Birzman M-Snug seatpack

The new M-Snug seat pack from Birzman offers a flexible storage option for your ride essentials in a neat design.

Previously, we tested Birzman's minimalist saddle bag, the Roadster 1, and liked it for its svelte looks that don't dominate the look of your bike. They've pulled off the same trick here with this more capacious model.

Find your nearest dealer here

Buy this online here

The M-Snug's 0.5L interior is courtesy of its extra depth, making the most of the shape of the bag. The plain black styling with simple Birzman branding also goes a long way to 'hiding' it away, making it look smaller than it is, while the black reflective strip on the rear that incorporates an LED light loop is a nice added touch.

Built with dual zips that allow entry either side, the M-Snug is designed for efficient organisation: you can get at the tools and spares you need sooner, and get back on with your ride quickly. This works well in practice, and creates a nice organised layout when you open the bag fully when detached from the bike.

So, how many compartments do you actually get on the inside? Four, including the main central space, plus an extra strap on the inside designed to keep a small multi-tool in place. It sounds a bit cramped in there, but I put all the kit I had stored in my old similarly sized bag into the M-Snug and still had room left for a second tube and a spoke key – things I previously had to leave behind or stash in my jersey pockets.

The clip that fastens the pack to the saddle rails does so securely (and silently) using O rings – so securely that the bag is held tight and largely unnoticeable when you ride out of the saddle and throw your bike around. Frankly, it feels like you almost don't need the seatpost strap.

The 300 PU material used throughout is claimed to be both waterproof and breathable; it's impressively hydrophobic, and the internal compartment stayed dry on our test rides in spring and early summer. Our only minor concern was with the base of the bag; there's no extra reinforcement to protect it from road muck, so this area could suffer over a long winter unless you also have mudguards fitted.

Aside from that – potentially groundless – worry, the M-Snug is well worth considering if you're looking for a well thought out saddle bag that gives you plenty of storage without ruining the look of your bike.

Verdict

A great option for when a minimalist bag simply doesn't carry what you need