The bike Handlebar bag – ACTV 100

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Cyclists like to be lean and clean when they ride. They don't like to ride with bags. They prefer to keep spares in the rear pockets of jerseys rather than carry a bag. As a hiker I don't mind carrying a bag but I decided to try minimalism.

Top Tube Bag and Backpack

When going for solo rides I was often happy to carry a backpack and use a bag under the top tube. They're simple, convenient and comfortable. They allow me to have a rain coat, spare inner tubes, a pump and more. It also allowed me to have the passport safe from rain when crossing between France and Switzerland.

During a ride up the Jura I wanted to get a drink but the bag under the top tube was blocking water bottles so I removed it and tried carrying things in my rear pockets. It works, but on rough terrain I could feel pockets deform and objects lean outwards. I suspected that things would eventually fall out.

The Handlebar Bag

An interesting compromise is the ACTV 100 handlebar bag. It's small and compact and can easily hold a small pump, gas canisters, inflator, tyre tools, spare inner tubes, wallet and a compact bike lock. It is easy to fix before a bike ride, and remove.

You might not need this for a short morning ride on a nice day, but if there is a chance of rain or you want to keep things in a waterproof bag then this is a good solution. The handlebar bag is not waterproof but if you have a waterproof sleeve then this bag is more convenient than the rear pockets of cycling jerseys.

It also provides you with a convenient place to keep your phone charger, and to store the bike computer and rear radar when you stop for a coffee.

Riding Experience

During yesterday's bike ride the back never got in the way, or affected my riding experience. It was quick to place on the bike and quick to remove. It was also convenient to get a gel from the bag when I was stopped at one point.

And Finally

A saddle bag and cycling jersey easily provide enough storage for most of the rides I do. The handle bar bag is a convenient place to store snacks, a bike lock, and the phone while riding. It doesn't need to be full to be justified. And finally, yesterday it did not get in the way during my ride. The bike felt normal.