Bikepacking - a viable alternative to racks & panniers

https://heinnie.com/search.php?search_query=paracord&section=content&productListPgNoCustom=1

Excellent. Still waiting for something elegant to come along.

Instead of a custom frame bag I used two off the shelf ones joined with cable ties. Cheap and fast. One bag has the sleeping bag, the other one has the tent. I can force the maximum stuff into them without the sides of the bag touching my knees. I'm not sure I could do that if I had a single custom bag with one big compartment?

If I don't need both bags I can just use one. If I don't carry the bottle I could probably add another bag or two to fill the frame triangle.

Does anyone have a recommendation for a handlebar bag for carrying a camera?
I’d like something padded and with a compartment for a second lens.

I think you'd want something with a proper clamp on mount, like the route werks, or a klickfix compatible bag. Most of them are quite boxy, so you could use some standard photo packing cubes inside.

Ortlieb ultimate 6(?) handlebar bag has the option for additional camera insert. Would be my choice I think if you don’t mind it being boxy. I’d worry most about the micro vibrations and sensative electronics depending what camera/lens you’re taking so may even suggest a body mounted option so you provide some suspension

Some ideas here too https://bikepacking.com/plan/bikepacking-with-a-camera/

I'd be more inclined to carry this in a hip bag or something, so you can isolate the kit from vibrations with your body, rather than on the bars where it'll get rattled quite a lot (unless you've got sweet,sweet suspension :))

Does anyone have a recommendation for a handlebar bag for carrying a camera?
I’d like something padded and with a compartment for a second lens.

Depends on the size of your your camera/lens.
Have got plenty of use from the Outershell drawcord with a butchered camera insert.
https://tokyobike.co.uk/products/outer-shell-drawcord-handlebar-bag-97422306

They sell a basic pad that fits but no seperation
https://tokyobike.co.uk/products/outer-shell-drawcord-handlebar-bag-accessories?variant=41389340688523#

I'd say it is best suited to a camera with 1 - 2 small lenses. Have always used it with a single lens.

If you need bigger and have a bigger wallet too, there is the dyed in wool option.
https://dyedinthewool.eu/products/camera-bag?variant=36641095286950

Not exactly what you're asking but in case this example helps: I use a stem bag for my mirrorless camera with a shallow lens (apidura XL one, or the miss grape one). I sometimes carry a different lens in my frame bag, wrapped up in a buff or beanie.

Never had any issues, though the camera spends a decent chunk of time on a strap on my back too. Also I don't massively care about the camera or lenses, all pretty cheap stuff.

https://youtu.be/LAlpgdmY7Is?si=fo2gfTeGKxdHckHx

Cool!

Did you make a decision on the webbing ? I’m a few weeks behind you , just got my custom alpkit frame bag too :)

He posted an update

https://youtu.be/sLK4O2Unjhk?si=j7EECyIWp1l_h7w0

what a guy

Is this the best place to ask random touring questions?
Anyone know any places where i can buy Voile straps over the counter, either between Brixton and Euston station, or in Glasgow? Off touring Scotland tomorrow and wouldn't mind buying some straps less prone to slipping than my current ones.

Wizard Works sell them, but they're in Greenwich.

SBC or London Bike Kitchen will have em

Depends a bit how late I'm running for train - suspect detours may be out of the question.
It's not the end of the world, am sure i can pick some up in Scotland.

Actually looks like Condor do PDW branded ones and they are pretty much on way.

If you're going to (or near) Aviemore then https://backcountry.scot/product-category/brands/voile-straps/ should have them!

I am actually - doing a big loop of the Cairngorms. But don't think I'll be there for a few days so will probaly stop off at Condor on the way.

More lightweight rear racks in the works. This one is a “prototype by MICA”. Not sure who that is.

https://bikepacking.com/bikes/stooge-dirt-tracker-review/

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This https://micacycles.com

Makes Tailfin look like a bargain.

Really shit random question but are gravel bike frame bags typically thinner than MTB ones?
I am often catching my knees on my revelate one which originally fitted my Stanton Sherpa MTB

Had a blast on the Dorset dirt dash this weekend

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