One Direction, The Ice Bucket Challenge and the first iPad. What do these pop culture references have to do with the humble handlebar bag? Answer - they were popular in the 2010s.
After decades in the wilderness, handlebar bags have returned - in a big way! Everyone from roadies to commuters, bikepackers to mountain bikers - all riders across the bike riding spectrum - are zipping too and fro with a handlebar bag strapped to their bars
But as we’ve already alluded to, whilst handlebar bags are indeed popular, they’re not exactly new. Look not too far into the recent past, and you’ll spot touring cyclists riding with bags plopped on their handlebars. More often than not, with a clear map pocket on top. Halcyon days!
Time to wrap up our rather tenuous introduction! It’s perhaps fair to say that, unlike One Direction and The Ice Bucket Challenge, the popularity of handlebar bags has continued apace, going hand in hand with the growth of gravel bikes and bikepacking. So what’s all the fuss about?
In this entry on the Carradice blog, we’re looking at all the handlebar bags need-to-knows. What they are, why you might want to ride with one and which type of handlebar bag is best suited to you and the type of riding you do.
What is a handlebar bag?
A handlebar bag is a small item of luggage, usually less than 5 litres in capacity, that attaches to a bicycle’s handlebars. They come in a range of shapes and sizes, with some requiring an additional rack to pair them with a bike.
The Carradice Bowland fitted with an accompanying Bagman Bar Rack. Image: Markus Stitz
Why are handlebar bags useful?
In our book, there are three main reasons to consider a handlebar bag to carry items whilst riding a bike.
One. Universal compatibility. The majority, but by no means all, of handlebar bags have a universal attachment system. That is to say, they fit almost all (owners of bikes with spinacci or h-bar handlebars, we’re looking at you here!) types of handlebars easily, irrespective of their diameter or shape.
Our Originals Zipped Roll Saddlebag happily doubles up as a handlebar bag too. Image: Markus Stitz
Two. Handlebar bags are the antidote to laden, sagging cycling jersey pockets.
We’ll set the scene. It’s just before lunch, you’re desperate to head out for an hour or two. There’s no time to eat now, you’ve got to be back by 2 pm. But that lovely jar of chutney your mum has bought round would make a delicious sandwich for the homeward leg - so you whip out the bread and butter. Plus, the weather’s looking a bit iffy, so you'd better bring a jacket. Oh, and you’re bike's mysterious creak has returned. So you'd better pack that multitool with the largest range of Allen key sizes - just in case something catastrophic happens. Ah, yes, better take the house keys because everyone else has gone out for the day.
Before you know it, the jersey pockets of your favourite cycling jersey are full to the brim, stretching towards the ground and pulling you with it!
We’ve been there - you probably have too - and this is where handlebar bags are great. Their diddy size is more than a cycling jersey can take but much less than other bike bags, such as a pannier. In this circumstance, you could also consider taking a backpack, but in our experience, on-bike bags trump those you wear 10 times out of 10!
Carradice catalogues of the 1970s and 1980s illustrating that cyclists have long realised the value of handlebar bags. Image: Carradice
The third and final reason to consider a handlebar bag is ease of access. Thanks to their placement and easy opening, it’s extremely easy to roll to stop, stay over the top tube of your bike, and delve into a bar bag to whip out a chocolate bar to sate a grumbly tummy or throw on a jacket as an errant shower approaches.
That might seem a tad disengenuous. After all, a bike ride shouldn’t be rushed - indeed, we extolled the virtues of slow adventure by bicycle - but sometimes time is very much money!
Different types of handlebar bags
Classic handlebar bag (sometimes referred to as a Barrel or Burrito bar bag)
This is the most popular handlebar bag type. Usually around 3-5 litres in size, a bag like this will consist of a single main compartment, with internal mesh pockets or external elasticated pockets to segregate smaller items like snacks, tools, or phones.
Simple, yet effective. Image: Markus Stitz
Due to their overall capacity and simple strap attachment system, these bags are best suited for carrying small, lightweight items. The best handlebar bags in this category will have a simple strap system to attach the bag to the bike, plus an additional toggle, strap or foam spacer to prevent the bag from swinging when riding hard.
Because their attachment method is incredibly simple, it’s very easy to whip these bags off and go riding without them.
Top-loader or box-style handlebar bag
A top-loader or box-style handlebar bag is perfect for touring cyclists. Often much larger in size, these handlebar bags have a hood or flap, offering quick access to essentials like snacks, phones, or cameras.
Bikepacking with handlebar bags. Image: Markus Stitz
Its rigid structure prevents the bag from sagging when packed, enabling the bag to carry slightly heavier items than a classic handlebar bag.
Mounted securely on an accompanying rack or bracket, this type of handlebar bag keeps gear within eyeshot and within reach, something small, but something that’s very appreciated during long rides.
Holster or handlebar roll bag
A holster or handlebar roll bag suits riders aiming for lightweight bikepacking. This flexible system allows you to compress soft kit, like sleeping bags or clothing, into a roll that straps into a holster. It stays stable on rough terrain, minimising sway. This kind of handlebar bag has found favour with bikepackers - and off-road bikepackers in particular.
Rando or Basket Bags
Fourth on our list, and perhaps it's a stretch to include them here, are rando or basket bags. Whilst they don’t attach to the handlebars of a bike per se, their position over the front wheel meant we felt they were worth including here.
These bags are usually much larger in capacity and fit on a compatible front rack or front basket system. Given that it's unlikely that riders will spend time removing a front rack any time they didn’t want to ride with a rando bag, this type of bar is great for commuters or those who spend their time running errands by bike.
Features to look for in a handlebar bag
Capacity
The first thing to think about is what you need to carry. Handlebar bags come in a wide range of sizes, from compact 1 litre bags perfect for a quick commute or day trip, to large-capacity bags of 10+ litres or more designed for bikepacking and touring.
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Small Bags (1-3 litres): Ideal for essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and a few snacks. They are great for short rides where you want minimal bulk and quick access.
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Medium Bags (4-8 litres): A versatile option for day trips or longer commutes. You can easily fit a light jacket, a camera, or a larger lunch, in addition to your essentials.
- Large Bags (10+ litres): They can hold bulky items like a sleeping bag, a tent, or a change of clothes, helping you distribute weight and keep your bike balanced on multi-day trips.
When choosing a bag, consider not just the volume but also the dimensions. Make sure there's enough clearance between the bag and your front tyre, especially on bikes with short headtubes or suspension forks.
Front tyre clearance is a consideration when buying a handlebar bag. Image: Markus Stitz
Storage Options
A bag’s capacity is important, but how that space is organised matters just as much. Look for features that make your life easier when out on two wheels.
- Main Compartment: Is it a simple, single space, or does it have internal dividers or pockets? Pockets can help you keep smaller items organised and within easy reach when you need them fast.
- External Pockets: Side pockets, front pockets, or a separate sleeve for a smartphone can be incredibly useful for items you need to access quickly without opening the main bag.
- External Attachment Points: Many bags include external bungees or loops for strapping on extra gear like a jacket or an extra light. This adds flexibility and expands the bag's usable space.
- Closure System: Roll-top closures are excellent for waterproofing and adjustability, while a zip or a simple flap and buckle system can offer quicker access.
Attachment (Compatibility)
The way a handlebar bag attaches to your bike is crucial for stability and safety. You need a secure fit that won't sway, interfere with your steering or impact other items on your handlebars.
- Straps: Many bags use adjustable straps and foam spacers to securely mount to your handlebars and head tube. This is a simple and versatile solution that works on most bikes.
- Quick-Release Systems: Some handlebar bags have an accompanying quick-release system, which helps to easily attach and detach the bag from your bike. This is ideal for commuters or anyone who wants to take their bag with them when they leave their bike. Obviously the downside of this is that the system will need to be on the handlebars if you want to ride with the bar bag.
- GPS & Front Light Interference: These days, it's not uncommon for handlebars to be crowded with devices, so check how your bar bag interacts with things you already have mounted. It’s possible to get around some issues with extenders, additional mounts or simply mounting GPS devices and lights in a different way. For example, when running a bar bag, we tend to switch to a stem-mounted GPS device and change the mounting position of our front light to ensure the bag doesn’t interfere with the beam.
Waterproof Rating
No one wants their gear to get soaked in a sudden downpour. A bag's waterproof rating is a key indicator of how well it will protect your belongings.
- Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof: Be aware of the distinction. A "water-resistant" or "showerproof" bag can handle a light drizzle but will not keep your contents dry in heavy rain. A truly "waterproof" bag is designed to prevent all water from penetrating. Look for bags made from durable, waterproof materials like military-grade Cordura or those with a TPU coating and sealed or welded seams
- Roll-Top Closures: A roll-top closure, like those on our Bowland bar bag, is a highly effective way to keep water out, as long as you roll it down at least two or three times.
4 tips when buying a Handlebar Bag
Scroll further down for some other considerations when purchasing a handlebar bag.
1.Check fit (and then check it again!)
Handlebar bags come in many shapes and sizes, and what looks fine in the shop can interfere with cables, shifters, or lights once mounted. Always test with your actual setup. Load it, ride with it, and make sure nothing rubs, rattles, or compromises access to your brakes or shifters. In our experience, this isn’t just a case for heavier items. It’s also particularly important when loading a bar bag with large, lighter items - things like a down jacket, say.
2.Check a handlebar bag won’t impact how your bike handles
Adding weight up front can affect steering, especially on lighter or more responsive road bikes. A well-designed bag should sit close to the bars and not swing. Test with different loads to see how your bike feels. Comfort and stability should matter more to you than squeezing in something that you might not need to take riding.
A stable handlebar bag can make all the difference when the tarmac ends. Image: Markus Stitz
3.Think about how a handlebar bag fits into a wider carrying system
A handlebar bag can serve as either a standalone piece of bike luggage or as part of a larger packing system, so when deciding to buy one, it's worth considering which approach suits you best. If you’re planning to carry bigger loads as part of a full bikepacking setup, capacity naturally becomes a key factor. But if it's just a small bag you’re after, then your options are a little freer.
4. Consider a different type of bag?
Handlebar bags are great for the reasons we just typed out this dull Wednesday evening, but don’t let us put you off other bike bag types. Saddlebags, especially larger ones, are a great alternative. For a look-see on saddlebags - something we’re very well known for - see our guide to choosing a saddlebag.
For more on this discussion, check out this vociferous Reddit thread on the subject of bar bags.
Best Handlebar Bags
Best handlebar bag for bikepacking
For long-distance adventures and multi-day trips, the Bowland Bar Bag is an excellent choice. With a generous 12L or even larger 20L capacity and a roll-top closure, you can easily adjust the size of this bag to fit the amount of gear you’d like to carry.
The capacity of the Bowland in both 12L or 20L is certainly a step up from smaller, barrel bar bags. Image: Carradice
It's made from waterproof, military-grade 1000 denier Cordura with a tape-sealed lining, ensuring your belongings stay dry in any weather. The bag is designed to be highly stable, attaching to the Bagman Bar Rack with an elasticated stem attachment to prevent any swaying on rough trails.
Best handlebar bag for road bikes
The Harrop Bar Bag is a lightweight and versatile option perfect for day rides and commuting. With a 4.5-litre capacity, it's just the right size for essentials like a spare tube, snacks, and a light jacket.
The Harrop is part of the Adventure Range. Image: Carradice
It is constructed from a rugged 1000-denier Cordura and features a zip pocket on the front for easy access to small items. The bag's secure three-strap attachment system and lightweight design (0.24kgs) ensure it won't interfere with your handling or add unnecessary bulk.
Best handlebar bag for touring
The Keswick Handlebar Bag is a classic touring bag with a 5-litre capacity, offering ample space for all your on-the-road necessities. It's built for durability and weather resistance, made from 100% waterproof 18-ounce cotton duck fabric with self-sealing seams.
The Keswick has that distinctive outline of a classic box-type handlebar bag. Image: Carradice
The bag is designed for easy use on long journeys, attaching securely to your handlebars with a quick-release Klickfix system for hassle-free removal.
That’s our handlebar bags packed and ready to ride. For more reading, head over to the Carradice blog.
