A flat tyre or mechanical issue can happen anytime—so it's always a good idea to carry spares and tools. There are several ways to store your spares, such as a saddle bag, frame bag, jersey pockets, or a storage bottle in a bottle cage.
I think a saddle bag is the best option. The best cycling saddle bags keep all your essential tools and spares neatly stored under your seat, look good, and stay securely attached to your bike. It's a comforting feeling knowing you are carrying exactly what you need to fix the usual roadside mechanicals and get yourself out of trouble. Choosing the right saddle bag is just one part of the equation; pair it with the 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:best saddle for comfort and a reliable 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:multi-tool for quick fixes, and you're ready for anything.
Ultimately, the best cycling saddle bag depends on your riding style. That's why I've tested a range of saddle bags and have come up with a solid selection which should feature something for every rider, whether you're looking for a smaller, neat unit or a large bag to carry the works in.
The Blackburn Grid saddlebag takes the top spot for me as my best overall option. I've used it for the Paris-Roubaix Challenge and my 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:311km epic in the Swiss mountains this summer. It's deceptively roomy which is why I rate it, but it still looks neat and tidy on the bike; another key concern for me.
Keep reading to se🍎e my pick of the best cycling saddle bags or head down to the bottom of the page for more advice and pictures on what to carry and how to choose the right saddlebag.
The Blackburn Grid gets the nod as as best overall because it looks neat and tidy on the bike, but can crucially hold just that bit more than its rivals, which I've found valuable this year. The Velcro loop also fits aero 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:seatposts which is handy these days.
The Silca Mattone seat pack is a premium cycling saddle bag that uses a BOA dial for retention. It's well-made and is deceptively roomy. The BOA dial and 🍷pack stra💧p itself can be used separately.
The Elementa saddleback from Topeak is a compact, stylish saddlebag. It uses the Topeal Rail wing system which means it can stay mounte🔯d in place whilst you open it up and get your spares out.
The Topeak Aero Wedge Pack is something of a classic and you see it on plenty of bikes.𓄧 The saddle bag itself is extendable meaning it's useful if you like to do longer trips or find what you carry changes from ride to ride.
The Lezyne M Caddy is a fully loaded saddlebag that comes with multi-tool, tyre levers, pre-glued patc𓃲hes, two CO2 cartridges and a CO2 inflator. If you are buying your first cycling saddle bag this will take care of a lot of the tool requirements you may have at first.
The Burrito Pack from Topeak takes the form of a fold-out tool roll. It 🍸would be at home onꦓ road, gravel or MTB and offers an alternate way to store and access your tools.
The guide was updated ensuring that all the saddle bags featured are current and available. "Buy if/Don't buy if" sections were added to offer pros and cons of each product. A "How to choose" section was also added to provide readers with more information helping them choose the right saddle bags for their needs.
Best cycling saddle bags available today
Best Overall
Image 1 of 2
The Blackburn grid looks neat but has a large capacity 🍷in a sꦦize M(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
Just make sure you do♏n't mislay the velcro straps (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
1. Blackburn Grid Seatbag
Best saddlebag overall
Reasons to buy
+
Reflective side panels
+
Rear light clip
+
Deceptively roomy
Reasons to avoid
-
Velcro straps not attached to the bag, risk of losing them
Buy it if
✅ You still want a neat yet spacious saddle bag: The Grid offers impressive capacity while maintaining a sleek, compact look. An excellent option for riders who need to carry extra spares without sacrificing style or space.
✅ You participate in longer events and require extra storage for convenience: This saddlebag comfortably fits all your essentials plus some e🌊xtras like neoprene toe covers —wi🐎thout moving an inch, even on tougher terrains.
Don't buy it if
❌ You want the smallest possible bag: The Grid is compact, but 🎃if you’re after an ultra-minimalist saddlebag for just the bare 𝓡essentials, this isn’t the best choice.
The Grid takes my best overall spot this year, primarily for its neat yet surprisingly roomy capacity.
I tested the size Medium and could fit everything I needed in well. There's also a small internal pocket for emergency money or patches which is useful. It's worth noting that the Velcro straps are not attached to the bag, so you'll need to ensure they don't come off at the side of the ride. On the plus side, this makes them replaceable if the Velcro wears out over time. Crucially, the seatpost strap is compatible with many aero seatposts which feature on lots of newer road bikes.
I rode the 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:Paris-Roubaix challenge using this saddlebag and the 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:Chasing Cancellara sportive and chose it because it's tough and a bit roomier but still looks compact and neat on a road bike. I fitted all my usual spares plus extras in and it didn't move an inch over 146km of rough cobblestones. You won't be disappointed if you go for one of these. During my 311km Swiss adventure, I was able to stash some neoprene toe covers in the bag as extra security for when it rained.
T𝄹he bag is really sleek and has a quality construction. There's a lifetime guarantee, and it's constructed from 210T nylon ripstop material and uses nylon zipper pull loops which are easy to pull.
Premium option
Image 1 of 2
The Silca Mattone is super sleek, but it costs (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The shape suits a rolled up tube well and﷽ there's a divider inside (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
2. Silca Mattone Seat Pack
A premium option with a BOA closure
Reasons to buy
+
Premium feel
+
Compact, neat shape
+
Deceptively roomy
Reasons to avoid
-
Top end of the price range
-
BOA can be tricky to thread through some saddle rails
Buy it if
✅ You want a luxury saddle bag, with a unique closure system: The Silca Mattone has a premium feel and features a high-end BOA closure that cinches the bag down securely while adding a sleek, techy look.
✅ You like a smaller, neater saddle bag: Its 0.4-litre capacity fits all your essentials in a s♔tylish, compact design.
Don't buy it if
❌ You're looking for a budget-friendly saddlebag: The Silca Mattone is definitely a more premium option with high-end features. If you're🌱 on a budget, there🥂's definitely more affordable alternatives available.
Silca is renowned for making high-end tools and accessories and its Mattone seat pack is in line with its other offerings. It's a stylish saddlebag and features a Silca logo on top and the side of the strap.
The Mattone is available in one single size which is listed as having a 0.4-litre capacity, Silca says it can hold a tube, tyre levers, CO2 regulator and canisters. That said, I found it offered more space than I expected and easily fit everything I needed. With official dimensions of 120mm x 85mm x 40mm, it's certainly roomier than the smallest saddlebags.
I have to be honest, before testing the saddlebag I thought the BOA closure system was a little silly. What's wrong with a strong velcro strap? However, the BOA seems to work well in use and cinches the tough Hypalon strap of the bag down tight. It also brings a premium, techy look to the table and if you want to pay top dollar for a saddlebag and treat yourself—why not?
The Mattone has a🀅 quality feel and as mentioned is stylish to boot, You can also use the strap with BOA on its own to maybe carry just a tube, pump and﷽ levers, giving you a bit more versatility.
The smallest
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The 💫material does require a brushing thoug🐓h if it gets really muddy (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
3. Topeak Elementa
A compact, stylish seatbag that you can still fit a lot into
Reasons to buy
+
Stylish
+
Choice of two colours
+
Rail wing system makes life easier
Reasons to avoid
-
Slightly flappy zip
-
Setup is a bit little fiddly
Buy it if
✅ You don't need to carry lots of spares: While there are three size options, the Elementa is designed for riders who are packing light with only the essentials.
✅ You want a hassle-free attachment system: The Elementa's 'wing rail' Velcro ♕des🅺ign keeps the bag secure and firmly in place, allowing you to open it without removing it from the bike.
Don't buy it if
❌ You require a larger, more versatile saddlebag: While the Elementa has Velcro loops for CO2 canisters, it lacks the capacity to 🎀carry bulkier it👍ems or multiple spares.
If you are looking for a small saddlebag to carry the essentials but that doesn't size up too big, the Elementa is a solid choice. It comes in three size options but all are compact, neat and small.
I tested the green version of the bag which looks smart in a size small and it was still big enough for a butyl tube, comprehensive multi-tool, patches, 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:CO2 inflator—everything I would normally carry.
The bag also uses what Topeak calls the 'wing rail' system, which is just extra velcro straps to go over the seat rails meaning the bag can stay in place whilst you open it and doesn't need to come off the bike, saving 🌞time and effort. There are also two external velcro loops for CO2 canisters or whatever extra sparesಌ you fancy.
The biggest
Image 1 of 2
(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The bag really opens u🤪p and you can get a lot of spares stowed inside (Image credit: Future)
4. Topeak Aero Wedge seatpack
Range of size options and all bags are extendable
Reasons to buy
+
Four different size options
+
Larger sizes can be expanded
+
Two different fixed systems
Reasons to avoid
-
The zipper is not waterproof
-
Not as neat and stylish as some other options
Buy it if
✅ You require a spacious saddlebag for extra gear: The Aero Wedge is one of the largest options available and therefore is a fantastic option for riders who want to pack more for longer rides or events. ✅ You want versatile mounting options: Available in both a Velcro an🍨d QuickClick version, the Aero Wedge gives you the choice between a tr📖aditional strap system or a convenient plastic clip mount.
Don't buy it if
❌ You have a smaller seatpost and want a perfect fit: The Velcro strap on the standard model can feel a bit short on a 27.2mm seatpost, so some riders may need to trim or shim it for 𝓰a better fit.
❌ You don't have a lot of seatpost showing: The lower velcro strap sits quite low on the seatpost wh🦩ich may limit fitting on some bikes.
The Aero Wedge from Topeak is something of a classic and you often see them in bike shops or mounted underneath riders' saddles. It's one of the largest bags in the guide and is definitely worth considering if you're looking to pack more in.
It comes in four different size options and, unique to the saddlebags in this guide, the Aero Wedge can extend its overall length by a few centimetres with an additional built-in zippered section. A trump card if you're doing longer rides or events or just like to carry that little bit more in your bag.
I tested the regular velcro-mounted option, but Topeak also makes another version that mounts using a plastic clip that the brand calls the QuickClick system to the saddle rails. There is also a light clip on the front to mount a rear light and reflective band, as well as an internal mesh pocket for small items.
Mounting is done via a velcro seatpost🌱 strap and two buckled straps on either saddle rail. I found the velcro strap to come up a little short on a 27.2mm seatpost, trimming it or shimming it out would probably improve the fit.
Best value
Image 1 of 2
The 🥀Lezyne M-Caddy comes loaded ⛄with spares and ready to go (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
If your looking for youꦚr first saddle bag this could be a nice buy (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
5. Lezyne M - Caddy Co2 kit
Spares are included as standard
Reasons to buy
+
Ready to ride off the bat
+
External tool pouch saves space
+
Great for first-time buyers
Reasons to avoid
-
Not the snuggest fit on round seatposts
-
Internal organisers a tight fit
Buy it if
✅ You're buying your first saddle bag: The M Caddy CO2 Kit comes pre-filled with CO2 cartridges, tyre levers, a multi-tool, and patches. You get a solid starter setup without having to purchase everything separately.
✅ You have an Aero or D-shaped seat post The bag fits well🐠 on larger seatposts, providing a more secure attachment compared to smaller, round 27.2mm posts
Don't buy it if
❌ You prefer to customise your own repair kit: If you've already got tools and sparesℱ then this pre-filled bag might not be the best option for you, unless you're looking to double up on equipment.
I think the Lezyne M Caddy CO2 Kit is an excellent choice if you're buying your first saddlebag and need essential tools and spares. A pre-filled saddlebag is a convenient solution that covers both your storage and spares needs in a single purchase.
The M Caddy CO2 comes with; a Twin Speed Drive CO2 Head, 2x 16g CO2 Cartridges, RAP II-6 Multi-Tool, Smart Kit pre-glued patches and double-ended tyre levers. Aside from a spare inner tube, which is easy to find, this kit provides a great foundation to get started or refresh your gear if you're looking for a new saddlebag. Lezyne also makes some other pre-filled seat bag options.
💫I did find it wasn't the tightest fit on my 27.2mm round seatpost, the Velcro straps could be better at securing the bag, but for aero or d-shaped seat posts that are a little larger, it will fit nicely.
Fold out tool roll
The Topeak Burrito suits MTB or gravel riding we♏ll and folds out nicely (Image credit: Future / Tom Wieckowski)
6. Topeak Burrito
A roll up tool wrap that still looks tidy under the saddle
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Weight: 89g
Listed Volume: Inner tube sizes -26” x 1.75 - 29” x 19/2.35 and 700c. Tಌopeak CO2 inflater, CO2 cartridges, tyre lever✱s
Size options: One size
Reasons to buy
+
Nice to work out of when folded out
+
Quality construction
+
Really sturdy, quality velcro strap
Reasons to avoid
-
Looks slightly bulkier
Buy it if
✅ You want something that looks unique: The Topeak Burrito's stylish, fold-up design stands out from the traditional zippered saddlebags. ✅ You need a bag that's easy to work out of or travel with: The bag ha🌠s plenty of compartments and elastic holders to keep everything organised and accessible wherever you are.
Don't buy it if
❌ You're looking for a compact or aerodynamic saddlebag: Depending on what you're carrying, t🌺his bag can be on the bulkier side—not the best fit for riders looking for an aero-friendly option
Looking for something more unique from the standard zippered bag? I think the Burrito roll from Topeak is another saddlebag worth considering.
When unfolded there are three compartments to stow spares in one of which has internal elastic holders. It's nice to work out of at home or roadside should you need it. I particularly liked the two elastic straps at either end that help keep everything neat and organised.
Although it may appear a little bit bulki♎er on the bike, depending on what you pack, a well-organised setup will ensure a neat fold and a sleek, stylish bag. Construction feels quality and the material which Topeak says has a durable water-repellent and stain-resistant coating. Water just runs off the surface which is nice as this bag will suit gravel and MTB's too.
Also Consider
Image 1 of 2
The Pro performance bag is tidy and well made (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
There's a useful mesh pocket in the front (Image credit: Future)
7. Pro Performance saddle bag
A wide range of sizes and quality velcro straps for a snug fit
Reasons to buy
+
Soft protector tab for your seatpost
+
Quality feel and velcro closure
+
Snug fit when mounted
Reasons to avoid
-
Gets quite narrow at the rear
Buy it if
✅ You prioritise a small, stylish and functional saddle bag: The Pro Performance saddle bag looks sleek and has thoughtful design features like a rubber flap to protect your carbon seatpost from the strap buckle.
✅ You don't need to carry too many spares: The Pro Performance saddl꧟ꦉe bag is compact and has a handy mesh internal storage pocket too, perfect for carrying just the essentials.
Don't buy it if
❌ You have a wider, aero seatpost: The Velcro str🍸aps are strong and secure on standard seatposts but🦹 they may struggle to fit wider seatposts
I think the Pro Performance saddle bag is a quality bag that does a lot of things really well. It uses strong, sturdy velcro straps that aren't too long to affix to the seatpost and saddle rails. I also enjoyed some thoughtful design features such as the extra rubber flap to protect your carbon seatpost from the strap buckle.
You can also leave the bag in place and easily open it to access spares which is always useful thanks to its design. Like some of the other bags here, there's a mesh internal pocket and reflective panel on the rear.
I tested the Medium bag and found it to be big enough to fit my spares in whilst still looking stylish and fitting in visually on the bi♌ke. It's become one of my go-to bags and is one of the sleekest looking here.
Image 1 of 3
After the Topeak Aero, the Zefal is the 🐼next🌠 largest bag in the guide (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The Zefal has a boxy, square profile (Image credit: Future)
The shape tapers towards the back so bear thi♒s in mind🤡 (Image credit: Future)
8. Zefal Z Light Pack
An internal insert provides shape and structure to this bag
☆☆☆☆☆
Specifications
Weight: 79 grams
Listed Volume: M: 0.9L
Size options: XS,S,M,L
Reasons to buy
+
Good shape and structure thanks to the internal insert
+
Tonnes of space
+
Velcro straps fixed to the bag
Reasons to avoid
-
Access not as easy as some other bags
Buy it if
✅ You want a large saddle bag with a more defined shape: The Zefal Z Light Pack features a built-in plastic insert for a sturdier, more robust build that also maximises storage space.
✅ You like to carry lots of spares: Its generous storage c🙈apacity is a fantastic option for riders who like to be safe and 🐼carry all their essentials plus more.
Don't buy it if
❌ You prioritise sleek aesthetics: If you're after a streamlined, less boxy design then the Zefal Z Light Pac🐎ꦗk might not be the best option for you
The Zefal Z light bag takes a slightly different approach in its design than most of the bags here. The main difference is that fact it uses a large, thin plℱastic insert inside to give shape to the bag. This makes it sturdier gives it shape when mounted on the bike, and probably maximises space a bit too.
The bag also uses one long velcro strap to go around both rails and under the bag. Unlike the Blackburn bag, the straps are sewn on so you don't have to worry about losing them.
I tested the Medium size again, and it's on the larger side for me. When mounted, it looks neat and boxy, sitting a bit higher than some bags, just behind the saddle, which makes it easy to access.
Speaking of access, the plastic insert extends to the rear flap which means when the bag is unzipped you do have to hold it open a bit to access spares, no big deal but just something to note. It might make life a bit trickier on a cold winter day with 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:gloves on for instance. If you carry a lot regularly anඣd want a bigger bag then the Zefalও along with the Topeak Aero Wedge are probably the bags to look at.
Image 1 of 2
Tℱhe Pro Quick Cleat pack makes swapping between bikes reall𒆙y easy (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The sturdy plastic clip on the bag clips🦄 into the saddle rail mounted clamp (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
9. Bontrager Pro Quick Cleat seat pack
Best saddle bag for swapping between bikes
Reasons to buy
+
Makes swapping between bikes effortless
+
Mounts can be purchased separately
+
Good-looking, quality construction
Reasons to avoid
-
Sticks out slightly from the seatpost
Buy it if
✅ You want to swap saddle bags between bikes regularly: The Bontrager Pro features a saddle-mounted clamp system that lets you quickly transfer your pre-packed bag between different bikes.
✅You're happy to invest in a few other clamps: Of course, this system does mean you'll have to purchase additionꦿal clamps for each bike—it'🤡s a small price to pay for convenience and time saved when switching setups.
Don't buy it if
❌ You want your bag to sit a bit closer to the seatpost: The design prioritises convenience over a snug fit against the seatpost. If a tight, compact look is your preference then this might not be the best choi😼ce for you
The Bontrager Pro Quick Cleat seat pack provides a useful solution if you often swap saddle bags between different bikes, which can be a bit of a faff at times, and always seems to catch me out when I'm heading out of the door.
I tend to use the same saddle bag and swap between bikes, mainly because I have one packed exactly how I want it. The Bontrager system uses a saddle-mounted clamp that clips to the top of the saddle bag. If you purchase a few clamps and fit them to your bikes you can then effortlessly swap the saddle bag to the bike you need it on in seconds. I've found this to be a great timesaver when going from road to gravel bike for example.
There are two sizes of bags available 0.65 and 0.93 litres. I've tested the smaller of the two and can fit all my usual spares in easily. The bag itself is nicely made with a sealed zipper, grippy PU rubber centre section and nylon main body. There is also a small pocket inside and a loop at the rear to mount a light if you want to do that.
Bontrager states the saddle bag is compatible with carbon saddle rails, no tigh🔯tening torque is given but use some common sense here, don't overtighten the clamp bolts or check with your saddle manufacturer if you aren't sure. I tightened my bag up until it wouldn't move on the rails 🌞and checked it after the first few rides.
How to choose
How much do you need to carry?
It's good to be prepared and self-sufficient. You won't make many friends on rides if you never turn up with any spares and expect other people to lend or give you theirs. My advice would be to first work out what you think you want to carry in your saddle bag, choose a bag tha🌄t looks to be the right size in a style you like and go from there.
If you make sure you carry what you need to at the very least be able to resolve a puncture and mak💖e adjustments to your bike with some sort of multi-tool, then that's a good place to start. You can add ♚to your kit from there as you collect spares or work out what works best for you.
As an example, I used to like to get away with the smallest possible saddle bag I could because I liked the look. I'd fit a tube, instant patches, a small tyre lever and perhaps a little multi-tool and that would be it. These days I like to go for a slightly bigger that h✤olds a few more spares and gives a bit more security.
Do you want a single compartment or would you prefer pockets to give a little more organisation? Most saddle bags have a zipped main compartmeജnt which may have some internal compartments. Alternatively, you could opt for a too🦩l roll style which gives easy access to all your items but must be fully removed from the bike to use.
How do you want to attach the saddle bag to your bike?
Saddlebags use aဣ variety of methods to attach to the saddle rails, whether it's velcro straps, Boa's, buckles or a proprietary mounting system. Velcro is most common although Boa's and buckles will provide a little more security but can be a bit fiddlier. Mounting systems usually offer a very secure fitment but often add weight and may not be compatible with your saddle rails.
What materials should I look for?
Most saddlebags will be made from a reasonably durable and water-resistant material like nylon or Codura. If you frequently ride in the wet then look for a saꦕddle bag that states it's fully waterproof. Gravel or MTBing is a dirty business so avoid delicate zips or lots of velcro if you're frequently riding in muddy conditions.
Everything you need to know
Do I need a saddlebag?
A saddle bag certainly isn't necessary for cycling. It is howe🅘ver one of the most useful and popular accessories you can fit 🧔to your bike.
As mentioned in the introduction there are other ways to carry your spares. But it will only take one experience of being stranded on the side of the road with no way of riding your bike home or fixin𓆏g it to make you wish you were carrying the relevant spares. A saddle bag is an easy way to ensure you have what you need to get you home.
If you don't have any spares or tools yet and want to get set up straight away then I'd recꦺommend going fo🍃r the Lezyne Caddy, it's a good starting point and you can go from there.
What do I carry in my saddlebag?
ඣA well-maintained bike should behave out on the road. However, I always want to know that I have the right spares with me. I also don't want to carry a huge saddlebag as I'm not keen on the aesthetics so cap my spares at a certain point.
I choose to carry a small mini pump in my jersey pocket and keep everything else in my bag. In my own, I have:
- Inner tube, CO2 canisters, CO2 inflator, instant tube🐷 patches, multi-tool with a chain breaker, v🏅alve core tool, tyre levers, tyre boot in case my tyre rips badly, chain quick link.
I can carry everything🌠 you see here bar the mini pump (jersey pocket) in my saddle bag (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski)
Extra tips and tricks on what to carry
There are some handy, everyday items that are sometimes a good idea to put in your saddlebag if you have space th𒊎at can help get you out of trouble.
- Spare cash, just in case.
- Contact lenses case filled with grease
- A few zip / cable ties
- Chain lubricant
- Latex gloves
- Electrical tape - wrap around pump or tyre🌳 🐠levers
- Use sections of cut up old tyre♍ as tyre boots to fit in your tyre in ca🦂se you slash it.
Can you cut down on stuff?
Plenty of ridꦡers want to carry the smallest, lightweight bag and range of spares they can get ꦫaway with and like lots of things, there are smaller, lighter-weight options you can go for.
There are options to reduce the size and weight of items you're carrying. Superlight and small inner tubes, referred to most commonly as TPU tubes these days are one of the biggest space savers in a saddle bag. They're a bit more expensive, but you're probably only ever going to need one or two and if you do have to use them, you can swap them back when you get home, particularly if you're running 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:tubeless tyres.
Likewise, you can shed some weight by opting for a more compact multitool. The 澳洲幸运5开奖官网在线查询开奖结果:best bike multitools can p🐻ack a lot of tools into a compact device. It's worth doing an inventory of the bolts on your bike; there's no point in carrying a tool with Torx heads if you don't have any Torx bolts on your bike. Don't go too small though or you might not have enough leverage for some bolts.
Do you need a chain breaker on your tool? Chain problems are rare, so you might be prepared to risk not having one or if you usually ride with mates, you may only nee♋d one between you. Some seat packs have tyre levers built into them, so you may not need to carry separate items.
How do you want to attach your saddle bag to your bike?
.
I started by weighing and photographing each saddle bag as well as visually inspecting it for any🎉 defects or flaws.
I tested how easily and quickly each bag was to install unde🌄rneath my saddle and then filled them with all of my♏ usual spares, ensuring each bag had enough space to allow me to carry at a minimum all the spares I needed.
I tested each ba♊g for at least several hours and regularly checked the mountꦿing systems' effectiveness.
I also tested waterproofing by removing ea🍸ch bag after a wet ride and seeing how much water had made its way inside.
Tom joined the Cyclingnews team in late 2022 as a tech writer. Despite having a degree in English Literature he has spent his entire working life in the cycling ind𝔍ustry in one form or another. He has over 10 years of experience as a qualified mechanic, with the last five years before joining Cyclingnews being spent running an independent workshop. This means he is just as happy tinkering away in the garage as he is out on the road bike, and he isn’t afraid to pull a bike apart or get hands-on with it when testing to really see what it’s made of.
He has ridden and raced bikes from an early age up to a national level on the road and track, and has ridden and competed in most disciplines. He has a keen eye for pro-team tech and enjoys spotting new or interesting components in the wild. During his time at Cyclingnews, Tom has already interviewed some of the sport's biggest names including Mathieu van der Poel, Tadej Pogačar and Alberto Contador. He's also covered various launches from brands such as Pinarello, Ridley, Specialized and more, tackled the Roubaix Challenge sportive aboard his own rim-brake Cannondale SuperSix Evo, tested over 20 aero helmets in the wind tunnel, and has created helpful in-depth buying advice relating to countless categories from torque wrenches to winter clothing.
