Bike Bags and Panniers: An Overview

First of all, it is important to identify the different types of bags to better understand their functions. There are six main categories, all designed for different areas of a bike :

• Handlebar bags
• Frame bags
• Fork bags
• Saddle bags
• Panniers
• Rear rack bags

Among the best brands of bike bags, we will feature Apidura, Ortlieb, Arkel (of which 80% of the products are made in Québec), Vaude and Bontrager.

Handlebar Bags

Handlebar bags are the big hype right now, and with good reason. Bikepackers and commuters particularly like the easy access to snacks or phone, with most being weatherproofed in some way. 

Here are a few different models for adventure or urban riding :

Frame Bags

Frame bags are split into two very different categories : down tube bags and top tube bags. Similar to handlebar bags, top tube bags provide easy access to compact accessories while riding. Down tube bags on the other hand, are much larger and go inside the frame triangle. Thanks to their low centre of gravity, these types of bags are designed to carry larger, heavier items which you do not need to access while riding.

Discover a few of most popular models of top and down tube bags :

Fork Bags

Mostly popular with bikepackers, fork bags are perfect for lighter, compressible items such as sleeping bags or tents. However, not all bikes have the necessary attachment points so make sure to have a look before purchase.

Here are our two best-seller fork bags : 

Saddle Bags

Just like frame bags, there are two main types of saddle bags : small, discreet packs for emergency flat kits and larger bikepacking-style bags. Most often, small saddle bags will have just enough room for a flat kit, multi tool and maybe a phone, whereas larger bags are more suited for carrying lighter, high volume items such as clothing, rain jacket and more. 

Here are a few examples of both :

Rack Bags

Rack bags are designed to sit on the top of a rear rack, to complement side panniers. Typically of a cubic shape, they ressemble a lunch box, with some of them even providing insulation and a dedicated pouch for an additional water bottle. Rack bags are more popular with urban commuters who are casual riders looking to carry a day’s worth of luggage without the inconvenience of riding with a backpack.

Here are a couple of functional rack bag models : 

Panniers

Panniers are the essential bike bag, with use-cases that range from long bike packing expeditions to neighbourhood errands. Mostly sold in pairs, they sit on either side of a rear rack and provide easy access to bulky and heavy items, which become easy to carry thanks to their low center of gravity.

With many different models to choose from, all with different attributes for the various ways they can be used, here is a varied selection of our favorite models :

No matter what type of riding you do, there is bound to be the perfect bike bag for you. Check out our wide selection of bags and panniers from the industry’s leading brands today!