DPV Cycling Storage Bags

Test: DPV Cycling Storage Bags

The storage space available when cycling should be divided between jersey or jacket pockets, backpacks and bags that are placed on the bike. In this test we present various storage options in bags for our bikes, from the simplest bags for short rides to bikepacking bags capable of carrying several days’ worth of gear.

Box bag to keep the most important things close at hand

Frame bags are the easiest to access, and are therefore particularly suitable for storing accessible items without having to get off the bike. We found the DPV Essential 0.6L frame bag to be very useful for storing gels and bars. It will particularly appeal to those who prefer to keep their jersey or jacket pockets as uncluttered as possible.

The bag has two Velcro straps, one to attach to the head tube and one to the top tube of the bike. One of the things we liked the most is its elongated and aerodynamic shape. This limits the type of objects we can carry (for example, our mobile phone won’t fit), but makes it perfect for carrying gels and bars. The difference compared to carrying these items in the back pocket is that here we can see what we are carrying at all times. This makes it much easier to choose which gel or bar we need at any given moment. It also includes an elastic strap at the bottom that can be used to attach a tool kit or even a mini inflation pump, for example.

Waterproof, this frame bag has been perfect for medium-length rides where we carry more than four gels or bars. Its narrow and elongated shape does not interfere with our legs when pedalling and its long zip allows easy access to the contents.

The perfect saddle bag for spare parts and tools

Dismounts, inner tubes and mini pumps are some of the items that are a must when cycling. The DPV Essential 1L saddle bag is perfect for carrying essential spare parts and tools. We particularly liked its design, as it fits very well in the space between the seat post and the back of the saddle, distributing its capacity very well without being too bulky. In addition, the design of its opening makes access to the interior very easy and prevents objects from falling out when we open it. The structure of the bag is rigid, has differentiated panels at the friction points and also has a small mesh compartment for storing small items.

The fastening, with a Velcro strap on the seatpost and two Velcro straps on the saddle rails, keeps the bag in place, even on technical mountain bike trails. Another highlight is that a rear light can be fitted using the three slots provided on the back. Any light that can be attached to the seat post can be placed in the bag, allowing the light to be clearly visible.

Thanks to its design, this saddle bag offers a remarkable capacity without being bulky, is waterproof and we find it perfect for carrying tools and spare parts for unexpected events on the road.

Frame bag for long routes and trips

At one litre capacity, the DPV Pro 1L frame bag may seem small for long rides and trips, but one of the most efficient storage strategies on the bike is to spread out the items you carry with you. This not only allows the weight to be distributed between different parts of the bike, but also allows items to be grouped according to their function or frequency of use.

This way, the litre capacity is put to good use in this frame bag. It allows you to carry the items you need to keep close at hand, such as bars or gels, as well as other items such as your mobile phone, money or cards, spare batteries for your action camera or an external battery. In fact, an external battery in this bag would allow the GPS to be charged directly and continue navigating in case the battery runs out, an essential back-up measure on long journeys.

The bag is attached with two Velcro straps to the top tube of the frame and another to the head tube, and is constructed from water resistant fabric. As it is wider than the 0.6L version, it is important not to overfill it, so that it does not bulge at the sides. If we respect this, we will not have any problem of friction with the knees when pedalling.

Large saddle bag for travelling

The first thing that strikes you about this 7L bikepacking style saddle bag is its price. For less than a quarter of the price of such bags we have a perfectly functional bag that worked wonders on a three-day bikepacking trip (along with the DPV Pro 7L handlebar bag and the DPV Pro 1L frame bag).

The fabric used is water-resistant and the different panels are heat-sealed, so that together with the accordion closure at the back it keeps the interior dry. The attachment system is typical of these bags: a large Velcro strap attaches the bag to the seat post while two Velcro straps are threaded through the saddle rails. On the back there are several slots for a light.

This bag is very simple in its construction, but incorporates interesting details, such as the aforementioned multiple slots for attaching a tail light, and the valve to remove air from the interior when closing the bag. We have tested it on mountain bike rides and it has held reasonably steady (unless a specific support is used, bags of this type always have some lateral movement). We were pleasantly surprised, as it worked very well. Although it doesn’t have the detailing of more expensive bags, for this price you can’t ask much more from a bikepacking bag that performs so well.

Large handlebar bag for travelling

One of the best things that bikepacking has brought us is the concept of “distribution” between the travel bags we use. Why carry just one large saddle bag when you can divide the storage between the saddle, handlebars and frame? Not only do you distribute the weight better, but you can also distribute the items you carry according to when you need them.

A handlebar bag like this is perfect for carrying items you won’t need until the end of the ride, as opening and closing it is more complicated, especially if you use it on a road or gravel bike, where there is less space on the handlebars. For example, on our routes we usually reserve the handlebar bag for carrying clothes or other items that we are not going to use until the end of the day.

This 7L capacity DPV Pro handlebar bag perfectly complements the saddle version. Between the two of us we have been able to carry all the clothes and personal belongings necessary for a three-day gravel bike trip. It also uses waterproof fabric with heat-sealed panels, and the double zip also uses the classic accordion system, and a valve to expel air when closed. The front has slots for a light, although it will be difficult to fit a “see through” light here, it is ideal for a small flashing white light so that we can be seen.

The attachment system uses a strap with pin to attach the bag to the head tube, and two velcro straps to attach it to the handlebars. The rather tall design of the bag helps the 7-litre capacity fit nicely into the space between the handlebars of a road or gravel bike, but on the downside, it makes it easier for the bag to touch the front wheel. When riding on asphalt, a proper adjustment of the velcro straps does not cause problems, but on rough mountain routes we had to adjust the velcro straps, as the impacts caused the bag to touch the front wheel. Driving on asphalt or tracks in good condition has not been a problem, but it is a circumstance to be taken into account. The price of this bag makes it very attractive for those who want to get started in bikepacking and do not plan to do mountain tours on very technical terrain.