Bikepacking bags hacks
Handlebar bags
There are handlebar bags of all sorts, with endless features and for all budgets. The most basic version remain the dry bag strapped to the handlebar. This is pretty straightforward and a great way to get started.
Here’s a link to the guide: DIY handlebar bags
Don’t forget to protect your handlebar and frame at the points of contact with the bag, especially if you have a carbon frame. This is because bags can move and rub, ultimately wearing the paint and potentially even the frame material if the damage is significant. To protect the frame/fork one can use some electrical tape, transparent 3m tape or bits of old inner tube.
When installing the handlebar bag/system/harness pay attention to brake and shifter cables as overtightening the bag straps could affect breaking and shifting performance.
If using a suspension fork, one also needs to check that when the suspension is fully compressed the bag does not rub with the tyre.
(c) Bikepacking.com
Saddlebag
Remi Quinquin has written a brilliant DIY guide using an old tyre and a few straps to make a neat saddlebag.
Most people will have a spare old tyre or know someone that does. If not, it might be worth trying bike shops or ebay and facebook marketplace for some cheap tyre.
Just don’t buy a new tyre or kill a good one for this!
Here’s a link to the step by step guide:
(c) Bikepacking.com
Tailfin
These solutions are great ways to start and try bikepacking. If you find that bikepacking is definitely your thing you might eventually outgrow these good but simple solutions.
Tailfin makes some of the best bikepacking equipment on the market, including bags, racks and other accessories. We are really excited to have a brand like Tailfin supporting the event and offering the Tor Divide entrants a 15% discount on their products.
If bikepacking is your thing and you’d like to invest in durable gear we recommend you checking out their website.
