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Saddle bags are the standard for cyclists looking to carry the bare minimum: tools, spare tubes, tire inflation kits, keys, and the like. Saddle bags offer convenient access, easy mounting, and an out-of-the-way position underneath your saddle. They are an economical choice, both financially and physically, as their small size and self-mounting capabilities make them light-weight and affordable. Here at Bike Bag Shop, bike saddle bags are not to be confused with bike panniers, which mount to a bike rack. Saddle bags, in this context, refer to small bags that are mounted on the rails of your bicycle's saddle.
FREE bike accessory w/bike bags and racks valued over $80 (Vaude, Jandd & other Sale Items Excluded)
Saddle bags are small and sleek and don't call much attention to themselves. They are an important item for a multiplicity of cycling styles, from the weekend warrior to the hardcore commuter to the bike touring expert, both on-road and off-road, as they generally accommodate all of the necessary items you would need to change a flat tire, make minor repairs on your bicycle, or stash your spare cash, phone, wallet, or maybe a small snack. Not to mention, saddle bags are located conveniently underneath the rails of your saddle, where you have easy access to your tools and other small necessities, while their mounting systems prevent them from bouncing off your bike no matter how bumpy things get. They are very easy to mount with either integrated velco and buckle systems or brand-specific mounting hardware. Last but certainly not least, saddle bags generally don't impede your leg movement or the mounting of other bags or accessories to your seat post or above your bicycle's rear wheel.
Bike saddle bags come in a range of sizes to accommodate your needs, from the very small to the rather large. On the smaller end, bike saddle bags such as the Ortlieb Micro might only be able to carry a single tube, patch kit, CO2 air inflator, tire lever, and a small multi-tool. On the larger end, a bike saddle bag such as the Vaude Tool Saddle Bag, which comes in sizes small to extra-large, could accommodate the previous items, as well as an additional tube, a wallet, phone, and perhaps an energy bar or two. Saddle bags also come in a variety of materials, which provide different levels of water-resistance. Ortlieb has a number of waterproof saddle bags made from soft foam that keep your tools from getting wet and rusting. Standard saddle bags are generally constructed from canvas and are lighter-weight and more pliable than their foam or plastic counterparts but are only water resistant.
Beyond carrying the bare necessities, saddle bags are convenient to use in combination with a variety of other bags. They also provide a great option for cyclists who are looking to add a little cargo capacity on their bicycles without having to install a bike rack. For even more "rackless" capacity, the combination of a handlebar bag and saddle bag provides a good amount of easy-access space. You can also pair a bike saddle bag with a bike backpack or bike messenger bag if you prefer to keep your tools separated and organized in the small, toolbox-like bags that are bike saddle bags. Even when using panniers, a saddle bag is a handy place to keep your tools and flat kit separated from your other stuff. So whether you are commuting to work, out for a short ride, or on a long bike tour, be prepared for the unexpected flat tire or broken chain by carrying all the small tools you need to get rolling again in a bike saddle bag.
