Reddit mentions: The best bike handlebar bags

If it's an 11 mile one way commute, then you'll probably want a road bike. The Raleigh Merit will be well suited for your needs but I would recommend adding or swapping the following:

1. More puncture resistant tires. You can also get Mr. Tuffy tire liners, but those will not have side wall protection.
   
   
2. A good ULock and possibly some locking skewers to secure your wheels and seatpost. I interned right outside of Denver in 2015 and 2016 and regularly bike commuted. Even in the suburbs, bike wheels were regularly stolen if not secured.
   
   
3. A rear rack and a set of panniers. Carrying stuff, including a change of clothes, with only a backpack gets old and sweaty. Plus the whole grocery thing if you're not going to bring a car.
   
   You may wish to check out /r/bikecommuting for additional information. If this will be your first bike, you will also need to get the following items:
   
   
4. A helmet.
   
   
5. Front and rear lights.
   
   
6. Bicycle chain lube and degreaser (automotive works fine) to clean the chain.
   
   
7. A bike specific multitool and tire levers.
   
   
8. An air pump.
   
   If this seems like a lot, don't worry. You can get a really cheap and good pump from Walmart. Just make sure it has a presta valve hole. They also sell helmets which are required to meet the same safety standards as all other helmets sold in the US, as well as chain lube and auto degreaser. Amazon has good deals on the other stuff, especially lights.
   
   Finally, I find this frame mounted cell phone holder extremely valuable. The reason being, that I have a horrible sense of direction and this enables me to view Google Maps biking directions while riding to various places without having to take my phone out. Plus I can easily listen to music while riding.

If you are talking s1, this bag large size fits. I got a bell, designed well, small size fits. Phone mount. I'm getting these gravity wheelnutz for the front wheel (M10). I'm getting these water bottle holders, which seem cheap so can't vouch for them, but needed two and didn't yet put in a longer screw through the fender so I lost the universal mount. Highly recommend the suspension. And honestly, my favorite thing is very specifically for my dog. But, I had to take off the front light on my bike so that she could surf on this basket (there is a strap to connect to a harness so they are protected) tail wagged the whole trail. I too am getting the extended seats, because tall, so the rear just holds a bike lock for now. Should take a break after spending all that money, but going on a bike trip next week for vacation, so far, all super worth it. There are great accessory videos on youtube, the community there is small but wonderful.

Bike shorts can help, but 8 miles is right around where they’re not worth the hassle of changing once I get to work for me. Depending on the bike, you may look at a saddle upgrade. The stock saddle on my FX was too soft and I upgraded to a $35 WTB saddle that made it easier to be on my sit bones even without bike shorts. I’d give it a couple weeks to get used to it first though. If you don’t mind changing at work, a pair of bike shorts are nice. I used wear a pair of road bike shorts under my dress clothes when I could change in my closed office. I stopped when our layout changed to and I had to change in the restroom.

There are lots of bike mounts available for your phone, mine goes in a small Timbuktu top bar bag I have, but mostly really just goes in my pocket unless I need directions.

I don’t have a mirror. You may find it easier to be aware as you do it more. There are good side mirror options for relatively cheap too, you shouldn’t need to spend much. I’d think the ones that mound to the handlebars would be better than those tiny ones that mount to your helmet.

Edit: link to the saddle for my commuter.
WTB Speed Comp Black Saddle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MA0OPD6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_v.XYCbZ9SNEB2

Top tube bag is along these lines, but more compact. I mostly only use it when I need directions and not for my regular commute.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N2DBVMS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CbYYCb9BXQWZT

I got a ton of bikes but my test build was a small folding bike I was given.

https://www.reddit.com/r/ebikes/comments/d536sb/my_shop_hopper_giant_halfway/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf

I then bought a 250w front hub motor from Amazon

YOSE POWER 20'' Front Wheel Electric Bicycle Motor Kit with LCD Display E-Bike Conversion kit 36V250W https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MTX98NQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_pQjGDb1MSAYA5

An extension cable for the pedal assist

color tree Extension Cable for Bafang Electric Bike Motor Bicycle Ebike Mid Drive Conversion Kits Expand Gear Sensor/Thumb Throttle/Brake Lever levers Waterproof https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07N78B175/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nRjGDb5P75MKW

A bag to hold the electrical components

BTR 5 Litre BLACK Handlebar... https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00RTL2XIA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

A holder for the battery

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F273945584171

A battery

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F352784525406

Some new tubes

Kenda AV Tube, Grey, Size... https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B003WF24VS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

And tyres

Schwalbe Knobby Active Line Twin Skin SBC Wired Tyre-Black, 20 x 2.00 Inch https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00E7RWADW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.UjGDbKMFVGR5

Pretty stoked on how it’s turned out!

Probably 3-4 hours in total to build and about £400 for the conversion.

The most honest answer I can give you is that it just feels better. The most practical is that when you're going 45 mph on a downhill in the mountains, the less that rattles and can fall off your bike, the better.

[This] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008R5RT36/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) is my favorite, and fits spare tube, multi tool, levers, patch kit, tire boot, co2 and goes in my middle pocket. This guy goes in my right pocket with snacks and arm warmers. And then phone/keys/cash in left pocket. Only bidons on the frame.

I bought this, and so far it seems pretty nice. I have nothing to compare it to because it's my first go at bikepacking gear, but I like it and it worked great on my first trip.

RockBros 100% Waterproof Bike Bags 2 Intergrated MTB Handlebar Cycling Tube Pouch Panniers Accessories Quick Release Frame Bags 19-20L https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0791YD55H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ZtnRBbVWACC1T

I recently picked up a Blackburn frame bag and I’m quite impressed with it. It’s a half frame bag, but it’s expandable if you need more room. The quality seems good and it fits my bike almost perfectly. https://www.amazon.com/Blackburn-Outpost-Frame-Bag-Medium/dp/B013VQ1F2Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1525205437&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=blackburn%2Bframe%2Bbag&dpPl=1&dpID=31lmxwk8gKL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

I have a top tube bag and really love it! My phone is nice, dry, and secure + I get extra storage! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V8SCA1U/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_h3qFzbBWA294X

I did the C&O Canal Towpath in a day in July 2016. I used a really cheap Ibera frame bag. Worked like a charm! I made a slight modification in the form of a tiny slit so that my phone charger cable could go through with the zipper closed. I've been commuting with it now for about 18 months and it's still holding strong!

I loved my Towpath adventure, but I have some recommendations if you're interested.

Rav X Handlebar Commuter Bag.

My LBS sold it to me for $30. It's pretty nice, just clips on and off the mount. Clear map holder and lots of space. There are plenty of others just like it if you search handlebar bag on Amazon.

I'll do my best to first answer you question, although I think your approach is off:

You could use a handlebar bag, frame bag, top tube bag, and/or a large seat bag.

I'd really go with panniers, although I don't know how you'd attach them to a carbon fiber bike. You'll be making a 500 mile trip with little in the way of supplies. The more stuff you have "just in case", the better the trip is likely to go. A non-carbon bike with rack and panniers would go a long way to help with that.

Fellow 1.60ish person here. This is the setup of my last tour: <https://imgur.com/a/N7S8xf6>

Frame, top tube and stem bags are DIY. On the front is the sleeping bag, -pad and tent in drybags in a Roswheel harness. On top is also electronics and valuables in the beige fanny bag. On the back is a 10l saddlebag with clothes, cooking kit and some food. The blue drybag on top has extra food and packaging supplies for flying home again.

With a larger saddle bag and in warmer areas with better supply options you might get away with a smaller sleeping bag and eliminate some of the bulk upfront and the extra food bag.

Thanks!

And yeah, that’s a phone holder, even branded as Ninebot:
https://www.amazon.com/SPEDWHEL-Original-NINEBOT-Electric-Scooter/dp/B07MZMC6XV

There’s also a bag in the front, Ninebot branded as well: https://www.amazon.com/Segway-Ninebot-Waterproof-Electric-Scooters/dp/B07VCYR9XS (although this looks the same and is cheaper: https://www.amazon.com/Seway-Scooter-Storage-Electric-Compatible/dp/B07HS2W9JT)

Here’s how it looks: https://imgur.com/a/p83gjMO

Inside, I carry (among other things) a Bluetooth speaker so I can listen to music while I ride, as headphones don’t fit well into my helmet. Just leave it a bit unzipped so the sound can get out, and you’re set.


As for the helmet (not an accessory but it’s “on” the scooter here), it’s a TLD Stage: https://www.rei.com/product/144603/troy-lee-designs-stage-mips-bike-helmet


There’s also a really cleverly-designed bell that uses up very little space: https://www.rei.com/product/153660/knog-oi-luxe-bike-bell (or a budget version here: https://www.rei.com/product/116796/knog-oi-bike-bell)

Here’s how it looks: https://imgur.com/a/dQ0lOit

You just have to make sure it’s rotated high enough so that it doesn’t interfere with your throttle lever.


And finally, a light (because my scooter suffers from the electrical issue where turning on the built-in headlight triggers the brake):
https://www.rei.com/product/132832/nite-ize-radiant-125-bike-light

I’ve got it mounted vertically instead of sideways like in the promo pictures, and it looks a lot better that way.

Nothing fancy. It was an Amazon special. Works great, good size.

Ibera Bicycle Triangle Frame Bag,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00696K4E6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I got my wife a klickfix waterproof phone bag. It's expensive, but worth it. Easy to install, easy to use.

Check the phone size, you can probably use a small. Also the non-waterproof version is probably cheaper.

Nice, good job! It's this one. I found a Chinese company selling a few of them that were unbranded though so I got a nice plain, black one. Its nice for my wallet and keys, and cellphone obviously.

I bought the cheap knockoff of the Revelate Mountain Feedbag, and really loved it. So convenient to have the bottle right at hand.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076MPQSZD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought an Ibera frame bag for like $20 on amazon. I keep a spare tube, tire levers, multi tool, a few zip ties, some parachute cord, a patch kit and other little odds and ends. It is quite a large bag and will hold my phone and snacks on a ride. It is semi-waterproof and for the price it is good quality in my opinion. I like the location of it because you can access it while riding.


http://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Triangle-Frame-Medium/dp/B00696K4E6/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1409421969&sr=1-1&keywords=ibera+frame+bag

These things are pretty good. I don't know about the size with the one I linked but you can get them in all sizes and they easily fit clothes and lunch.

It will likely fit in a frame bag like this one:

Ibera Bicycle Triangle Frame Bag, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00696K4E6/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_oYg6tb19CG952

The large version fills up an entire triangle - probably overkill. Medium is already really big - my bottle cage and it pretty much fill the space on my frame.

I've had several and the best style I found was this

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pros: It protects the phone very well from the elements (which the typical ones do not) and is out of the way, it has a great little compartment underneath the phone for storage keys, wallet, food....whatever(even an extra battery if you're going out for a long haul).

cons: it's a bit further from your "sight line" so when you need to engage your phone it's a tiny bit less convenient, but just takes getting used to.

A stem bag like this would probably be perfect for you: https://www.amazon.com/Moosetreks-Handlebar-Bikepacking-Commuting-Insulated/dp/B076MPQSZD/

How much stuff do you take with you, OP? I have a frame bag that can fit most anything I'd want to carry other than bulky groceries (Though I can fit a 3-liter bag of wine in it). This one.

Another option is a case like the one I have.

It's nice because I can put all of my stuff in it so my keys aren't clanking around in my pocket. You can use the phone through the screen, and it keeps it safe from any splashes or rain.

It's designed to mount on your handlebars, but I'm using mine as a top tube bag to hold a battery for my LED lights.

I have a bag that mounts to the crossbar and has a phone holder. I like the dual purpose.

Like this one

RockBros Bike Front Frame Bag Cycling Waterproof Top Tube Frame Pannier Mobile Phone Touch Screen Holder Bike Bag Fits Phones Below 6.0 Inches

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079QKP848/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_A3pvCb7KJMDB5

Just purchased the Ibera Top Tube Bag. It seems like it will work well. My first commute is on Tuesday, so we'll see!

This is the cheapest kit+battery combo I could find that should cover your distance @36v 17.6ah - total is around 250 with used, "samsung" batteries. Better quality cells could be had and still be under budget.

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26" rear Hub kit - $120

4x, Used, 36v 4.4ah batteries (17.6ah) - ~$90 (use at your own risk or see second link below)

3x, xt60 battery connectors to connect them in parallel- less than $10.

Triangle Bike bag - $15

charger - 20 bucks

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hub kit - https://www.ebay.com/itm/36V-Rear-Wheel-Electric-Bicycle-Motor-Conversion-hub-Kit-500W-26-Ebike-Cycling/112571729539?hash=item1a35cc4683:g:wK4AAOSwak5Zwyjs

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4x, cheap, used hoverboard batteries (use/charge with caution) - https://www.ebay.com/itm/Samsung-36V-4-4AH-Lithium-Ion-Battery-for-Balancing-Scooter/223153190239?epid=15022071626&hash=item33f4f7755f%3Ag%3AodUAAOSwlOJbY09P&LH_ItemCondition=4

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4x better quality batteries (~180 total) seller claims that these were LG cells from alarmhookup - ask them for details- https://www.ebay.com/itm/36V-4-4AH-Lithium-Ion-battery-pack/132794495527?hash=item1eeb2b3227:g:Sc8AAOSwwB5bqZ4N

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3x xt60 connector to connect 4 batteries in parallel- https://www.ebay.com/itm/XT60-Parallel-Y-Splitter-Silicone-WireConnector-Cable-Dual-Extension-for-DJI-Ph/142880685651?hash=item21445a3e53:g:vOgAAOSw~xVbVdDC

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bike bag - https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Triangle-Cycling-Mountain/dp/B006JA8WEG/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538659727&sr=1-3&keywords=triangle%2Bbike%2Bbag&th=1&psc=1

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I use a phone and sometimes for longer runs want a battery. I bought a handlebar case and I grabbed a shower cap the last time I was at a hotel that I keep around for extra protection when it rains.

I store a mini battery in the case pretty much always and if I plan a longer excursion I can bring a larger battery.

I have one that I've used for a few months. I love it. It can carry so much stuff, however I've started using a saddle bag more often recently. Here's the link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00696K4E6/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1501389153&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=bike%2Bframe%2Bbag&dpPl=1&dpID=51Gjh9LzauL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

Been using the Blade from Spark bikes for almost a week now. 155 lbs rider can average 50km for 50% of battery. I’m planning to make a custom bracket to hold a pelican case at the rear. Big enough for the charger and essential bike tools. Which I can also strap on a bag or such on top of the pelican case. One can also fit a Blackburn rover bag underneath the seat. Blackburn Outpost Frame Bag - Black Large https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B013VQ1F2Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_BY4gDbXJ25MFB

Tube, patch kit, 2 CO2s, Planet Bike regulator, Park Bike levers, a multi tool, my trail pass, a bottle or two of Gatorarde, my keys, phone, credit card and ID. Most of the above fits nicely in my Lezyne Caddy Sack which I keep in my jersey. (though I have the old zip-up kind. Not sure if I'd get a Velcro pouch)

Less for phone use and more for directions, I use a bag that sits on the handlebars. Bonus: there's room for my keys, wallet, and a battery charger if I'm on a longer ride.

While it doesn't fit my batteries, you might be interested in something like this. I use a large one for my cable lock, U, and repair tools. I"m not sure how large your battery is, though.

If this hits your thighs you're bike is too small. And it fits my Samsung just fine and unless you have a Note or something massive it should fit
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079QKP848/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JwwRCbXF885CC

I haven't looked around, but a guy I ride with has a pouch that has a place to put his phone. I believe it waterproof too (not needed for the S7, but helps). Something like this https://www.amazon.com/Bushwhacker-Reno-Bicycle-Universal-Handlebar/dp/B00BDP8CRO

I’ve tried a couple of frame bags but ended doing without after a while. Something about having things on the frame that I don’t like very much. In this video, I had my u-lock frame mounted but ended up removing that as well since the rattling noises from it started to become annoying to me while riding.

Edit: one bag design that I have come across that does seem quite appealing to me is this one.

I keep mine in one of the three back pockets on my jersey.

Another option is something like this: https://www.amazon.com/RockBros-Cycling-Waterproof-Pannier-Mobile/dp/B079QKP848/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=bicycle+pouch&qid=1567184747&s=gateway&sr=8-5

Thanks so much for all this information! They say bags that hang on the side of your bike are not allowed - would this be considered that: Aduro Sport Bicycle Bike Storage Bag Triangle Saddle Frame Strap-On Pouch for Cycling (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077SJTMLC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_pwC5Ab4EN77KV

I would think not but figured I’d ask before buying!

Looks like this rockbros bag, if you zoom in on the picture the bag says "rockbros" on the side in a black font https://www.amazon.com/RockBros-Waterproof-Mountain-Bicycle-Compatible/dp/B07F64867S/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1539621808&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=rockbros+top+tube&psc=1

I actually bike every weekend and I stow my phone in a storage compartment where I keep my keys and mini first aid kit, thank you very much.

Aduro Sport Bicycle Bike Storage Bag Triangle Saddle Frame Pouch for Cycling (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077SJTMLC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_atAZCbRPX0GQB

I've been using the PDW Bar-ista for a month. It's solid, the drink doesn't deform, and no lost lids yet. I used REI dividends to get it, but I will probably buy another. Most likely the knock off version.

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I used this Stem Bag for a year with moderate success. It doesn't keep the cup from deforming when you go over bumps, which I think makes it much more likely to lose lids.

I bought two bags to compare the functionality.

The other one I tried:

http://www.amazon.com/Allnice®-Waterproof-Toucscreen-Capacity-Mountain/dp/B010LYXV7I/

This one has a small visor on it, no audio out spot. I don't think the visor on it does much of anything useful. Not enough of a visor for use in sun, not enough to reduce rain landing on the cover.

I couldnt find that exact one on the US version of Amazon, but this one seems similar?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079QKP848/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.7HiDb3J6ZF9M

This isn't the exact one I use, but it's close.

https://www.amazon.com/Moosetreks-Handlebar-Bikepacking-Commuting-Insulated/dp/B076MPQSZD/

I have this it fits all my tools (I carry a lot: replacement tube & chain, racheting driver with bits, CO2 inflater with cartridges , patch kit, duct tape, electrical tape, zip-ties, etc.) and doesn't rub my legs at all.

Pumpwearinc.com has some different bands to try and hold everything close to your body. I have an omnipod and use these sleeves. If you have have a Dexcom a [small frame mounted phone bag] (http://amazon.com/gp/product/B00V8SCA1U) is handy too.

It's this one: https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Tube-Cell-Phone-Screens/dp/B00V8SCA1U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467071905&sr=8-1&keywords=ibera+top+tube+bag

Got this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013VQ1F2Q?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Large

I use a cheap triangle frame bag, which can hold more than just a lock https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Triangle-Frame-Medium/dp/B006JA8WEG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522472458&sr=8-1&keywords=ibera%2Bframe%2Bbag&th=1&psc=1

It's a 19" frame. That was a Size L Ibera triangle frame bag from Amazon, and a homemade battery.

https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Triangle-Frame-Medium/dp/B00696K4E6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1484160796&sr=8-3&keywords=triangle+frame+bag

That frame bag kind of sucked offroad and the straps would break. I ended up going with a Lunacycle triangle bag, and a 20AH triangle battery. Worked much better.

Here you go... will solve all your problems:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008R5RT36/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought a large Ibera Triangle Bag for my bike, you will have to cut holes where you want the wires to enter/exit, the ebike guts live in the big compartment, and I store a lock/various maintenance tools in the smaller sip pocket: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JA8WEG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I would never trust a handlebars mount for my cellphone. Even with decent suspension, any fixed mount is going to take a beating over time, and may eventually fail from the fatigue. I've already had both a lock mount and a light mount crack after a year or so of regular use.

I recently saw this, which I think looks like a really good alternative.

Sure, here are some links to the components.

Basic kit: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q8JT9H2
Batteries: https://mahbattery.com/sanyo-ncr20700b-4050mah-15a-battery/
BMS: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32821764284.html
Triangle Bag: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JA8WEG
Cable Glands: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KFCGFYF
Torque arm: https://www.ebikes.ca/product-info/torque-arms.html

If you've never built a battery before and don't have the tools I would start with a pre-built pack. Spot welders are expensive and a mistake building a pack could be destructive and life threatening. My pack is a 48v nominal pack (39-54.6v). I'm not sure about using a true 52v pack(42-58.8v), though I'd guess it would be "ok".