I want a big enough saddle bag for a flask, butties and spare clothes

[Accy cyclist]

I'm thinking about joining Blackburn CTC I went out with them last Sunday.taking in a lunch and tea stop. I'm not being tight but i don't want to pay 10 quid in two cafe stops when i prefer my own tea/coffee and food. Most of the other riders also seem to take their own food as only a few went into the cafe. I want a decent saddle bag,with enough room for the above and a few extras. I don't want panniers as i think they'll be too big for what i need. Any suggestions for a good sized saddle bag?

 

[Accy cyclist]

I'd prefer a saddle bag to a handlebar or top tube bag. Leather would be nice but i bet it's expensive?

 

[Mile195]

Alpkit Koala... £65 but it's well made and mahooooooosive!

 

[MichaelW2]

Carradice is the usually brand for CTC tourists. They are surprisingly lightweight for old fashioned materials, and they last for decades, if not generations.

 

[Accy cyclist]

Ok thank's. I'm going to look those up.

 

[Jimidh]

Either don't ride with guys who do two cafe stops or open your wallet.

 

[slowmotion]

Tiny backpack. You won't even notice it's there, and it's way more flexible (and cheaper) than something clamped to the bike.

 

[Accy cyclist]

Either don't ride with guys who do two cafe stops or open your wallet.

It's not just the cost of buying something but the waiting as well. Last Sunday it took 20 minutes before the food arrived,then i had only 10 minutes to eat it. Taking my own means i have half an hour to take my time.

 

[Accy cyclist]

Tiny backpack. You won't even notice it's there, and it's way more flexible (and cheaper) than something clamped to the bike.

Big enough to carry my flask and butties though?

 

[slowmotion]

No problem.

 

[Fab Foodie]

I have a carradice Barley for such usage. The right size for long days out/ night rides etc. Side pockets hold tools and stuff you need to keep handy. The main compartment is big enough for waterproofs, spare layers, lock, flask etc. You can also use the lid buckles to strap on a dry bag or other odds and sods if needed.
The bagman qr support gives stability and removal flexibility if you need it and is readily fitted to the bike. I'll try and get a photo later.
By the way, they are waterproof and last forever!

 

[Oldfentiger]

Just to reiterate what I posted previously on another thread:
Carradice are in Nelson, so not far from you. If you drop in on them they will sell you seconds at half price. You can have a sort through and pick something that suits your purpose.
That way this thread might only survive 3 pages

 

[outlash]

That way this thread might only survive 3 pages

Don't bank on it.

 

[Tiny01]

Either don't ride with guys who do two cafe stops or open your wallet.

Lol that's what I was thinking !

Spends all that money on a new bike & then begrudges paying a tenner for a cuppa & piece of cake & in turn supporting a local business , I bet that they're well pleased when they turn up & all get there own food & drink out !

 

[MartinQ]

They also do seconds on ebay
http://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/carradicefactoryshop