The Silene bar bag from Abus is a bit different from the norm, turning away from the common box type shape of many bar bags, where the lid can often be used for maps, towards a more ‘handbag’ like shape, complete with compartments, padding and even a shoulder strap. It’s the kind of bar bag that could be used on day rides just as happily as long tours requiring maps and GPS, and wouldn’t look out of place slung over your shoulder at the supermarket.
Weighing 724g for 4 litre capacity, it’s not the lightest, weighing as much as many bags of a bigger volume. Much of this weight however, is down to the serious padding used in the Silene. Every compartment is padded to a greater or lesser degree, with the front pocket sporting a serious amount of cushioning. This does mean it’s a good choice for cameras and other more fragile items, although it’s only water resistant rather than waterproof, so you’d still want to use a dry-bag for further protection. The 450D and 630D nylon fabrics are nigh-on bombproof and it’ll withstand a lot of abuse for many years to come. The bag also has a vinyl splash resistant base.
The four pockets all fasten with sturdy zips, the optional shoulder strap is well padded and comfortable, fastening easily to the sides when needed, or there’s a handle on top if you don’t want to bother. Reflective piping enhances visibility and there’s a pretty floral design that will appeal to the ladies, or men who like flowers (it IS a fairly low key tonal design and blends well with the dark brown colouring of the bag).
The mount is a standard high quality KLICKfix affair, making it easy to swap and change bags if you have several different ones for the same touring bike, without having to dismantle the fixtures. It fastens quickly and easily to the mount with no fuss.
In essence, this is a good option to consider if you’re not likely to have too much to put into a handlebar bag, but want an easily detached way of carrying your valuables with you at rest stops. It’s also more protective than many, for gadgets and gizmos.
Verdict
A versatile and useful bar bag, perfect for touring and for recreational rides where you're on and off the bike a lot. Great for keeping valuables close at hand, but just a little bit pricy itself.
road.cc test report
Make and model: Abus Lyria Silene bag
Rate the product for quality of construction:
9/10
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
Rate the product for durability:
9/10
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
6/10
Rate the product for value:
7/10
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.
Would you consider buying the product? Probably.
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Probably.
Age: 37 Height: 1.65m Weight: 67kg
I usually ride: My best bike is:
I've been riding for: 10-20 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, touring, general fitness riding, mtb,
I now use some fulcrum night something's or whatever but there ultra light 1500grm even with a cassette & tyres, I also use some 3t wheels...
I never thought the police use the term accident now? more the term RTC 🤔
Welcome to the Dark Side*! It is a very varied church - if a rather tiny one....
Really depends on your use-case and how much you're prepared to pay. You may have particular requirements for efficiency / low drag / convenience ...
Could Road.cc highlight the percentage of close passes reported in Grimsby and what action was taken. I suspect the zero tolerance only applies if...
Your assumptions about my "beliefs" must also based on the results of your mathematical models. I've never bought bike parts because of what they...
They called me later that evening to say the driver was apologetic and would be driving according to the Highway Code of allowing 1.5m when passing...
In its email, the force added: “Your help in taking the time to make us aware of this matter is greatly appreciated and will improve the safety on...
The quote from the appeal court judgement is not saying that Auriol Grey did anything wrong. That is the essence of the judgement. Her actions...
In theory, Colchester is getting one but I expect the haters will be out to stop it. There are a number of regulars who just say "That would not...