So you’re ready to take a bike ride or tour but you dot know what type of bicycle saddle bags you’ll need for your trip. In order to answer this question there are several things you need to know. How far you’re traveling, how long your trip is, and how much weight you’ll carry.
For short rides that are no longer than around 25 to 70 miles you don’t really need large panniers that hang off racks over the front and rear wheels. Remember, the more you have on your bike the more wind resistance you create and the slower you go. For this distance you probably only need a good behind the seat saddle bag, handlebar bag, or under the top tube type bag.
I would suggest you first look at a behind the seat bag. This bag is the simplest to attach and typically causes low wind resistance. These bags fit conveniently right under and behind your bike seat. Typically their big enough to fit your bike tools, tube, tire, and maybe even your lunch!
Handlebar bags on the other hand are also easy to mount but also add the advantage of easy access. Since they sit directly in front of you they can be accessed without dismounting the bike. Just be careful not to overfill your handlebar bag. Doing so will impede your ability to turn the bike quickly in case of emergency.
Finally a under the top tube bag is typically the smallest and most aerodynamic type of bag. It attaches right under the top tube of the bike. Some of these bags actually double as shoulder carry straps if you need to carry the bike over rough terrain.
If you are going to take a long tour across long distances then you will have sleeping gear, food, extra liquid and more weight in general. Trying to stuff your handlebar bag too full will cause you to lose balance, not be able to turn quickly in an emergency, and crash. Instead, get some bicycle saddle bags or panniers will suit your needs perfectly.
Bike panniers take quite a bit longer to attach and will create a decent amount of wind drag but the benefits make them very worthwhile. Since they mount on racks mounted above the front and rear wheels, you can carry much more weight safely and low to the ground. So finding the right bicycle saddle bags is simple and fun.
