Product reviews
Words by: Nat Bromhead
First appearing in the Autumn edition of Bicycle Network’s exclusive member magazine Ride On, we test out bikepacking gear from UK brand Restrap. Keen to get your hands on the latest edition of the magazine? Subscribe for just $30 per year here. For many, a bike represents freedom, with the only restriction being time, distance and carrying capacity. Quality bikepacking gear massively enhances this perpetual conundrum — here we’re talking top-shelf frame, handlebar and saddle packs that will easily carry up to 10 or so kilos of gear, with minimal impact on speed, performance or bike handling. Restrap’s rackless saddle bag system connects securely to your seatpost for bikepacking, touring or commuting. Part of the brand’s #carryeverything range, it attaches in seconds to most frame and saddle combinations via a heavy-duty velcro seatpost loop, a secondary lock loop, and two under-saddle straps. Saddle Bag The holster fits Restrap’s 18, 14 and 8-litre dry bags, making for versatile bikepacking options. One point worth noting: being a dry bag, the 18L sack needs to be folded down to close. When folded it holds around 14L, but can be packed down to around 8L if you’re carrying less. Once in place, it stays there. After a full day of riding I found minimal movement. So long as the straps are tight and clips properly secured (particularly the side straps, which should be pulled fully tight and tucked in), side-to-side sway is not at all noticeable. The outer holster is a hardshell casing for easy loading, laced with reflective military paracord and reinforced eyelets. Made from 1000D military-grade Cordura with nylon webbing for extra strength, it looks tough and is certainly built to last — which matters, given the underside of a saddle bag cops a hiding from mud, stones and tyre rub in serious conditions. The dry bag is secured with a patented magnetic FidLock buckle that was easy to adjust. Weight: 645g (18L) Frame Bag We also tested Restrap’s matching frame bag. Featuring YKK zips, textured nylon outer and VX21 fabrics, it’s tough, durable and versatile. Rubberised strapping provides extra grip to the frame, and reflective paracord zip pulls add security and visibility. Inner mesh pockets keep you organised on the road, while the medium and large bags include an additional document pocket. An extra cable slot accommodates dynamo cabling — a thoughtful touch. The frame bag is also handmade in Yorkshire, looks particularly slick in the company’s classic black canvas, and the small leather Restrap tags give both bags a classy, refined finish. In size large, the frame bag is totally usable but a touch cramped inside the frame of my 54cm Chapter 2 gravel bike. The bag measures 51cm x 16cm (at its deepest) and 10cm at the rear. Combined with a smartly packed saddle bag, the versatile frame pack holds a surprisingly good amount of gear that remains easy to access via waterproof zips on either side. The left pocket is narrower — perfect for smaller items such as cables, snacks or a wallet — while the right-hand zipper opens into the main storage section. Verdict Overall, the bags ooze exceptional quality, with outstanding attention to detail and a first-class finish that should deliver years of reliable, bike-based freedom. Considering the handmade-in-the-UK factor and the quality of materials, at around $179 for the frame bag and $269 for the saddle bag, both represent solid value. Technical Features ∙100% waterproof ∙Reflective detailing ∙FidLock™ magnetic closure ∙Anti-sway hardshell design ∙Two-part dry bag and holster system ∙Designed to fit any bike More details at www.bikechain.com.au Ride On is the Bicycle Network member magazine – for your copy visit this link today.
Restrap Frame and Saddle Bags
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