If you require a quick answer, the best saddle bag is the Topeak Wedge II, which is the brand’s new and improved version with a 1000D construction. It’s also available in four different sizes that range from 0.5 to 1.65 litres. However, if you require additional storage space, the Gardom alternative is a great option to consider with a 10 litre capacity.
To rate the saddle bags within this article, we based our recommendations upon our experience and testing of multiple bags (as shown in the “How We Rated” section below). We also carried out hours of research and considered a number of factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the construction quality, size and colour options, storage capacity, ease of installation, additional accessories supplied, waterproof qualities, warranty and value for money.
Table of Contents
Saddle Bag Comparison
| Saddle Bag | Size | Storage Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Topeak Wedge II | 18.5 x 13 x 11.5 cm | 0.5 – 1.65 Litres |
| Intsun PU | 15 x 7.5 x 10.5 cm | 1.2 Litres |
| Gardom Waterproof | 61 x 15 x 16 cm | 10 Litres |
| BTR Wedge | 18.5 x 9 x 8 cm | 2 Litres |
| Fancywing LED | 17.5 x 12 x 11 cm | 2 Litres |
| Restrap Extra | 41 x 21 x 19 cm | 8 – 14 Litres |
For storing smaller essential items on your bike, saddle bags are the perfect solution and they are relatively affordable too. However, if you need additional storage space, bike panniers may be the better solution.
Below is a list of the best saddle bags that fit all types of bicycles and are suitable for storing small essential items.
The Best Saddle Bag
1. Topeak Wedge II Bike Saddle Bag
Topeak are a brand that specialize in bike accessories and they produce a variety of saddle bags to suit all budgets. This particular bag is their new and improved version that features a more durable 1000D construction and reflective stripes. It’s also available in a choice of four different sizes that range in capacity from 0.5 to 1.65 litres.
Other features of the Topeak Wedge II include:
- Patented “QuickClick” mounting system
- Supplied with a rain cover for wet days
- Available in four sizes
- Reflective strips for night visibility
- Largest size is 18.5 x 13 x 11.5 cm
- Capacities range from 0.5 to 1.65 litres
Overall, the Topeak Wedge II is one of the best saddle bags on the market that’s backed by the reputable Topeak brand. It also benefits from being available in multiple sizes and it even comes with a rain cover to keep your belongings dry.
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2. Intsun Road Bike Saddle Bag
Another compact saddle bag is the Intsun Wedge, which offers 1.2 litres of storage space and is 15 x 7.5 x 10.5 cm in size. In terms of its construction, it’s made of a high quality fabric with double sided PU for additional durability.
Other features of the Intsun Saddle Bag include:
- Velcro strap and mounting tools for a secure fit
- Made of high quality polyester and PU leather
- 1.2 litres of storage space
- Loop for rear light mounting
- 15 x 7.5 x 10.5 cm in size
- Practical zip closure
To conclude, the Intsun Saddle Bag is an excellent all-round option that takes just seconds to install using the Velcro straps. The compact size is ideal for bike spares such as pumps or inner tubes as well as your personal belongings and it certainly won’t disappoint.
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3. GARDOM Waterproof Saddle Bag
By far the most expensive saddle bag within this article is by the Gardom brand and it’s an extra large option. It has a 10 litre capacity and it’s constructed of a durable 840D PVC/nylon material for excellent waterproof performance.
Depending upon the contents you pack, the clever folding design means that it can be folded to a smaller or larger size to best suit your requirements.
Other features of the Gardom Waterproof Saddle Bag include:
- Large 10 litre capacity
- 100% waterproof
- Suitable for all types of bikes
- Reflective tape for visibility
- Easy to install with Velcro straps and buckles
- Suitable for all extreme weather conditions
- 61 x 15 x 16 cm in size
To conclude, the Gardom waterproof saddle bag has a versatile design and plenty of storage space for all of your belongings. Although expensive, it’s a worthwhile investment that’s durable and should last for many years to come.
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4. BTR Wedge Waterproof Saddle Bag
For those on a tight budget and require a cheap saddle bag, the BTR Wedge is a great option to consider. It’s a waterproof bag that’s suitable for all weather conditions and is a universal fit for all types of bicycles.
In terms of the construction, the brand state that it’s 100% waterproof and it uses no zips or seams to further improve the waterproofing qualities of the bag.
Other features of the BTR Wedge Bag include:
- 2 litres of storage space
- Rolls into a compact size for storage
- Reinforced base to retain its shape
- 18.5 x 9 x 8 cm in size
- Supplied with three strap fittings
- Integrated loop for a rear bike light
- Reflective stripes and logo
Overall, the BTR Wedge offers outstanding value for the money and its completely waterproof for all-year round use. Whether you want to store your tyre inflator or personal belongings, it’s a great budget option.
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5. Fancywing LED Saddle Seat Bag
One of the most unique saddle bags on the market is the Fancywing LED bag, which features an LED turn signal inside that points outwards at the back. The light itself is powered by a rechargeable battery and it comes with a wireless remote control, which can be mounted to the frame or handlebars for using it whilst on the bike.
Although there is a battery pack inside of the bag, it still provides 2 litres of storage space for all your belongings.
Other features of the Fancywing LED Seat Bag include:
- Constructed of nylon and polyester
- Reflective stripes for night visibility
- 17.5 x 12 x 11 cm in size
- Recharges via USB
- IPX5 waterproof design
- Adjustable adhesive mounting strap for the control
Overall, the Fancywing LED saddle bag is an excellent gadget that improves safety whilst riding your bike but also provides useful storage space. It’s also far cheaper than you would expect considering the functionality of the light.
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6. Restrap Large Saddle Bag
One of the largest saddle bags on the market is by the Restrap brand and it’s able to hold up to 14 litres. It’s handmade in England and is designed to fit any type of bike using the adjustable straps.
If you like the design but don’t require 14 litres of storage space, they also make a 8 litre alternative, which is still relatively large when compared to other saddle bags available in the UK.
Other features of the Restrap Bag include:
- 100% waterproof
- Compatible with all bikes
- 8 or 14 litre capacities
- Handmade in England
- Adjustable straps and fasteners
- Only available in black
Although expensive, the Restrap saddle bag offers a huge amount of storage space, which may be a major requirement for some cyclists. It’s well-made, secure, fully waterproof and it really does tick all the boxes.
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How We Rated
Whether we need to store our smartphone, wallet, keys or any other small item, we (the team at Darimo UK) have plenty of experience with a wide range of saddle bags. Whether they are installed upon a standard road bike or a mountain bike, we’ve tried and tested a number of bags of all shapes and sizes over the years. These bags include premium options such as the Top Peak bag to many other budget options. As you can see in the photos below, they fit perfectly below the bike’s saddle and they provide plenty of space for most small items.
As well as our experience and testing of a range of saddle bags, we also based our recommendations upon plenty of research and a number of factors. Some of the factors that we took into consideration included the construction quality, size and colour options, storage capacity, ease of installation, additional accessories supplied, waterproof qualities, warranty and value for money.
Conclusion
Saddle bags are a clever way of storing small essential items without having to carry bulky panniers or backpacks. They are a universal fit for most bicycles and they use simple Velcro straps and buckles to connect to the back of your bike.
All of our recommendations listed above are suitable for all budgets and include saddle bags with capacities that range from as little as 0.5 to 14 litres. However, if you need further information regarding saddle bags, feel free to get in touch.
