Bikepacking bags: 8 new Cyclite products presented

The eight new products complement the existing bikepacking range, which consists of the following five bags that can be combined depending on requirements and tour length:

• Frame bag: Frame Bag / 01 >> available here
• Saddlebag: Saddle Bag / 01 >> available here
• Aero handlebar bag: Handlebar Aero Bag / 01 >> available here
• Top tube pocket: Top Tube Bag / 01 >> available here
• Swivel castor: Handlebar Roll Bag / 01 >> available here

We tested a set of these bags at the end of 2022, a detailed test report will follow shortly.

The bags can be seen again and again at ultracycling events and races. Among others, Sherry Cardona (winner of Race Around the Netherlands 2022, winner of Transiberica 2022, pairs category), Sebastian Breuer (winner Badlands 2022) or Daniel Gottschalk (winner NorthCape4000 2022) travelling with Cyclite bags.

This is new at Cyclite

The new products expand the existing collection. All products are waterproof. The manufacturer promises a stable fit and high robustness. Like the previous collection, the new bikepacking bags will also be available in light grey and black. Expected to be available from mid-April 2023 directly from Cyclite or from specialist retailers.

Small saddle bag - Saddle Bag Small / 01

You don't always need a large saddle bag and more and more manufacturers such as Apidura and Restrap are offering special race collections designed for minimalist luggage. Cyclite is also jumping on this bandwagon and introducing the little sibling to the larger saddle bag (12.9 litres). The small model holds 8 litres and weighs 228 grams. The bag can be quickly and easily stowed away with the elasticated strap. Whether it's a bag of crisps for a bikepacking race, a wet rain jacket or a bag from the bakery. Like all Cyclite bags, this one also has reflectors. A rear light can also be attached.

The next generation of the Cyclite top tube bag - Top Tube Bag / 02

The Top Tube Bag / 01 has been further developed. What has remained is the large opening and the throw-over lid. This means that the contents of the bag can be accessed quickly. What is new in the second generation is that the fastening now works with a Fidlock magnetic buckle. This should ensure that the bag closes and stays closed more securely. The new bag is also slightly narrower and at the same time stiffer to reduce contact between the thighs and the bag. The base of the Top Tube Bag / 02 is padded so that the contents, such as a smartphone, are protected and do not rattle on the top tube when the terrain becomes rough. Another new feature is that the bag can now be attached to the frame using Velcro straps as well as the classic method, provided the frame has screw-on points. There is space for all the small parts you need to access quickly while riding. A small mesh pocket on the inside secures the money card or other small items. There is also a cable outlet, for example for the power bank cable to the sat nav.

Large top tube bag Top Tube Bag Large / 01

The small Top Tube Bag from Cyclite will be complemented by a large version from 2023. The bag has a volume of 2.2 litres. How many Snickers can you fit in there? The bag can be a solution if there is no room for a frame bag in the frame triangle; or if a lot of storage space with access during the ride is required. The manufacturer sees ultra-distance riders in particular as the target group here.

The bag is divided into two compartments. The front compartment is similar to the small top tube bag and is also closed by the cover with a Fidlock magnetic buckle. At the back is a compartment with a waterproof zip. The entire bag becomes narrower towards the saddle so that the bag does not get in the way of your thighs when pedalling. The large top tube bag also has a small mesh pocket on the inside and an exit for cables.

Large frame bag Frame Bag Large / 01

Up to now, there have mainly been frame bags on the market for the upper third of the frame triangle or so-called full frame bags, which fill the entire frame triangle. Cyclite is launching an alternative to these two forms. The large frame bag with a volume of almost 3.6 litres leaves space for a bottle on the down tube - and the manufacturer states that this also applies to small frame sizes. The bag has two large compartments, a further side compartment for credit cards, ID or cash, two inner mesh pockets for small items and a key hook. There is a covered opening on the front of the bag through which power cables or a drinking tube can be threaded.

So snacks are always to hand - the Food Pouch / 01

The Cyclite Food PouchAs is usual for snack bags of this type, the is positioned next to the stem; it can be mounted on both sides so that you can carry two of these bags if you wish. Snacks can be stowed in it for quick access or an additional water bottle can be inserted. Of course, there are other possible uses such as a glove compartment, a place for a rain jacket or similar.

Many food pouches can be closed at the top. The Cyclite version is open at the top but higher. The height is designed to prevent contents from falling out. The base consists of a mesh fabric. This allows dirt and water to find their way out unhindered. The Food Pouch weighs 35 grams; according to the manufacturer, the Backcountry Food Pouch from Apidura weighs 55 grams and has a volume of 0.8 litres.

First aid pack for bikepacking - Cyclite First Aid Kit / 01

No bike tour should be without a first aid kit. Cyclite has put together this first aid kit together with emergency paramedics specifically for bikes. The all-round zip ensures quick and easy access. The First Aid Kit / 01 fits into all Cyclite bags and can be stowed in the bag using the Velcro fastener to save space. A corresponding sticker for the outside of the bag is included so that the set can be found quickly by helpers in an emergency.

Stow your shopping quickly in the Musette / 01

A quick trip to the supermarket but where to put the shopping? Cyclite has expanded its range with a Musette to make shopping stops more efficient. Supermarket, checkout, rehang your bag and onwards - the aim is to lose as little time as possible; this is particularly important in unsupported bikepacking races.

Classic musettes slide back and forth on the back when riding. Cyclite has given its bag an additional strap, which is hooked diagonally into the carrying strap. This ensures that the bag sits centred and stable on the back, even when full of food.

A similar system is also available from Apidura.

Where to put the lamp or sat nav? Aero Mount / 01 provides a remedy

Bikepacking bags and handlebar bags in particular often have a disadvantage. Where can the light and the sat nav be mounted without the bag getting in the way or restricting the light cone?

For the Handle Bar Aero Bag, which is already an integral part of the Cyclite range, there is now an attachment for lights or bike computers.

The 3D-printed product can be attached to the existing mounts on the top of the Aero handlebar bag. It can either be used as a kind of handlebar replacement to which front lights can be attached, or as an adapter for smartphone or sat nav mounts.