Bar Bag Loops

[E. Ricky Creek]

Hey Friends,

     I am a huge fan front baskets. I am also a huge fan of handlebar bags. I really like to use both at the same time. I have found that the best combo for me is using a hobo style bag. In my case, I am lucky enough to have a first generation Acorn front bag. It is similar to the one Riv sold but smaller. This type attaches to the bars with two leather straps, like a barrel bag or using a small saddlebag up front. I have been using this bag since 2008ish and it has done a tone of touring and commuting. My one complaint was that if the straps are tightened all the way it interferes with my hands on the bars, which I am not into. So, I have always kept it hanging down, but then it moves around on the bars, which I also do not enjoy. Over the years I have tried all sorts of stabilizing ideas that involved guy lines, bungee cords, string, straps. Never into any of the solutions. I was out on a ride the other day and thinking about a possible solution and I had an idea. If a saddle has loops for a saddlebag, why not put something like this on the bars? There is the unused portion of the sleeve that is almost wide enough. So, I looked around for junk in the garage and this is what I came up with: It is two P clams that come with Nitto racks, two bolts and nuts that come with Nitto racks, and two cut down sections from Ikea L-brackets that are meant to hold a shelf to the wall. 

     The nice thing about this setup is that all the weight is still being supported by the bars, the loops are simply holding everything in place. I couldn't be happier with how well this works. The hobo bag sits between the head tube and the basket allowing the basket to be fully open. 

    I really wish someone still made a canvas and leather hobo bag. Duluth Pack has a messed up backwards one that is meant for the rear. I called and talked to a product manager years ago about getting a correct handlebar version but he wasn't interested. Acorn doesn't make this anymore, either. Everything else seems to be nylon. 

   

[Paul Y]

That's a pretty neat fix. I might try something similar using a Carradice roll. It is definitely annoying when the bag interferes with the hands!