One major issue with most of these bags is they limit your hand position on the bars. I got the paloma because it's the only one that allows you to still use the tops of your bars which I find important. The only drawback is the mount is fairly large and takes some time to take on and off if you don't always want to use it. It fits a ton of stuff and is super stable.
I like the Bushwacker Durango handlebar bag. At $26 on Amazon it is less expensive than the options reviewed here. It is plenty large enough for a day trip. The main compartment has a plastic liner to prevent sharper edged objects, like keys, from abrading through the bag. It has straps and buckles for mounting, similar to some of the bags you reviewed. I cut my straps off, leaving the plastic loop attached to the bag and insert 3/4” double-sided Velcro strips to go around the handlebars. I find it easier to move the bag from bike to bike with the Velcro.
I really like the Green Guru product line. They make a nice rackless rando bag. They aren't as comprehensively designed as you featured, but they're hand made, upcycled mission is admirable. And they are fairly waterproof.
Nice review Russ! Just got my Outer Shell handlebar bag which is perfect for small loads. I also have the Paloma which I use when I need to carry a bit more stuff. Both are great bags, with excellent craftsmanship from small USA manufacturers.
I've been riding with the Holy Rolltop, a collaboration between The Spindle and Local Hardware (both in Atlanta) for almost a year now and it works great. I generally use it on day trips, it's probably a little small for touring, but it is a roll-top and can expand to carry a significant amount of stuff - I once stuffed two pairs of commuter pants in it along with my regular riding gear that I purchased after making an unplanned stop while on a ride.
Surprised you didn’t review Ortleib 5 or 6l bag. Pricy but buy once and forget about because it’s good design and waterproof. Beats messing with those mini front racks too. Have to Strategize your front light mount though. Mine sits on canti extension.
I bought the Ortlieb for my travels, I want to take a Sony Alpha A7R3 with me sometimes, so being waterproof is great, I also loved that is rolls down when you have a small amount of stuff with you, and then can take a large capacity,
Thanks for the video! I just picked up a Cascade Paloma bag based on this video and your other video about the bag. I'm excited to test it out. They are 20% off on the Swift site now if anyone else initially got turned off by the sticker shock.
The Swift bag looks awesome but a bit heavy (outer fabric 1000 denier nylon). The price is outrageous, $170.00 for the bag, $27.00 for the adaptor, $12.00 for the strap, tax of 21.00 plus shipping costs. Not for me. Thanks for the handlebar bag reviews.
If you think THATs heavy and expensive, don’t look into Gilles Berthoud bags. www.benscycle.com/Gilles-Berthoud-2586-Medium-Front-Bag---Black/Handlebar_Bag_GillesBerthoud__230-159/Product?ad_id=MAgoogle&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIjpGM66Xe5QIVjuNkCh37gAADEAQYAyABEgIwkvD_BwE
You should learn how to sew. I've only done a few pieces myself, but it's changed my perspective. It's amazing how cheap these things seem when you realize what goes into making one.
My old GB bag came with the steel fork.. nomo wheelies:( So purchased an aluminum rod I planned to shape so the bag height was lower (never executed of course). Years later I needed another KF clamp for a second bike and discovered they make aluminum forks now lol. I got used to the height.
Looks like good bags, but I ride a recumbent with handle bars that will not support a "standard" handlebar bag. So I attached a basket to said handle bars, had to make some minor adjustments. Now, I can use just about any bag that will fit. My go too bag is from Condor Tactical, called the Three Way Deployment bag. Not real big, and does not cost a lot. But is very durable, and when it wears out I buy a new one. Okay, I am limited to what colors but frankly that is not a problem for me. Good channel by the way, and yes I'm subbed. P.S. Just took a look at Swift stuff, nice to see they have a bag for the Wald 137 basket, which is the basket I use. But, at 175 dollars, I think I will pass.
Porcelain Rocket has a nice bag made for the 137 basket that is seam welded and completely waterproof. It runs around $80 Canadian. I have a bunch of his bags. Solid stuff.
@@SteveFullerBikes Thanks for the heads up but its just one big bag, and still a tad pricey. I am on Social Security right now. So I will stick with my Condor bag.
Hi Russ. Love your channel. Have gone to both support channels you suggest and turn away because they insist on me setting up an account. I would be happy to just give a CC number as a guest like when I buy a product online and not have to set up an account. Also I am not fond of monthly charges as Patreon wants, I would rather just give an annual donation and not set up nagging reoccurring charges. they are hard to stop if there is ever a need. Just an FYI
Surprised you didn't include the Carradice Keswick you reviewed a while ago. I'm going for the Carradice Super C at 5 litres and £70 and made here in the UK. Considered the Arkel small handlebar bag and the Swift Palamo but at £130 and £170 respectively its just too much for not alot more. Great reviews and a fun channel to watch thanks and keep on pedalling.
The Keswick is a great bag for sure. Personally, however, if I had to choose, I would go with the Swift. The Keswick sits higher than the Paloma and the interior doesn't feel finished in comparison.
Hey Russ. Thanks for this video. It helped me choose a Paloma Bag. I also live nearish Seattle so I was able to go into Swift Industries to buy it. Do you ever run into the problem of the bag and rack flipping upward if you hit bumpy parts of a road?
Hey thanks for the content. I like the bags you showed, one thing would have made it nicer. Pictures of them mounted on a bike. May help people who are on the fence about one or another... @hermitpack waxed canvas bags.
I was considering this bag - or possibly the Burrito Supreme but was wondering if it would be too difficult to access the contents of the bag while riding. I'm not vlogging or anything so it is probably not a huge deal but it would be nice to grab snacks, a jacket or whatever without having to stop. How do you find it size wise?
@@GeoffMcLelland The size is perfect for taking an extra layer, tools and food. Plenty of space! You can't take stuff out while riding but you can remain standing over your bike. So, not very different from a lot of bikepacking bags, except for a randonneur style bag.
How about just hanging pretty much any right-sized drybag from clip-on aero bars? Combined with some straps it makes a bomb-proof, simple and cheap system - provided you have or can incorporate aero bars.
I used the Ortlieb Accessory Pack on a three month trip and learned to dislike it. The closure does not work well, comes lose all the time and it is pretty hard to roll the top in nicely. I cut of the plastic from the roll top and plan on sewing a zipper in place. Generally while Ortlieb is well know for making panniers their attempt on getting their piece of the bikepacking market failed. I do not know about their sales numbers but the designs are bad. Over here in germany I see a lot of folks riding with their Ortlieb seatpacks dangling dangerously over the rear tire with maybe one out of ten riders being able to pack the bag in a way it holds its shape. Unfortunately every other bike shop sells these (mainly because they are carrying other Ortlieb products) and people probably have no idea that better packs do exist.
I have a few handlebar bags, and my go to one cost $25AUS. It comes from Roswheel is only 2-3litre, waterproof, easy to use. Makes my three other bags look like design dinosaurs. Shame I can't attach a photo, use it on and off road .
I was hoping to see the Revelate handle bar bag to make the list??? On my upcoming adventure ride still trying to decide. Ortlieb vs Revelate vs Apidura, let me know your thoughts If respect your insight. 2-5 bike touring is the rage I’m looking at
Prices of these bags are insane. North St scout 11 $90 Outershell drawcord $90 Ortlieb accessory $56 Swift elwha $120 Swift Paloma $180 Go on Etsy. There are bags on there that are just as functional for $30-$40.
They are definitely not cheap. But they are small businesses, creating small runs with nice materials in expensive cities. Would love to see your Etsy equivalents.
Small company made in the US. If you buy cheap Chinese stuff you probably shouldn't complain or be surprised when jobs get shipped off to China. Not inexpensive but also very fairly priced. Value and cost are two different things.
One major issue with most of these bags is they limit your hand position on the bars. I got the paloma because it's the only one that allows you to still use the tops of your bars which I find important. The only drawback is the mount is fairly large and takes some time to take on and off if you don't always want to use it. It fits a ton of stuff and is super stable.
I like the Bushwacker Durango handlebar bag. At $26 on Amazon it is less expensive than the options reviewed here. It is plenty large enough for a day trip. The main compartment has a plastic liner to prevent sharper edged objects, like keys, from abrading through the bag. It has straps and buckles for mounting, similar to some of the bags you reviewed. I cut my straps off, leaving the plastic loop attached to the bag and insert 3/4” double-sided Velcro strips to go around the handlebars. I find it easier to move the bag from bike to bike with the Velcro.
I really like the Green Guru product line. They make a nice rackless rando bag. They aren't as comprehensively designed as you featured, but they're hand made, upcycled mission is admirable. And they are fairly waterproof.
Oh my... Arkel! Rock solid attachment to handlebars. Sturdy zippers. Compartments. Great product!
The Arkel handlebar bag is super solid. It's a great bag for touring.
Roadrunner bags jammer and jumbo jammer not to mention the new middles earth jammer. Waterproof rackless and built ford tough.
Reallly enjoyed this one! I love my Paloma and it's worth every penny. It's takin the abuse from all kinds of gravel riding and bike fishing
How good is it at keeping out the rain? Torn between this and a Porcelain Rocket Nigel.
Nice review Russ! Just got my Outer Shell handlebar bag which is perfect for small loads. I also have the Paloma which I use when I need to carry a bit more stuff. Both are great bags, with excellent craftsmanship from small USA manufacturers.
I've been riding with the Holy Rolltop, a collaboration between The Spindle and Local Hardware (both in Atlanta) for almost a year now and it works great. I generally use it on day trips, it's probably a little small for touring, but it is a roll-top and can expand to carry a significant amount of stuff - I once stuffed two pairs of commuter pants in it along with my regular riding gear that I purchased after making an unplanned stop while on a ride.
+1 for the Swift Paloma, I like the klikfix attachment and the map sleeve on top
Great video man! Awesome useful info!
In the USA, you have so many options!!!!
Surprised you didn’t review Ortleib 5 or 6l bag. Pricy but buy once and forget about because it’s good design and waterproof. Beats messing with those mini front racks too. Have to Strategize your front light mount though. Mine sits on canti extension.
I bought the Ortlieb for my travels, I want to take a Sony Alpha A7R3 with me sometimes, so being waterproof is great, I also loved that is rolls down when you have a small amount of stuff with you, and then can take a large capacity,
Thanks for the video! I just picked up a Cascade Paloma bag based on this video and your other video about the bag. I'm excited to test it out. They are 20% off on the Swift site now if anyone else initially got turned off by the sticker shock.
Fave bag!
The Swift bag looks awesome but a bit heavy (outer fabric 1000 denier nylon). The price is outrageous, $170.00 for the bag, $27.00 for the adaptor, $12.00 for the strap, tax of 21.00 plus shipping costs. Not for me. Thanks for the handlebar bag reviews.
If you think THATs heavy and expensive, don’t look into Gilles Berthoud bags. www.benscycle.com/Gilles-Berthoud-2586-Medium-Front-Bag---Black/Handlebar_Bag_GillesBerthoud__230-159/Product?ad_id=MAgoogle&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIjpGM66Xe5QIVjuNkCh37gAADEAQYAyABEgIwkvD_BwE
You should learn how to sew. I've only done a few pieces myself, but it's changed my perspective. It's amazing how cheap these things seem when you realize what goes into making one.
My old GB bag came with the steel fork.. nomo wheelies:( So purchased an aluminum rod I planned to shape so the bag height was lower (never executed of course). Years later I needed another KF clamp for a second bike and discovered they make aluminum forks now lol. I got used to the height.
Thanks again for your knowledge
Looks like good bags, but I ride a recumbent with handle bars that will not support a "standard" handlebar bag. So I attached a basket to said handle bars, had to make some minor adjustments. Now, I can use just about any bag that will fit. My go too bag is from Condor Tactical, called the Three Way Deployment bag. Not real big, and does not cost a lot. But is very durable, and when it wears out I buy a new one. Okay, I am limited to what colors but frankly that is not a problem for me. Good channel by the way, and yes I'm subbed.
P.S. Just took a look at Swift stuff, nice to see they have a bag for the Wald 137 basket, which is the basket I use. But, at 175 dollars, I think I will pass.
Porcelain Rocket has a nice bag made for the 137 basket that is seam welded and completely waterproof. It runs around $80 Canadian. I have a bunch of his bags. Solid stuff.
@@SteveFullerBikes Thanks for the heads up but its just one big bag, and still a tad pricey. I am on Social Security right now. So I will stick with my Condor bag.
Thanks for the information!! Very much appreciated
Hi Russ. Love your channel. Have gone to both support channels you suggest and turn away because they insist on me setting up an account. I would be happy to just give a CC number as a guest like when I buy a product online and not have to set up an account. Also I am not fond of monthly charges as Patreon wants, I would rather just give an annual donation and not set up nagging reoccurring charges. they are hard to stop if there is ever a need. Just an FYI
Surprised you didn't include the Carradice Keswick you reviewed a while ago. I'm going for the Carradice Super C at 5 litres and £70 and made here in the UK. Considered the Arkel small handlebar bag and the Swift Palamo but at £130 and £170 respectively its just too much for not alot more. Great reviews and a fun channel to watch thanks and keep on pedalling.
The Keswick is a great bag for sure. Personally, however, if I had to choose, I would go with the Swift. The Keswick sits higher than the Paloma and the interior doesn't feel finished in comparison.
Thanks for the review man, just what I was looking for!
Hey Russ. Thanks for this video. It helped me choose a Paloma Bag. I also live nearish Seattle so I was able to go into Swift Industries to buy it. Do you ever run into the problem of the bag and rack flipping upward if you hit bumpy parts of a road?
Hey thanks for the content. I like the bags you showed, one thing would have made it nicer. Pictures of them mounted on a bike. May help people who are on the fence about one or another... @hermitpack waxed canvas bags.
Gotta say, I need to get into the bike bag making business. These prices are fucking absurd.
Did you do it? Are you a rich bike bag maker now?
@@69696969696969D haha no sir. I did buy two panniers by Ortlieb and never used the damn things though. Made me rethink my bag bag creating career ;)
Combine fishing cycling bag! Got my attention there
Looking forward to more! Great summary review.
Thanks!
Just ordered an Outer Shell Drawcord Handlebar Bag from Kyle! Thanks for the review!!
What is the internal volume of all these bags? I need about 8L hmmmmm.
Thank you for doing this vid!
My favourite: Roadrunner Jammer!
That’s one we are def curious about.
I was considering this bag - or possibly the Burrito Supreme but was wondering if it would be too difficult to access the contents of the bag while riding. I'm not vlogging or anything so it is probably not a huge deal but it would be nice to grab snacks, a jacket or whatever without having to stop. How do you find it size wise?
How it it accessing the jammer while riding? Seems difficult.
@@GeoffMcLelland The size is perfect for taking an extra layer, tools and food. Plenty of space! You can't take stuff out while riding but you can remain standing over your bike. So, not very different from a lot of bikepacking bags, except for a randonneur style bag.
@@PathLessPedaledTV I'd love to see you review the Jammer
Do these only attach to pure road bikes? I'm on a Trek FX 3 & a Merida 900 Speeder. Both 70% Road, 30% MTB Hybrids.
Please can you do a video with the best bag and way to carry a laptop in the daily commute
How about just hanging pretty much any right-sized drybag from clip-on aero bars? Combined with some straps it makes a bomb-proof, simple and cheap system - provided you have or can incorporate aero bars.
I love the outershell but it suffers from the same issue it looks like they all do, they don't look like they will work with an outfront gps mount.
Usually when I use these bags I mount the GPS on the top tube.
I used the Ortlieb Accessory Pack on a three month trip and learned to dislike it. The closure does not work well, comes lose all the time and it is pretty hard to roll the top in nicely. I cut of the plastic from the roll top and plan on sewing a zipper in place.
Generally while Ortlieb is well know for making panniers their attempt on getting their piece of the bikepacking market failed. I do not know about their sales numbers but the designs are bad. Over here in germany I see a lot of folks riding with their Ortlieb seatpacks dangling dangerously over the rear tire with maybe one out of ten riders being able to pack the bag in a way it holds its shape. Unfortunately every other bike shop sells these (mainly because they are carrying other Ortlieb products) and people probably have no idea that better packs do exist.
I have a few handlebar bags, and my go to one cost $25AUS. It comes from Roswheel is only 2-3litre, waterproof, easy to use. Makes my three other bags look like design dinosaurs. Shame I can't attach a photo, use it on and off road .
Thanks Russ.
I was hoping to see the Revelate handle bar bag to make the list??? On my upcoming adventure ride still trying to decide. Ortlieb vs Revelate vs Apidura, let me know your thoughts If respect your insight. 2-5 bike touring is the rage I’m looking at
Really hate ortliebs “wire” mounting system for their handle bar bags
Put your wooden spoon carving supplies in all of those bags 😎
Prices of these bags are insane.
North St scout 11 $90
Outershell drawcord $90
Ortlieb accessory $56
Swift elwha $120
Swift Paloma $180
Go on Etsy. There are bags on there that are just as functional for $30-$40.
I’ve only got the Outershell bag, but the quality and usability more than justify the price, at least for me.
They are definitely not cheap. But they are small businesses, creating small runs with nice materials in expensive cities. Would love to see your Etsy equivalents.
Is that swift Paloma bag white or gray ?
White
@@PathLessPedaledTV Thank-you🚴🚴🚴👍👍👍!
Would make more sense to actually show them on your bike rather than in your hand?!
There are individual videos for each bag without my hand.
Porcelain Rocket
Is there anything Swift Industries makes that isn't just gloriously awesome?
Ach, if only the handlebar/bum bags where available in Europe.
How far down the list is the bedrock tapeats that you reviewed in the past?
It's high on the "stem bag" list, but not on the handlebar bag list.
Could you please use the word “super” a few dozen more times?
Who has got $170+ for a Paloma bag? That's just crazy.
Welcome to the world of randonneur bags. www.compasscycle.com/shop/components/bags/berthoud-standard-handlebar-bag/
@@PathLessPedaledTV OMG I am a very cost conscious individual, which makes some things hard to understand. But...to each their own.
It's a small company. Hand made in Seattle. They don't have the economies of scale to make them cheaper and be in business.
Guess I do? Recently ordered a $260 small Ozette from Swift.
Small company made in the US. If you buy cheap Chinese stuff you probably shouldn't complain or be surprised when jobs get shipped off to China. Not inexpensive but also very fairly priced. Value and cost are two different things.