Are you planning a multi-day bike tour, a weekend trip, or just looking for a practical way to carry your shopping or things to work? Carrier bags (so-called bike bags) are the ideal solution for you. Unlike a backpack, they don't put a strain on your spine, your back stays dry even in the heat, and the bike's centre of gravity moves lower, which guarantees better stability while riding.
What type of carrier bag do you need?
In our offer you will find various bag solutions depending on your needs:
Panniers: A classic for touring cyclists. They are ideal for long journeys, as they offer huge volume and are often fully waterproof. You can use them individually or in pairs.
Top Carrier Bags: Smaller, more compact bags that attach to the top of your rack. Great for day trips where you need to keep your food, jacket, and tools close at hand.
City bags and "office” bags: Stylish solutions that look like a regular shoulder bag or backpack when unzipped from the carrier. Ideal if you commute to work and carry a laptop or documents.
Will the bag fit on your carrier?
Most panniers use universal hook systems that are adjustable, allowing you to attach them to almost any rack with a standard tube diameter. However, if you choose a specific top pannier with the system (like the Topeak MTX QuickTrack), you'll need a compatible rack from the same brand that you can simply "snap" the bag onto.
Are these bags completely waterproof?
It depends on the specific model:
Fully waterproof: brands like Ortlieb use a roll-top closure system and welded seams, so your stuff stays dry even when wading through a ford or in heavy rain.
Water-repellent: Many bags can handle light rain, but in a serious storm you'll need an integrated raincoat, which you'll often find in the bottom pocket of the bag.
What is the load capacity of carrier bags?
The load capacity of the bags is usually limited by the load capacity of the rack itself (usually 10 to 25 kg). The bags themselves are designed to handle the full volume of things (clothes, tent, food). However, always be careful not to exceed the load limit of the rack, especially if you are riding on rough terrain where the vibrations are stronger.
How does the bag behave during off-road riding?
If you ride on broken roads, look for bags with a three-point attachment (two hooks on top and one locking hook on the bottom). The lower one will prevent the bag from "bouncing" off the rack structure during impacts. A properly secured bag won't move or interfere with your pedalling.
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