Ritchey, long-time maker of quality bicycle parts, just brought back their iconic steel road framesets. The Road Logic, Road Logic Disc, and the Road Logic Break-Away frames are back after not being offered in the current line for a few years.

Combining over 50 years of Tom Ritchey’s design expertise, all of the new Road Logic frames combine classic aesthetics with modern performance. I thought I’d touch on the reasons why these frames are back, plus look at the actual logic behind the decision. In layman’s terms…

A. Steel is metal.
B. Metal rules!
C. The Ritchey Road Logic, Disc, and Break-Away are made of steel.
D. Therefore, the Ritchey Road Logic, Disc, and Break-Away rule!

It’s simple math really. Let’s check out what’s new on these new frames.

Ritchey Road Logic

Retail: $1599

Color: Sally’s Macarons (deep red with mauve branding)

The rim-brake version of the Ritchey Road Logic leaves all of the features that made it legendary untouched. Like all of the re-introduced Road Logic framesets, this version is made with a triple-butted, heat-treated Ritchey Logic tubeset. It features “aggressively short-butted” sections that have been optimized for tig welding to save weight and improve ride quality.

Both the frame and Ritchey Carbon fork have clearance to fit up to a 30mm tire. It weighs in at 1.77kg (3.9lbs) for a 55cm frame. The Ritchey proprietary forged-and-machined, integrated headtube uses standard drop-in bearings and shaves 80 grames off of a standard headtube design.

Geometry

Road Logic Tech Specs

Frame

• Heat-treated, triple-butted Ritchey Logic steel tubing – TIG welded
• ED coat treated for corrosion resistance
• 27.2 seat tube with integrated seat collar
• Crankset min/max: 46/30t to 53/39t
• Standard quick-release front and rear
• WCS headset included (upper IS42/28.6 – 16mm stack height | lower IS42/30)
• Ultra-light forged and machined straight 1-1/8″ headtube
• Seat tube clamp size: 28.6
• Bottom bracket: 68mm – English thread
• Bottle cage mounts: 2
• External cable routing

Fork

• Ritchey WCS Carbon
• 1-1/8″ straight steerer with integrated 45-degree crown race 
• Steerer length: 300mm
• Max stack: 30mm spacers below the stem
• Axle-crown: 371mm
• Rake/offset: 46mm (sizes 49/51/53cm) – 43mm (sizes 55/57/59cm)

Tire Compatibility

• Wheel and tire compatibility: 700x30c tire clearance (depending on tire manufacturer)
• Frame spacing: 38mm
• Fork max spacing: 40mm

Details

• Sizes: 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59cm
• Fork weight: 350g (uncut steerer)
• Frame weight: 1750g (55cm)
• Color: Sally’s Macarons

Ritchey Road Logic Disc

Retail: $1799

Color: Nigiri (green with white logos)

This new frameset is now sporting some notable new features since the last time we saw it. To start, it’s now compatible with Shimano’s newest Di2 semi-wireless groupsets.

It has a new drive-side dropout design that conceals the wire routing from the battery in the seat tube, through the bottom bracket, and into the chain stay. It then makes a sneaky exit to meet up with the rear derailleur.

The Road Logic Disc still retains its cable stops making it compatible with mechanical groupsets as well. Finally, the rear non-drive-side drop-out carries a new one-piece truss design for flat-mount disc brakes.

Ritchey says this design reduces chainstay weight while still providing as much stiffness and strength as the previous design.

Geometry

Road Logic Disc Tech Specs

Frame

• Heat-treated, triple-butted Ritchey Logic steel tubing – TIG welded
• ED coat treated for corrosion resistance
• 27.2 seat tube with integrated seat collar
• Crankset min/max: 46/30t to 53/39t
• 142mm spacing (12mm alloy thru-axle included)
• WCS headset included (upper IS42/28.6 – 16mm stack height | lower IS42/30)
• Ultra-light forged and machined straight 1-1/8″ headtube
• Seat tube clamp size: 28.6
• Bottom bracket: 68mm – English thread
• Bottle cage mounts: 2
• External cable routing
• Replaceable stainless-steel derailleur hanger

Fork

• Ritchey WCS Carbon
• 1-1/8″ straight steerer with integrated 45-degree crown race 
• Steerer length: 300mm
• Max stack: 30mm spacers below the stem
• Axle-crown: 371mm
• Rake/offset: 46mm
• 100mm spacing (12mm alloy thru-axle included)

Tire Compatibility

• Wheel and tire compatibility: 700x30c tire clearance (depending on tire manufacturer)
• Frame spacing: 39mm
• Fork max spacing: 40mm

Details

• Sizes: 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59cm
• Fork weight: 420g (uncut steerer)
• Frame weight: 1940g (55cm)
• Color: Nigiri

Ritchey Road Logic Break-Away

Retail; $2299

Color: Tule Fog (Silver-ish)

For those cyclists out there who travel frequently with their bicycles, the Road Logic Break-Away makes navigating airports and taxis a breeze.

Although the Road Logic Break-Away’s main feature is its innovative travel-friendly design, make no mistake, this version of the Road Logic frameset has the same spirit, spec, and ride quality as the standard Road Logic framesets.

This frameset quickly and easily disassembles to fit into its own sturdy travel case. this case is specifically designed to help the traveler avoid airline extra baggage fees. Once you arrive at your destination, the Road Logic Break-Away assembles just as quickly, to allow you to get out and ride sooner.

Geometry

Road Logic Break-Away Tech Specs

Frame

• Heat-treated, triple-butted Ritchey Logic steel tubing – TIG welded
• ED coat treated for corrosion resistance
• 27.2 seat tube with integrated seat collar
• Crankset min/max: 46/30t to 53/39t
• Standard quick-release front and rear
• WCS headset included (upper IS42/28.6 – 16mm stack height | lower IS42/30)
• Ultra-light forged and machined straight 1-1/8″ headtube
• Seat tube clamp size: 28.6
• Bottom bracket: 68mm – English thread
• Bottle cage mounts: 2
• External cable routing
• Patented Ritchey Break-Away design

Fork

• Ritchey WCS Carbon
• 1-1/8″ straight steerer with integrated 45-degree crown race 
• Steerer length: 300mm
• Max stack: 30mm spacers below the stem
• Axle-crown: 371mm
• Rake/offset: 46mm (sizes 49/51/53cm) – 43mm (sizes 55/57/59cm)

Tire Compatibility

• Wheel and tire compatibility: 700x30c tire clearance (depending on tire manufacturer)
• Frame spacing: 38mm
• Fork max spacing: 40mm

Details

• Sizes: 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59cm
• Fork weight: 350g (uncut steerer)
• Frame weight: 1950g (55cm)
• Downtube Break-Away coupler torque: 5Nm (Do not lubricate clamp or clamping area)
• Packs into included travel case (8.5” / 21.6cm W x 26.5” / 67.3cm H x 31” / 78.8cmL w/ wheels)
• The Downtube hinge clamp, rear brake cable connector, and derailleur cable connectors included
• Color: Tule Fog

Get over to the Ritchey website and ride metal!

RitcheyLogic.com

The post All the Metal: Ritchey Brings Road Logic, Road Logic Disc & Break-Away Back to the Front! appeared first on Bikerumor.

The 2024 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships have kicked off in Tábor, Czechia and we already have a World Champ Pro Bike Check with U19 European Champion Aubin Sparfel winning the sprint for Mixed Team Relay gold on his custom-painted Decathlon x Van Rysel RCX Pro cross bike. With a young mix of riders the French team edged out Great Britain to take the first World Championship race win as Junior racer Sparfel outsprinted Elite racer Cameron Mason on the fast paved finishing straight.

An exciting end to the first race for rainbow stripes of the weekend!

Van Rysel RCX Pro carbon cyclocross bike by Decathlon

Aubin Sparfel is racing on the second generation Van Rysel RCX Pro carbon cyclocross bike, launched by outdoor goods superstore Decathlon late last year. And you can buy it directly from your local big box retailer with affordable Apex AXS or Force AXS builds.

He took the European U19 (Junior) win back in November, so there was plenty of time to get him a custom EU Champ paint job before representing his nation at the World Championships. It’s a subtle update to the standard black team-edition bike, but really makes it stand out.

While we love to drool over premium superbikes at pro races, it’s refreshing to see something a bit more affordable on the top step of the podium. Complete builds of this bike are sold from just 2500€ complete with a wireless groupset. Wow!

Since the Mixed Team Relay is made up of a mix of men & women from multiple teams and multiple age categories, not all of the French racers were on the same bike as Sparfel. But a few of his fellow AG2R Decathlon teammates also race on the Van Rysel RCX Pro cross bike.

As if the white, and blue & stars don’t give it away, Sparfel’s RCX Pro gets his name on the top tube to keep it straight. We only spotted one with the EU Champ paint scheme, and this is bike #1.

Junior Pro bike build

His bike is built up with a well-worn Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset, and XTR pedals.

Tires are the long-proven 33mm Dugast Rhino tubulars that you’ll see on many bikes for this slippery muddy course, glued up to some mid-depth aero Swiss Side carbon wheels. The cockpit comes straight from the road with a Deda Elementi Superzero RS carbon bar & stem.

A closer look at the headtube of the RCX Pro reveals a bit of sparkle in the custom EU champ paint. Not much sun is forecasted for the weekend of racing, so it’s not likely to shine much more than this.

Junior racers might not always get the newest kit, but Sparfel’s Di2 levers seem to work well, with some battle scars.

Clean, ready & waiting for one lap of the Mixed Team Relay on Friday afternoon.

Getting the Van Rysel RCX Pro muddy

In the relay format, Aubin Sparfel was the last of his national team to race. And he had just one lap to get his Van Rysel RCX Pro cyclocross bike muddy. But the bike has plenty of mud clearance – officially 10mm of clearance around a 33mm cross tire. Van Rysel calls it “Mud Proof Certified”.

The hi-mod carbon frame from Decathlon served Sparfel well for his one lap. And it delivered on its stiffness promise as the 17-year-old outsprinted the UK’s Elite Men’s racer down the long asphalt finishing straight on the Tábor track.

UCI CX Relay Rainbows for the French Federation

So that’s it. The 2024 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships is underway, and the French have claimed the first set of rainbow jerseys. We’ll be here all weekend, scoping out cool custom bikes, and maybe a few prototypes!

The post Pro Bike Check: Decathlon x Van Rysel RCX Pro Helps French Team Land Rainbow Jerseys appeared first on Bikerumor.

Hey, let’s talk about dynamo power. I’m sold on it. It’s not free power, but pretty close to it (after the initial investment). There’s something neat about generating your own light. I’ve been riding with the Sinewave Cycles Beacon 2 front dynamo light for over a year, and so far I have not one complaint about the light’s performance.

It offers a bright, and steady beam of light that is flicker-free down to 3 mph. And it’s made here, in the USA. According to Sinewave the Beacon 2 is the “only commercially available dynamo light made in the USA”.

After you read this, you’ll see that it’s high time you get on the dynamo train.

The Sinewave Cycles Beacon 2 is one of the best dynamo lights on the market, in my opinion. And, I believe I can make that statement because, over the last 5 years or so, I’ve owned and operated some of the top-brand dynamo lights out there (the Beacon 2 included).

In this review, I’ll tell you why I think this lil’ dynamo light is almost perfect.

If you are dynamo curious, and want some stellar, in-depth info all about dynamo power, check out Bikepacking.com’s piece on it here.

But first…

Two Main Dynamo System Components

I feel like I need to go over the two main components of the dynamo game, the hubs and the lights.

Dynamo Hubs

The Sinewave Beacon 2 is best used by wiring it up to a dynamo hub. For this review, the Beacon 2 was used in conjunction with my SON 28-12 Disc dynamo hub on my Masi Incanto Ti gravel bike.

In the simplest terms, when the dynamo hub spins, it generates output power. The speed at which the dynamo hub turns dictates the amount of power it generates to the light (faster = more power). That, in turn, will dictate how bright the light is (faster = more power = brighter light). Cool?

The cost of a dynamo hub can run from pretty reasonable like the Shutter Precision PV-8 at $125, to pretty expensive, like the Schmidt SON28 12 at $378. And once you pick out and buy the hub, you have to factor in the cost of including the hub in the building of a new front wheel.

Most dynamo lights will not work independently, but the dynamo hub could (in theory) be used without the lights. I’m telling you this in case you spend all the money you saved on the hub purchase and wheel build and have nothing left for a light. I don’t want you to fret. Your bike is still ridable, dynamo hubs are still just hubs. Just install the dynamo wheel and continue to ride your bike.

Dynamo Lights

Most dynamo lights come with a switch on the back to turn it on or off. They usually include mounting hardware, and most certainly come with the wire already attached to the light. Usually, that wire includes a pigtail for powering an optional rear light using the front light as a powerslave.

With that in mind, the Beacon 2 comes with some neat extras, that the others don’t. We’ll touch on this a bit later in the review.

There are many dynamo lights to choose from on the market right now. Over the years, I’ve used three different brands of lights with my dynamo hubs. For my first dynamo light, I ran the Busch & Muller IQ-X on my old Masi randonneuring bike. Now, I’m currently using the Supernova E3 Pro 2 on both my mountain bike and my all-rounder. The Beacon 2 is being used on my gravel bike.

Okay, on to the review.

The Sinewave Beacon 2

This lil’ light packs an insane amount of dynamo tech in a really small package. The light itself measures only 58mm long, and 42mm wide/tall, it only weighs 115gr (including 36″ of dynamo wire). That’s impressive.

The Sinewave Beacon 2 is made to order with a $50 deposit. The total cost is $350 for black or silver and $390 for other colors. Check here for the colors available for custom orders.

I mixed and matched mine with different colored body and trim rings… black body and blue front and back trim rings. Looks sweet.

It’s designed for use in any kind of condition. It carries multiple seals and electronics that are potted in epoxy for additional protection against water. All of the connectors are gold-plated, to resist corrosion and the elements. It also comes with a 3-year warranty.

At 750 lumens (13+ MPH) I find it enough light for any of the styles of riding that I do. As mentioned earlier, I have this light on my Masi Incanto, and find it works perfectly for road/multi-surface day or night riding. And because it uses a symmetrical beam pattern, it’s awesome for night rides on my local MTB trails, including some fast nighttime singletrack.

Some Unique Features

One of the most unique features of the Beacon 2 is the input and outputs on the back. One is for the use of an external off-the-shelf USB battery pack and the other is an integrated USB charger. That means that you can charge your phone, GPS, or any other USB device directly from the Beacon while riding, without the need to buy or bring a charger.

You do receive a USB-to-DC cable for powering the Beacon with a USB battery pack. As an option, there is an available 20cm long, right-angle USB extension for the times when it is tight behind the Beacon and you need clean cable management.

There is also a three-way toggle switch on the back to either turn the light completely off, run at full brightness, or switch to a lower brightness setting. The lower brightness setting will also make it easy for power sharing when charging an accessory.

Flicker-Free

The Beacon 2 optimizes its dynamo power for slower speeds. Where other lights might flicker or pulsate at slower speeds, like a steep climb, the Beacon 2 remains very stable, with consistent, although dimmer light. I climb at slow speeds, so this was a plus for me.

The Beacon’s power output works like this: the light reaches 100 lumens at 5mph, 375 lumens at 8mph, 600 lumens at 10mph, and the full 750 lumens at 13mph.

It also offers a standlight. A standlight is just what it sounds like. While riding, the Beacon 2’s supercapacitor gets charged up, so when you stop moving, the light will “stand” on for about 5 minutes. This is great for being seen while waiting at stoplights or waiting for a friend on a dark trail. The standlight can be turned off with the toggle switch.

Beacon 2 Installation

There is no mounting hardware when you receive the Beacon 2, but the 10mm mounting tab is compatible with mounting hardware from Busch & Muller, Supernova, Schmidt, etc. I used the Supernova mount to mount mine.

What does come with the Beacon 2 is the light, the 36″ of attached wire that goes to the hub, and the USB-to-DC cable. The Beacon 2 does not come with connectors for the hub.

The reason is, that the light can be used with any 3w/6v dynamo hub. When you purchase your dynamo hub, the connectors and fittings that attach the wires from the light to the hubs, will come with that particular hub.

I soldered and used shrink wrap on the connectors for the SON 28 hub. If you don’t know how to solder or don’t feel comfortable doing it, your local bike shop should be able to get it done for you.

How’d it Perform

As I’ve mentioned before, dynamo lighting is now an essential bit of gear that I prefer to use on every one of my bicycles. I will probably continue to use dynamo tech for most if not all of my future builds.

Since installing the Beacon 2, I’ve paired it with a Supernova E3 TL2 tail light for added visibility while riding on the roads. There’s a hidden and silent benefit to using a dynamo light. It’s the luxury of never having to worry about a light’s battery or a battery’s run time.

The fact that I can plan a last-minute night ride on my MTB, or run to the store at night and not worry about making sure I always have a light charged and ready to go… is awesome.

Bright Light

With the Beacon 2, it’s just automatic. I start rolling and have bright and powerful light ready when I am. During daytime riding, it’s nice to know that I am being seen by motorists… having it makes me feel safer. And, the night-riding benefits are obvious. I found the Beacon 2’s beam to be a “cool” white, roundish, wide pattern that makes it more than sufficient for fast off-road riding.

While night riding on some of my favorite trails, the light output, as expected, got a little dim on the steeper climbs. But, I was climbing/rolling really slow, and that’s how dynamo lights work. But with the Beacon 2 the light output never flickered, and that’s one of the Beacon 2’s highlights. The light provided by my Beacon 2 always remained steady.

The three different LED lights that are in the Beacon 2 illuminate separately. One light at a time as your speed (and the power from the dynamo hub) increases. This is done without any indication that it’s happening from the cockpit.

Charging

I didn’t really find myself needing to charge a lot of accessories while I’ve had the Beacon 2. I did charge my Wahoo Roam a little and it seemed to do a good job. The ability to charge is something nice to have around, even though you may not use it all the time.

I use my phone to snap a lot of pictures while riding. On longer rides, I found it a real piece of mind that I could charge my phone if I needed to, And, it’s a stat-saver if you’ve grabbed an almost depleted bike computer for a ride, and need to keep it going.

Unless you are on a self-supported, multiple-day bikepacking excursion or a long endurance race, the everyday user probably won’t need the ability to charge.

In Conclusion

The Beacon 2 is a fantastic dynamo light. It packs a bunch of power and extras in a tiny package. If you are commuting by bike, or on the road with motorists at any time, for any duration at all, I believe riding with a light greatly minimizes your chances of not being seen. And having a light system that you can literally forget about is blissful.

You don’t have to be backpacking through Baja, Mexico, traversing the Continental Divide, or doing the Race Across America, to take advantage of what the Sinewave Beacon 2 dynamo light has to offer.

It’s made here in the USA, its construction is of the highest quality, and it gives you the peace of mind of having a light and charging source with you at all times while riding your bicycle.

SinewaveCycles.com

The post Review: Why You Need the Sinewave Beacon 2 Dynamo Light appeared first on Bikerumor.

Yesterday, I wrote a long breakdown of Scott’s all-new carbon Ransom enduro bike, but now I want to dive deeper into my experience riding the top-spec Scott Ransom 900 RC. Scott developed the new bike to take enduro up a notch. And with an all-new 6-bar suspension design and unique rear suspension remote, they created what I see as a freeride bike for the downhills and an all-mountain trail bike for the climbs. With almost no compromises at either end of the spectrum.

Riding the new Scott Ransom 900 RC carbon enduro bike

I spent three long days back in mid-November riding the new bike on steep, rocky & loose natural trails in Santa Coloma de Farners, just outside of Girona, Spain. And I came away wanting to ride the bike more and more. And then I left. Wishing that my home bikepark wasn’t already deep in snowy skiing season for the next several months.

All-new 6-bar suspension design

There’s plenty that’s unique about the new bike. Like its relatively complicated 6-bar suspension design. Or the Integrated Suspension Technology design that hides the rear shock inside the bulbous downtube. Or internal frame storage, internal cable routing, adjustable geometry, and more.

Read my full 2024 Scott Ransom launch story for all the nerdy details.

But what really struck me about the bike was that it was just super composed and playful to ride. With three distinct personalities.

It could be a full gas freeride bike that wanted to fly down rough tracks at high speed. It could be a progressive enduro bike that dove into technical sections and popped off every lip on the trail. Or it was a upright trail bike, that clawed its way up steep and tight climbs.

How it does all three comes down to Trac-Loc

This is genuinely the single most important feature of the new Ransom. And it is what makes you really able to enjoy the 170mm of plush 6-bar rear suspension.

You can’t actually see the tech that makes this work. Because it happens inside the custom Fox Float X Nude EVOL rear shock. And you can’t even see that because Scott hides it inside the frame. So, instead we look at the 3-position Twin-Loc 2 remote. The two upper levers cycle you through 3 rear shock modes – Climb, Ramp Control & Descend. And the lower lever is your dropper post remote.

It’s not a lockout, but rather three different shock tunes accessible at the push of a button.

Climb, Ramp Control, or Descend

The fully open Descend mode is built to fly. Here you get unrestricted access to the best that the 6-bar can deliver. A rearward axle path and progressive linkage rate that east up big hits for breakfast. Go down as fast as you can hold on, like you are riding a few years old DH bike, but upgrade with 29er wheels to roll over everything.

The middle Ramp Control mode is the most interesting. By closing an air chamber in the rear shock, you effectively get volume spacers that you drop in at the push of a button. No change to the full 170mm of travel or your compression damping settings. The bike just becomes instantly more progressive.

Changing volume spacers to adjust your shock progression for different riding conditions isn’t really feasible for the average mountain biker. But being able to do the same thing at the flick of a switch is game-changing.

Interestingly, the middle Ramp Control mode is a lot of fun on descents that aren’t too technical – think flowy berms and jump lines. But it’s also good for climbs that aren’t as smooth or steep.

Lastly, Climb mode increases compression damping, reduces rear travel down to 130mm, and lowers the air volume for more progression. Together, it makes you sit up higher in the stiffened suspension, and makes pedaling uphill a breeze. Perfect for when you really need to stomp up some steep climbs that demand your attention.

Riding the new Scott Ransom 900 RC out on the trail

The first thing I did on the new Ransom was pedaling up steep, rocky, sandy fire road climbs. And alternating between Ramp Control & Climb let me adjust the bike to how my legs were feeling at the time.

Then as the big rock slab descents got steeper and rougher, I would transition from the playful Ramp Control mode into full-on Descend to let the bike soak up the big and sometimes unexpected hits. And as I got up to full-send speeds, I could let the gravity-shredding magic of the new 6-bar really do its thing.

How much does it really weigh?

Looking back at it now, it’s no big surprise that my sub 16kg ready-to-ride test bike climbed well in 130mm travel mode. (Size Large at 15.96kg with 480g of Mallet DH pedals, a bottle cage, set up tubeless, and with a spare tube, levers & chaintool inside the matchbox internal storage.)

Of course, that’s not superlight for a trail bike, but with a gravity-ready burly build it’s really not that heavy. My steel enduro hardtail weighs almost that with everything I carry on regular rides. And my carbon fatbike with 130mm fork, a frame pack to carry extra warm clothes, and light studded tires weighs the same at the moment. And I’m happy to pedal those slowly up endless climbs, too.

Weight is really the only compromise in Climb mode. And there don’t really feel like there are any in Ramp Control or Descend modes.

Transforming from Trail to Enduro to Freeride, and back again

The transformation seems like a much bigger attitude shift than I’m used to in bikes with remote lockouts or adaptable geometry. Singling out one, I feel like the shift is significantly more that the experience I’ve had with Canyon’s innovative ShapeShifter on their Strive enduro bike. Plus, I appreciate that the Ransom achieves the same concept entirely inside the shock, which feels less complicated, and less likely to deteriorate in performance over time.

I pedaled up a lot on this bike. It undoubtedly is totally a reasonable climber. But internally, we got to talking about ebikes after riding this new bike, because at this price & weight-level, there are some solid e-Trail eMTB options, too. For those that are itching for the assist to cram more ascents/descents in, there is a use-case for eMTB in some locales.

But the Ransom is simply so much more fun descending on really rough trails, that I’m happy to take a few extra minutes and sweat out a bit more on the climbs to get to my downhills.

And really it would/will be a blast in the bikepark. It feels way more like a DH bike going down than most of the enduro bikes that I regularly ride at my local uplift. And way better at climbing than the other big bikes, more on par going uphill with lighter all-mountain or trail bikes. The 2024 Scott Ransom is now officially a gravity bike, but it manages to vastly improve pedal-ability at the same time thanks to Trac-Loc and user adjustable geometry.

2024 Scott Ransom 900 RC build spec

The 2024 Scott Ransom 900 RC reviewed here is the top-tier 10,000€ build, with the full HMX carbon frameset, Fox Factory suspension, and a SRAM X0 Eagle AXS Transmission. While, there’s not a lot more you could ask for, even with money as no object. Perhaps a gravity-ready carbon wheelset could save a few grams. But for a bike built to smash bikepark laps and race blindly through rock gardens, the aluminum RaceFace R30 wheels are at least something to not worry about.

Now do I really need all those fancy components to enjoy an enduro bike? I think there are plenty of compromises I could make to save a few bucks, and still be happy.

It’s really hard to ignore the 10,000€ pricetag of the bike, no matter how good it rides. Sure, there are a lot of more expensive bikes out there. But this is clearly far out of many riders’ budgets. There is a silver lining though…. All of the unique tech that makes this bike great, is also available at lower pricepoints. Not exactly cheap. But the 6000€ 920 & 5200€ 930 have the same 3-mode rear shock function, a slightly heavier carbon & alloy frame, and more affordable mechanical drivetrains. At just 1-1.5kg weight penalty.

Final Thoughts on the new Ransom

I can’t think of a bike I’ve ridden in recent memory that was more composed and confident on the downhills than this new Scott Ransom.

And I kinda fell in love with its Trac-Loc remote. Especially, riding even downhills with the rear shock in the middle Ramp Control mode was a playful blast. And I really wish this was an option on almost every big travel bike I ride – from all-mountain to DH. Then, of course, popping it into Climb mode transformed the bike completely. It didn’t drop 2kg which would have been nice, but it did make it climb much better than I anticipated.

If I were looking to buy a new bike for enduro racing and riding bikepark laps, this is the first bike that I would think of. But realistically, I would consider those more affordable models first.

Scott-Sports.com

The post Scott Ransom 900 RC Review: Go Big on a DH-Ready Enduro Bike I Can Pedal Uphill, Too! appeared first on Bikerumor.

Handlebar bags are a simple and effective way to add storage to your bike while keeping your essentials within arm’s reach. Whether you’re simply looking to free up your jersey pockets or gearing up for a massive day on the bike, choosing the right handlebar bag can help you stay organized on any ride or adventure.

Handlebar bags saw a resurgence in popularity during the 2010s as road riding became more adventurous and gravel riding exploded. Compared to the handlebar bags of old, modern models are robust, functional pieces of equipment that are both technical and pleasing to the eye. And, the growing popularity of the humble handlebar bag means there are more great options to choose from than ever before, coming in a range of shapes, sizes, and capacities to suit nearly every storage need. Of course, all those options means that finding the perfect bar bag can be a challenge.

To help, we gathered 19 of the best handlebar bags on the market and tested them for months while examining their materials, construction, ease of use, storage capacity, organizational features, stability, and attachment systems. Review author, Bennett Shane, personally tested each model to see how they perform in the real world and how they compare to each other.

Whether you’re searching for something small, medium, or large, or are interested in finding the best value, our top handlebar bag recommendations are listed below, followed by the best of the rest, which, quite frankly, are all great options in their own right. To see the specs of all 19 models we tested at a glance, check out our handy comparison chart. Not sure what you need? Check our buying advice for useful information to help steer you in the right direction or our FAQ section for answers to some common questions.

The Best Bike Handlebar Bags of 2024

• Best Overall Bike Handlebar Bag: Ornot Handlebar Bag
• Best Value Bike Handlebar Bag: Lead Out! Mini Bar Bag
• Best Small Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag: Arundel Mini Bar Czar
• Best Medium Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag: Mission Workshop Toro
• Best Large Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag: Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito
• Best Perceived Quality Bike Handlebar Bag: Wizard Works Lil Presto Barrel Bag
• Best Handlebar Bag for Mount and Carry Versatility: Rapha Bar Bag

Best Overall Bike Handlebar bag

Ornot Handlebar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $86.00
• Volume 3.1 liters
• Dimensions 5.4" x 8.5" (13 x 22cm)
• Weight 261 grams
• Material ECOPAK™ recycled fabric
• Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
• Color options ECOPAK White, ECOPAK Coyote, ECOPAK Black

Pros

• Adjustable strap width
• Super stable and quiet
• Great zipper access
• Bomber construction
• Structured design holds shape well

Cons

• Moderately expensive
• Not super light

Bennett Shane

The Ornot Handlebar Bag is one of the best all-around handlebar bags we’ve ever tested, combining brilliant function and beautiful design into an astonishingly light 260-gram 3.1-liter package. The original Ornot Handlebar Bag set the bar for the industry and Ornot has made significant changes in the updated Ecopak version, moving that bar higher still. 

By selecting Challenge Ecopak material, Ornot is not only able to achieve an excellent volume-to-weight ratio, but do so with 100% recycled material. The Ecopak material is treated with PFC-treated DWR for weatherproofing and feels like a material that will stand up to whatever comes its way for many years. 

Inside the Ornot Handlebar Bag sits a rigid frame sheet that ensures the bag holds its tubular shape at all times. Importantly, however, the Handlebar Bag isn’t a perfectly tubular shape. Rather, it is flattened in the section where the zipper sits, giving the zipper track a huge boost in rigidity, making this by far the easiest and most consistent zipper to operate with one hand. The YKK zipper also has an exceptionally smooth feel, almost as though it’s been pre-broken-in, and it wraps around the outer left edge of the bag, which provides added leverage when initiating closure.  

The previous version of the Handlebar Bag had straps that were in a fixed position, but Ornot has switched to Voile straps that can be attached to the bag 4 or 6 inches apart to suit individual hand positions and handlebar accessory setups. This is a big improvement, as it can be positioned completely out of the way when riding with hands on the tops of the bars and helps ensure it stays perfectly stable. The included tether cord is super stretchy and allows the bag to be anchored to the frame or stem with plenty of tension, bolstering its stability even further. 

Aside from the ample, 3.1-liter main compartment, auxiliary storage is nicely arranged, with an external phone holster with a security cord on the right side of the bag, two easy-access external stretch pockets on the rear, a large external stretch pocket on the front, and an internal clip for securing keys quietly. 

The Ornot Handlebar Bag – ECOPAK sells for $86 and is available in three colors, Coyote, Black, and White. It’s a great choice because it’s big enough for an all-day or multi-day adventure, and light enough to just free up your pockets and lower back on any road ride. 

You can learn more in our full review of the Ornot Handlebar Bag.

Check Price at Ornot

Best Value Bike Handlebar Bag

Lead Out! Mini Bar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $50.00
• Volume 1.3 liters
• Dimensions 8" x 3.5” (20 x 9cm)
• Weight 105 grams
• Material 840D Ballistic Nylon Carbonate fabric exterior; Robic 210 Baby Riptstop interior.
• Water-resistant? Yes, very
• Color options Black, Charcoal, Orange

Pros

• Light
• Durable
• Organized
• Tidy Straps
• Quiet

Cons

• Smaller volume may be limiting for some users

Bennett Shane

The Lead Out! Mini Handlebar Bag keeps your essential cargo organized and quiet, whether you’re setting the pace at the front of a group ride, or venturing into rugged and remote terrain. While the Mini Handlebar Bag has a minimal and clean aesthetic, it is a refined and robust bar bag that performs brilliantly in all the key areas. It is durable, quiet, unobtrusive, and just the right size for daily rides. 

The Mini Handlebar bag holds 1.3 liters and measures 8” x 3.5”. These figures mean that you’ll be able to stuff the essentials inside and have plenty of space to move and position your hands around the entire handlebar. The tidy strap system helps here, too. Low-profile quick-release cam buckles keep the straps secure and elastic bands contain the tips of the straps so they don’t flap around and impede the top section of the handlebar.

Organization is also top-notch, ensuring that all essential items have a dedicated space inside. A small zippered exterior pocket is positioned on the left side of the main compartment and is useful for storing keys, or other small items that won’t need to be accessed frequently. Inside the main compartment, a mesh panel helps keep larger, heavier cargo, like a compact 4:3 camera or multitool stable and quiet.  

The Mini Handlebar Bag is also built to last and ready for adverse weather conditions. The exterior features 840D Ballistic Nylon Carbonate fabric, which is abrasion-resistant and water-repellent thanks to an environmentally friendly DWR treatment. While not fully waterproof, the Mini Handlebar bag will easily fend off mud, road grime, and light rainfall. Inside, orange Robic 210 Baby Ripstop fabric makes it easy to quickly spot the item you’re looking for. Lead Out! is committed to sustainable practices, partnering with the best ethical factories around the world, sourcing only environmentally friendly materials, like Bluesign or OKEO-TEX certified fabrics, and treating them with 100% PFC-Free DWR.

The zipper pulls are made of paracord, making it easy to open and close the Mini Handlebar Bag with one hand while riding. Heat shrink wrapping around the zipper pulls keeps the Mini Handlebar Bag quiet on rough roads. The Mini Handlebar Bag is available in black, gray, and orange, and a reflective stripe adds visibility for oncoming motorists in low-light situations.

At just $50, the Lead Out! Mini Handlebar Bag is a smart choice for the road cyclist who wants additional storage, or to carry little to nothing in their jersey pockets. The Mini Handlebar bag is ready to meet the demands of your most epic rides, with fuss-free performance and elegant minimalist style.

Check Price at Mike's Bikes

Best Small Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag

Arundel Mini Bar Czar

Specs

• MSRP $70.00
• Volume 1.2 liters (75 cubic inches)
• Dimensions 7” x 4.5” x 3.5” (18 x 11.5 x 9cm)
• Weight 110 grams
• Material Polyester
• Water-resistant Yes
• Color options Grey

Pros

• Light
• Out of the way
• Magnetic closure is super easy to use
• Oval shape makes it roomier than expected

Cons

• Only comes in grey
• Moderately expensive

Bennett Shane

Arundel’s Mini Bar Czar has a novel, clever design that works brilliantly, weighs next to nothing, and like everything from Arundel, looks the business. Designed for “racy adventure” as Arundel puts it, the Mini Bar Czar holds a compact 1.15-liter volume and weighs just 110g.

The weight savings are possible because of the welded seam construction, thin but durable polyester material, and magnetic closure system. That’s right, no zipper. A simple pull of the front flap disengages the magnet and gives quick access to the single interior compartment, and a gentle downward tap on the flap shuts the Mini Bar Czar tight again. As a bonus, there is no zipper constantly flapping around and making noise, which is an issue with many bags.  A shock cord keeps everything stable by anchoring the Mini Bar Czar to the head tube or stem. Minimal Velcro straps secure the Mini Bar Czar to the handlebar and lie flat. The straps can also be rotated around the handlebar to clear space for hands when placed atop the bar. 

The dark gray fabric of the Mini Bar Czar is subtly decorated with a matte black Arundel badge, giving this bag a humble but business-oriented look. Its flattened oval shape not only helps the magnetic closure system to operate more easily but also keeps the weight of the contents closer to the handlebar, which minimizes bouncing on rough sections and fits a surprising amount of gear for its capacity. 

Arundel’s Mini Bar Czar is a great example of minimal design, not only in terms of its aesthetics but also its function, as it manages to eliminate the zipper thereby making getting in and out a much simpler and quicker task. At $70, the Mini Czar Bar Bag isn’t as affordable as most bar bags of its size, but it outclasses and outperforms most competitors. 

Check Price at Backcountry

Best Medium Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag

Mission Workshop Toro Handlebar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $105.00
• Volume 1.7 liters
• Dimensions 9" x 4” (22.8 x 10cm)
• Weight 140 grams
• Material Dimension Polyant X-Pac® and Cordura Multicam fabrics
• Water-resistant? Yes, "weatherproof"
• Color options Orange VX, Yellow VX, Teal VX, Purple VX, Olive VX, Coyote VX, Gray VX, Black VX, Black Camo, Tropic Camo, Stratus Black, Stratus Blue, Stratus Purple

Pros

• Very light
• Beautifully constructed – made in USA
• A multitude of colors to choose from
• Solid YKK zipper
• Compatible with shoulder strap

Cons

• A smidge wide for narrower handlebars (40cm and under)
• Expensive

Bennett Shane

The USA-made Mission Workshop Toro is a super light, mid-sized bar bag that quickly converts into a messenger bag with an included shoulder strap. Constructed from Dimension Polyant X-Pac material, the Toro is also waterproof, rugged, and beautifully built. 

The Toro features built-in cloth straps that effortlessly attach to any style of handlebar, round or aero. Hypalon lash points on the front of Toro allow for the mounting of lights and other accessories. Because of its 9” length, The Toro will work best with handlebars sized 42cm or wider. On our 40cm handlebars, the edges of the Toro tended to rub against our index fingers when climbing with our hands placed on top of the bars. 

On the road, the Toro impressed us with its stability and did not affect the handling of our bikes at all, thanks to its low weight of just 140 grams. Stability is also bolstered by an internal frame sheet stiffener that helps the Toro retain its barrel shape at all times. We found the 1.7-liter capacity to be pretty ideal for everything we need from short loops to all-day rides. To help keep noise to a minimum, the Toro features an internal clip that easily secures your keychain. For those with larger storage capacity needs, Mission Workshop also makes the Toro Grande that holds 4.68 liters of cargo.

Operating the YKK zipper is easy to do with one hand while riding, even when the Toro is empty. The zipper track is reinforced and rigid, but the zipper glides smoothly and consistently in both directions. In keeping with Mission Workshop’s design principles, the Toro’s branding is minimal, with a subtle laser-etched logo incorporated into the black trim on the front of the bag.

Available in 13 colors, the Mission Workshop Toro will add plenty of charisma to the cockpit area of your bike and can compliment just about any paint scheme or overall bike aesthetic. At $105, the Toro doesn’t come cheap but is a premium handlebar bag with zero compromises and a great investment in making your epic rides a bit easier to manage. 

Check Price at Mission Workshop

Best Large Capacity Bike Handlebar Bag

Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito

Specs

• MSRP $125.00
• Volume 5 liters
• Dimensions 11” x 6” (28 x 15.2cm)
• Weight 396 grams
• Material 1000D Cordura
• Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
• Color options Black, Burgundy, Grey, Navy, Olive, Rust, Coyote

Pros

• Quality materials and construction
• Huge storage capacity
• Handmade in the USA
• Surprisingly stable
• Retains shape thanks to internal structure
• Convertible to shoulder bag with optional strap

Cons

• Expensive
• Aero penalty
• Heavier weight
• Too wide for bars narrower than 42cm

Bennett Shane

Roadrunner’s West Coast Burrito Bar Bag will make you want to drop out of real life and see just how far you can ride with the gear and snacks you can stuff inside…which is quite a lot. At 5 liters, this is certainly more bag than you need for a simple day ride, but when riding sun up to sundown, or stringing together multiple big days, it’s an efficient and convenient 1-piece storage system. 

Considering its huge volume, the West Coast Burrito is remarkably tidy and stable. An internal frame ensures that the West Coast Burrito’s Cordura body retains its cylindrical shape, and a robust three-strap mounting system gives it a tenacious hold even when fully loaded with cargo. It also features ample exterior storage, with a zippered side pocket flanking each side for small items like lip balm and credit cards, as well as elastic webbing in front for securing extra clothing. The West Coast Burrito also converts into a shoulder bag, by using Roadrunner’s Universal Shoulder Strap, available separately. 

YKK water-resistant zippers are used throughout the West Coast Burrito, as well as the entire Roadrunner bar bag lineup. The only limitations of the West Coast Burrito are that it will likely not suit bikes 50cm and below, or handlebars less than 42cm in width. In the former case, because it’s 6” tall, the bottom of the bag could conflict with the front tire. In the latter, because it’s 11 inches (28cm) wide, The West Coast Burrito’s outer edges may rub against the thumbs when riding with hands on the hoods. It may also be a bit too big for those times when you aren’t carrying that much gear.

Assuming your cockpit and front-end stack height are not an issue, the West Coast Burrito bag is a gloriously tidy and easy-to-use bag that can simplify your least predictable adventures and elevate the style of your bike. At $125.00, it’s a premium piece of kit, but lives up to its price and then some. 

Check Price at Road Runner Bags

Best Perceived Quality Bike Handlebar Bag

Wizard Works Lil Presto Barrel Bag

Specs

• MSRP $88.00
• Volume Large: 3.4 liters (tested), Small: 1.8 liters
• Dimensions Large: 8.6" x 5.5" (22 x 14cm), Small: 7.9" x 4.1" (20 x 10.5cm)
• Weight 325 grams (excludes straps)
• Material Cordura
• Water-resistant? Yes, very
• Color Options Black Camo, Fluro Pink, Olive, Rust, Splatter (custom design option available)

Pros

• Gorgeous
• Massive but tidy
• Heirloom-level quality
• Comes in two sizes

Cons

• The anchor cord could be longer or stretchier
• Moderately expensive
• Not the lightest

Bennett Shane

Wizard Works Lil Presto is a large and in-charge barrel bag, with a capacity of 3.4 liters. Designed for rides where being fully prepared is key, the Lil Presto invites you to pack whatever you fancy inside and cradles it all securely while adding an undeniable touch of class to your bike’s cockpit area. 

Perceived quality is a rather subjective honor to give to a product, but we think it’s well-deserved. As soon as it was out of the package, we wanted it on the bike and full of snacks and clothes to help keep us comfortable on a remote and epic ride. The Lil Presto stands out because of how it interacts with the senses, particularly sight and touch. The form of the bag is very tidy – a solid tubular shape with no excess material anywhere. Sourced from a mill in Germany, the beautifully woven Cordura fabric covering our Lil Presto test bag feels like it will last into the next century.

Using the Lil Presto out on the road only enhanced our perception of its quality. The YKK Aquagard zipper is a joy to operate single-handedly, with no resistance to closing and a smooth gliding action, and allows the Lil Presto to protect the contents from the elements for hours on end. The side pockets and front daisy chain both work effectively for stashing small items and mounting accessories like clip-on lights. Inside, a brightly colored liner made it easy to distinguish contents for quick access. 

Another nice touch is the inclusion of foam spacers that allow the bag to be mounted further away from the handlebar, freeing up room for cables, fingers, or bar-mounted accessories. The only minor quibble with the Lil Presto is the anchor cord, which connects the back of the bag to the frame head tube or stem. It doesn’t stretch like a bungee and isn’t quite long enough to use on one of our bikes which has a 120mm stem. Of course, it’s not actually part of the bag, and could be easily replaced with something more accommodating of longer stems, if needed. While other brands have switched to a Bungee-style strap, Wizard Works is sticking to a static cord because they provide a tighter hold when riding on rougher surfaces. 

Wizard Works also offers the Lil Presto in a “small” version at 1.8 liters in volume, which, like its big sibling, is still fairly spacious in the context of barrel bags. So, if weight is a concern and 3.5 liters sounds like too much, then the small Lil Presto is worth a look. 

Overall, the Wizard Works Lil Presto is a super-classy bar bag that prioritizes high quality, durability, and easy operation while signaling to the world that its users have great taste. You’ll be happy to look down at it time after time, as you reach for the next delicious snack or layer to keep you warm.

Check Price at Angry Catfish Bicycle

Best Handlebar Bag for Mount and Carry Versatility

Rapha Bar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $70.00
• Volume 2 liters
• Dimensions 9.25" x 4.3" x 3.1" (23.5 x 11 x 8cm)
• Weight 168 grams (255 grams with shoulder strap)
• Material DWR treated polyester
• Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
• Color options Black

Pros

• Good size for most rides
• Can be mounted on handlebar or frame
• Converts to shoulder carry
• Good internal organization

Cons

• Top strap position is not adjustable

Bennett Shane

The Rapha Bar Bag is an elegant and functional bar bag that’s ready for a double century, a short ride to the office, or anything in between. Designed in London, this polyester bar is DWR-treated to be highly water-resistant, can be mounted within the front triangle, and converts easily into a mini-messenger bag for off-the-bike carry. At 2 liters, it’s arguably the perfect size, providing ample storage space while not crowding the cockpit area. 

Attaching the Rapha Bar Bag is quick and simple, using three durable Hyperlon straps each with a plastic buckle. The rear strap is long enough to easily accommodate race bikes with an aggressive handlebar position, well forward of the headtube. This bag is unique in that it can also be mounted within the front triangle, with an extra strap on one end that captures the seat tube, giving more options for placement on the bike. It also converts to a cross-body carry with the stowable shoulder strap.

The 2-liter main compartment has two internal mesh pockets and a quick access pocket, allowing you to separate items based on how quickly and frequently you’ll need to access them. In addition to the main compartment, a small zippered compartment graces the lower face of the bag and in true Rapha style is lined with bright pink fabric with an inspirational, “Pack Light. Travel Far” printed in silver. The Rapha Bar Bag also features a daisy chain on the front that allows easy lashing of accessories like a headlight or hand pump. The material is reflective and adds a significant amount of low-light visibility. 

On the road, the Rapha Bar Bag is quiet, stable, and easy to zip with one hand. While the strap position is not adjustable, the spacing is optimal for mounting accessories to the handlebars and leaving space for thumbs on top of the handlebar when climbing. 

Relative to its competition, the Rapha Bar Bag is moderately priced at $70 and offers some flexibility in terms of mounting options and off-the-bike shoulder carry. It’s also highly water-resistant, built to last, and has the timeless style of all things Rapha.

Check Price at Rapha

Best of the Rest

Unique Modular Design

Swift Industries Kestrel

Specs

• MSRP $120.00
• Volume 2 liters (up to 4 liters with optional accessories)
• Dimensions 10” x 5” x 3” (25.4 x 12.7 x 7.6cm)
• Weight 171 grams
• Material ECOPAK recycled Sailcloth
• Water-resistant? No
• Color options Redwood, Coyote, Black, Teal

Pros

• Untouchable modularity
• Built to last
• Easy to attach
• Lots of storage options
• Light

Cons

• Expensive

Bennett Shane

The Kestrel Bar Bag from Swift Industries is a beautifully crafted 2-liter handlebar bag made from Challenge Sailcloth Ecopak and lined with 400D Nylon Packcloth, featuring YKK water-resistant zippers and plenty of storage options. This bag leans a little more toward the bikepacking side of the spectrum both in its shape and modular design.

In addition to the 2-liter main compartment, the Kestrel features a smaller exterior zipper pocket on the lower face of the bag, and a third zippered pocket on the interior for securing valuables. On the rear face of the bag is where things get interesting. Molle webbing allows the Kestrel to integrate with two styles of modular storage accessories, called the Rando Pocket and the Sidekick Stem Pouch, available separately from Swift. With both of these add-ons installed, the total storage capacity reaches a whopping 4 liters, while preserving ample space on the bar tops for free hand movement and mounting other accessories like a computer or headlight. On the bottom of the Kestrel, lashing points provide a perfect place to mount a hand pump or rain layer.

Mounting the Kestrel to the handlebar is easy and quick, using the included rubber Swift Straps and stretchy shock cord. Getting the Rando Pocket and Sidekick Stem Pouch connected is also straightforward, and it’s clear that Swift Designers approached this additional modular storage as an essential part of the Kestrel, not as an afterthought.

Despite not having an internal frame support like the Bandito bag, the Kestrel is rigid enough to make one-handed zipper operation consistent and easy. On rough surfaces, even when all three optional pieces are loaded up, the Kestrel system stays quiet and stable. 

Like all Swift Industries products, the Kestrel isn’t cheap. Starting at $120 for the main bag and topping out at around $220 including the optional Rando Pocket and Sidekick Stem Pouch, the Kestrel a piece of kit that will keep you organized and prepared on epics rides or bikepacking adventures and signal to the world that you appreciate quality design and sustainable production. 

Check Price at Swift IndustriesCheck Price at Evo

Excellent Quality and Organization

ALMSTHRE Signature Bar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $65.00
• Volume 2.4 liters
• Dimensions 7.5” x 5” (19 x 12.7cm)
• Weight 219 grams
• Material Nylon Ripstop
• Water-resistant? Yes, water-repellent main body, waterproof zippers
• Color options California Gold, Cosmic Blue, Midnight Black, Passion Pink, BWR, Two-Tone (Blue/Gold)

Pros

• Quality build
• Lovely appearance
• Tidy straps
• Well-organized storage

Cons

• None

Bennett Shane

The ALMSTHRE Signature Bar Bag is a functional and aesthetic triumph, made of water-resistant ripstop nylon, offering choice in mounting position, and brilliant organization throughout its 2.4 liters of capacity. An internal frame support ensures the Signature Bar Bag retains a cylindrical shape and helps make zipping the bag open and closed a two-finger job with zero effort. The zippers are waterproof and feature stretchy pull cords for easy grab and zero noise. 

Mounting the Signature Bar Bag to your handlebar setup and hand position preferences is easy, thanks to a pair of anchoring loops for the handlebar straps. The inner loops are great for riders who like to use the tops of the bars when climbing, as the straps will fit neatly in the gap between the stem and the inner edge of the bar tape. If lights or a computer are already mounted in that space, then the outer loops will space the straps much farther apart. 

With a 2.4-liter capacity and 7.5″ x 5″ dimensions, the Signature Bar Bag falls into that “just-right” size range that avoids being too large or too small and it doesn’t dominate the front of the bike. In the main compartment, a mesh pocket helps secure heavier items like a camera lens or smartphone. On the user-right side of the Signature Bar Bag sits a large zippered compartment for small, less frequently accessed items like keys or a credit card. Out front, a daisy chain offers additional mounting positions for a headlight or mini pump. 

Available in six lovely colors, the Signature Bar Bag will coordinate easily with any bar tape or frame color. At $65, this full-featured bag is a solid value that will keep your jersey pockets free, and your gear organized, while elevating the look of your bike’s cockpit area. 

Check Price at Performance Bike

Impressively Lightweight

Orucase Smuggler

Specs

• MSRP $44.00
• Volume 1.15 liters
• Dimensions 7.5" x 3.5” (19cm x 8.9cm)
• Weight 86 grams
• Material Challenge EPX200
• Water-resistant? No
• Color options Black, Black Camo, Coyote, Fuschia, Golden Daze, Lilac, Ocean Blue, Tropical Teal

Pros

• Super light!
• Durable
• Easy to attach
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• No anchor cord
• Zipper requires two hands

Bennett Shane

The Smuggler is the original bar bag released by Orucase, and is a brilliant option for adding a small amount of extra storage to your bike when riding fast is the objective. At just 86 grams including the straps, it’s one of the lightest bar bags available, with zero compromise in quality or durability. Available in an array of colors, the Smuggler can accentuate the vibe of your bike nicely. 

One thing to be aware of is that The Smuggler does not feature an anchor cord to connect the back of the bag to the frame or stem. While subsequent bags from Orucase have adopted this design, we didn’t have any problem without one while testing the Smuggler. Part of this is based on not carrying anything especially heavy, like say a tall can of beer, or an entire repair kit inside. We used the Smuggler to store extra clothing that we removed throughout longer rides as the weather warmed up. Another reason why the Smuggler remains so stable without an anchor cord is the rubber Orucaser Gear Staps, which provides a tenacious grip on the handlebar to prevent the bag from rotating around the bar on rough surfaces.

The low weight of the Smuggler belies its rugged construction, which feels like it is ready for all kinds of punishment, thanks to its Challenge EPX200 material. This gave us the confidence to stuff whatever we didn’t want to carry into it quickly and get back to riding our bikes fast. In addition to its low weight, the Smuggler takes up minimal space in the cockpit, leaving ample room for all the important things you might need on your handlebars, including your thumbs when climbing with hands on the bar tops. It also doesn’t catch a huge amount of air, thus minimally affecting aero efficiency.

If you want to free your jersey pockets and lower back from the lightweight items that you shed throughout the day, and appreciate minimal, but rugged design, then the reasonably priced Smuggler by Orucase is a great handlebar bag for you. 

Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Amazon

Highly Reflective

Blackburn Grid Handlebar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $45.00
• Volume 1.2 liters
• Dimensions 8” x 3.5” (20.3 x 8.9cm)
• Weight 106 grams
• Material 600d Polyester
• Water-resistant? DWR treated for water resistance
• Color options Black

Pros

• Light
• Stable
• Reflective
• Affordable

Cons

• Only comes in one color

Bennett Shane

Blackburn’s Grid Handlebar Bag provides quick access to things that are less than ideal for jersey pockets, such as a phone, wallet, jacket, or homemade snack. An interior mesh pocket helps with the quiet containment of smaller items like keys and earbuds. Built with tough and reflective materials, the Grid is ready for any adventure, day or night, paved or not.

The Grid uses tidy D-ring velcro straps that rest flush against the handlebar and leave plenty of space for fingers on the top section of the handlebar. The zipper track is stable and stiff, with a smooth-gliding zipper for easy one-handed opening and closing while riding. Keeping the Grid ultra stable is a lower bungee cable with a secure cinch hook which ensures it will never come loose and fall off on the road.

The Blackburn Grid uses a well-padded structure to retain its shape well, although it’s not a fully rigid cylinder like some barrel bags. The Grid’s interior fabric is bright red, which helps quickly identify the items you’re looking for. While the Blackburn Grid has a subdued gray color and minimal branding, it is also the only bar bag we tested with robust reflective visibility. The entire face of the bag is reflective and lights up super bright when hit with light from oncoming cars. This makes the Blackburn Grid a great choice if your rides tend to start early or end late, and you ride in an urban setting with lots of motorists. 

At just 106g and $45, The Blackburn Grid is a highly reflective, low-volume, and high-performance bar bag that’s also budget-friendly. 

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Arundel Handlebar Czar

Specs

• MSRP $80.00
• Volume 2 liters (120 cu. in.)
• Dimensions 9.5" x 5" x 3.5” (24.1 x 12.7 x 9cm)
• Weight 184 grams
• Material Water-resistant material with sonic-welded seams
• Water-resistant? Yes
• Color options Black

Pros

• Stable
• Easy to open and close
• Sleek appearance

Cons

• Moderately expensive
• Only comes in black

Bennett Shane

Arundel’s Handlebar Czar is a 2-liter, water-resistant bar bag with sonic welded seam construction. This handsome and classy bag features a glossy black exterior that aesthetically sets it apart from the crowd of barrel-shaped cloth-covered bar bags we tested. The sonic welding method ensures that the Handlebar Czar retains its shape when empty, bolsters stiffness to make the zipper easier to operate, and also keeps the weight down. 

The Handlebar Czar mounts with two simple velcro straps that can be positioned close-in to the stem, or wider apart on the bar tape. Instead of the typical cord that anchors most bar bags to the frame or stem, the Handlebar Czar relies on a simple rubber twist tie that wraps around the cable and housing. If your bike has hidden cables, you can still fit a small bungee cord to the Handlbar Czar, although that will need to be purchased separately. The Handlebar Czar can be anchored from the sides, by connecting to the handlebar just below the shift lever, using included cords. 

At the base of the face, a small mesh pocket holds small items that need to be accessed easily on the ride. It’s not designed for valuables like keys or credit cards but is useful for bars, gels, or wrappers. There is no dedicated pocket or internal compartment for things like keys, earbuds, or multitool on the Handlebar Czar, but the bright orange inner lining makes it easy to find the item you’re looking for. 

On the road, the Handlebar Czar worked flawlessly, staying quiet and accommodating all kinds of things easily, from food to clothes, to a compact 4:3 camera and two lenses. Everything stayed quiet and dry, even on rough roads. 

At $80, The Handlebar Czar is priced close to some stiff competition, but competes admirably and is worth a hard look by riders who want something a bit different and and appreciate its elegant look. 

Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Amazon

Ornot Handlebar Bag Mini

Specs

• MSRP $54.00 (ECOPAK), $44.00 (regular)
• Volume 1.15 liters
• Dimensions 7.25” x 3.5” (18.4 x 9cm)
• Weight 140 grams
• Material Ecopak Recycled Fabric
• Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
• Color options Black ECOPAK, Coyote ECOPAK, White ECOPAK, Black, Stone Blue, Olive, Morroco, Nordic

Pros

• Light
• Stable
• Easy to open and close
• Super tidy look on the bars

Cons

• Straps may need to be trimmed for thumb clearance
• Smaller volume may be limiting for some riders

Bennett Shane

The Mini Handlebar Bag is a stout and stable compact bar bag that is well-made and thoughtfully designed, just like everything else Ornot makes. This 140-gram, 1.15-liter bag holds the essentials, and looks darn good doing it, without taking up too much space on the bars. 

Like the larger Handlebar Bag, the Mini is crafted with the same 100% recycled ECOPAK material that’s been treated with a PFC-treated DWR for weather resistance. This material feels tough, durable, and ready for years of faithful service, and while it isn’t completely waterproof, it fends off light amounts of moisture with ease. The Ornot Mini Handlebar Bag holds its tubular shape thanks to an internal structure that also gives the zipper track a boost in rigidity, making one-handed zipping smooth and easy and preventing it from flopping around or sagging.

Two simple hook and loop straps make attaching the Mini super easy and the elastic tether cord ensures stability over imperfect pavement or rough gravel roads. The 1.15-liter volume is a great size to keep essentials like snacks, a phone (Ornot claims it fits an iPhone Max), keys, or a light, packable layer. There’s also an internal zippered pocket to keep your keys and credit card extra secure. A webbing strap across the front of the Mini has a reflective strip to add a hint of visibility and creates attachment points to clip smaller items externally.

The Ornot Mini Handlebar Bag – ECOPAK sells for $54 and is available in three colors, Coyote, Black, and White, and it also comes in a standard version that sells for $10 less and comes in several different color options. It’s a great choice for road and gravel cyclists looking for a little extra convenient storage because it won’t weigh or slow you down while keeping your ride essentials in arm’s reach. 

Check Price at Ornot

Lowland Crafts Bike Handlebar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $55.00
• Volume 2.2 liters
• Dimensions 9" x 5" x 3” (22.8 x 12.7 x 7.6cm)
• Weight 150 grams
• Material Duck Canvas (Waterproof Ottertex also available)
• Water-resistant? No (but you have the option for Ottertex fabric)
• Color options Lots, you pick when ordering

Pros

• Handmade to order
• Reasonable price
• Low-bulk straps
• You choose colors and fabric

Cons

• Zippers and fabric are not waterproof

Bennett Shane

The Lowland Crafts Handlebar Bag is handmade to order in Portland, Oregon, using your choice of duck canvas or Otterex fabric in a wide variety of colors. The design is simple and easy to use, consisting of a large main compartment, plus a smaller zippered compartment on the lower face of the bag, useful for securing things like keys, credit cards, and earbuds. Three buckled straps hold the bag securely to the handlebar and headtube.

The total storage capacity is 2.2 liters, which is impressive when considering the low weight of just 150g. That low weight is due in part to the lack of internal structure, which means that the Lowland Crafts Handlebar Bag will work best when carrying softer and lighter items like clothing and snacks. 

The straps are one of the best features of the Lowland Crafts Handlebar Bag. While their narrow width and small buckles require a bit of touch to position and adjust, the benefit is that they are super-low bulk and don’t interfere at all with riding, and the super soft surface won’t affect the frame paint on the head tube. 

While the Lowland Crafts bar bag exudes a cheerful and casual vibe, it’s ready for fast-paced road rides and epic adventures. The wrap-around zipper gives easy access with one hand, even while riding, and the very soft and flexible material stays quiet over rough road surfaces. 

The Lowland Crafts Bar Bag is simple, but it gets the important things right. It’s easy to get into with one hand, stays quiet on rough roads, and the straps give your hands plenty of space while providing excellent stability. At just $55, with custom colors, the Lowland Crafts bar bag is a great way to free your jersey pockets and add some pizzazz to the cockpit of your bike. 

Check Price at Etsy

Swift Industries Bandito Bicycle Bag

Specs

• MSRP $95.00
• Volume 3.25 liters
• Dimensions 8.5” x 5.5” (21.6 x 14cm)
• Weight 227 grams
• Material ECOPAK™ recycled fabric
• Water-resistant? No
• Color options Coyote, Black, Teal, Redwood

Pros

• Stable
• Built to last
• Easy to attach
• Looks great

Cons

• On the larger and heavier side
• Moderately expensive

Bennett Shane

The Swift Industries Bandito is a 3.25-liter barrel bag constructed using ECOPAK recycled polyester fabric, claimed to be equivalent to 4 plastic water bottles removed from ocean beaches. A rigid internal frame sheet gives the Bandito a permanent cylindrical structure, making it stable on rough roads, easy to zip open and shut, and beautiful as it sits proudly in the cockpit area of any bike.  

A daisy chain on the front panel can be used to lash headlights and other accessories like a hand pump. D-ring clips on either side of the Bandito allow attachment of a shoulder strap that is available separately from Swift Industries for off-the-bike cross-body carry. Rubber Swift Straps connect the Bandito to the handlebar and have only one pair of mounting loops, which are spaced fairly wide apart but hold the bar very securely for excellent stability. 

The Bandito has one main interior compartment and no external pockets. While this does limit organization options, it helps keep the Bandito lightweight for its size and simple to use. The 400D Packcloth interior lining is a gray color that does not offer super high contrast but is light enough to easily spot the item you’re looking for. The Bandito is available in four beautiful colors – Coyote, Black, Redwood, and the gorgeous teal color that we tested. An optional foam spacer kit sold separately allows the Bandito to be positioned further away from the handlebar to open up access to a secure and powerful grip on the top section of the handlebar, or to make space for other bar-mounted accessories. 

At $95, The Swift Industries Bandito is a premium bar bag that will last ages and make your long rides more enjoyable. With all the storage space The Bandito provides, you’ll never have to sacrifice carrying an essential item or ride with overstuffed jersey pockets again.

Check Price at Swift Industries

Rapha Explore Bar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $80.00
• Volume 2.4 liters
• Dimensions 8” x 4” x 3” (20.3 x 10 x 7.6cm)
• Weight 170 grams
• Material Recycled Nylon, Polyurethane internal coating, DWR exterior treatment
• Waterproof Highly water-repellent
• Color options Black, Navy, Olive Green, Rose Brown

Pros

• Rugged durability
• Light
• Converts to hip pack or shoulder bag
• Easy to attach

Cons

• Shoulder strap is permanently attached and can fiddly to deploy and put away
• Moderately expensive

Bennett Shane

The Rapha Explore Bar Bag is rugged, refined, and ready for any adventure. Made from Ripstop nylon, and graced with timeless style as well as plenty of smart features, it will keep your cargo dry, organized, and quiet on even the roughest roads and in the worst weather, year after year. 

Two zippered compartments help keep items organized and quiet. Large elastic loops on both zippers allow you to easily hook a finger into the loop, to gain better leverage. The back of the Explore bar bag is covered in protective Hypalon, to prevent brake hoses and gear cables from damaging the bag as they rub against it. Integrated velcro straps make attaching the Explore Bar Bag simple and quick. The straps are decorated in a geometric pattern that gives the Explore Bar Bag a little extra pop. Overall, this is a beautiful bag that is a study in minimal design. 

At $80, the Rapha Explore Bar Bag is up against some stiff competition but does have an edge in water resistance. The lightweight recycled nylon shell is DWR-treated, the seams are taped, and the interior is coated with polyurethane to keep all but the worst rain from creeping in. The zippers are also recessed within the shell to further mitigate water ingress. 

The Explore Bar Bag not only converts to shoulder carry but also works great as a hip pack, whether or not you’re on the bike. When not in use, the straps tuck away behind the Hypalon backing, staying quiet and invisible, albeit a bit fiddly to stuff back in there. If you’re looking for a versatile, virtually waterproof, and durable bag with a beautiful and understated aesthetic, the Explore Bar Bag is a great pick. 

Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Rapha

ALMSTHRE Compact Bar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $55.00
• Volume 1.2 liters
• Dimensions 7.5” x 3.5” (19 x 8.9cm)
• Weight 158 grams
• Material Nylon Ripstop
• Water-resistant? Yes, water-resistant main body, waterproof zippers
• Color options Midnight Black, Plum, Melon Green, Sunflower Yellow, Cosmic Blue, California Gold

Pros

• Lovely appearance
• "Hard-shell" design retains shape
• Plenty of organization options

Cons

• Smaller size may limit usefulness for some riders

Bennett Shane

The ALMSTHRE Compact Bar Bag is the perfect size and shape for fast roads when you need just a bit of extra storage. As the word compact suggests, this is essentially just a smaller version of the Signature Bar Bag that has half the volume of its larger sibling but otherwise looks pretty much identical.

This barrel-shaped bag is an inch smaller in diameter than the Signature Bar Bag but it has the same “hard-shell” construction, so it holds its shape perfectly and has ample rigidity to make opening and closing the main zipper nice and easy. It’s made with a tough water-resistant nylon material with waterproof zippers, so it fends off light showers, road spray, and mud with ease. The quality construction and hard-shell design combine with the adjustable attachment straps and elastic tether cord to make the Compact Bar Bag impressively stable in use. The handlebar straps can also be adjusted laterally with two positions to suit your needs.

The 1.2-liter volume is on the smaller side but is perfect for conveniently holding essentials like a phone, nutrition, gloves, or a packable layer in arm’s reach while freeing up your jersey pockets. The main compartment holds the bulk of the volume and features an internal mesh pocket to help keep things organized. On the outside of the bag, a zippered pocket on one end and a mesh pocket on the other fit smaller items while a daisy chain on the front is available for clipping on a light for those twilight rides.

Available in six lovely colors, the Compact Bar Bag will coordinate easily with any bar tape or frame color. At $55, it’s $10 less than the Signature Bar Bag from ALMSTHRE but offers half of the storage space. We feel that the Compact Bar Bag is, therefore, a smart choice for riders who want to keep their load light, while preserving space around the bars for easy hand movement, and minimizing the aero penalty of using a bar bag. If that sounds like you, then this full-featured bag is a solid value that will keep your jersey pockets free, and your gear organized, while elevating the look of your bike’s cockpit area. 

Check Price at Performance Bike

Chrome Industries Helix

Specs

• MSRP $45.00
• Volume 3 liters
• Dimensions 9” x 6” x 3” (22.8 x 15.2 x 7.6cm)
• Weight 272 grams
• Material Proprietary tarp exterior, polyester
• Water-resistant? Yes, PFC-Free DWR treatment
• Color options Black, Fog

Pros

• Tough material and robust build
• Easy to access
• Lots of storage space

Cons

• Might not fit small bikes
• Significant aero penalty
• A bit big for those with lower storage needs

Bennett Shane

The Helix Bar bag is a large 3-liter bag built from durable “tarp” material according to Chrome Industries. It’s a tough bag that will keep the contents stable, quiet, and dry. While it can easily be mounted to drop or flat handlebars, Chrome designed the Helix to be equally useful off the bike. By deploying the stow-able cross-body strap that’s built into the bag, the Helix transforms into a mini messenger or hip pack. 

The shape of the main compartment bag is better suited to carrying than proper road cycling for a couple of reasons. First, its boxy shape rests comfortably against your back but creates a significant amount of aerodynamic drag when mounted to the handlebars. Of course, all bar bags are going to cost a few watts of drag at speed, but with the Helix, it’s noticeable in real-time. Second, because the bag is 6 inches tall – about double the height of the typical bar bag – it could be a little too tall for smaller frame sizes (52cm and under) as the front tire could touch the bottom of the bag. 

The Helix features a different zipper design than most bar bags. The zipper wraps around the upper edge of the bag and faces the rider, allowing the top to open wide for clear and easy access to all contents. We liked this for adding and removing items while at a stop, but while moving, the Helix lacks the structure to allow for one-handed opening and closing of this wrap-around style zipper. 

The Chrome Helix is a great bag for the right situation, but that’s something other than a fast-paced road ride. For riders who are commuting or cruising around town, and want to be able to take their gear with them off the bike, the Helix is a great option. It could hold a huge camera, a handful of cold beverages, or loads of packable clothing. At $45, it’s an inexpensive way to keep a lot of gear organized on days when your adventures involve not only cycling but also spending some time on foot. 

Check Price at Chrome IndustriesCheck Price at Amazon

Rockbros Bike Handlebar Bag

Specs

• MSRP $21.00
• Volume 2 liters
• Dimensions 9” x 3.5” (22.8 x 9cm)
• Weight 216 grams
• Material Polyester
• Water-resistant? No
• Color options Black, Dark Green

Pros

• Very inexpensive
• Nice material
• Converts to shoulder carry

Cons

• Might be too wide for 40c or narrower handlebars.
• Handlebar strap attachment points sag a bit

Bennett Shane

The RockBros Bike Handlebar Bag is a midsized handlebar bag, with a storage capacity of 2 liters, perfect for holding everything you need but don’t want to stuff into jersey pockets. It’s easy to install with a three-point attachment system with buckled straps. At 9.5” in length, the RockBros Bike Handlebar Bag is on the wider side of things, best for bars of at least 42cm or wider. 

As it does not use any internal reinforcement, the Bike Handlebar Bag can be easily folded up to store when needed. RockBros also includes a shoulder strap that can attach to the Bike Handlebar Bag and convert it to a shoulder bag for off-bike carry. An elastic cord on the front of the bag can be used to lash additional items when the main compartment is already full. Additionally, you’ll find one small mesh side pocket to organize small items like earbuds or used snack wrappers. 

While RockBros shows the handlebar bag as able to mount vertically to the seatpost or along the frame top tube, we found that in both these positions the bag wasn’t stable and constantly interfered with our legs while pedaling. When mounted to the handlebar, however, stability is relatively good, and noise is kept to a minimum.

The Rockbros Handlebar Bag is available in Black and Dark Green, both colorways feature classic woven fabric that will age gracefully and conceal the inevitable smudges and dust that collect on handlebar bags when used in wet or dusty conditions. While it isn’t quite as refined as any of the other models we tested, at $21, it’s half the price of the next least expensive option, making it an affordable choice for the infrequent user or the rider on a super tight budget.

Check Price at Amazon

Comparison Chart

Why Should You Trust Us?

For the team at Bikerumor, writing about and riding bikes isn’t just our job, it’s our passion. Long rides, short rides, road, gravel, mountain, we love being out there. We also love being prepared for whatever may come our way, whether we’re out for an hour or the entire day. Being prepared means having everything we need to stay comfortable, nourished, and ready to fix mechanical issues that may arise, so we need space to keep all of the important things with us. More recently, handlebar bags have become one of our favorite ways to keep our essential items close at hand wherever our rides take us.

For our handlebar bags buyer’s guide, we called on the expertise of Bennett Shane to test and compare a diverse selection of the best handlebar bags on the market. Bennett has been cycling seriously for over two decades and spends an inordinate amount of time on the bike while riding for fitness, fun, and lots of product testing. He lives just outside of Portland, Oregon, and enjoys both long and short rides throughout the countryside and mountains of the Pacific Northwest (and everywhere else for that matter). Living in an area with highly variable weather and often embarking on half to full-day rides in the mountains means that he often needs to carry lots of gear, food, and tools to be prepared for changing temperatures and weather while remaining self-sufficient. Since it isn’t always possible, or comfortable, to stuff everything into jersey pockets, Bennett relies on handlebar bags to expand his on-bike storage capabilities and keep essentials close at hand. Having owned and used many different handlebar bags over the years, Bennett has unique insight into this growing category of products. Bennett also has loads of experience testing and reviewing other products like handlebar tape, cycling shoe covers, winter cycling gloves, road bike shoes, cycling bibs, road bike helmets, and more.

After researching the best handlebar bags on the market, we gathered 19 different models for testing and side-by-side comparison. Our diverse selection includes a range of sizes, brands, and price points, with models suitable for any type of riding or storage need. After examining the materials and construction of each model, Bennett mounted them up on his small fleet of road bikes, loaded them with jackets, gloves, snacks, phones, cameras, keys, and more, and hit the road. Over the course of several months, Bennett rotated through these handlebar bags on his daily rides while assessing each model’s storage, attachments, stability, zippers, ease of use, weather resistance, and all-around performance in real-world riding conditions. When testing concluded, we zeroed in on our favorites and those that excel for specific reasons compared to the rest.

Buying Advice: How to Choose a Bike Handlebar Bag

Handlebar bags are fairly simple pieces of gear, but with so many models on the market, choosing the right one can be more challenging than you might expect. While many bar bags share a similar barrel-like shape, sizes, materials, and constructions vary such that some are likely to suit your needs better than others. For instance, some are impressively weather-resistant while others are simple but effective canvas. Some use internal reinforcement to hold their shape, while others offer less structure and thereby shed weight. Many offer a host of features like external pockets, as well as straps for attaching lights and securing lightweight clothing while others are more simple. We’ll break down important factors to consider when choosing a handlebar bag below.

Size

Finding the right size handlebar bag is arguably the most important aspect of getting one that serves your needs the best. Thankfully, handlebar bags come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and storage capacities to meet different storage needs and wants. We tested 19 different models with nearly all of them having capacities ranging between 1.15 and 3.4 liters (with one outlier at 5 liters), which are all great options for adding a bit of extra storage to your bike for everyday rides. Of course, with those different capacities come varying dimensions which will impact how they fit and how much space they take up on your handlebar.

Capacity

The storage capacity or volume of handlebar bags is typically expressed in liters and sometimes in cubic inches. The bags we tested range between 1.15 liters on the smaller end and up to 5 liters on the larger side of the spectrum. What size works best for you will depend on what you’re intending to carry in it. Of course, this may vary depending on the length of your ride, the weather conditions, or the season, so for some riders, having more than one handlebar bag to suit varying needs may be necessary. For others, finding a versatile size that works most of the time is the best bet. And, in addition to a handlebar bag’s stated capacity, other storage features like external mesh or zippered pockets can effectively increase their capacity.

For riders with low storage demands, the smaller, 1.15 to 1.3-liter, options may be ideal for stashing ride essentials like a phone, keys, nutrition, winter gloves, or other small items while incurring the lowest weight and aerodynamic penalty. We tested six bags in this size range including the Arundel Mini Bar Czar, Lead Out Mini, Ornot Mini, Orucase Smuggler, ALMSTHRE Compact, and the Blackburn Grid. Not surprisingly, these bags all share similar compact dimensions and are lighter weight than larger options.

Moving up a step in storage capacity are what we’re calling medium-capacity handlebar bags. We tested eight models between 1.7 and 2.4 liters with most of them falling at or closer to 2 liters of storage. These bags fall into what could be called the “goldilocks” zone where they are neither too big nor too small, instead, they are “just right”. These bags easily accommodate everything you can fit into the smaller models while having enough additional space to squeeze a packable jacket for variable weather and/or more snacks to keep you fueled on longer rides. These include the Mission Workshop Toro, ALMSTHRE Signature, Swift Industries Kestrel, Rapha Bar Bag, and several others.

Moving up once more, we tested four bags that hold 3 to 3.4 liters. While 3 liters is by no means huge, it is quite a bit of storage space and plenty for most riders to tackle all-day rides and carry everything they need without being prohibitively large or heavy. These bags will allow you to bring multiple layers, larger food items, or even bigger cameras. The four bags in this size range are the Ornot Handlebar Bag, Swift Industries Bandito, Wizard Works Lil Presto, and the Chrome Helix. For those with even greater storage needs, the 5-liter Road Runner Bags West Coast Burrito has you covered.

Dimensions

Along with their capacity, the shape and dimensions of handlebar bags vary too. As storage volume increases, so do the dimensions of the bag. Eleven of the models we tested share a barrel shape and have measurements for their length and circumference. The remaining eight models have more of a rectangular (or flattened oval) shape that include measurements for length, height, and width. Many of the barrel-shaped bags have rigid internal structures that help them retain their cylindrical shape which prevents them from sagging and helps keep them more stable, even when they aren’t full.

It is important to consider the dimensions of a handlebar bag as it may impact how well it fits on your handlebar and whether or not it conflicts with your hand positions. Depending on the shape and width of your handlebars, some bags might be too wide/long. The models we tested range between 7 and 11 inches in length, with most of them falling between 7.5 and 9.5 inches. It’s worthwhile to have a friend measure the space between your hands in these positions, so you can use the measurements provided in this guide to choose a bag that is ideally sized for you and your bars. 

Attachment

Most handlebar bags attach to the handlebars in a similar way although there are slight variations on the theme. The typical bar bag attachment system includes two straps that loop around the handlebar on both sides of the stem along with an elasticized tether cord that loops around the headtube or stem to anchor it and add some stability. The handlebar straps on some bags are fixed in position, while others have multiple attachment points that allow you to position them optimally for your cockpit setup.

While they all achieve the same goal, different brands use different handlebar strap types to attach bags to the bars. Some use hook and loop (velcro) straps, others use nylon webbing straps with plastic buckles, and some use rubber (Voile-style) straps. They all work in relatively the same way, although some make it a little easier to install and remove a bag and some are more grippy and stable than others.

Depending on whether you have accessories like lights or a computer mounted on your bars, or where you place your hands on the bar tops, having the option to adjust the position of the attachment straps may be worthwhile. If, for example, the space immediately next to your stem is already cluttered with computer and/or light mounts, it’s nice to be able to move the straps out and have them over your handlebar bar tape. Conversely, if you want all the space possible for your hands on the bar tops, moving the straps closer to the stem can give your thumbs more room. The Ornot Handlebar Bag is a good example here, as it has two attachment points for the Voile straps at 4 inches apart and 6 inches apart.

Water Resistance

Depending on the weather conditions you ride in, water resistance may or may not be a deciding factor in your handlebar bag choice. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that are highly water resistant (some even claim to be “weatherproof”) and are made with DWR-treated fabrics, water-resistant linings, waterproof zippers, or all of the above. While few bags claim to be completely waterproof, there are many that are pretty darn close, like the Mission Workshop Toro, Rapha Explore Bar Bag, and several others. These can typically fend off showers, road spray, and mud with ease while keeping your precious cargo nice and dry. Others have simpler constructions that aren’t quite as water-resistant but will usually fare well against super light amounts of moisture.

Reflectives

Some brands and models of handlebar bags have reflective elements added to them to add a bit of visibility in low-light conditions. While we don’t feel it is a requirement, and most of the bags we tested don’t have them, we do appreciate reflective features when they are added to an accessory like a handlebar bag if it increases our chances of being seen by motorists. The Blackburn Grid is a standout for its reflectivity as the entire front face of the bag lights up when hit with a headlight. Some other models have reflective strips integrated into the front-facing webbing like on the models from Ornot and Rapha. Many bags also have daisy chain-style webbing attachment points where clip-on lights can be attached for those rides where you’re flirting with darkness.

Style

While many riders probably don’t think of a handlebar bag as a fashionable accessory, there are plenty who do, and it is one of many ways to easily and affordably add some personal flair to your bike. Some handlebar bags only come in one or a few safe color options like black or grey which are easy to coordinate with just about any bike, while others are available in a range of colors. ALMSTHRE, Orucase, Mission Workshop, and Wizard Works offer some of the most color options among the models we tested. Lowland Crafts is unique in regards to style since these bags are handmade to order and the buyer is given the option to choose the main fabric, front panel, and attachment webbing colors when purchasing.

Value

Compared to many things in cycling, handlebar bags are a relatively inexpensive accessory. That said, they come at a range of prices with the majority of the models we tested training between $40 and $125. In general, the larger the bag, the more expensive it is, and vice versa. Still, some of these seemingly simple little bags cost a little more than you might expect. One of the reasons is that many of the brands that make handlebar bags (like Wizard Works, Swift Industries, Road Runner, and Mission Workshop) are quite small, produce in small batches, use recycled fabrics, and/or make their products in the USA where costs are higher. All those factors make the price go up, but should also correlate to added value with long-term durability thanks to quality materials and constructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Matt Jones says the new Marin Alpine Trail Fun² is the hottest bike he’s ever ridden… and he has the amusing video to back it up.

You can also get your hands on the bright new colorway, if you act fast. According to Matt, Marin is making just 300 of the Alpine Trail Fun², which includes a 160mm RockShox Yari RC fork and a RS Delux Select+ shock with a TranzX dropper post and lever, FSA sealed cartridge bearing headset, seat clamp, front and rear thru axles, and custom downtube and seatstay protectors. You’ll also get your hands on an matching autographed Helfare x Marin hat.

The whole kit is priced at $1,999, and is available now on Marin’s website below while supplies last.

marinbikes.com

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Back in October 2023, a Service Information Bulletin indicated that SRAM would be working with the CPSC on a recall of their 12-speed dropbar shifters. Fast forward to February 2024, and the news is official. Anyone who purchased an aftermarket set of SRAM 12-speed shifters should take note.

While the original bulletin mentioned an excess of thread locker on the clamp bolts as the cause for the recall, the actual CPSC recall notice simply says, “the clamp bolt on the brake lever can come loose, posing a crash hazard to the rider.” This recall applies to all SRAM 12-speed dropbar levers that were sold as aftermarket upgrade or replacement kits. Basically, if they weren’t included on a new bike and installed by a dealer, the levers are included in the recall. That includes SRAM eTap AXS Red, Force, Rival, and Apex shift-brake levers.

Fortunately, the fix for most users should be pretty simple. Based on SRAM’s recall page, the issue is still the amount of thread locker used, and they’ve devised a simple procedure to work through the excess – a process that most people should be able to complete at home.

Following the process outlined in the video above, you simply loosen the clamp bolt two full turns, torque it down to 6nm, then repeat the process two to three times to remove excess threadlocker. Then loosen the fixing bolt three full turns, adjust to position, and tighten to 6nm. If this doesn’t keep the lever in place, you’ll have to take it into your local dealer. Also, if you’re not sure of your abilities to perform the procedure adequately, or lack the proper tools, you should also take it into your local dealer and they’ll get you squared away.

cpsc.gov

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Knolly’s Chilcotin is the latest MTB to get the brand’s generation 6 frame updates, but that’s not all that’s been revised for 2024. Aside from new frame features the Chilcotin now offers a tad more travel, updated suspension kinematics, and revised geometry.

Knolly has massaged the Chilcotin into an overall more aggressive bike, making it the obvious choice within their lineup for Enduro riders. As with the previous Chilcotin Knolly offers two rear travel options, now at 155mm or 170mm. Good news for shorter riders is the Chilcotin is now available in a small frame size, as it used to range from M-XL.

Knolly Chilcotin – Key Specs:

The new Chilcotin frames are made from 6066 aluminum. This bike is only sold with 29” wheels… Knolly did not provide geometry for a mixed-wheel setup, but they confirmed there’s no reason you can’t run a 27.5” rear wheel in the Chilcotin.

The Chilcotin’s rear travel has been slightly bumped from the previous generation’s 151/167mm options to 155mm or 170mm. The 155mm bikes come with 160mm forks and the 170mm models are fitted with 170mm forks. Knolly does note that either model’s frame (as they are identical) can handle forks between 160-180mm travel.

The Chilcotin features Knolly’s well-established Fourby4 suspension linkage, which has been updated for all the Gen 6 bikes. The revised linkage offers increased pedaling dynamics, providing a 15% improvement in pedaling response. The leverage curve has also been refined to provide more sensitivity and slightly more bottom-out resistance. Knolly tuned the new bikes so the shock’s mid-stroke will offer solid support for efficient pedaling without sacrificing traction.

Frame Details:

The Chilcotin continues with Knolly’s Trail 157 rear axle spacing, and the rear end can run up to 2.6” wide tires. Gen 6 Knollys are now SRAM UDH compatible, and they come with the brand’s own CNC-machined aluminum UDH hanger (which is stronger and stiffer than SRAM’s).

Along with Knolly’s other 6th-generation frames, the Chilcotin now offers size-specific chainstay lengths. One other update is straighter top tubes for a low standover height and better aesthetics. Knolly also went to a one-piece monoblock rocker link, which increases stiffness and reduces lateral stress on the shock mount. While the straighter top tube stands out visually, nearly every tube has been updated for the Gen 6 bikes.

Knolly’s new frames now employ Enduro bearings in all pivot points and feature flat tooling at bearing locations to make removal and servicing easier. Also, the updated lower shock mount now uses a 30mm axle so it’s compatible with Fox’s Roller Bearing Shock kits.

With a completely straight seat tube, the Chilcotin offers excellent dropper post compatibility. A small frame can run a 175mm travel post, and sizes medium and up can run 200mm+ posts. The frames’ seat masts accept 31.6mm diameter posts.

Other details include a 73mm threaded BB shell with removable ISCG-05 tabs and 180mm brake post mounts. The frames feature internal cable routing and interestingly – a compartment for a Shimano Di2 battery.

The Chilcotin has one water bottle mount on the down tube, and Knolly has added an accessory mount on the bottom of the top tube for on-bike tools, etc.

Geometry:

The Chilcotin offers two geometry settings via Neutral or Slack positions for the lower shock mount. Switching between the two alters the head tube and seat tube angles by 0.5°, and alters BB height by 10mm. There are very minor effects on other geo figures that aren’t shown in the charts.

Chilcotin 160/155 Geo:

Apparently, Knolly has decided to go pretty long with reach numbers, as the medium frame now measures a whopping 487mm. I currently own a 5^th generation Chilcotin (medium) so I immediately noticed the reach has jumped considerably from 466mm.

The new frame’s head tube angles are marginally slacker at 64.25/64.75°. Chainstay lengths are now size-specific, but the 442mm length on the new medium is 4mm longer than my 5th-generation frame.

Interestingly, while Knolly says their straighter top tube keeps standover height low, it has actually increased on the Chilcotin. Where my Chilcotin’s curvy top tube offers a standover height of 710mm, the new frame is listed at 730mm. Stack height stays exactly the same at 626mm, and the new Chilcotin’s BB remains quite low at 336/346mm for slack/neutral settings. See the above chart for all other figures.

Chilcotin 170/170 Geo:

There are a few differences in geometry between the longer and shorter travel Chilcotins. First off, the 170mm model has half a degree slacker head tube angles at 63.75/64.25°. The seat tube angles are also 0.5° slacker.

Reach numbers are 4mm shorter on the 170/170, but rear-end lengths do not change between the two bikes. With a longer fork and shock, the Chilcotin 170/170’s BB height is 3mm higher, its standover height goes up by 3-4mm across all sizes, and its stack height is 630mm. These are just some examples of slight differences between the two models, check out the charts to crunch all the numbers.

Model Lineup:

Between the two travel options and four different build kits, there will be eight models of the new Chilcotin. For complete specs visit Knolly’s website; the model names indicate the componentry level of each.

Chilcotin 160/155:

• Deore: $4499
• GX/PSE: $5299
• GX/Factory: $5499
• XT: $5799

Chilcotin 170/170:

• Deore: $4499
• GX/PSE: $5399
• GX/Factory: $5599
• XT: $5899

The new Chilcotin will be available in four colors: Raw, Laguna Blue, Kelly Green Fade to Black, and Ano Black. Please note the pink Chilcotin shown in the photos is a team model only.

knollybikes.com

The post Knolly’s Chilcotin Gets Gen 6 Frame, Goes a Little More Enduro appeared first on Bikerumor.

The all-new 2024 Scott Ransom is now officially a gravity bike, thanks to an all-new ultra-plush & efficient 6-bar suspension design. As enduro riding blurs into bikepark freeride, Scott built a new, much more-capable Ransom. A bike for how mountain bikers actually ride enduro these days. A bike that truly goes uphill almost as well as it goes downhill. But still one that can just shred back-to-back shuttles or bikepark runs.

2024 Scott Ransom 170mm 6-bar enduro mountain bike

Pedal up like you are riding a trail bike, flip a switch and descend like you’re on a dedicated freeride rig!

Scott went back to the drawing board for their all-new 2024 Ransom to build a gravity bike that you could also pedal to the top of the mountain.

The previous generation of the Ransom was already a quite capable 170/170mm enduro bike with an adjustable geometry Horst-link 4-bar. But bikes and disciplines evolve. And by now, last year’s latest all-mountain Genius ST, Super Trail, is already just as capable a descender as that old Ransom was on steep technical trails. So for their dedicated enduro bike, there was room for improvement when it came to full-send descending.

With so many mountain bikers taking their enduro bikes up bikepark lifts and doing shuttle runs, it was clear that the new Ransom needed to be more of a gravity bike than ever. With the same amount of travel, this new one takes enduro to another level… with 6-bar suspension.

What’s new? What is a 6bar?

Now, as Scott’s design engineers put it, “people expect to do some crazy stuff with enduro bikes these days”. So, they built an all-new freeride-capable Ransom.

The heart of their new enduro bike is an al-new 6-bar suspension layout, which gave the design team more fine control over performance changes like shock rate, axle path, chain growth, and braking influence throughout the bike’s travel. In fact, it allows for almost completely different suspension performance at different stages of travel.

Now 6-bar suspension deigns are becoming more common in big travel bikes. But they are harder to visualize mentally. And harder for me to put into words. (Even more so, when Scott hides the shock inside, Bold-style.)

I like to start to visualize a 6-bar as if were a bit simpler to get a better idea of what’s really going on. It it weren’t for that (blue) dogbone, it would have five links (easier to imagine its unstable movement with just an extra link splitting the Horst 4-bar). But then, with that extra control link (blue) connecting the two front short links (yellow & green), it guides their relative rotation mid-way through the travel – giving the suspension designer more control over kinematics.

Basically, it seems to take the virtual pivot concept to the next level, letting the suspension designers pick & choose performance characteristics that they want.

Things like supple early travel with more rearward axle path for a plush feel. Less chain growth in the middle to end of travel and a flatter anti-rise curve for consistency pedaling through rough sections and limited pedal kick back on big hits. A smooth, consistently progressive leverage ratio that works well with large volume air or coil shocks.

Really, it just seems like the extra pivots give the engineers more control over the situation. And it simply feels great out on the trail.

Why so Integrated?

Maybe more noticeable than the extra pivots and linkages tucked in there, is the Integrated Suspension Technology design, hiding the rear shock inside the enlarged downtube in front of the bottom bracket. From a design & engineering perspective, Scott’s move here is to get weight lower in the bike, to allow longer dropper posts, and to protect the sensitive shock from the dirty mountain biking elements.

As the lead Ransom engineer Kai Wheeler described it, “frame Integration keeps dirt & dust out of shock seals. So end of season suspension suppleness is just like day one.”

I know how my suspension gets treated year-round, and how much mud I wipe off my seals after most ride. And I also have good idea how few mountain bikers lovingly take care of their suspension and how few actually regularly service the internals (or pivots).

So, I can understand that might be the best reasoning for hiding shocks inside.

The new Ransom also moves to integrated internal cable routing, too. Routing brake lines under the bar and into the frame through a neat Syncros stem and through the upper headset bearing. Service-wise you can flip the angle adjustable headset cup around without messing with cables, but swapping to 0-offset or needing to replace that bearing is going to require disconnecting line and bleeding brakes.

Also new is integrated storage in the downtube. Scott already had to give the lower end of the frame s big cutout to access the rear shock. So, they took advantage of that opening and the big protective bash guard cover to store tools & spares. Clipped into the cover is an 8-bit mini tool. And then, a plastic “Matchbox” slides up into the downtube and clips in place securely. Inside you get a spare tube strapped flat, plus a chaintool & tire levers.

New Adjustable Geometry

The new Ransom gets updated enduro geometry that is a bit more gravity infused. And it is a 29er-only. Kinda.

A little longer frame Reach and a little slacker headtube angle want to make this bike go downhill fast. But it also gets a substantially steeper seattube angle to 77.2° for a more forward position for improved climbing. A lot of focus on putting more weight on the front wheel for good steering handling grip. And it makes the bike feel almost short when you are going uphill. Don’t fret, it feels long and slack going down.

That slackest 63.8° head angle is also adjustable so you can fine tune your ride. Many will keep it in that slackest -0.6° offset position for max stability at speed. But flip the +/- 0.6° cups around to get a 65° angle if you ride tighter trails where you need more maneuverability. Or the bike also comes with a zero offset cup for a 64.4° happy medium setting.

The rear end is also adjustable with a chainstay flip chip that allows an optional 27.5″ mullet rear wheel swap. No complete bikes come set up that way, but Scott knows that serious gravity riders want options depending on where they ride or race. And with this simple chip, the mullet conversion is quick & easy.

Trac-Loc: a whole new type of Twin-Loc 3-position remote lockout!

I first rode the triple-button Twin-Loc 2 remote lockout and dropper controls on the XC Spark when it first debuted the integrated internal shock layout for Scott 2.5 years back. It took a bit to adjust to. But wow, did it work well. Especially that middle reduced travel traction control mode (with reduced air volume AND higher compression damping). The new Genius also gets the same setup, which Tyler show in great exploded detail here.

Well, now the Ransom reinvents the remote lockout, too. And this genuinely might be the single feature that makes this bike work so well. (Sorry, 6-bar.)

You see, the new Trac-Loc isn’t actually a lock-out. It still has 3-modes. But Scott calls these three: Climb, Ramp Control & Descend.

The unrestricted Descend mode is fully open as you would expect.

But the Ramp Control mode does not change travel or compression damping. It is simply closes an air chamber in the shock, increasing suspension progression, like adding a bunch of volume spacers at the push of a button. Magic.

Then, Climb mode is your normal lower air volume AND extra compression mode, reducing travel down to 130mm and keeping the bike sitting high to make pedaling uphill more efficient.

Tech details

The new 2024 Scott Ransom comes in two levels of frame construction, all with alloy links. The top-tier features ultra-hi-mod HMX (High Modules Extreme) carbon front & rear triangles, only on the top 900 RC. A standard-spec hi-mod HMF front triangle paired to 6061 aluminum swingarm rear end on all other models reduces cost a bit, only adding a couple hundred grams.

All frame specs combine 170mm of travel front and rear. And all reduced down to 130mm in traction control Climb mode. There’s also a neat Sag-meter on the non-driveside link at the BB that makes suspension setup easy. And with the shock hidden, it lets you know if you’ve used all of your rear wheel travel.

The bike sports 29″ wheels and 2.5″ tire clearance. It features internal cable routing through the adjustable angle headset – wireless or mechanical shift compatible, a PressFit BB92 bottom bracket, UDH, and Boost spacing. With the 31.6mm Syncros posts, you get long dropper travel – 140mm on S, 180mm on M & 210mm on L & XL.

Pricing, options & availability

Five complete bike builds are available of the new Ransom, all with 29″ wheels only.

2024 Scott Ransom 900 RC

The 2024 Scott Ransom 900 RC that I tested is the top of the crop at a whopping $10,000 / 10,000€. For that you get the full HMX carbon frameset, a Fox 38 Factory fork to match the hidden Float X Nude EVOL Factory shock hidden inside the frame, and a complete SRAM X0 Eagle AXS Transmission with Code Ultimate Stealth brakes at a claimed 15.2kg.

A 1-piece carbon Syncros Hixon iC bar+stem cockpit, Duncan travel adjust dropper, and no-nonsense alloy RaceFace R30 wheels wrapped in Maxxis Assegai EXO+/Dissector DoubleDown tires finish the build (tubeless sealant & valves included). Plus, built in Syncros Tubeless Tool in the handlebar ends & fully-stocked Matchbox kit inside the downtube.

Ransom 910 & Contessa 910

The stealth black $8000 / 8000€ Scott Ransom 910 softens the blow to your wallet just a bit, switching to the HMF mainframe & alloy rear, plus a Performance Elite fork & shock, and still a GX AXS Transmission with Code RSC Stealth brakes.

You get the same bar, dropper, built-in tools & tires, on Syncros Revelstoke 2.0 alloy wheels. All at a claimed 15.7kg (all weights claimed for a size M set up tubeless, but without the hidden tools/spares installed).

A Contessa Ransom 910 build at the same price gets a flashier white & splatter paint finish, but the same exact spec, except for a more women-friendly Syncros Savona saddle vs the Tofino on all of the other bikes. The only limit is the Contessa only comes in sizes S-L.

2024 Scott Ransom 920 & 930

Then, a 2024 Scott Ransom 920 at $6000 / 6000€ lops off another two grand in mustard yellow by dropping back to a conventional mechanical SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain on a good old fashioned Universal Derailleur Hanger.

It gets a RockShox Zeb Select+ fork, but the same Fox Float X Nude shock hidden inside. Plus, alloy separate Syncros bar and stem (still with hidden internal routing), the same Duncan dropper & Revelstoke 2.5 wheels for a claimed 16.4kg.

Lastly, the 5200€ Scott Ransom 930 offers the lowest cost of entry to the new bike. (Sorry Americans, looks like this one is not coming your way). You get the same HMF carbon front end with remote controlled 3-position Fox Float X Nude shock inside and alloy rear as the 910 & 920, but a lower spec again – still with the Duncan dropper & Syncros Matchbox internal storage.

The 930 gets a RockShox Domain R fork, the only Shimano build with Deore 12sp & MT520 4-piston brakes, plus 30mm alloy tubeless rims on Formula hubs, at a weight of 16.7kg.

As for availability, it depends a bit country-to-country. But officially, the new 2024 Scott Ransom is slated to be in dealer shops from the “early summer”. So you will get to riding as soon as possible.

So how does it ride?

My initial impressions were that the bike really crushes downhills. The 6-bar really seems to do some gravity-shredding magic.

But really, the first thing I did on the new bike was to pedal it up some super steep rocky & sandy fire road climbs to earn my turns a bit. And popping the new Ransom into reduced-travel traction mode really did turn it into a mountain goat. Thinking back, it’s kinda no surprise that my <16kg test bike reduced to 130mm of rear wheel travel climbed like a regular trail bike.

The magic of this bike really feels like the Trac-Loc. That lets it be a killer freeride bike on the descents. And a perfectly reasonable trail bike for the climbs back up. And there really isn’t much of a downside. Well, except for its impact to your wallet.

Tune in tomorrow morning for my complete detailed review of the Ransom 900 RC.

Scott-Sports.com

The post Scott Ransom Enduro Bike Shifts Towards Freeride on All-New 170mm 6-Bar Suspension appeared first on Bikerumor.

A new set of Hunt Sub50 Limitless UD aero road wheels pair ultra-wide front & rear specific rims to carbon spokes & ratchet hubs to lose lots of weight while going faster into the wind. Now with aerodynamics re-optimized for 28mm & 30mm tires, these 49.5mm deep Hunt Sub50 Limitless Aero Disc weigh as little as 1380g per set. And Hunt’s open-access wind tunnel data shows them outperforming the industry’s best wheels up to 50mm deep, on par with deeper wheels, and also weighing quite a bit less than other aero wheels that come close.

Hunt Sub50 Limitless Aero Disc road wheels get faster AND lighter

I’m just going to offer a quick PR email quote because I appreciate its brevity & efficiency:

“TL;DR: Front & rear specific hookless rim profiles (34mm wide external front/30mm wide external rear), UD carbon spokes, and all-new ratchet hub design create an unmatched system weighing just 1380 grams per pair.”

Hunt’s first foray into Limitless aerodynamic optimization resulted in the “world’s fastest” Hunt 48 Limitless Aero Disc wheels that set a Paris-Roubaix pavé KOM, before being raced on the World Tour and even being ridden to a Giro stage win in 2012 by Victor Campenaerts. They were the first-ever road wheels to be wider than 30mm external to benefit from modern wide tire aerodynamics. They teed up deeper 60 Limitless road and 42 Limitless Gravel wheels. And they featured a unique patented-filler construction method that keep weight in check.

But apparently the pros & fastest riders wanted even lighter weight to go with their industry-fastest wide tire aerodynamics.

And that’s what they got…

What’s new?

Thanks to all-new front & rear rim shapes, both with 23mm internal hookless tubeless beads. The blunt-nosed 34.2mm wide external rim up front leads to smoother airflow through the cleaner air the rider enters. And the more v-shaped 30mm external rim out back saves weight while slicing through the turbulent air coming off the bike and rider’s legs.

Hunt Sub50 Limitless aero wheels – Pricing, options, spec & availability

Three versions of Hunt’s new Sub50 Limitless aero wheels are being offered. Pick UD carbon spokes or conventional stainless steel spokes. And pick steel or CeramicSpeed bearings on the UD wheels.

Hunt Sub50 Limitless Aero Disc UD Carbon Spoke wheels with CeramicSpeed bearing upgrade:

• Weight: 1380g per pair
• Spokes: TaperLock UD Carbon
• Spoke Count: 18 Front | 20 Rear
• Bearings: CeramicSpeed, double-sealed
• Pricing: £2289 / $2789 / 2749€

Sub50 Limitless Aero Disc UD Carbon Spoke wheels with standard stainless steel sealed bearings:

• Weight: 1380g per pair
• Spokes: TaperLock UD Carbon
• Spoke Count: 18 Front | 20 Rear
• Bearings: Double-sealed stainless steel cartridge
• Pricing: £1849 / $2249 / 2279€

HUNT SUB50 Limitless Aero Disc Steel Spoke wheels with standard stainless steel sealed bearings:

• Weight: 1428g per pair
• Spokes: Pillar Wing 20 Elliptical Aero
• Spoke Count: 20 Front | 24 Rear
• Bearings: Double-sealed stainless steel cartridge
• Pricing: £1,479 / $1799 / 1849€

All three are available to pre-order direct from Hunt starting today. And the first batch of new Hunt Sub50 Limitless wheels will arrive at early buyers’ doorsteps by the end of this month. Those who order a CeramicSpeed upgrade will have to wait until late April 2024 though, as those wheels’ hubs have to head to Denmark first, where they get the premium bearings pressed-in at CeramicSpeed’s own facility.

HuntBikeWheels.com

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