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Saddlebags are one of the accessories that have been around since the invention of the classic bicycle. Many cyclists can still remember the narrow leather cases with a metal twist lock, which were attached to the back of the saddle using two narrow belt straps. Modern saddlebags no longer have much in common with these nostalgic leather cases - neither in appearance nor in terms of material. However, the purpose has essentially remained the same: The pannier is primarily a place for a repair kit, spare inner tube, mini tool and other small items that you might need in the event of a bike breakdown.
The test field
In the age of the bikepacking boom, specialist retailers offer saddlebags in all kinds of colours, shapes and sizes. In this comparison, we have limited ourselves to nine "classic" models with a volume of 0.5 to 1.6 litres and three slightly larger saddlebags with bottle holders. Modern bicycle geometries and e-bikes often no longer have a standard attachment for water bottles. The MYBIKE tests were carried out on touring bikes, e-bikes and gravel bikes. Speaking of mounting: The manufacturers rely either on two to four Velcro straps or on a click adapter with an additional Velcro strap. The advantage of both systems is obvious. They can usually be fitted and removed quickly.
You should pay attention to this
It is important that the bags are fastened under the saddle and on the saddle horn with as little wobble as possible, so that they can be moved easily on bad roads, for example. do not shake loose. A little tip here: Insiders wrap the small parts in the bag in a cloth so that they don't wobble around loudly on tour. Completely dustproof and waterproof models usually cost a little more. However, if you know that you will have to cycle longer distances in the rain when commuting or on a bike tour, you should favour waterproof material. This is especially true for cyclists who do not have a mudguard on the rear wheel, which means that the saddlebag is exposed to intensive water and dust bombardment.
One of the most important factors when buying saddlebags is the size: How big should the bag be and how much space do I have on the bike for it? Depending on the frame size of the bike and the length of the seat tube, the space under the saddle can be tight - in other words, too tight for some models, as we found out in our test. In addition, the bag must not be too wide so that it protrudes under the saddle and possibly collides with your thighs. For this reason, it makes sense to take your bike with you when buying saddlebags. This way, everyone can immediately try out whether the bag fits and how it is mounted.
Tips from the test lab
Hans-Peter Ettenberger specialises in bicycle technology at MYBIKE and is an experienced year-round commuter and passionate touring cyclist. He pays particular attention to these details when it comes to saddlebags:
- Robust material
- Good zip
- Light-coloured inner lining for better, faster orientation
- Additional small inner compartments
- Waterproofness (for touring bikes with mudguards, a water-repellent finish may be sufficient)
- Smooth, quick and universal attachment, ideally using Velcro straps that can be mounted without an additional bracket
- Depending on the length of the seat tube and the size of the saddle bag, ensure that there is sufficient clearance between the saddle and the rear wheel or pannier rack
- It is best to take your bike with you when buying saddlebags to test the fastening options, especially with fixed systems such as Klick-Fix or other systems
This must be in the saddlebag
Anyone going on tour should have these items in their technical emergency kit
- Repair kit (if possible, make sure that the adhesive fluid in the small tube has not dried out), possibly also self-adhesive patches
- 1 spare hose (make sure it is the right size and type of valve)
- 1 pair of robust plastic tyre levers
- Minitool/multitool with spanners suitable for the bike (Torx, Allen key, open-end spanner, etc.) and chain rivet if necessary
- 1 pair of replacement brake pads (for disc brakes to match the disc model, possibly with spacer spring and locking pin)
- Chain lock, suitable for the chain width (8-, 9-, 10-, 11- or 12-speed gears)
- Chain oil in a small, leak-proof bottle
- Luster clamp (connects broken Bowden cables if necessary)
- Cable ties in various lengths and widths
- Textile adhesive tape
- Small, lint-free cloth (to wipe off dirt and to wrap parts for transport without rattling)
- Disposable gloves for dirt-intensive work, for example on the chain or for punctured tyres
- Hand cleaner if necessary, e.g. Rema Tip Top Clean-up, can be used without water
- Emergency pack: Coin, muesli bar, isotonic effervescent tablet
The 12 saddlebags from the test
AGU Clean Shelter
details
- Price: 30 Euro
- Material: Recycled polyester
- Weight: 142 g (without adapter)
- Volume/dimensions: 1.2 litres / 16 x 11 x 10 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Absolutely waterproof, reflective elements
- Minus: Dark inner lining
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 5 from 6
- Usability: 6 from 6
Conclusion
The PVC-free bag with roll-top closure and sealed seams is available in three sizes. MYBIKE tested the largest model. The well-made Shelter saddle bag is attached using the familiar, easy-to-fit KlickFix adapter system. The AGU Clean Shelter is a practical, reliable model for cyclists who sometimes have to ride in the rain for longer periods.
Deuter Bike Bag 0.8
details
- Price: 20 Euro >> e.g. available from Rose
- MaterialRecycled polyamide
- Weight: 66 g
- Volume/dimensions0.8 litre / 10 x 10 x 18 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Lightweight, recycled material
- Minus: -
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 5 from 6
- Fastening: 5 from 6
- Usability: 6 from 6
Conclusion
Strikingly lightweight, minimalist pouch with easy-to-fasten Velcro strap holder. Thanks to its slim shape, it fits snugly under the saddle. Reflective prints increase safety in the dark. Sustainably manufactured from PFC-free, Bluesign-certified recycled polyamide.
Evoc Seat Bag Tour L
details
- Price: 30 Euro >> e.g. at Liquid Life or Rose available
- MaterialPolyamide
- Weight: 102 g
- Volume/dimensions0.9 litre / 9 x 11 x 15 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Light-coloured inner lining, additional inner compartments
- Minus: Sluggish zip fastener
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 6 from 6
Conclusion
An attractively designed, highly water-repellent model, not in standardised black. Attaches to the bike with three Velcro straps. The plus points are the additional inner mesh compartments, the attachment option for a mobile rear light and the light-coloured inner lining to make it easier to find your way around. Another useful detail is the reinforced Velcro strap to protect the seat post.
Gram Multi-Tool Saddle Bag
details
- Price: 59 Euro
- Material: Recycled polyester / Lining: Nylon
- Weight: 90 g
- Volume/dimensions: 10.7 litres / 14 x 9 x 7 cm
Advantages and disadvantages:
- Plus: Smooth-running zip, choice of colours, sustainable production
- Minus: Expensive
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 6 from 6
Conclusion
Handmade in Berlin from recycled polyester, the pouch fits snugly under the saddle. It is attached to the saddle rails with tension straps and to the seat post with a voile strap (all-round rubber band). There is a small extra compartment in the bottom of the bag. If you are looking for a compact, practical bag that is also produced as sustainably as possible, the Gramm Saddle Bag X-Pac is the right model for you.
MYBIKE tip: Small & compact
Norco Ontario Midi
details
- Price: 23,50 Euro >> e.g. at Available on Amazon
- MaterialNylon
- Weight: 110 g
- Volume/dimensions1.1 litre / 17 x 9 x 8 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Strap for mobile rear light, reflective elements, good workmanship
- Minus: Light-coloured inner lining not continuous
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 6 from 6
Conclusion
Well-made, robust classic saddle bag with three Velcro straps for fastening. Practical details include the retaining loop for mobile rear lights, two inner mesh compartments and the reflective surfaces on the side. The light-coloured, turquoise inner lining for better orientation was unfortunately not used in the entire interior.
Ortlieb Saddle Bag Two
details
- Price: 45 Euro >> e.g. at Rose and Mountain friends available
- MaterialRecycled polyamide
- Weight: 66 g
- Volume/dimensions: 0.8 litre / 10 x 10 x 18 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Completely dust and waterproof, 5-year guarantee
- Minus: Without inside pockets
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 5 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 5 from 6
Conclusion
The revised, absolutely dustproof and waterproof saddlebag classic with click fastener and roll closure. The robust bag offers plenty of space in the somewhat minimalist interior, the volume can be adjusted using the roll closure. Attention, not recommended for carbon seat posts and carbon saddles!
Rose Reflect
details
- Price: 13,95 Euro >> e.g. at Rose available
- MaterialPolyester
- Weight: 112 g
- Volume/dimensions1 litre / 17 x 10 x 10 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Reflective elements, expandable volume, two-way zip
- Minus: Not quite wobble-free on the saddle
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 5 from 6
- Fastening: 4 from 6
- Usability: 5 from 6
Conclusion
Inexpensive saddle bag in standard design. It is attached under the saddle with three Velcro straps. The two-way zip, the volume that can be expanded with a zip and the holder for a mobile rear light are very practical. The price-performance tip for occasional cyclists!
MYBIKE tip: Price/performance
SKS Explore Click
details
- Price: 24,99 Euro >> e.g. at Bike components available
- MaterialPolyester, nylon, artificial leather (PVC)
- Weight: 168 g
- Volume/dimensions: 0.8 litre / 160 x 70 x 110 mm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Very robust, light-coloured inner lining for better orientation
- Minus: May not fit between saddle and rear wheel or luggage rack if the seat tube is short
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 5 from 6
Conclusion
A sturdy, highly water-repellent saddle bag with practical details such as a laminated, waterproof zip, several small inner compartments, reflective elements, a holder for a clip-on rear light and a bright orange inner lining. The bag stays securely on the saddle thanks to a combination of click fastener and Velcro straps. A reliable all-rounder!
Vaude Tool LED
details
- Price: 30 Euro (+ 30 Euro Light-me-up-Kit) >> e.g. available at Rosebikes
- MaterialRecycled polyester / polyurethane (coating) / polyamide (lining)
- Weight: 131 g
- Volume/dimensions: 0.5 litre / 13 x 11 x 12 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Easy to fill, inner bag, firm hold on the bike
- Minus: Fiddly installation of the optional light-me-up kit
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 5 from 6
Conclusion
Easy-to-load, medium-sized bag with swivel adapter. The recycled material is highly water and dust repellent. The smooth-running zip allows some moisture to pass through during longer trips in the rain. The optional LED light strips provide extra safety in the dark using a power bank. However, a mobile rear light can also be attached.
MYBIKE tip: All-rounder
Deuter Big Bag 1.2 Bottle (with water bottle)
details
- Price37 Euro >> e.g. at Rose or Mountain friends available
- MaterialRecycled polyamide
- Weight: 120 g
- Volume/dimensions: 1.2 litres / 21 x 10 x 19 cm (without bottle)
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Reflective logos, elasticated fastening strap for water bottle
- Minus: Dark inner lining
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 6 from 6
- Usability: 5 from 6
Conclusion
Comparably lightweight but robust saddle bag made from Bluesign-certified recycled material. It offers sufficient space for repair kit, mini tool and spare inner tube, but also for bars, mobile phone, cap, tube scarf or similar. Four Velcro straps ensure wobble-free fastening. As with comparable models, the same applies here: The space between the saddle and rear wheel or pannier rack may be too small for the Big Bag Bottle, especially on smaller bikes.
Norco Utah XL (with water bottle)
details
- Price: 49,95 Euro
- MaterialNylon
- Weight: 240 g
- Volume/dimensions: 3 litres / 12 x 15 x 31 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Several inner and outer pockets
- Minus: Possibly too voluminous for small frame sizes
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 5 from 6
- Usability: 5 from 6
Conclusion
Spacious, water-repellent saddle bag including water bottle holder and other useful features, such as two inside pockets, two outside side pockets and a holder for a mobile rear light. Light blue inner lining for a better overview. The water bottle can be secured with an elasticated strap. Stable attachment of the saddle bag using four Velcro straps. Caution, too little space between saddle and rear wheel with short seat tube!
Topeak Mondopack Hydro (with water bottle)
details
- Price: 49,95 Euro >> e.g. available at Rosebikes
- MaterialPolyester
- Weight244 g (without bracket)
- Volume/dimensions: 2.2 litres / 19 x 12 x 26 cm
Advantages and disadvantages
- Plus: Completely dust and waterproof, 5-year guarantee
- Minus: Without inside pockets
Evaluation criteria
- Processing: 6 from 6
- Fastening: 3 from 6
- Usability: 6 from 6
Conclusion
The revised, absolutely dustproof and waterproof saddlebag classic with click mount and roll closure. The robust saddle bag offers plenty of space in the somewhat minimalist interior, the volume can be adjusted using the roll closure. Attention, not recommended for carbon seat posts and carbon saddles!
