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I spent more than 5 hours looking for the best handlebar bag. After comparing more than 50 products, I selected a few that are worth your attention.
The best handlebar bag overall is the Roswheel handlebar. It provides the best price-value ratio, enough storage space to store spare tube, tool kit, snacks, etc., and you can convert it to a shoulder bag so you can take it with you.
In this article, you will also learn how to choose a handlebar bag, what to look for when you decide to buy one, and what things you should store in it.
What Are the Best Handlebar Bags?
The Best Handlebar Bags
This category of handlebar bags is attached to the front of the handlebars. They offer the largest storage space (compared to bottle handlebar bags and stem bags).
1. Rhinowalk Handlebar Bag
Pros
- 2 in 1 (handlebar bag + shoulder bag)
- Fits water bottles, tablets, umbrella, and much more
- Clean design
- Rainproof cover included
- Fits road bike handlebars
Cons
- The waterproof effect is not 100% reliable
The Rhinowalk handlebar bag is a perfect choice for people that commute to and from their work. When needed, you can detach the bag from your bike and take advantage of the included shoulder strap.
It fits a water bottle, umbrella, and even small tablets like iPad Mini, eventually your wallet, smartphone, etc. The inside of the bag contains 3 pockets, so you can easily organize your things.
The manufacturer says the bag is waterproof, but I noticed that this effect is not 100% reliable. Water can get into the bag through the headphone hole and a zipper. To prevent your things from sinking, I recommend covering the bag with the included waterproof cover when it starts raining.
2. WOTOW Handlebar Bag
Pros
- 2 in 1 (handlebar bag + shoulder bag)
- Nice looking design
- Transparent pocket for smartphone/map
- Waterproof design
- A lot of different pockets
Cons
- Low-quality zipper
- Short velcro straps
I included this WOTOW bag as a competitor for the first bag on this list (the Rhinowalk handlebar bag). You can use it as a handlebar bag and if you reach your destination, put it on your shoulder using the shoulder strap.
The main difference compared to the Rhinowalk bag is the availability of a transparent pocket. It makes it easy for you to navigate unknown terrain. Put in a map or smartphone and continue on your bike trip.
The WOTOW handlebar bag has its downsides too. The zipper is low quality and may be difficult to open sometimes. Also, the velcro straps are pretty short, so the bag is not suitable for thick handlebars.
3. ROCKBROS Handlebar Bag
Pros
- 2 bags (small and large)
- The small bag is 2 in 1 (handlebar bag + shoulder bag)
- Waterproof
- Reflective logos
- High capacity
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Difficult to fit road bike handlebars
- Confusing instruction manual
The ROCKBROS handlebar bag is a bike for the most demanding bike travelers. It provides you with a 19-21L storage capacity. This is a large storage space to pack a lot of needed things for your bike trip.
In fact, the bag consists of two combined bags. You can use the smaller one for things that you need quick access to. The bigger one is perfect for spare clothes, or a sleeping bag, for example.
The ROCKBROS logos are reflective. This increases your visibility at night. The bag is attached to your handlebar with Velcro straps. The bag is completely waterproof, easy to clean, and durable. It provides a good value for its price.
4. Ibera Handlebar Bag
Pros
- Available in 2 sizes (medium & large)
- Perfect for photographers
- Shoulder strap included
- Quick-release mount
- Transparent pocket for map or smartphone
- Reflective strips on sides
- Rain cover included
Cons
- Unattractive design
- Not suitable for rough surfaces
The Ibera handlebar bag is designed for photographers. Yet, you can use it to store spare parts, keys, wallets, and other items. So, even if you are not a photographer, don’t worry. It doesn’t mean you won’t take advantage of its features.
Thanks to the quick-release mount and shoulder strap, you can quickly take your backpack off the bike and continue on foot. If you happen to come back late at night, reflective strips on both sides will increase your visibility at night.
The rain cover, which is part of the package, will protect you from the rain. I do not recommend using the bag for trips on unpaved roads, such as in the woods. Due to the clamping mechanism, the backpack is prone to shocks.
5. Lixada Handlebar Bag
Pros
- 2 in 1 design (handlebar bag + shoulder bag)
- Waterproof
- Easy to clean
- Adjustable size
Cons
- Almost impossible to access when riding
- Difficult to fit road bike handlebars
This Lixada bag was designed to store spare clothes, a sleeping bag, or, eventually, a large water bottle. You can adjust its size depending on how many things you have in there.
Due to its design, I wouldn’t recommend it for you if you need quick access to your stuff when riding. You will risk a loss of balance and a crash.
The bag is fully waterproof, so it will keep your things dry. It is attached to your handlebar with Velcro straps.
6. Roswheel Handlebar Bag
Pros
- Available in gray and blue color
- Side pockets
- Excellent price/value ratio
- Mesh pocket
- 2 in 1 design (handlebar bag + shoulder bag)
Cons
- Low-quality materials
- Difficult to detach from the bike
- Doubtful water resistance
This Roswheel handlebar bag is probably the best choice if your budget is tight, but you want the best price/value ratio. It offers a large storage capacity (5L) to store your smartphone, spare clothes, tool kit, etc.
I like the side pockets that are very easy to access. So if you will get hungry, you can grab a power bar or a snack. And, as a bonus, there is also a front mesh pocket suitable for small things.
Just remember, the bag is made of low-quality materials due to its price, so don’t expect too much in terms of its robustness.
7. ZUKKA Handlebar Bag
Pros
- Available in blue, green, and pink color
- 2 in 1 design (handlebar bag + shoulder bag)
- Transparent pocket for smartphone or map
Cons
- Low-quality materials
- Difficult to detach from the bike
- Doubtful water resistance
The ZUKKA bag is one of the few of its kind. It comes in 3 colors (blue, green, and pink). You can use it as a handlebar bag and a shoulder bag, thanks to the shoulder strap.
If you have a tight budget, this bag is a good choice. Just remember, its quality is not as good as the quality of the ROCKBROS handlebar bag.
It holds on the handlebar pretty well, but the downside is that it takes a pretty long time to detach it. The manufacturer also claims the bag is water-resistant. I would be careful with that claim because the water can get through the zipper and seams.
The Best Handlebar (Bottle) Bags
The bottle bags are designed to store your water bottle on your handlebars. But, you can use them for storing food or things you need quick access to.
1. Opamoo Handlebar (Bottle) Bag
Pros
- Available in 3 options that vary slightly
- Thermal insulation (cold/warm preservation effect)
- Waterproof
- Stable
- Easy to access
Cons
- Not suitable for phones due to the insulation layer
- Absence of side pockets
- Worse quality compared to the Moosetreks bottle bag
The Opamoo bottle bag is designed to hold a bottle or thermos (full of coffee, for example). Thanks to the thermal insulation, your drink will stay cold or warm.
The bag is attached with 1 Velcro strap to the handlebar and with 2 Velcro straps to the stem. This combination makes the bag very stable and easy to access.
I don’t recommend storing a smartphone in the bag. You may experience problems with connectivity due to the thermal insulation layer.
2. Moosetreks Handlebar (Bottle) Bag
Pros
- Mesh side pockets
- Stable
- Thermal insulation (cold/warm preservation effect)
- Easy to access
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not suitable for phones due to the insulation layer
Compared to the first bottle bag on this list, this one offers mesh side pockets. These are perfect for snacks, energy bars, and other small items that you need quick access to, including your phone.
The 3-point Velcro strap attachment system ensures the stability of the bag. This system is the same system that uses the Opamoo bottle bag and is used by most of the handlebar bottle bags.
If you want to store your smartphone in this bag, make sure you put it in one of the mesh side pockets. Otherwise, you may not receive calls and messages due to the insulation layer inside of the bag.
3. WOTOW Handlebar (Bottle) Bag
Pros
- Side pocket for a smartphone
- Waterproof
- Thermal insulation (cold/warm preservation effect)
- Easy to access
- Removable shoulder strap
- Stable
Cons
- Worse quality compared to the Moosetreks bottle bag
If your budget is tight, but you still want to take advantage of a handlebar bottle bag that is also suitable for smartphones, this one is for you. The main advantage compared to the Opamoo bottle bag is the availability of the side pocket for your smartphone.
The rest of the features is almost the same. This means you can leverage the thermal insulation if you need to keep your drink warm or cold.
The WOTOW handlebar bottle bag is also stable thanks to 4 attachment straps. It is easy to access, and you can carry it with you easily because it comes with a removable shoulder strap.
BONUS: The Best Stem Bag
Stem bags are usually designed to fit small tools, snacks, smartphones, maps, etc. The reason is simple. They provide effortless access and a good viewing angle. This makes them a great bike accessory for bike trips. Their downside is the small storage space.
Opamoo Handlebar (Stem) Bag
Pros
- Transparent pocket for smartphone
- Sun visor
- Waterproof design
- Available in black and grey color
- Easy to install
Cons
- Small storage space
- Controlling your phone may be difficult
- Charging your phone in the case may cause overheating
As a bonus, I have one bag that is designed to be attached to your stem. Thanks to the transparent pocket, you can see what is inside. This makes it a perfect bag for people that need to see their smartphone with navigation.
The Opamoo stem bag is attached to your bike with velcro straps that make the installation very easy. The reflective strips around the bag will increase your visibility at night.
The stem bag is available in 2 colors – black and grey. It does not offer too much storage space – you will fit in it small items like a spare tube, tool kit, glasses, etc.
I also noticed a few downsides. Due to the transparent layer, you may find it difficult to control your phone. Also, avoid charging your phone in the case and direct sunshine because it may cause overheating.
| Handlebar Bags | Dimensions | Capacity | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhinowalk Handlebar Bag | 6.3×8.3×4.3 inches | - | Check Price |
| WOTOW Handlebar Bag | 12.28×9.65×4.02 inches | 3L | Check Price |
| ROCKBROS Handlebar Bag | 33.5×11.6×7.87 inches | 20L | Check Price |
| Ibera Handlebar Bag | Large - 12.6×8.6×9 inches Medium - 9.8×6.7×6.3 inches | Large - 7L Medium - 4.4L | Check Price |
| Lixada Handlebar Bag | 9.69×5.90×5.90 inches | 13L | Check Price |
| Roswheel Handlebar Bag | 12.5×5×7 inches | 5L | Check Price |
| ZUKKA Handlebar Bag | 8×5 inches | 3L | Check Price |
| Opamoo Handlebar (Bottle) Bag | 7.1×4.5×2.5 inches | - | Check Price |
| Moosetreks Handlebar (Bottle) Bag | 7.36×6.06×1.88 inches | - | Check Price |
| WOTOW Handlebar (Bottle) Bag | 6.8×5×2.8 inches | - | Check Price |
| Opamoo Handlebar (Stem) Bag | 8.2×4.8×4.8 inches | - | Check Price |
My Verdict
I have several favorite handlebar bags. Can you guess which ones they are?
The best handlebar bag for people that commute from/to work is the Rhinowalk bag. It has a nice, elegant, and clean design that will fit your dress code. It provides enough space for the necessary staff like water bottles, electronics, tool kit, snacks, etc. And, as a bonus, it comes with a rainproof cover.
The best for the most demanding is the ROCKBROS bag, which consists of large and small bags. This feature allows you to store big items like a sleeping bag in a large bag. And you can put smaller things like your mobile phone in a smaller bag that you can convert to a shoulder bag.
The Roswheel handlebar bag provides the best price/value ratio. It has very good storage space and several pockets. You can also convert it to a shoulder bag to take with you.
If you are looking for the best bottle bag, grab the Moosetreks bottle bag. It offers mesh side pockets that expand its storage space and are super easy to access even when riding.
And last but not least, Opamoo stem bag is a perfect choice if you need a bag for your smartphone with navigation.
What Are Handlebar Bags Good for?
Handlebar bags are a great addition to your bike. Especially if you plan to go on a longer, even several-day trip (for bike tourists, I recommend visiting biketouringtips.com). You can keep a lot of things in it that you would not have anywhere else to put. Take a look at a few examples of things that you can store in a handlebar bag.
- Food & water
- Spare tubes
- Wallet
- Smartphone
- Lights
- CO2 inflator
- Tool kit
- Surgical gloves
- Mini bike pump
- Spare clothes
- Sleeping bag
- And much more…
I summarized the basic advantages and disadvantages of handlebar bags below. You need to look at them depending on what type of cyclist you are. For example, for a road cyclist, the worse aerodynamics may be essential. This may not apply to hobby riders.
Handlebar Bags Pros
- They help you store a large variety of accessories.
- They are easy to access (also while riding).
- They are durable and easy to keep an eye on.
Handlebar Bags Cons
- They make your bike heavier.
- They worsen the maneuverability of your bike.
- They are not aerodynamic.
Let’s now look at how to choose such a handlebar bag and what to look out for before you buy it.
How to Choose the Best Handlebar Bag?
First of all, you need to think about the uses you will use the handlebar bag for. “I just want to store a few things.” Yes, I hear you. But if you want to take a sleeping bag with you on your bike, for example, your choice will be very different from someone who only wants to put away their wallet and mobile phone.
The second thing to consider is money. Don’t you want to spend more than $20? Or is your budget bigger? Remember, cheaper handlebar bags start at around $10 apiece, but the more expensive ones can easily climb over $100. The golden mean is about $50 for a bag.
Choosing a handlebar bag may seem complicated, but if you want to spend your money wisely, it is good to know what to look for. In the following section, I will explain to you the most significant differences between individual bags.
What to Look for When Buying the Handlebar Bag?
If you are new to handlebar bags, I recommend reading the following section carefully.
Take advantage of my 5+ hours of market research. Below, you will find the most important features to consider when buying your new bag.
Handlebar Bags Volume
One of the most basic parameters, as with other backpacks (e.g., for school), is their volume. There are handlebar bags with a capacity of about 1-15 l on the market. The larger does not necessarily mean the better. You don’t want to carry a wallet in a 6-liter bag…
Thus, think twice about what you will want to carry in the bag and whether a smaller bag that is lighter and takes less space would not be better.
Type of the Handlebar Bag
Most handlebar bags are fastened to the front of the handlebars with Velcro, straps, or clamps. This type of bag is one of the most popular. It allows you to use the “dead” space in front of the handlebars. But, if the backpack is too heavy, it may affect the bike’s maneuverability.
There are also bags on the market that you attach to the stem. These bags are usually also equipped with a waterproof case for the phone to use as navigation. They are smaller, so they don’t offer as much storage space.
The last type of handlebar bag is attached to the back of the handlebars. You will probably encounter this type of bag occasionally because it is not very popular. These are usually bottle holders. However, you can store there a snack or anything small.
Design & Accessibility
Handlebar bags also differ in design, which often goes hand in hand with the type of bag I talked about above. My research showed that 2 shapes are the most commonly used:
- Block design
- Cylinder design
Besides the shape, the handlebar bags differ in color, although black and gray are widely used for practical reasons. Yet, you will also find color models on the market so that you can match them with the color of your bike.
Regarding ease of access, there are also several types of handlebar bags on the market.
- Top access – is used by most of the handlebars bags. Just open the zipper, and you will get to the contents of the backpack – even while riding.
- Roll access – they are an ideal choice for storing clothes or a sleeping bag. They can be rolled up depending on the content so that they do not take up much space.
- Side access – is preferred by some models. Opening these bags while riding a bike is risky, so it’s no wonder that this type is the least popular type of handlebar bag.
Material of the Handlebar Bags
The last essential feature of handlebar bags is the material from which they are made.
Manufacturers use combinations of polyester fabric and polyethylene. This means that the bags are durable, hard to deform, and waterproof. In other words, the contents of your bag will stay untouched. This is especially important if you plan to take long trips where the weather can surprise you.
Leather handlebar bags are popular among people who like retro. They tend to be more attractive in design, but they need to be maintained like leather shoes. Leather handlebar bags are not suitable for ordinary trips but rather for rides in the city and as a city bike’s design accessory.
Handlebar Bags FAQ
This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please, contact me.
