Bike Saddle Bags Buyers Guide
Materials Used
For me, the materials used to make saddle bag is a huge make or break.
It's extremely important to assess its quality and overall durability.
For one, I'd like to buy something that will last for a long time and if possible isn't that pricey.
Secondly, I'd like to think that even if it rains, my things will still be okay. So it's vital to have a water resistant, or better still waterproof saddle bag.
Today, most saddle bag are made of nylon, polyester, leather or sometimes synthetic rubber.
Nylon are known to be weatherproof, and can easily wick liquid.
Polyester are mostly acknowledged to be tear resistant, which guarantees that the saddle bag will last for a really long time.
Leather are used on the saddle bag's exterior is also popular for their durability.
Synthetic rubber materials are also good for their rainproof capabilities.
Storage Capacity
Another significant point to consider is the storage capacity.
You might not have realise it, but the overall storage capacity of a bike saddle bag is a big deal. An extra pocket is a huge bonus and may go a long way to help organize your stuffs and accessories.
Fortunately, a lot of saddle bag manufacturers make them in multiple sizes, so you can decide the right storage capacity for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have some questions about bike saddle bags?
1. How do I decide which size of saddle bag to buy?
Generally, there are 3 saddle bag sizes available. I'd categorize them as Standard, Large and Extra Large.
Standard. These are the ones which will fit a spare tube, 2 tire levers, a CO2 cartridge and perhaps 1-2 more small items you might carry with you.
Large. On top of what can fit in a Standard saddle bag, large bags can typically fit another spare tube inside. Maybe you could fit your mobile phone inside as well if it's not too big like the plus-sized Samsung and iPhones.
Extra Large. These are mainly used by people who are on a road or backpacking trip. You can expect to fit 1-2 piece of clothing and 3-4 more other essential items in addition to what I've just mentioned above.
2. What are the essential items to carry in a saddle bag when out cycling?
At the minimum, you should have a spare tube (make sure it's new) and 2 tire levers.
Optional items are like a CO2 cartridge if you don't use a pump and patch kits if you're going for a long, solo ride.
I've written a separate article about what's inside my saddle bag here.
3. Should I buy a waterproof saddle bag?
From my experience, that's not a must. However, it also depends what you carry inside.
Most of the things found in a saddle bag would still be fine even if its wet, except for mobile phones and clothing.
Most saddle bags are made of nylon or leather and they're not waterproof.
At best, they're water resistant. But if it's a heavy downpour, the contents will get a little wet, which is fine.
