I have now been using my Rapha Bar Bag for 3 years, so it's time for a review! A durable, sturdy handlebar bag in which you can carry enough stuff during a long day on the bike. Can be quickly attached to the handlebars and sticks nicely - without bouncing, even during a gravel ride over bumpy roads.
We go back 3 years. I was looking for a sturdy handlebar bag, waterproof, big enough to hold my spare gear and some food. I ended up ordering this Rapha handlebar bag, and over the past few years I have used it a lot. On my road bike, but definitely also on my gravel bike. So the bag has already been subjected to quite a few tests. And to be honest? I love it.
Small but fine
The Rapha handlebar bag is a fine companion for long days on the bike. It is neither too big nor too small. With 1 large compartment and 2 mesh pockets, you have enough space to carry spare gear, a pump, or some food. The mesh pockets are handy for keeping bank cards or keys separate from the rest of the stuff in the bag. The small front zip pocket is perfect for storing snacks, keys or a phone. The reflective material on the front ensures visibility on the road and also has loops for attaching a light, for example.
The only downside? The main compartment zip is difficult to access, especially if, like me, you use an out-front bike mount for your bike computer.
Attachment
The Rapha Bar Bag attaches to the handlebars using 3 straps with buckles: 2 that go around the handlebars themselves and 1 that fits around the bike's head tube. The straps are secure and will not come loose, even during a gravel ride over bumpy roads. Do note that a carbon stem can be damaged by the plastic buckles. I always use some protective tape on the handlebars to be sure.
By the way, the handlebar bag can also be mounted to the top tube, so it can serve as a small frame bag. You can also use it as a shoulder bag with the included strap. Ideal if you are just going to a terrace, were it not for the fact that I have already lost the strap once while moving house.
Waterproof?
According to the product description, the handlebar bag is waterproof. The material might be, the stuff in the bag almost always stays dry. But on hours of riding through pouring rain, water really does come through the zip. Water-resistant, I would rather say. So if there is a chance of rain, make sure your phone, money, wallet or other valuables you want to keep dry are in a drybag.
Rapha handlebar bag review after 3 years of use
Even after all those rides through the rain, mud that got on it, the countless times I put stuff in and took it out, the Rapha handlebar bag still looks almost like new. Even the zips don't give any problems yet. So I can say that the bag is durable and will last for years. The zip of the main compartment is not always easily accessible, and the bag is not 100% waterproof. But even so, it is one of my best bike purchases.
Available to order at Rapha.cc for £63.
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