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Any suggestions for a small pack to strap to the top of a basic pannier rack?

by StraelGuy
Thu, Aug 02, 2018 20:38
9

I've just ordered a very basic pannier rack to go on my bikes (a Tortec Ultralite). I usually use a rucksack but want to ditch it because it makes my back sweaty (and it's very uncool). My thought is I could velcro strap a small pack to it that I could keep my keys/tools/CO2/tubes etc in it but would have the room to add butties and bottles of water for sportives and longer rides. Any suggestions?

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9 comments

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Woldsman | 6 years ago
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Search out a deal on Altura Arran rack bag. Comes with Velcro ‘landing strip’ (pictured) that wraps around the top of your pannier rack, carry strap and undeniable sexy factor. 

Get one of these bad boys and you will be the coolest daddio on the block, true enough. 

 

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RMurphy195 | 6 years ago
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I have a Carradice rack pack https://www.carradice.co.uk/bags/rack-packs-stuff-sacks/carradura-rack-bag

On mine the side pockets don't drop down though, maybe its an older model. The side pockets are big enough for tools, or just keep them empty. Centre pocket can be expanded upwards to accomodate an upright small flask. Waterproof can go inside or be held under the net on the top of the bag. The rear pocket (on mine) contains a bright yellow waterproof cover that stretches over the top.

Comes with a shoulder strap, and velcro straps on each corner that fit on the racks on my Brompton and my tourer.

Carradice also make some small saddlebags/packs that might be more use to you, but these will obscure your rear light if you mount it on the seatpost..

 

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StraelGuy | 6 years ago
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Indeed, it would be a breach of decorum on a ghastly scale! My Vaude silk road (size small) has arrived and the second rack should be here tomorrow (the standard straight legged style doesn't fit the Strael because it has hooded drop-outs).

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Deeferdonk | 6 years ago
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Nothing worse than looking uncool when carrying your butties!

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the little onion | 6 years ago
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I have a topeak rack (quicktrack, or something like that) which requires proprietary bags. The bags are quite good and attach and detach very quickly, and are expandable to take a full change of clothes, lunch and tools. Perfect for the commute.

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StraelGuy | 6 years ago
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Cheers guys. Vonhelmet - that's just the sort of thing I was after, cheers!

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LastBoyScout | 6 years ago
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Sounds overkill - for most of what you're listing, I think you'd be better off with a small saddle pack, with butties in jersey pockets and bottles in cages.

However...

Halfords do a couple of these type of things, some of which will fit any rack.

I know you've already got a Tortec rack, but Topeak (and I think a couple of others) do a system where the bag clips onto a rail on their own rack, which is quite neat.

I just strap a small dry bag to the top of my rack, but you might want to put your butties in a plastic container or they'll get mangled.

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vonhelmet | 6 years ago
2 likes

I have something from Evans from a company called vaude that Velcro’s to the top of my rack. It’s big enough to get my packed lunch and a few bits and bobs to work in the morning, and bring back my work shirt and whatnot in the evening. I take bigger loads of clothes in a rucksack or panniers once or twice a week but on the other days the rack bag is fine.

Edit: it’s the vaude silkroad. I have the small. It looks like Evans only have medium and large at the moment.

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Simon E | 6 years ago
1 like

A standard rack bag is probably too big (IIRC the Ultralite is quite narrow) but a smallish frame bag might be worth looking at. Halfords have a couple at £10 and £13.

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