Bike Handlebar Bags

What is a bike handlebar bag?

A bike handlebar bag is a storage bag that attaches to the handlebars of a bike.

This provides easy access to essential items while riding.

These bike bags come in various sizes and styles; catering to different riding needs such as commuting, touring, bike-packing, and road cycling.

Easy Access: Positioned at the front of the bike for quick access to snacks, phone, wallet, or tools.
Mounting System: Typically attached using straps, Velcro, or a mounting bracket.
Weather Protection: Many bike handlebar bags are water-resistant or waterproof to protect contents from rain.
Storage Capacity: Can range from small pouches (1-3 litres) for daily rides to larger bags (10+ litres) for long-distance touring.
Additional Features: Some include clear touchscreen-compatible compartments for navigation and external mesh pockets.

Who Uses Bike Handlebar Bags?

Commuters

For carrying essentials like keys, wallets and phones.

Bikepackers & Tourers

For extra gear, food, or camping supplies.

Road Cyclists & Gravel Riders

For lightweight storage without using a backpack.

How to Choose the Right Bike Handlebar Bag

When selecting a bike handlebar bag, consider:

Capacity

Depending on the length of your ride, you'll want a bag that's large enough to carry your essentials without being too bulky.

Weather Resistance

If you’re riding in varying conditions, look for a waterproof or weather-resistant bag.

Mounting System

Make sure the bag fits securely on your bike’s handlebars, whether it’s with Velcro straps, buckles, or a specialised mounting system.

Accessibility

If you need easy access to specific items (like your phone), choose a bag with a transparent map/phone pouch or one with quick-access features.

Standard Bike Handlebar Bags

Purpose

Everyday storage for cyclists who want a small, easily accessible bag for essentials like keys, phone, wallet, and snacks.

Features

Typically feature a single compartment with a zipper or roll-top closure.

Some may have smaller side pockets or compartments for organisation.

Best for

Commuters, short rides, and recreational cyclists.

Bike-packing Bike Handlebar Bags

Purpose

Designed for longer bike-packing trips where weight and capacity are crucial.

Features

Usually have larger capacities (up to 10L or more), roll-top closures, and may include external straps for additional gear like tents or sleeping bags.

Often waterproof and highly durable.

Best for

Bike-packers, adventure cyclists, and long-distance tourers.

Gravel/CX Bike Handlebar Bags

Purpose

Specifically made for gravel riders and cyclocross (CX) cyclists who need lightweight, rugged storage.

Features

Typically small to medium in size (2L-7L), with a streamlined design to reduce drag. They usually offer waterproofing, quick-access compartments, and secure mounting systems.

Best for

Gravel riders and cyclocross racers who need quick access to essentials like food, water, and tools.