Basil

Bike bags are getting more and more sophisticated, often combining pannier performance with the ease of use and versatility of the messenger bag. The Messenger bag from the d'Azur range by Dutch bike luggage specialists Basil is designed to be a combination of casual styling, rugged materials, handy features and on and off bike useability.

In an aged, sandy sort of colour canvas fabric, the d'Azur isn't a bag that screams out 'laptop inside' and is styled very much true to its name, as a messenger bag.

Basil stand

Basil stand 2

Basil stand 3

Basil Wicker basket

One strictly for the traditional sit-up-and-beg and cruiser set, this is a classic wicker basket that will set off your Pashley Princess perfectly.

Woven from high quality wicker, in a traditional style, this is a surprisingly lightweight (1032g) basket, given its ample size (48cm long x 32cm wide x 23cm deep). It hooks easily over the front bar with two plastic coated sturdy wire hooks and sits pretty stable. There’s also a handle, attached securely with wire staples, that sits flush with the basket when not in use.

Pretty baggage

Featuring a super-sturdy handlebar bracket that greatly reduces unsightly and annoying scratching of head tubes and handlebars coupled with genuine 5 litre, 5 kilo carrying capacity Basil’s Bassimply basket has to be one of the most practical and arguably likeable I’ve encountered. However, while convenient, it seems pricey compared with a single utility pannier and heavier loads can negatively impact upon handling.