Home > Buyers Guides

The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Increase your on-bike storage with a handlebar bag! Whether you're simply looking to free up your jersey pockets or boost your storage for those epic rides, we've tested 19 different handlebar bags and have recommendations to suit your needs and meet your budget.
Collage photo of handlebar bags for lead image
Support us! Bikerumor may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn More

Handlebar bags are a simple and effective way to add storage to your bike while keeping your essentials within arm’s reach. Whether you’re simply looking to free up your jersey pockets or gearing up for a massive day on the bike, choosing the right handlebar bag can help you stay organized on any ride or adventure.

Handlebar bags saw a resurgence in popularity during the 2010s as road riding became more adventurous and gravel riding exploded. Compared to the handlebar bags of old, modern models are robust, functional pieces of equipment that are both technical and pleasing to the eye. And, the growing popularity of the humble handlebar bag means there are more great options to choose from than ever before, coming in a range of shapes, sizes, and capacities to suit nearly every storage need. Of course, all those options means that finding the perfect bar bag can be a challenge.

To help, we gathered 19 of the best handlebar bags on the market and tested them for months while examining their materials, construction, ease of use, storage capacity, organizational features, stability, and attachment systems. Review author, Bennett Shane, personally tested each model to see how they perform in the real world and how they compare to each other.

Whether you’re searching for something small, medium, or large, or are interested in finding the best value, our top handlebar bag recommendations are listed below, followed by the best of the rest, which, quite frankly, are all great options in their own right. To see the specs of all 19 models we tested at a glance, check out our handy comparison chart. Not sure what you need? Check our buying advice for useful information to help steer you in the right direction or our FAQ section for answers to some common questions.

The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024


Best Overall Bike Handlebar bag

Ornot Handlebar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $86.00
  • Volume 3.1 liters
  • Dimensions 5.4" x 8.5" (13 x 22cm)
  • Weight 261 grams
  • Material ECOPAK™ recycled fabric
  • Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
  • Color options ECOPAK White, ECOPAK Coyote, ECOPAK Black
Product Badge The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Adjustable strap width
  • Super stable and quiet
  • Great zipper access
  • Bomber construction
  • Structured design holds shape well

Cons

  • Moderately expensive
  • Not super light
Best Value Bike Handlebar Bag

Lead Out! Mini Bar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $50.00
  • Volume 1.3 liters
  • Dimensions 8" x 3.5” (20 x 9cm)
  • Weight 105 grams
  • Material 840D Ballistic Nylon Carbonate fabric exterior; Robic 210 Baby Riptstop interior.
  • Water-resistant? Yes, very
  • Color options Black, Charcoal, Orange
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Light
  • Durable
  • Organized
  • Tidy Straps
  • Quiet

Cons

  • Smaller volume may be limiting for some users
Best Small Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag

Arundel Mini Bar Czar

Specs

  • MSRP $70.00
  • Volume 1.2 liters (75 cubic inches)
  • Dimensions 7” x 4.5” x 3.5” (18 x 11.5 x 9cm)
  • Weight 110 grams
  • Material Polyester
  • Water-resistant Yes
  • Color options Grey
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Light
  • Out of the way
  • Magnetic closure is super easy to use
  • Oval shape makes it roomier than expected

Cons

  • Only comes in grey
  • Moderately expensive
Best Medium Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag

Mission Workshop Toro Handlebar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $105.00
  • Volume 1.7 liters
  • Dimensions 9" x 4” (22.8 x 10cm)
  • Weight 140 grams
  • Material Dimension Polyant X-Pac® and Cordura Multicam fabrics
  • Water-resistant? Yes, "weatherproof"
  • Color options Orange VX, Yellow VX, Teal VX, Purple VX, Olive VX, Coyote VX, Gray VX, Black VX, Black Camo, Tropic Camo, Stratus Black, Stratus Blue, Stratus Purple
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Very light
  • Beautifully constructed – made in USA
  • A multitude of colors to choose from
  • Solid YKK zipper
  • Compatible with shoulder strap

Cons

  • A smidge wide for narrower handlebars (40cm and under)
  • Expensive
Best Large Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag

Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito

Specs

  • MSRP $125.00
  • Volume 5 liters
  • Dimensions 11” x 6” (28 x 15.2cm)
  • Weight 396 grams
  • Material 1000D Cordura
  • Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
  • Color options Black, Burgundy, Grey, Navy, Olive, Rust, Coyote
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Quality materials and construction
  • Huge storage capacity
  • Handmade in the USA
  • Surprisingly stable
  • Retains shape thanks to internal structure
  • Convertible to shoulder bag with optional strap

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Aero penalty
  • Heavier weight
  • Too wide for bars narrower than 42cm
Best Perceived Quality Bike Handlebar Bag

Wizard Works Lil Presto Barrel Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $88.00
  • Volume Large: 3.4 liters (tested), Small: 1.8 liters
  • Dimensions Large: 8.6" x 5.5" (22 x 14cm), Small: 7.9" x 4.1" (20 x 10.5cm)
  • Weight 325 grams (excludes straps)
  • Material Cordura
  • Water-resistant? Yes, very
  • Color Options Black Camo, Fluro Pink, Olive, Rust, Splatter (custom design option available)
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Gorgeous
  • Massive but tidy
  • Heirloom-level quality
  • Comes in two sizes

Cons

  • The anchor cord could be longer or stretchier
  • Moderately expensive
  • Not the lightest
Best Handlebar Bag for Mount and Carry Versatility

Rapha Bar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $70.00
  • Volume 2 liters
  • Dimensions 9.25" x 4.3" x 3.1" (23.5 x 11 x 8cm)
  • Weight 168 grams (255 grams with shoulder strap)
  • Material DWR treated polyester
  • Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
  • Color options Black
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Good size for most rides
  • Can be mounted on handlebar or frame
  • Converts to shoulder carry
  • Good internal organization

Cons

  • Top strap position is not adjustable

Best of the Rest

Unique Modular Design

Swift Industries Kestrel

Specs

  • MSRP $120.00
  • Volume 2 liters (up to 4 liters with optional accessories)
  • Dimensions 10” x 5” x 3” (25.4 x 12.7 x 7.6cm)
  • Weight 171 grams
  • Material ECOPAK recycled Sailcloth
  • Water-resistant? No
  • Color options Redwood, Coyote, Black, Teal
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Untouchable modularity
  • Built to last
  • Easy to attach
  • Lots of storage options
  • Light

Cons

  • Expensive
Excellent Quality and Organization

ALMSTHRE Signature Bar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $65.00
  • Volume 2.4 liters
  • Dimensions 7.5” x 5” (19 x 12.7cm)
  • Weight 219 grams
  • Material Nylon Ripstop
  • Water-resistant? Yes, water-repellent main body, waterproof zippers
  • Color options California Gold, Cosmic Blue, Midnight Black, Passion Pink, BWR, Two-Tone (Blue/Gold)
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Quality build
  • Lovely appearance
  • Tidy straps
  • Well-organized storage

Cons

  • None
Impressively Lightweight

Orucase Smuggler

Specs

  • MSRP $44.00
  • Volume 1.15 liters
  • Dimensions 7.5" x 3.5” (19cm x 8.9cm)
  • Weight 86 grams
  • Material Challenge EPX200
  • Water-resistant? No
  • Color options Black, Black Camo, Coyote, Fuschia, Golden Daze, Lilac, Ocean Blue, Tropical Teal
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Super light!
  • Durable
  • Easy to attach
  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • No anchor cord
  • Zipper requires two hands
Highly Reflective

Blackburn Grid Handlebar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $45.00
  • Volume 1.2 liters
  • Dimensions 8” x 3.5” (20.3 x 8.9cm)
  • Weight 106 grams
  • Material 600d Polyester
  • Water-resistant? DWR treated for water resistance
  • Color options Black
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Light
  • Stable
  • Reflective
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Only comes in one color

Arundel Handlebar Czar

Specs

  • MSRP $80.00
  • Volume 2 liters (120 cu. in.)
  • Dimensions 9.5" x 5" x 3.5” (24.1 x 12.7 x 9cm)
  • Weight 184 grams
  • Material Water-resistant material with sonic-welded seams
  • Water-resistant? Yes
  • Color options Black
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Stable
  • Easy to open and close
  • Sleek appearance

Cons

  • Moderately expensive
  • Only comes in black

Ornot Handlebar Bag Mini

Specs

  • MSRP $54.00 (ECOPAK), $44.00 (regular)
  • Volume 1.15 liters
  • Dimensions 7.25” x 3.5” (18.4 x 9cm)
  • Weight 140 grams
  • Material Ecopak Recycled Fabric
  • Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
  • Color options Black ECOPAK, Coyote ECOPAK, White ECOPAK, Black, Stone Blue, Olive, Morroco, Nordic
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Light
  • Stable
  • Easy to open and close
  • Super tidy look on the bars

Cons

  • Straps may need to be trimmed for thumb clearance
  • Smaller volume may be limiting for some riders

Lowland Crafts Bike Handlebar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $55.00
  • Volume 2.2 liters
  • Dimensions 9" x 5" x 3” (22.8 x 12.7 x 7.6cm)
  • Weight 150 grams
  • Material Duck Canvas (Waterproof Ottertex also available)
  • Water-resistant? No (but you have the option for Ottertex fabric)
  • Color options Lots, you pick when ordering
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Handmade to order
  • Reasonable price
  • Low-bulk straps
  • You choose colors and fabric

Cons

  • Zippers and fabric are not waterproof

Swift Industries Bandito Bicycle Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $95.00
  • Volume 3.25 liters
  • Dimensions 8.5” x 5.5” (21.6 x 14cm)
  • Weight 227 grams
  • Material ECOPAK™ recycled fabric
  • Water-resistant? No
  • Color options Coyote, Black, Teal, Redwood
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Stable
  • Built to last
  • Easy to attach
  • Looks great

Cons

  • On the larger and heavier side
  • Moderately expensive

Rapha Explore Bar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $80.00
  • Volume 2.4 liters
  • Dimensions 8” x 4” x 3” (20.3 x 10 x 7.6cm)
  • Weight 170 grams
  • Material Recycled Nylon, Polyurethane internal coating, DWR exterior treatment
  • Waterproof Highly water-repellent
  • Color options Black, Navy, Olive Green, Rose Brown
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Rugged durability
  • Light
  • Converts to hip pack or shoulder bag
  • Easy to attach

Cons

  • Shoulder strap is permanently attached and can fiddly to deploy and put away
  • Moderately expensive

ALMSTHRE Compact Bar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $55.00
  • Volume 1.2 liters
  • Dimensions 7.5” x 3.5” (19 x 8.9cm)
  • Weight 158 grams
  • Material Nylon Ripstop
  • Water-resistant? Yes, water-resistant main body, waterproof zippers
  • Color options Midnight Black, Plum, Melon Green, Sunflower Yellow, Cosmic Blue, California Gold
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Lovely appearance
  • "Hard-shell" design retains shape
  • Plenty of organization options

Cons

  • Smaller size may limit usefulness for some riders

Chrome Industries Helix

Specs

  • MSRP $45.00
  • Volume 3 liters
  • Dimensions 9” x 6” x 3” (22.8 x 15.2 x 7.6cm)
  • Weight 272 grams
  • Material Proprietary tarp exterior, polyester
  • Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
  • Color options Black, Fog
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Tough material and robust build
  • Easy to access
  • Lots of storage space

Cons

  • Might not fit small bikes
  • Significant aero penalty
  • A bit big for those with lower storage needs

Rockbros Bike Handlebar Bag

Specs

  • MSRP $21.00
  • Volume 2 liters
  • Dimensions 9” x 3.5” (22.8 x 9cm)
  • Weight 216 grams
  • Material Polyester
  • Water-resistant? No
  • Color options Black, Dark Green
The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

Pros

  • Very inexpensive
  • Nice material
  • Converts to shoulder carry

Cons

  • Might be too wide for 40c or narrower handlebars.
  • Handlebar strap attachment points sag a bit

Comparison Chart

Handlebar BagMSRPVolumeDimensionsWeightWater-Resistant?
Ornot Handlebar Bag$863.1 liters8.5″ x 5.4″261 gramsYes
Lead Out! Mini Bar Bag$501.3 liters8″ x 3.5″105 gramsYes, very
Arundel Mini Bar Czar$701.2 liters7″ x 4.5″ x 3.5″110 gramsYes
Mission Workshop Toro$1051.7 liters9″ x 4″140 gramsYes, “weatherproof”
Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito$1255 liters11″ x 6″396 gramsYes
Wizard Works Lil Presto$883.4 liters (1.8L option)8.6″ x 5.5″325 gramsYes, very
Rapha Bar Bag$702 liters9.25″ x 4.3″ x 3.1″168 gramsYes
Swift Industries Kestrel$1202 liters10″ x 5″ x 3″171 gramsNo
ALMSTHRE Signature Bar Bag$652.4 liters7.5″ x 5″219 gramsYes, very
Orucase Smuggler$441.15 liters7.5″ x 3.5″86 gramsNo
Blackburn Grid Handlebar Bag$451.2 liters8″ x 3.5″106 gramsYes
Arundel Handlebar Czar$802 liters9.5″ x 5″ x 3.5″184 gramsYes
Ornot Handlebar Bag Mini$541.15 liters7.25″ x 3.5″140 gramsYes
Lowland Crafts Handlebar Bag$552.2 liters9″ x 5″ x 3″150 gramsNo
Swift Industries Bandito$953.25 liters8.5″ x 5.5″227 gramsNo
Rapha Explore Bar Bag$802.4 liters8″ x 4″ x 3″170 gramsYes, very
ALMSTHRE Compact Bar Bag$551.2 liters7.5″ x 3.5″158 gramsYes, very
Chrome Industries Helix$453 liters9″ x 6″ x 3″272 gramsYes
Rockbros Bike Handlebar Bag$212 liters9″ x 3.5″216 gramsNo

Why Should You Trust Us?

For the team at Bikerumor, writing about and riding bikes isn’t just our job, it’s our passion. Long rides, short rides, road, gravel, mountain, we love being out there. We also love being prepared for whatever may come our way, whether we’re out for an hour or the entire day. Being prepared means having everything we need to stay comfortable, nourished, and ready to fix mechanical issues that may arise, so we need space to keep all of the important things with us. More recently, handlebar bags have become one of our favorite ways to keep our essential items close at hand wherever our rides take us.

For our handlebar bags buyer’s guide, we called on the expertise of Bennett Shane to test and compare a diverse selection of the best handlebar bags on the market. Bennett has been cycling seriously for over two decades and spends an inordinate amount of time on the bike while riding for fitness, fun, and lots of product testing. He lives just outside of Portland, Oregon, and enjoys both long and short rides throughout the countryside and mountains of the Pacific Northwest (and everywhere else for that matter). Living in an area with highly variable weather and often embarking on half to full-day rides in the mountains means that he often needs to carry lots of gear, food, and tools to be prepared for changing temperatures and weather while remaining self-sufficient. Since it isn’t always possible, or comfortable, to stuff everything into jersey pockets, Bennett relies on handlebar bags to expand his on-bike storage capabilities and keep essentials close at hand. Having owned and used many different handlebar bags over the years, Bennett has unique insight into this growing category of products. Bennett also has loads of experience testing and reviewing other products like handlebar tape, cycling shoe covers, winter cycling gloves, road bike shoes, cycling bibs, road bike helmets, and more.

After researching the best handlebar bags on the market, we gathered 19 different models for testing and side-by-side comparison. Our diverse selection includes a range of sizes, brands, and price points, with models suitable for any type of riding or storage need. After examining the materials and construction of each model, Bennett mounted them up on his small fleet of road bikes, loaded them with jackets, gloves, snacks, phones, cameras, keys, and more, and hit the road. Over the course of several months, Bennett rotated through these handlebar bags on his daily rides while assessing each model’s storage, attachments, stability, zippers, ease of use, weather resistance, and all-around performance in real-world riding conditions. When testing concluded, we zeroed in on our favorites and those that excel for specific reasons compared to the rest.

Bennett Shane testing handlebar bags
Bennett Shane tested all of the handlebar bags in this review on road rides throughout the Pacific Northwest. (photo/Ben Guernsey)

Buying Advice: How to Choose a Bike Handlebar Bag

Handlebar bags are fairly simple pieces of gear, but with so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be more challenging than you might expect. While many bar bags share a similar barrel-like shape, sizes, materials, and constructions vary such that some are likely to suit your needs better than others. For instance, some are impressively weather-resistant while others are simple but effective canvas. Some use internal reinforcement to hold their shape, while others offer less structure and thereby shed weight. Many offer a host of features like external pockets, as well as straps for attaching lights and securing lightweight clothing while others are more simple. We’ll break down important factors to consider when choosing a handlebar bag below.

Closing the zipper on the Wizard Works Lil Presto Handlebar bag
Modern handlebar bags like the Wizard Works Lil Presto are good-looking, functional pieces of equipment that can ensure you’re prepared and organized on every ride. (photo/Ben Guernsey_

Size

Finding the right size handlebar bag is arguably the most important aspect of getting one that serves your needs the best. Thankfully, handlebar bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and storage capacities to meet different storage needs and wants. We tested 19 different models with nearly all of them having capacities ranging between 1.15 and 3.4 liters (with one outlier at 5 liters), which are all great options for adding a bit of extra storage to your bike for everyday rides. Of course, with those different capacities come varying dimensions which will impact how they fit and how much space they take up on your handlebar.

Capacity

The storage capacity or volume of handlebar bags is typically expressed in liters and sometimes in cubic inches. The bags we tested range between 1.15 liters on the smaller end and up to 5 liters on the larger side of the spectrum. What size works best for you will depend on what you’re intending to carry in it. Of course, this may vary depending on the length of your ride, the weather conditions, or the season, so for some riders, having more than one handlebar bag to suit varying needs may be necessary. For others, finding a versatile size that works most of the time is the best bet. And, in addition to a handlebar bag’s stated capacity, other storage features like external mesh or zippered pockets can effectively increase their capacity. Many people will keep necessary tools and flat repair essentials in a saddle bag, and reserve a handlebar bag for lighter items or things they want to access more easily.

The ALMSTHRE Compact Bar bag mounted on a road bike handlebar
Smaller capacity bags like the 1.2-liter ALMSTHRE Compact easily fit the essentials, don’t weigh much, and take up little real estate on the handlebar. (photo/Bennett Shane)

For riders with low storage demands, the smaller, 1.15 to 1.3-liter, options may be ideal for stashing ride essentials like a phone, keys, nutrition, winter gloves, or other small items while incurring the lowest weight and aerodynamic penalty. We tested six bags in this size range including the Arundel Mini Bar Czar, Lead Out Mini, Ornot Mini, Orucase Smuggler, ALMSTHRE Compact, and the Blackburn Grid. Not surprisingly, these bags all share similar compact dimensions and are lighter weight than larger options.

The Ornot Handlebar Bag mounted to a road bike handlebar
Though just slightly larger at 1.7 liters, the Mission Workshop Toro holds significantly more than the “mini” or “compact” models. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Moving up a step in storage capacity are what we’re calling medium-capacity handlebar bags. We tested eight models between 1.7 and 2.4 liters with most of them falling at or closer to 2 liters of storage. These bags fall into what could be called the “goldilocks” zone where they are neither too big nor too small, instead, they are “just right”. These bags easily accommodate everything you can fit into the smaller models while having enough additional space to squeeze a packable jacket for variable weather and/or more snacks to keep you fueled on longer rides. These include the Mission Workshop Toro, ALMSTHRE Signature, Swift Industries Kestrel, Rapha Bar Bag, and several others.

The Mission Workshop Toro handlebar bag mounted to a road handlebar
The 3.1 liter Ornot Handlebar Bag is spacious inside along with very well-executed external storage features. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Moving up once more, we tested four bags that hold 3 to 3.4 liters. While 3 liters is by no means huge, it is quite a bit of storage space and plenty for most riders to tackle all-day rides and carry everything they need without being prohibitively large or heavy. These bags will allow you to bring multiple layers, larger food items, or even bigger cameras. The four bags in this size range are the Ornot Handlebar Bag, Swift Industries Bandito, Wizard Works Lil Presto, and the Chrome Helix. For those with even greater storage needs, the 5-liter Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito has you covered.

The Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito Handlebar Bag mounted to a road bike handlebar
Those seeking maximum storage can find it in the Road Runner West Coast Burrito. You could easily fit several Burritos in there, but all that storage results in a bag that takes up much more space on the handlebar. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Dimensions

Along with their capacity, the shape and dimensions of handlebar bags vary too. As storage volume increases, so do the dimensions of the bag. Eleven of the models we tested share a barrel shape and have measurements for their length and circumference. The remaining eight models have more of a rectangular (or flattened oval) shape that include measurements for length, height, and width. Many of the barrel-shaped bags have rigid internal structures that help them retain their cylindrical shape which prevents them from sagging and helps keep them more stable, even when they aren’t full.

Riding with the Lead Out! Mini Handlebar Bag
The smaller the bag the less storage it has, obviously, and the less likely it is to interfere with your hand positions on the handlebar. (photo/Ben Guernsey)

It is important to consider the dimensions of a handlebar bag as it may impact how well it fits on your handlebar and whether or not it conflicts with your hand positions. Depending on the shape and width of your handlebars, some bags might be too wide/long. The models we tested range between 7 and 11 inches in length, with most of them falling between 7.5 and 9.5 inches. It’s worthwhile to have a friend measure the space between your hands in these positions, so you can use the measurements provided in this guide to choose a bag that is ideally sized for you and your bars. 

A closer look at how handlebar bags attach with the Ornot Handlebar Bag Mini
A closer look at the Ornot Handlebar Bag Mini demonstrates the typical attachment method of handlebar bags with two bar straps and a tether cord. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Attachment

Most handlebar bags attach to the handlebars in a similar way although there are slight variations on the theme. The typical bar bag attachment system includes two straps that loop around the handlebar on both sides of the stem along with an elasticized tether cord that loops around the headtube or stem to anchor it and add some stability. The handlebar straps on some bags are fixed in position, while others have multiple attachment points that allow you to position them optimally for your cockpit setup.

While they all achieve the same goal, different brands use different handlebar strap types to attach bags to the bars. Some use hook and loop (velcro) straps, others use nylon webbing straps with plastic buckles, and some use rubber (Voile-style) straps. They all work in relatively the same way, although some make it a little easier to install and remove a bag and some are more grippy and stable than others.

The Blackburn Grid Handlebar Bag with straps positioned close to the stem
Many bar bags, like the Blackburn Gird pictured here, allow you to adjust the position of the handlebar straps to have them closer to the stem or wider out on the bar tape. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Depending on whether you have accessories like lights or a computer mounted on your bars, or where you place your hands on the bar tops, having the option to adjust the position of the attachment straps may be worthwhile. If, for example, the space immediately next to your stem is already cluttered with computer and/or light mounts, it’s nice to be able to move the straps out and have them over your handlebar bar tape. Conversely, if you want all the space possible for your hands on the bar tops, moving the straps closer to the stem can give your thumbs more room. The Ornot Handlebar Bag is a good example here, as it has two attachment points for the Voile straps at 4 inches apart and 6 inches apart.

Riding with the Lead Out! mini Bar Bag
With a water-resistant shell fabric and waterproof zippers, the Lead Out! Mini Bar Bag should keep its contents dry in most situations. (photo/Ben Guernsey)

Water Resistance

Depending on the weather conditions you ride in, water resistance may or may not be a deciding factor in your handlebar bag choice. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that are highly water resistant (some even claim to be “weatherproof”) and are made with DWR-treated fabrics, water-resistant linings, waterproof zippers, or all of the above. While few bags claim to be completely waterproof, there are many that are pretty darn close, like the Mission Workshop Toro, Rapha Explore Bar Bag, and several others. These can typically fend off showers, road spray, and mud with ease while keeping your precious cargo nice and dry. Others have simpler constructions that aren’t quite as water-resistant but will usually fare well against super light amounts of moisture.

The reflective detail on the front of the Ornot Mini Handlebar Bag
It’s small, but the reflective strip on the webbing on the front of the Ornot Mini is better than nothing and may improve your chances of being seen. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Reflectives

Some brands and models of handlebar bags have reflective elements added to them to add a bit of visibility in low-light conditions. While we don’t feel it is a requirement, and most of the bags we tested don’t have them, we do appreciate reflective features when they are added to an accessory like a handlebar bag if it increases our chances of being seen by motorists. The Blackburn Grid is a standout for its reflectivity as the entire front face of the bag lights up when hit with a headlight. Some other models have reflective strips integrated into the front-facing webbing like on the models from Ornot and Rapha. Many bags also have daisy chain-style webbing attachment points where clip-on lights can be attached for those rides where you’re flirting with darkness.

The handmade Lowland Crafts Handlebar Bag can be ordered in custom colors.
Handlebar Bags give you the opportunity to express your personal style. The handmade Lowland Crafts bag is made to order and you have the option to choose the colors for a custom look. (photo/Bennett Shane)

Style

While many riders probably don’t think of a handlebar bag as a fashionable accessory, there are plenty who do, and it is one of many ways to easily and affordably add some personal flair to your bike. Some handlebar bags only come in one or a few safe color options like black or grey which are easy to coordinate with just about any bike, while others are available in a range of colors. ALMSTHRE, Orucase, Mission Workshop, and Wizard Works offer some of the most color options among the models we tested. Lowland Crafts is unique in regards to style since these bags are handmade to order and the buyer is given the option to choose the main fabric, front panel, and attachment webbing colors when purchasing.

Value

Compared to many things in cycling, handlebar bags are a relatively inexpensive accessory. That said, they come at a range of prices with the majority of the models we tested training between $40 and $125. In general, the larger the bag, the more expensive it is, and vice versa. Still, some of these seemingly simple little bags cost a little more than you might expect. One of the reasons is that many of the brands that make handlebar bags (like Wizard Works, Swift Industries, Road Runner, and Mission Workshop) are quite small, produce in small batches, use recycled fabrics, and/or make their products in the USA where costs are higher. All those factors make the price go up, but should also correlate to added value with long-term durability thanks to quality materials and constructions.

Pulling a pair of cycling gloves out of the Ornot Handlebar Bag
You can easily expand your on-bike storage with the right handlebar bag. (photo/Ben Guernsey)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use a bike handlebar bag?

Handlebar bags have been around for ages, but they’ve recently seen a resurgence in popularity with more models on the market than you can shake a stick at. There are several reasons that people choose to use one including convenience. The handlebar-mounted position keeps your ride essentials like a phone, camera, snacks, gloves, etc., within arm’s reach in a place that can be easily accessed when stopped or even while riding. They offer additional storage capacity that can be used to hold items that you might normally carry in a jersey pocket which can enhance your comfort by freeing up your lower back and reducing the need to awkwardly reach back to your jersey pockets to access them. They also come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can get one that meets your specific needs for storage and suits your personal aesthetic.

What size handlebar bag do I need?

Handlebar bags come in a range of sizes to suit varying storage needs and choosing the right size really comes down to figuring out what you want to store in it. If you need something to simply hold your phone, nutrition, cycling gloves, credit card, and keys on your everyday rides, then a lower-capacity bag (1.2 liters or so) like the Ornot Mini, Orucase Smuggler, Lead Out Mini, Blackburn Grid, and ALMSTHRE Compact bar bags are all great choices.

If your storage needs are slightly greater and you need space for all the previously mentioned essentials plus things like arm warmers or a light jacket, then a medium-capacity bag (around 2 liters, give or take) provides a little more flexibility to fit more gear for longer rides or variable weather conditions. For those who frequently head out for all-day epics or like to be super prepared with packable cycling jackets, a camera, a sandwich, you name it, the larger capacity packs (3 to 5 liters, or more) will readily accept more cargo. And, for those with greater storage needs, like bikepackers, for example, there are lots of even larger options to carry even more gear.

Of course, you don’t always need to fill a larger handlebar bag to its capacity either, so they can work quite well for smaller loads, just with a slight weight and aero-penalty compared to smaller options. When in doubt, we suggest erring on the slightly larger side rather than ending up with a bag that is too small.

There are lots of options on this list, which one should I get?

There are lots of great handlebar bags on the market, so you’ve got a lot of options. We tested 19 different models, and there are plenty of others to choose from as well. Realistically, they all work pretty darn well, so choosing the best one for your needs comes down to getting one that’s the right size, meets your demands for weather resistance, and organizes your gear, snacks, etc., in a way that appeals to you.

Related Content

Subscribe Now

Sign up to receive BikeRumor content direct to your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Sign up to receive BikeRumor content direct to your inbox.