Super C Audax side pockets.

[BerlinMatt]

I am a big fan of this saddle bag- it is big enough for everything I need on a Brevet without being big enough to fit the things I think I will need the evening before. The only thing I dislike about it are the side pockets- They are shallow and the buckles don't pull down as far as on some other models. I have often lost things in the past- mostly flapjacks but occasionally tools.
With a couple of small stuff bags and some poor sewing I have attempted to solve the problem. I will ride with my wallet and keys in the pockets over some cobblestones tomorrow as a test...

[markjohnobrien]

I’ve never lost anything, but tend to pack things in tightly in the side pockets.

[BerlinMatt]

I have a system for packing the pockets tightly, everything has it's place. But as I start to suffer for sleep deprivation the system breaks down

[rogerzilla]

The Barley's no better. It very much depends on gravity to retain stuff in the pockets, which means a Bagman to keep it upright.

The Zipped Roll is much more secure, if it's big enough.

[PH]

I don't know how they compare size wise, but the pockets on a Nelson are the perfect size and shape for those screw top tubs intended for bottle cages. which is great as long as the contents don't rattle.

[BerlinMatt]

I don't know how they compare size wise, but the pockets on a Nelson are the perfect size and shape for those screw top tubs intended for bottle cages. which is great as long as the contents don't rattle.

I tried using old Sudocrem tubs which works really well but the rattling on east german cobble stones was too much for me.

[geocycle]

The Barley's no better. It very much depends on gravity to retain stuff in the pockets, which means a Bagman to keep it upright.

The Zipped Roll is much more secure, if it's big enough.

Agreed on both bags. I improved the Barley by making a new hole very high up the pocket strap, keeping them tightly packed with things like tubes and using plastic bags. I’d also prefer a much deeper inner draw string collar so there is no chance of anything escaping. I’ve not lost anything although did have to retrieve a mini pump that made a bid for freedom. The zipped roll is brilliant, just a bit small if you want to carry spare layers of clothing.

[BerlinMatt]

The Barley's no better. It very much depends on gravity to retain stuff in the pockets, which means a Bagman to keep it upright.

The Zipped Roll is much more secure, if it's big enough.

Agreed on both bags. I improved the Barley by making a new hole very high up the pocket strap, keeping them tightly packed with things like tubes and using plastic bags. I’d also prefer a much deeper inner draw string collar so there is no chance of anything escaping. I’ve not lost anything although did have to retrieve a mini pump that made a bid for freedom. The zipped roll is brilliant, just a bit small if you want to carry spare layers of clothing.

I have a Barley or a Nelson- not sure which- it is vast. Due to it's size I use a bag support which keeps the bag horizontal and I haven't lost anything yet.
The zipped roll looks good, I think it could double up as a handlebar bag, but it is a bit small and I would have to choose between cake and tools. Also, I like the quick access you get with side pockets. Carradice is very hard to get hold of in Germany either way post Brexit....

[De Sisti]

I improved the Barley by making a new hole very high up the pocket strap, keeping them tightly packed with things like tubes and using plastic bags.

I improved the straps on my Barley to my liking. I find them easier to open/close with gloves on.



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[rogerzilla]

You basically turned a Barley into a Super C Audax there. Ok, there are other minor differences, but a Super C Audax is a Barley-sized bag with side lock plastic buckles (and some 1970s graphics!).

[Cyclewala]

I agree the trick with the Super C is to pack tight and put a large item at the top e.g. two inner tubes wrapped in plastic bag.

[elPedro666]

I will ride with my wallet and keys in the pockets over some cobblestones tomorrow as a test...

Wallet and keys as test mules, I admire your faith in your handiwork! Does look good though.

I'm a trendy consumer. Just look at my VOG-L09 using hovercraft full of eels.

[BerlinMatt]

I will ride with my wallet and keys in the pockets over some cobblestones tomorrow as a test...

Wallet and keys as test mules, I admire your faith in your handiwork! Does look good though.

I'm a trendy consumer. Just look at my VOG-L09 using hovercraft full of eels.

Worked well - I got back into my flat without the help of a locksmith!