Saddle pack recommendations

[Sergeant Pluck]

Right, I have a mid size Topeak saddle pack, the type with the quick-release bracket on the saddle. I've just broken the 3rd one in a month; this one lasted about 3 short rides. I don't have that much weight in it. Each time it's the same: a bump just breaks the retaining edges off the bag part of the clip.

What is a good alternative, suitable for Brooks. I guess I'm looking at velcro straps this time.

Topeak again, except with straps?

(Edit: mind you, the first Topeak of the 3 lasted for years. Both the cheese-bracket ones were bought in the last few weeks)

[Aidan]

I've just swapped my Topeak for one of these





Very similar  but has straps with klik fasteners,  rather than a clip.  Nicely made, reflective and a decent price.

[Sergeant Pluck]

Thanks Aidan. Looks the job but I don't think I can get one in time for my trip on Sunday - are dhb Wiggle-only? Is the fitting for the light horizontal across bag?

[clarion]

Carradice Prima?

I think I mean Twist...

[Sergeant Pluck]

Too big methinks Clarion.

[clarion]

Hence my amendment.  Sorry....

[bikenerd]

I have an Altura one with a Klickfix fastener.  It's lasted me for years, probably about 5 or 6, and has seen action on both the road and mountain bike.
edit: it's a Trail Expanding.  You can also get a non-expanding version.  I don't think you'll have the same problem with the clip breaking on these.  Being Altura you should be able to get one in any LBS!

[Sergeant Pluck]

No light fitting.

I'm just being difficult now, aren't I? 

Thanks Clarion, didn't know they did those.

[clarion]

Hadn't noticed that.  Bit silly not having their ubiquitous light loop, if you ask me.

[Aidan]

Thanks Aidan. Looks the job but I don't think I can get one in time for my trip on Sunday - are dhb Wiggle-only? Is the fitting for the light horizontal across bag?

There is a horizonal strap for attaching a light just below the reflective bit with DHB on. If you look closely at the picture you can just make it out.


I also have an old Dirt MOnkey branded one which is similar, which has velcro straps and a light fitting which I got from Halfords a few years ago.

[bikenerd]

No light fitting.

I'm just being difficult now, aren't I? 

Thanks Clarion, didn't know they did those.

Mine has a light fitting and so does the one on Wiggle!

[Chris N]

The Topeak bags with straps are pretty good - I've got this one.  Doesn't wobble, works with Brooks saddles, takes tools, puncture kit and a spare tube, and has a strap for a light.

[Sergeant Pluck]

Thanks all. As I needed some other bits and bobs, for which chainreaction had the best prices, I ordered a Lezyne saddle pack for a bit of a change, plus it has compartments,  ,  which I like.

Oddly, the small Topeak pack has an inside compartment but the medium doesn't.

[Aidan]

The s-caddy version was reviewed in Cycling weakly recently. Seemed to get a good review. they seemed to like the compartments too.

[Adam]

Thanks all. As I needed some other bits and bobs, for which chainreaction had the best prices, I ordered a Lezyne saddle pack for a bit of a change, plus it has compartments,  ,  which I like.

It looks nice - and you can get it in grey & black!

[Sergeant Pluck]

 

That's what I ordered.

It's here now, seems excellent. Sizing is smaller than the Topeak equivalent - the large is about the same volume as the Topeak medium.

Well made. Internal compartments for tyre levers and bits and bobs. The tube side compartment is too small for a MTB tube but it's useful for other things. Underside compartment is a useful size and also has internal sleeve for multitool.

My only minor criticism is the very narrow and thin band at the back for a light - too thin to retain a Smart clip and will not hold light in fixed position. May well be different for other makes of light. Easily fettled with a piece of inner tube.

It's narrow and deep, fitting closely and securely under a Brooks.

A perfect YACF grey too.