Fabric Contain Small Saddle Bag

The Contain Small saddle bag is the most diminutive in Fabric's range, but it's easily big enough to hold the essentials for your ride. It's well made and fits securely to the bike – the only issue I had was some irritation from the seatpost strap. But that's more of a problem with my thighs than the bag.

• Pros: Quality piece of kit, keeps your kit dry
• Cons: Seatpost D-ring might rub if you have large thighs

I ride anything up to five different bikes throughout a week so it's good to have a bag I can switch easily from one bike to another in a matter of seconds, and you can definitely do that with the Fabric.

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To attach it, one long strap is sewn to the top centre of the bag, with each Velcro end wrapped over the saddle rails before they attach to the corresponding Velcro on the side of the bag, which holds it securely in place. There is plenty of length so it'll go around any saddle rail shape or size without hassle.

To stop things swaying, the bag also has a Velcro loop that wraps around the seatpost. This was the only real issue I've had with the bag, as the plastic D-ring that the strap doubles back through would catch on my thigh as I pedalled.

To be fair, I didn't really notice at first but when it had eventually worn though the material of my shorts and a few layers of skin, the blood started to sting a bit.

It might sound a bit extreme, but I don't think this will be a problem for everyone as I do have quite large thighs, and on most bikes I ride my legs are missing the seatpost by a matter of a few millimetres. If you are in the same situation, though, you might get the same outcome as me.

The opening to the bag is at the rear, which means you don't have to remove the bag from the bike to gain access. It's a decent sized opening, which allows you to get just the kit you want out without having to remove it all.

I managed to fit an inner tube, tyre levers and a CO2 cannister and inflator in it with ease, but with a bit of careful packing you could probably get a small multi-tool in there as well.

It's all hidden behind a weatherproof zip and the material does a good job at keeping all your kit dry.

The whole bag is nicely made, with tidy stitching and durable fabric; it certainly looks as if it's going to stand up to the weather conditions for a good few seasons.

> What should you carry when you cycle?

When it comes to cost, I think it's pretty reasonable at £21.99. A lot of the bags we test are around the 20 quid mark, like the Blackburn Grid Small seat bag, priced at £19.99. The 76 Projects Piggy Pouch is a similar size at £15, but I do think the Fabric justifies its price with its quality.

Verdict

Well-made saddle bag for ride essentials, but those with big thighs might get some rubbing