My Thorn Raven has a new bit of kit on board – a Carradice Long flap Saddlebag. I think it looks just great on the bike and will more than earn its keep.
I have one been convinced about this particular model of saddlebag (and saddlebags in general), but its taken me sometime to get one into place – they are great value for money, but hardly cheap. With new ones costing the better part of £50 I have been watching them come and go on Ebay for months, hoping to pick up a bargain: but have you seen the prices they go for? I have seen some very tatty examples go for over £30.
I was delighted to be offered one by a mate who has decided to put his touring days behind him. It’s all the better to have a bag with some personal ‘history’ and I’ll carry it from now on with great pleasure and happy memories of a generous spirit. We agreed a bit of bartering for a book token in exchange that allowed me to say my thanks properly.
The bag will be great for day runs carrying bike repair gear, waterproofs and a nice picnic, or for weekend trips and will come into its own once we are packed for longer tours. The saddle bag which hangs from the back of my Brooks saddle will help with weight distribution overall and take weight away from the rear stays in particular.
If a new one takes your fancy to to find out more, check them out on the Carradice site.
Pedalling on Regardless 