and has the map pocket but it doesn't have a strap. I'm thinking I could rig something up. hmmmm

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I've got this bag, and I don't love it. It's a bit floppy, and I find that things fall out of it when I unzip it (while it's on the bike). I'm thinking the top-opening handlebar bags look more practical.

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Originally Posted by divingbiker

I've got this bag, and I don't love it. It's a bit floppy, and I find that things fall out of it when I unzip it (while it's on the bike). I'm thinking the top-opening handlebar bags look more practical.

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Thanks so much for letting me know this. Guess I won't take that lunch trip to REI today ;)

I wonder if I can make a map holder (zip ties and some sort of plastic sheet) and then use a fanny pack as a bar bag, just wrap the straps around the handlebars.

My favorite is still the little Topeak handlebar bag
http://www.rei.com/product/735854
It converts to a fanny pack, is just the right size for my camera, wallet and some snacks. It doesn't have a map case, but I've attached a small map case that normally velcros onto the handle bar onto the bag's handle. Works well.

At the time I bought it, there were a bunch of references to it here on other threads.

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Originally Posted by Thorn

My favorite is still the little Topeak handlebar bag
http://www.rei.com/product/735854
It converts to a fanny pack, is just the right size for my camera, wallet and some snacks. It doesn't have a map case, but I've attached a small map case that normally velcros onto the handle bar onto the bag's handle. Works well.

At the time I bought it, there were a bunch of references to it here on other threads.

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I have the Topeak bag, and I love it. I haven't tried attaching my map holder to it, but I'm going to now. Thanks for the idea! :D

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Originally Posted by ummbnb

Thanks so much for letting me know this. Guess I won't take that lunch trip to REI today ;)

I wonder if I can make a map holder (zip ties and some sort of plastic sheet) and then use a fanny pack as a bar bag, just wrap the straps around the handlebars.

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When I need a map holder I use tiny binder clips that go around the brake cables and onto the map. If you need waterproofing, put the map into one of those plastic sleeves. Used many times.

Re the Topeak bag...You don't find it too rigid and bulky as a waist pack? I came seconds from buying one last week then changed my mind.

I, too, have the Topeak bag. I really like it. But, I must admit I don't use it as a fanny pack, but I like the idea that I could. I keep my expired driver's license and money in the zippered parts of the straps. It is a good size. I am amazed at how much I can stuff into that thing!

I don't find it too bulky, but, then, I often have it slung on the front, just off to the side because I'm usually walking in the city and I like to be able to keep an eye on it.

I did add a camera strap to the bag and I will also use it slung over my shoulder. When I carry it through crowded airports I often am double clipped--wasit band and shoulder strap. Not because I don't trust people, but because I'm a bit forgetful. Oops.

I was concerned that the clip would dig in, but not really.

I got the bag in that I ordered from ebay. It looks like exactly what I had in mind for commuting, handlebar bag to purse. It has exterior pockets all round, a shoulder strap and is easy on and off.

I won't get to give it the real test until Friday.

I have and love this bag on 2 of my bikes

http://www.jandd.com/detail.asp?PRODUCT_ID=FBB

It's not big nor obtrusive, but big enough to stash money, kleenex, cell phone, camera, granola bar, other glasses, and whatever other little stuff I may need to carry. Not big enough to stuff a jacket, but I think I could squish in arm warmers, gloves or glove liners no problem.

For cue sheets I use this one when I need it but don't carry it very often

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___98102

They make it in a larger size to hold maps but so far I've not needed one so big.