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Banjo Brothers QR Waterproof Handlebar Bag
May 8, 2009
Trying to carry everything you want to carry, and have it where you want it can be a challenge on a tour, or even a long ride on a Sunday afternoon. A handle bar bag can keep frequently used items close at hand. For me it is a map and my cameras. I am often wanting to stop and take pictures, but had never really figured out how to have my cameras easily accessable. The Banjo Brothers Quick Release Waterproof Handlebar Bag is the first handlebar bag I have tried. The bag is a nice size, holding my cameras while still providing some extra space for snacks.
Like all Banjo Brothers Bags, this handle bar bag has there light weight, easy to remove waterproof liner. This is not going to keep your things dry if you submerge them in a lake, but in a heavy downpour your stuf will still come out dry. On top, there is a clear map pocket, for easy viewing while riding. If you do not plan on using a map this is easily removable, as it is attached with velcro. This also makes it easy to take the map off if you want to go explore some hiking trails as well. The one downside with the map case is that it is not sealed on one side, so when it is raining, your map will get wet. This can easily be solved with some tape but it is a it of a pain.
The "QR" part of the Banjo Brothers QR Waterproof Handlebar Bag is for Quick Release. The bag is mounted to the handlebars with an easy clip in bracket. This makes it easy to take the bag on and off the bike in only seconds. The bracket is plastic, and when I first saw it I was kind of worried, but after many rides and lots of use, it seems to be pretty tough stuff. One of the features I like with the bracket is a small wire that hooks on to it, and wraps around the stem. This essentially supports the bag and prevents it from rotating down.
Banjo Brothers have even thought of the little details like external side pockets and a clip on the front for a light. Both of these come in handy especially since the bag takes up some valuable room on my handlebar. My light will now move from my handlebar to the clip. The small side pockets are great for holding snacks while riding.
I am pretty impressed with this bag, and it has changed my mind about handlebar bags. I can now have access to everything I need at hand, but not have to stop to get it. The Banjo Brothers Quick Release Waterproof Handlebar Bag is great for short journeys or epic tours, just keep the wieght under 12 pounds and you should be good.
Price: $59.95 USD
Details: A waterproof handlebar bag with quick release
Pros: Waterproof, simple, and it works
Cons: Plastic bracket is somewhat clunky
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 stars
Banjo Brothers
Reviewed by: Ryan