Bicycle panniers and their practical use

Bicycle Bags: How to Get the Most Out of Them?

If you're focused on speed and maximum sporting performance or "marginal gains," then you probably look at bicycle bags with skepticism. However, for many, the ability to carry items on a bike makes life easier and allows for more comfortable adventures compared to carrying a backpack. How do you choose the right bicycle bag for you? We'll answer in this article.

Why Use Bicycle Bags and How to Choose?

Any cyclist who has tried a long ride with a backpack will agree that bicycle bags are not a luxury but a necessity. There's no doubt—bicycle bags enhance the bike's functionality, turning it into a fully-fledged means of transport by allowing you to carry items comfortably. The design, aerodynamics, and other features of these bags are usually adapted to different use cases:

• For city cyclists: These bags simplify commuting or shopping trips—they are ideal for safely carrying a laptop, documents, and groceries. Such bags have a large capacity, typically 10–30 liters.

• For travelers: Bicycle bags for long journeys are also spacious but have additional features. For example, they should be fully waterproof and have a highly reliable attachment system that allows for carrying heavy items (such as camping gear) on various types of terrain.

• For athletes: These bicycle bags are smaller, lighter, and highly aerodynamic. They are designed to hold essential gear: tire repair tools, a pump or CO2 cartridge, and specialized nutrition. Such bags are mounted in places on the bike where their contents can be accessed without dismounting.

Types of Bicycle Bags

You can easily choose a bicycle bag based on its mounting location/type. The most common bag types are:

• Rear rack-mounted bicycle bags: These are among the most popular models for city cyclists and travelers. They attach with clamps and special straps on both sides of the rack. Rear rack-mounted bicycle bags are spacious and convenient, ensuring that bike balance remains unchanged and steering is not affected, even with a heavy load. Popular models include Thule Shield Pannier and Specialized Tailwind.

• Handlebar-mounted bicycle bags: Ideal for small items such as a phone, snacks, or small tools. These bags are popular among travelers and gravel riders going on long journeys. Handlebar-mounted bicycle bags also help protect the frame from scratches due to contact. Our customers' favorites in this category include Lezyne Bar Caddy and PRO Discover.

• Frame-mounted bicycle bags: Like rack-mounted bags, frame-mounted bags do not affect bike stability. However, frame-mounted bags vary in mounting positions. For example, the SKS Explorer Edge bag attaches under the top tube and near the seat tube, while the Canyon Midloader attaches under the top tube and near the down tube and seat tube. Meanwhile, the USWE Top Tube attaches on top of the top tube near the handlebars.

Bicycle Bag Maintenance

A high-quality bicycle bag lasts for many seasons with proper care. Here are some tips on maintaining your bicycle bag:

• Regular cleaning: Clean both your bag and the bike parts that come into contact with it. Since most bags have a waterproof coating, avoid aggressive cleaners—usually, a damp cloth and mild detergent will suffice.
• Prevent corrosion: If your bag has metal parts or is secured with bolts, dry these areas after riding in the rain or washing your bike.
• Store properly: Avoid leaving the bag in direct sunlight or in a humid environment for extended periods to prevent mold growth.

Packing Tips for Long Trips

Have you bought reliable bicycle bags and are preparing for a big adventure? Here are a few quick tips to make your journey smooth:

• Maintain weight balance: The heavier an item is, the closer it should be to the center of the bike.
• Pack smart: Naturally, you'll only take essential items, but remember that items needed later in the trip or not at all should go to the bottom of the bag.
• Protect against the elements: If unsure whether your bags will withstand heavy rain, get special rain covers such as these Fjallraven bag covers.
• Test before riding: Pack all your items as if for the actual trip and take a short, couple-hour ride. This will reveal whether the mounting is secure, whether the load produces any annoying noises, and most importantly, whether it's comfortable to ride with the load.

If you're still choosing the right bag and want to inspect your options in person, visit the VELONOVA store at J. Baltrušaičio g. 1, Vilnius.