The saddlebag

First, the saddlebag itself. A saddlebag should be compact – big enough to carry the essentials but not a packed lunch and the kitchen sink – and sit tight to the seatpost and saddle rails. A saddlebag should be discreet, complementing your bike as much as can be, and not dangle precariously off the saddle.

The Pro Medi has long been our saddlebag of choice but, after more than two years loyal service, has been retired and replaced by the Birzman Roadster. Like the Pro Medi, its compact and fixes to the bike using velcro straps which provide quick and secure attachment to the seatpost and saddle. Velcro straps allow a saddlebag to be moved from bike to bike in seconds.

The Birzman Roadster, which comes in two sizes, is a good choice for winter as it also has a reflective patches and a loop from which to attach an additional rear light.