A few weeks ago, Berkeley, California-based Inside Line Equipment (ILE) expanded its bike bag collection with its new partial Frame Bag. A welcome addition to their already extensive on-bike collection of bags. It’s a perfect companion to the versatile Seat Bag Adventure.
Inside Line Equipment (ILE) Frame Bag is US-made
Like the other bags in the collection, the Frame Bag is made in Berkeley, California, from US-milled materials. The new Frame Bag sports a performance-forward design while keeping the aesthetics subtle and low-key. Plus, it’s simple, lightweight, and weatherproof.
The Frame Bag is chock-full of internal compartments and pockets. So, it’s a breeze to keep things organized and easy to get to with all of the internal compartments and pockets.
There are two elastic slots built into the inside front of the bag to hold your Dynaplug or CO2 cartridge. Also, a handy pump holster loop is located on the top inside of the bag, keeping your mini-pump handy, but up and out of the way.
The ILE Frame Bag will securely attach to your frame with minimal vibration. Although, I would use some kind of frame saver tape to go under the straps, as there will invariably be some small movement over bumpy terrain. This would help minimize any paint damage under the mounting points of the bag, especially if you ride in wet, muddy, or even sandy/gritty conditions.
ILE Frame Bag Retail & Detail
Retail price: $120
- Available in 12 colors and multiple fabrics, including VX21, VX25, Cordura, and Waxed Canvas
- Dual-sided entry with separate organization for essentials
- Secure pump sleeve and tool storage options
- Weatherproof construction with waterproof zippers and protective zipper flaps
- Multiple velcro attachment options to fit various bike sizes
- Frame tape at contact points is recommended to protect the bicycle’s finish
- 3L of internal storage, measures 14″ x 6″ x 2.5″ (35.6 x 15.2 x 6.4cm)
My Initial Thoughts
I got the simplest, black Frame Bag from ILE. I’ll be using it on my Wilde Rambler SL, so I wanted an understated color. Finding a color for your steed should be easy, given that it’s available in 12 color options that match the entire Inside Line Equipment bike bag collection. This also includes the new limited edition Blaze/Forest Xpac.
The extensive and creative pocket placement ensures the security of your wallet, keys, and phone. Plus, dual-sided entry is nice as it keeps your tools and your snacks separate for easy access to the essentials.
The main compartment also features a protective zipper flap, secure elastic loops to hold a mini pump and tubeless tire repair tool for a rattle-free ride. There are multiple mesh pockets inside for great organization. For me, it seems like it might be the perfect size frame bag, not too small and not too big.
Plenty of room for a light jacket, camera, mini drone, or plenty of snacks, without getting too bulky.
Review: Riding Impressions
So far, the bag is exceeding my expectations. I haven’t done any real long mileage with it so far, so I can’t comment on its long-term durability, as of yet. But it looks to be very well made, and uses high-quality materials. I could easily see this bag lasting many, many years of heavy use.
The price seems on par with the quality of the bag, and the fact that it is sourced and made here in the US. Another thing, which may be small to some, but is important to me, the aesthetics are subtle and subdued, adding an elegance to the bag. I appreciate a brand that keeps branding under the radar.
Overall, I believe this ILE Frame Bag to be a great value for a well-made bike bag. I would heartily recommend this bag to anyone looking for a simple, well designed, and well made Frame Bag for their everyday gear hauling needs.
