Bags

Topeak bill this as being "perfect for commuting, school and errands" but in reality it's better suited to day rides.

Don't get me wrong, it looks neat, it's very sturdy and the panniers that unzip from the side pods are cute but it simply doesn't hold enough stuff. Topeak quote it as having a capacity of 6l but this is spread over three distinct, and small, compartments. I'm not a complete pack rat but when I commute I at least need space for clothes, shoes and perhaps some files. And that's assuming I don't need to pop into the shops on the way home.

Altura Arc are a pair of 20-litre lightweight panniers, well suited to commuting, club riding, audax, weekend touring and even moderate mountain biking thanks to waterproof construction and pressure fit Rixen Kaul attachments. These ensure they stay firmly put tackling bridle path at full-pelt, yet slip off in seconds at the shops. However, I would’ve preferred the mesh pockets integrated into the lids and heavy-duty nylon/TPU types are better choices if you’re habitually hauling the proverbial elephant, or riding in the foulest weathers.

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.

Cyclodelic aim to bring a little girlie style back into cycling kit, and the Saddle Bag shows just how committed to this end they are.

On paper the Sportive bar bag looks like a good bet, compact and lightweight for a day ride. And it mostly lives up to expectations, but sadly the bracket is badly flawed and needs redesigning, which makes it hard to recommend.

If there’s one thing that might just get more casual ladies bums on saddles, it’s some snappy bike accessories. The Dutch know the score when it comes to cycling lifestyle kit, rather than strictly technical equipment, and Basil show that admirably with this range of attractively floral and girly bike bags.

Topeak’s MTX waterproof trunk bag is brilliantly designed and a delight to use when paired with the brand’s range of compatible carriers thanks to solid construction and the clever patented quick track mounting system, combining limpet like security and effortless release. Extensive internal padding gives perishables a sporting chance of surviving rutted roads and bridle path alike but I’d stop short of risking cameras and other sensitive electrical equipment.