Saddle bags for more comfort and accessories when cycling
A pannier is just as essential for your mountain bike or road bike as a bottle cage and a multitool. They are simply part of the basic equipment. They provide space for important items such as tools, spare tubes and snacks. They are a practical addition for anyone who goes on longer tours or just wants to carry the bare essentials without a backpack. Most saddlebags are attached to the saddle with either Velcro or bungee cords and can be easily removed when you don't need them. You should make sure that the pannier you choose is large enough for your needs and can be securely attached to the bike.
So which size is the right one?
Saddle bags come in small and narrow, which are more suitable for delicate racing bikes or hardtails. These usually only fit a spare tube and a multitool. Especially when riding a racing bike, the bag must not be too bulky and must fit snugly when you are out of the saddle. The rest of your equipment goes in the jersey pockets.
With a mountain bike, the saddle bag can be a bit larger, so that perhaps a small windbreaker or a few snacks can be stored in addition. These bags have a volume of about 1 to 1.3 liters.
But there are also large bags, such as the RAVE L saddle bag with bottle holder. It offers approx. 1.5 liters of storage space and an additional bottle holder for another water bottle. This can be very helpful on a long day trip.
If you are planning multi-day tours or even a crossing of the Alps, you will need proper bikepacking saddlebags. A so-called "ass rocket." These offer a volume of about 6 to 13 liters and are usually completely waterproof. It stands at an angle far from the saddle, hence the name. You can compress the contents of these bags tightly with extra straps to keep them as compact as possible.
Attachment system of the saddle bags
There are saddlebags that can be attached under the saddle with a click system. This has the advantage that you can quickly remove the bag. You can then quickly attach it to another bike or quickly remove it for security reasons if you park your bike unattended during a stopover.
Other bags are only attached to the frame and seat tube with a strap or Velcro. This has the advantage that you don't have to screw on a click system and nothing remains on the bike when you remove the saddle bag.
The most popular brands of panniers
The majority of our customers choose between Ortlieb, Cube, Topeak, Vaude, RAVE, ACID or SKS. These brands stand for quality and durability.