Bikepacking - a viable alternative to racks & panniers

Bit of Tentsmuir was it?

Yeah man, just out to the nature reserve at the point.

Braw sur.

Are you talking about this method of opening a quick link? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvlMlGDq3Ak

Haven't heard of it before

Just buy a woolftooth tool

Or the knock-off available from Ali express or sjs

https://www.sjscycles.co.uk/tools/granite-talon-tyre-levers/

Hardly even a knock off because it's made of plastic so will actually work as a tyre lever (unlike metal wolf tooth tool)

I've used my Wolftooth chain tool in anger a few times. It's a little fiddlier than a shop tool but it's a nice addition to a bikepacking tool kit. I've never used it for tyre levering, I have other levers for that.

Yeah man, but with a shoelace, took a good few tries but it did work.

I like the look of this rack, the cage bosses on the underside seem like a good idea

https://bikepacking.com/news/7roads-front-rack/

I just realised that this is not fitting as a "viable alternative to racks and panniers"

I think bikepacking doesn't exclude racks. As long as the ride characteristics of the bike aren't changed too much.
Obviously front and back panniers with a heavy load aren't bikepacking.

I bought these for that exact reason. I don't want metal tyre levers.
They are doing the job in both functions. Good addition to a toolkit.

Is this the place to ask for handle bar/sling bag recommendations?

I do think I like the features and size of the Chrome Double track handlebar sling, not so much the styling/looks.

Are there any other options I should consider?
I generally like the vibe of Topo designs, but not sure about the form factor they decided for.

They are very different - the Chrome looks good for city riding and wanting to take your bag with you. I'm a fan of the wizzard works lil presto for being big and holding shape. You can get a carry strap if that is your thing.

Yeah, its more the styling I like with Topo. Chromes offerings many times looks so damn serious.

Lil Presto is a good shout! Cheers

tried a few handlebar bags, often they get flappy/ don't hold much worth their space vs say a bumb bag,

the exception to this is the outer shell one imo, can open on the go, doesn't rattle, looks good, efficient use of space, holds its shape, does not look like a pencil case, come is leopard print for kat slater vibes

https://www.tokyobike.co.uk/outer-shell-drawcord-handlebar-bag-97422306.html

it also has hooks to attach a sling i believe.

can take up a tops space if you use narrow drops, probably the only real downside other than cost

I do think you just sold me on this bag!
It can as well have a camera insert added which could be handy.

B) i will be letting them know to send my commission cheque

this is mine, with various levels of stuffing,

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It is good, very accessible, bar attachment on the side rather than top is better, doesn’t sag, outside pockets are useful for mask and wrappers, can stuff soft items in for over capacity carrying.

Tokyo bike sometimes have stock

You will want some spacers to move it away from the bars if you want to use the tops ever

Picture that add almost nothing to your understanding...

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In my opinion the most underrated and best value pieces of Rapha kit is their handlebar bag. With the addition of a bungee cord on the lower attachment point, it holds super secure, has enough volume for what you might need on an all day ride and has decent internal organisation. That outershell one does look great though.

For the price it’s great value. The material is good and sturdy, agreed it’s a good size for a day and the internal pockets and front are good. It’s semi manageable to access while riding

I don’t love the attachment on top but that’s it.

The price of these things is absurd*

*I will probably buy one

Anyone got inside info on when Apidura are bringing out out their new aero bar pack?

This is my fav handlebar bag ever. I didnt know tokyobike were selling these, explains why i have seen a few on bikes in the last few days

After all these great reviews I got one too, loving it so far.

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+PhotonBelt has that new Chrome Bag. Looks great and holds its shape well.

That being said I am all for supporting small business. I was considering that Outershell bag for a while but couldn't justify the price tag while already owning an (improved) Rapha handlebar bag.

We do have a few Wizard Works here between me and my gf and they are all awesome!