tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post6994756559812246693..comments2024-03-18T10:19:55.782-04:00Comments on The Velo ORANGE Blog: VO Saddle BagsVelo Orangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02835615331417822722noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-90151648611825799352021-07-19T07:54:01.509-04:002021-07-19T07:54:01.509-04:00Great. Love your post keep posting. Great. Love your post keep posting. Luxwayznoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-79576436385733313722009-01-11T07:17:00.000-05:002009-01-11T07:17:00.000-05:00I am not so sure we really need another saddle bag...I am not so sure we really need another saddle bag. The only exception I can think of would be a superb high tech Ortlieb variation on the theme. If done in their black cordura it could look sufficiently restrained.<BR/>What we do need is one or more better supports. It would need to have the convenience of the SQR support, be slightly more stable, and have Nitto looks. Or, alternatively, an easily removable small rack that is supported by the bike frame rather than the saddle rails (as that puts even more strain on the seatpost).Willemhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01421405679737892329noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-90454923299861775842008-12-16T14:11:00.000-05:002008-12-16T14:11:00.000-05:00Thanks for taking this project on, Chris - I'm sur...Thanks for taking this project on, Chris - I'm sure you'll come up withn something cool :-)<BR/><BR/>If this bag is targeted for commuters you might consider the minimum width required to carry most laptop computers (here in Silly-con Valley most people have to schlep one). I have a Nelson Longflap that fits the width of my 14" screen IBM just perfectly. With a change of clothes, my laptop, and a coily cable lock for quick stops by the market it weighs in the neigoborhood of 10 lbs, which rides pretty well even without a bag support. In fact, I think the PC rides better w/o a support, since it dangles and does not come down hard against a rack if I hit a pothole. I'm honestly not sure if it hits my legs or not when I ride; if it does I don't notice it (but I'll think about this on the way home today). Good luck!Unknownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09598867371572325041noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-2382918157826908562008-11-27T15:42:00.000-05:002008-11-27T15:42:00.000-05:00anon 23:43- I've been thinking ot contacting some ...anon 23:43- <BR/><BR/>I've been thinking ot contacting some of the smaller bag makers. Maybe there is time for that soon. Timbuk 2 bags are waning inn popularity among the messenger and bike people, but their sales are skyrocketing across the larger population. Believe it or not, Middle america looks at a messenger bag and goes -wow- why is a man wearing such a large purse? Even in Annapolis, I get that reaction. Timbuk 2 is one of the few bag companies able to get their bags to a wider audience through bigger retailers and distributors. Chrome is like a distant 3rd.<BR/>Minihaha makes a nice canvas bag but it's not waxed cotton. Same thing with Acorn. Acorn bags are made in the states and are crafted in small batches when they can. <BR/>If we talk to a bag maker with the intent of making nylon bags, it's gonna be a smaller one, and they will not be cheap. <BR/>Anyone have suggestions or connections?Tomhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01015305191743399671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-61695400501949354262008-11-24T13:01:00.000-05:002008-11-24T13:01:00.000-05:00i like the ostrich's look and shape. I am thinking...i like the ostrich's look and shape. I am thinking about using a saddlebag to replace some panniers on my city bike, since all i carry is a lock and toolkit. Since the lock weighs a bit, rigidity and stable mounting would be important, and it looks like the Ostrich "style" covers that pretty well. <BR/><BR/>As with so many things, I am glad to see there are more choices now than before.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-54466774188478887682008-11-24T11:35:00.000-05:002008-11-24T11:35:00.000-05:00I am already satisfay with Croissant bag, but yes,...I am already satisfay with Croissant bag, but yes, I stay tuned about a bigger saddle bag...<BR/>The same canvas will be great.<BR/>Gerard.<BR/>FranceAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-19205722216078964712008-11-22T23:43:00.000-05:002008-11-22T23:43:00.000-05:00Thanks, Tom, for your excellent response. It help...Thanks, Tom, for your excellent response. It helps me understand why the Carradice "knock-off" people are able to make a living at it.<BR/><BR/><BR/>"From my discussions with Carradice over the years, they are perfectly happy with the US sales and see no need to change anything about it."<BR/><BR/>So, are they going for the luxury product angle? No reason to evolve at all? Even if your competition is going to outpace you? I like their traditional aesthetic and values, but it's just stiltifiying to not add loops for a strap, or some internal support, or quick release hooks that aren't cumbersome. If this is their attitude, it doesn't bother me if they get added competition. <BR/><BR/>I'd like to see multi-colored bags. Here's an idea; talk to those people that make the messenger type bags. Their logo was the little swirl. Their popularity has been waning, maybe they'd be happy to start making saddlebags with the features people want. :)Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-77830405380050587642008-11-21T18:59:00.000-05:002008-11-21T18:59:00.000-05:00I'd love to have a good sub-$100 saddle bag for da...I'd love to have a good sub-$100 saddle bag for day trips, commuting, picnics, and so on. Right now, I've hacked a military surplus bag, but it's a kludge, and it's not waterproof. I think this is an open spot in the market. It will be very exciting if VO carries these.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-17463989628488499012008-11-21T15:19:00.000-05:002008-11-21T15:19:00.000-05:00Perhaps this bag conversion might provide some des...Perhaps <A HREF="http://yojimg.net/bike/equipment/timbuk2_hack.php" REL="nofollow">this bag conversion</A> might provide some design inspiration...jim ghttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02161517903295268167noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-43985670470801005642008-11-21T12:22:00.000-05:002008-11-21T12:22:00.000-05:00Carradice also do their SQR bags (eg) which are mo...Carradice also do their SQR bags (<A HREF="http://www.carradice.co.uk/commuter-bike-bags/sqr-tour.shtml" REL="nofollow">eg</A>) which are more like super-sized seatpacks than saddlebags, but which solve many of the gripes noted above (QR as standard, clear of thighs, no buckles etc). Not really in keeping with the VO ethos, but would probably be my choice if I was commuting on a racing bike.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-58932584233695107602008-11-21T10:46:00.001-05:002008-11-21T10:46:00.001-05:00From Robert: I have a Karrimor and a Carradura [s...From Robert: <BR/><BR/>I have a Karrimor and a Carradura [synthetic fabrics , still alive 20 years on]<BR/>the first has a stiffner pocket to slide something stiff into from the inside side<BR/> the other has a minirack and a pocket in the bottom to slide the bag over..<BR/>sway = zero<BR/><BR/>Karrimor a has a zip pouch on the flap<BR/>and the side pockets have a smooth curve to close its on 2 sides of the pocket<BR/><BR/>combining those + a sleeve to over fill and still have it held in there <BR/><BR/>and a reflective rear end of the bag..Tomhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01015305191743399671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-41721184994960580162008-11-21T10:46:00.000-05:002008-11-21T10:46:00.000-05:00From alex Wetmore: My only comment is that a large...From alex Wetmore: <BR/><BR/><BR/>My only comment is that a large bag doesn't mean it needs to carry a<BR/>lot of weight. For lightweight camping there are three bulky items<BR/>which fit nicely into a saddlebag (and not into most handlebar bags). They are the tent or hammock, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.<BR/><BR/>A Carradice Camper sized bag is borderline small for holding those<BR/>three items. In my setup the three items total 6lbs including the bag<BR/>(made by Custom Cycle Fitments back in the 70s or 80s).<BR/><BR/>The only saddlebag that I'd buy at the moment is a replacement of my<BR/>CCF bag. I'd prefer one made of Cordura (for weight).<BR/><BR/>My most used (not very often still) saddlebag is a Baggins Little Joe.<BR/>I think that one is about the perfect size for most day riding and light commute loads.<BR/><BR/>alexTomhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01015305191743399671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-84160537645248299412008-11-21T09:44:00.000-05:002008-11-21T09:44:00.000-05:00I have had a Carradice Nelson Longflap for about 2...I have had a Carradice Nelson Longflap for about 20 years. Slung under a variety of saddles, usually from Cyclo hoops, with no thigh problems. My vintage does not have the extra draw string bit, but I've never had issues with things falling out. It is just about the right size for my use, commuting with a butty box, change of clothes and occasionally a laptop, or trips to the library. It held a 5 litre petrol can this morning when my car ran out of fuel. I like the side pockets, one has a cable lock and a small fold up bag, the other a spare tube, some tools and in winter an emergency spare light. <BR/><BR/>I've just bought a new one (over the interweb from Spa Cycles) together with a Bagman. Not tried it yet as it is a christmas pressie.<BR/><BR/>QR is of no mind to me as it stays on the bike at all times. I usually put my stuff in a carrier bag and put that inside, rather than have stuff loose.<BR/><BR/>Long flap is a definite plus. External loops are useful but not essential.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-32443776259144108992008-11-21T03:06:00.000-05:002008-11-21T03:06:00.000-05:00@Dorina-Here is an example of too much branding (I...@Dorina-<BR/>Here is an example of too much branding (IMO). I have seen many Carradice bags like this one. I really dislike tags.Adrienne Johnsonhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16658593098911314756noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-47970557827148159872008-11-20T22:59:00.000-05:002008-11-20T22:59:00.000-05:00We also want to have a bag that is of that quality...We also want to have a bag that is of that quality available to bike dealers. there is hardly any room for dealers with carradice as it is. berthoud too, if you can get them. <BR/><BR/>There is plenty of room out there for a decent waxed cotton saddlebag line and have it sold through dealers worldwide.Tomhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01015305191743399671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-17092894482348971022008-11-20T22:56:00.000-05:002008-11-20T22:56:00.000-05:00Carradice is at or near capacity. Their US dealers...Carradice is at or near capacity. Their US dealers cannot get enough product. Wall bike has more bag models out of stock than in stock. That may be an issue of wall poorly anticipating demand, or having cashflow problems, but I think that's' a minority opinion. If VO could actually get in touch with carradice- and we would need to talk to someone other than a customer service person- that would be a great new change. <BR/>I also think Wall Bike and Peter White Cycles would be a little annoyed by the competition, if Carradice could actually accommodate additional production capacity. From my discussions with Carradice over the years, they are perfectly happy with the US sales and see no need to change anything about it.Tomhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01015305191743399671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-4748354816422300742008-11-20T22:32:00.000-05:002008-11-20T22:32:00.000-05:00I may be the odd man out here, but I really like t...I may be the odd man out here, but I really like the Carradice bags a LOT, and there is very little I'd want to change. I've had a Lowsaddle Longflap for seven years, and used it a bunch. The 15 liter size is great, and the longflap is very handy to have. I don't think it is too big... the weight is right under your saddle, and pretty centered. Handles fine. I've always used it with a Brooks, so I don't have any saddle attachment problems. Also, although I live in an urban area, I leave the bag on the bike all the time. I use a cable lock on the Brooks, and loop the cable through an aluminum tie-down on the Carradice. Also, I route the straps inside, rather than outside. So, the thief would have to cut the leather holding the tie-down off, AND get into the bag to undo the attachment to the seatpost. In other words, I'm not clamoring for a quick release. Also, I don't mind if the bag brushes my thigh. There are only a few changes I'd make. First, I'd try to incorporate some sort of stiffener, or at least fitting inside for one. I use a piece of chloroplast to help the bag keep its shape, but the piece moves around a bit inside the bag and tends to get in the way sometime. Maybe some tabs inside to hold it in place.<BR/><BR/>The other thing would be to make it a little more vertical, rather than at an angle. As it is, things don't fall out for me, but still, one worries. I like the internal drawstring the later and bigger Carradices have, but I will say that the coated nylon lost all its coating after a couple of years.<BR/><BR/>Otherwise, thumbs up for all the traditional Carradice features: three strap mounting, tie-downs, heavy waxed canvas, buckles, longflap.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-66898315929854208672008-11-20T22:19:00.000-05:002008-11-20T22:19:00.000-05:00I like the Acorn Bags, those are nicely done. Gla...I like the Acorn Bags, those are nicely done. Glad to see someone is doing the strap. <BR/><BR/>I also like the Minnehaha grocery bag; that's a good idea.<BR/><BR/>I used to have the problem of my Carradice hitting my legs until I got a frame properly my size. One way to solve this is to use a spacer between the post and the bag, then cinch it tight.<BR/><BR/>Let me bring up an issue, though. There's some items I am uncomfortable purchasing from Velo-Orange because I feel like it undercuts established producers of fine equipment. Why not get Carradice to produce an 'improved' bag? One with internal support? One that quickly hooks to the seat instead of buckling?<BR/><BR/>Forgive me, Adrienne, but I'm not sure what you mean about overly branded Carradice- My Nelson has only a little discrete grey metal plate with Carradice stamped into it. Perhaps you're referring to other models?<BR/><BR/>Bicycle Quarterly did an interesting comparison of handlebar bags. Interestingly, I think the nylon Arkel was heavier (and I think leaked?) than the canvas Berteau ones.dorihttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12621303152586783273noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-5438073845164678372008-11-20T21:44:00.000-05:002008-11-20T21:44:00.000-05:00I prefer round, although I could be converted to s...I prefer round, although I could be converted to square. The thing I can not stand about Carradice bags is all of the damn branding on them. You can read those labels half a block away, and bikes are already covered in branding as it is- Shimano, TruVativ, SRAM.....it makes me crazy. I also think that too many buckles is an issue, too much time to get in and out and frustrating when you pick the wrong pocket.Adrienne Johnsonhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16658593098911314756noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-58025016143751723822008-11-20T21:31:00.000-05:002008-11-20T21:31:00.000-05:00If you want a Carradice bag, just order it directl...If you want a Carradice bag, just order it directly from them. I recently did and it came in just a few days. The amount you save by not having to pay VAT is about equal to the shipping cost, so it's a wash. Also, I finally got one of those Bagman racks -- never used one before -- and they work great.Dadhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09016373487910801383noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-14256482374732700832008-11-20T20:28:00.000-05:002008-11-20T20:28:00.000-05:00Something around LSLF size, but...I had a Schwinn-...Something around LSLF size, but...<BR/><BR/>I had a Schwinn-branded vinyl bag that was rather interesting...sort of like the Ostrich in shape, it was more wedge than loaf (loaf being the general shape of Carradice). It had a broad flat bottom that was stiffened. Worked pretty well.<BR/><BR/>These days I've gotten used to the rack idea, but I can see a bag like that being popular.<BR/><BR/>OTOH, I do wish sometimes that somebody would say "hey, this is what nylon is made for" and just make one of these out of ballistic cloth or cordura...Andy "What?" M-Shttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00678292315368970018noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-72186048003571842132008-11-20T12:28:00.000-05:002008-11-20T12:28:00.000-05:00I have a Carradice Barley, which is 7 liters I bel...I have a Carradice Barley, which is 7 liters I believe, and use it a lot. My only real problem with it is the angle--as patates frites noted, stuff spills out when you're loading it. I would even like a little more capacity, maybe 10 liters. And I definately prefer NOT having to use a suport.<BR/><BR/>Mark G.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-11331970926221740082008-11-20T12:26:00.000-05:002008-11-20T12:26:00.000-05:00Any large bag with shoulder strap would be great, ...Any large bag with shoulder strap would be great, as would a quick release function and somewhere to attach a blinky.<BR/><BR/>All necessary commuting in a big city I think.<BR/><BR/>Looking forward to what you come up with.Mr. Finkhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15444742600399175177noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-86405790632870945482008-11-20T10:30:00.000-05:002008-11-20T10:30:00.000-05:00anyone have a vintage Karrimore catalogue they wou...anyone have a vintage Karrimore catalogue they would be willing to scan?Tomhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01015305191743399671noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24415034.post-42091877530987477622008-11-20T04:56:00.000-05:002008-11-20T04:56:00.000-05:00Your idea sounds great, I agree with you about the...Your idea sounds great, I agree with you about the shape. At present I am running an old karrimor from england circa 1976, hey what can I say the things still got a little bit of life left in it. It is a fairly large rectangle shape, which seems to look a little bit more pleasing to the eye than a carradice. The model is called the lowdale, if you care to look it up. As usual it sounds like you have another great VO product in the mix. <BR/><BR/>CFG WHEELSAnonymousnoreply@blogger.com