Triathlon top tube bags are an essential accessory for any triathlete looking to improve their performance. These bags attach to the top tube of your bike and provide a convenient storage solution for items like energy gels, bars, and other small essentials. They allow you to keep your most important items within easy reach, so you don’t have to fumble around in your pockets or saddlebag while riding.
When shopping for a triathlon top tube bag, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to consider the size of the bag and how much storage space it provides. You’ll also want to think about the bag’s durability and whether it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Finally, you’ll want to look for a bag that is easy to install and remove, so you can quickly switch it between bikes or take it off when you don’t need it.
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the best triathlon top tube bags on the market. We’ve tested and reviewed a variety of bags to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just getting started, our recommendations will help you stay organized and focused during your next race or training session.
Best Triathlon Top Tube Bags
If you’re a triathlete, you know the importance of having easy access to your nutrition and essentials during a race. A top tube bag is a great solution for storing gels, bars, and other small items within easy reach. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the perfect one for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best triathlon top tube bags to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ve got you covered.
SLS3 Aero Top Tube Bike Bag
If you’re looking for a small, aerodynamic tri bike bag to store your race day essentials, the SLS3 Aero Top Tube Bike Bag is a great option.
Pros
- Customizable fit with micro-adjust rail systems and secure straps
- Anti-slip fabric for superior stability
- Designed with a 15° angle to optimize aerodynamics and reduce drag
Cons
- Small size may not fit larger phones or other large items
- Straps may need to be cut to fit smaller stem bikes
- Zipper quality may not be as durable as other bags
This bike top tube bag is easy to set up and use, with a high-quality zipper that moves easily. It fits a few gels and CO2, but not larger items. The bag features an anti-slip fabric under the bag for superior stability, which means your legs won’t touch it at all while pedaling. However, the bag may not fit smaller stem bikes, and the length of the straps may need to be cut to fit the bike frame.
Overall, the SLS3 Aero Top Tube Bike Bag is a great option for triathletes looking for a small, aerodynamic bag to store their race day essentials.
Roswheel Race Series Bike Frame Bag Bicycle Front Top Tube Bag Triangle Pouch 121343
If you’re looking for a lightweight and aerodynamic top tube bag, the Roswheel Race Series Bike Frame Bag might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- High-quality materials used, despite being a budget bag
- Compact size that doesn’t interfere with your ride
- Insulated and padded construction to keep your items safe and cool
Cons
- Not 100% waterproof due to unsealed seams
- Small capacity – may not fit larger items like phones
- Zipper may not be very durable in the long run
This bag is perfect for those who want to carry small items like fuel or keys without adding bulk to their ride. Its compact size and aerodynamic shape make it easy to install and forget about while you’re on the road. The fully padded and insulated construction ensures that your items stay protected and cool, but keep in mind that the bag is not 100% waterproof due to unsealed seams.
One downside of this bag is its small capacity – it may not fit larger items like phones or wallets. Additionally, the zipper may not be very durable in the long run, so you may need to be careful with it. However, for its price point, this bag is a great option for those who want a reliable top tube bag without breaking the bank.
ROCKBROS Top Tube Bike Bag
If you’re looking for a durable and spacious top tube bag for your triathlon or cycling needs, then the ROCKBROS Top Tube Bike Bag is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Large capacity to store all your essentials, such as your cell phone, wallet, keys, gloves, small tools, energy bars, gels, nutrition, or extra junk.
- Easy installation with three adjustable straps and a smooth zipper for quick access to everything you need.
- Lightweight and portable design that won’t rub on your knees, making it ideal for most mountain and road bikes.
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Cons
- The length of the bag may make it difficult to access the zipper when dismounted for those with shorter top tubes.
- The bag may not fit larger phones or items due to its slim design.
- The reflective logo and rope may not provide enough visibility for some riders during night rides.
This top tube bag is made of wear-resistant fabric and features a non-slip bottom to hold your bag tightly on the frame. It also includes a reflective logo and rope for safer night riding. The bag’s slim design ensures that it won’t rub on your knees, and it’s lightweight and portable, making it a great accessory for triathlon and cycling enthusiasts.
In summary, if you’re looking for a top tube bag that’s spacious, durable, and easy to install, then the ROCKBROS Top Tube Bike Bag is a great option to consider.
XLAB Stealth Pocket 200 XP-Black OPEN BOX
If you’re looking for a compact and aerodynamic top tube bag for your triathlon or gravel bike, the XLAB Stealth Pocket 200 XP-Black OPEN BOX is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Provides easy access to nutrition and small items during rides
- Securely bolts onto bike bosses without scratching the frame
- Reflective silver interior keeps nutrition cool and easy to find
Cons
- Limited storage space
- Not suitable for larger items like smartphones
- Some users report crooked positioning on the top tube
This top tube bag is designed to sit directly behind your bike’s stem, reducing overall drag and increasing aerodynamics. The bag’s exterior pockets allow you to store small items like gel packets and salt tablets, while the main zippered pocket provides easy access to nutrition when you need it fast.
The XLAB Stealth Pocket 200 XP-Black OPEN BOX is also easy to install, securely bolting onto your bike’s bosses without scratching or damaging the frame. The bag’s soft, non-slip surfaces ensure that it rests gently against the frame.
Smart storage features like insulated sides and a reflective silver interior help keep your nutrition cool and easy to find, while a plastic stiffener helps protect your items from accidental hits and keeps the bag’s shape for aero benefits.
Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and aerodynamic top tube bag for your triathlon or gravel bike, the XLAB Stealth Pocket 200 XP-Black OPEN BOX is definitely worth checking out.
LEZYNE Aero Energy Caddy Bicycle Top Tube Bag
If you’re looking for a triathlon top tube bag that can hold your snacks and flat kit, the LEZYNE Aero Energy Caddy Bicycle Top Tube Bag could be a good option for you.
Pros
- With an overall capacity of 0.7L, this bag can fit a variety of snacks and flat kit pieces with ease.
- The velcro attachment and three straps ensure that this bag is capable of securing to almost any frame and steerer tube.
- This bag is water-resistant, with both the fabric and the zipper able to fend off spray and light rain to keep your gear dry.
Cons
- Some customers have found the straps on this bag to be too short to wrap around their top tube.
- A few have reported that the bag is smaller than they expected.
- One customer found the holes on the bottom of the bag to be unnecessary and confusing.
This bag is intelligently engineered and designed, and functionally complete. It’s a great size and quality build, with a pocket on the side for easy-to-reach items. However, some customers have found the straps to be too short, and the holes on the bottom of the bag may not be useful for everyone. Overall, if you’re in need of a water-resistant triathlon top tube bag, this could be a good option for you.
Rhinowalk Bike Top Tube Bag Waterproof and Stable Bicycle Frame Bag Professional Cycling Accessories 3D Black
If you’re looking for a durable and waterproof top tube bag for your bike, the Rhinowalk Bike Top Tube Bag is a great option.
Pros
- Made of TPU material that is waterproof and wear-resistant
- High-seamed zippers are connected by a high-quality nylon cable, making it easy to access your items
- Non-slip soft leather straps keep the bag in place and reduce friction on the bike tube
Cons
- Zipper is undersized and poor quality
- Bag has less space than expected
- Stiff and difficult to zip open and close
This bag is made of TPU material, making it waterproof and wear-resistant. The high-seamed zippers are connected by a high-quality nylon cable, making it easy to access your items. The non-slip soft leather straps keep the bag in place and reduce friction on the bike tube.
The zipper is undersized and poor quality, which may cause it to break easily. The bag has less space than expected, so it may not fit all of your items. It’s also stiff and difficult to zip open and close.
Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and waterproof top tube bag for your bike, the Rhinowalk Bike Top Tube Bag is a great option. However, if you need a lot of space or easy-to-use zippers, this bag may not be the best choice for you.
Controltech Triathlon TT Top Tube Storage Rubber Case Box with Strap ATTK, BAG-01, ST1782
If you’re looking for a lightweight, aerodynamic, and durable storage option designed for triathlon, the Controltech Triathlon TT Top Tube Storage Rubber Case Box with Strap ATTK, BAG-01, ST1782 may be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The Controltech Triathlon TT Top Tube Storage Rubber Case Box with Strap ATTK, BAG-01, ST1782 provides plenty of storage for energy gels, blocks, and bars.
- It sits snuggly against the stem of your triathlon bike, which helps to smooth airflow over the stem.
- The two silicone straps optimize positioning and security.
Cons
- The sides are a bit tight, which can make it difficult to open the sides to fit food inside the storage rubber case.
- The length of the bag may not be long enough to accommodate larger mobile phones.
- The bag may not be suitable for use when wearing an aero helmet.
The Controltech Triathlon TT Top Tube Storage Rubber Case Box with Strap ATTK, BAG-01, ST1782 is a great option for triathletes who need to carry energy gels, blocks, and bars. It is lightweight, aerodynamic, and durable, making it a great choice for long training rides and races. However, the sides of the bag are a bit tight, which can make it difficult to open the sides to fit food inside. Additionally, the length of the bag may not be long enough to accommodate larger mobile phones, and it may not be suitable for use when wearing an aero helmet. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality triathlon top tube bag, the Controltech Triathlon TT Top Tube Storage Rubber Case Box with Strap ATTK, BAG-01, ST1782 is definitely worth considering.
VALDORA Bicycle Top Tube Aero Bag
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable top tube bag, the VALDORA Bicycle Top Tube Aero Bag is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Easy installation with multiple configurations
- Multiple uses, from carrying nutrition to bicycle tools
- Stylish and durable design
Cons
- May not fit larger phone models
- May not fit all bike models for bolt-on installation
- Only available in black
This bag is made from water-resistant nylon rip-stop material and features a thick, rugged no-slip base. The strong YK zipper provides a no-nonsense closure, while the flexible plastic interior liner protects contents and retains shape. The bag can be attached to the top tube and stem with Velcro straps, or it can be installed by attaching it to the bike saddle rails and seat post. You can also use scissors to remove the straps for use as a bolt-on top tube aero bag if you have threaded inserts like many triathlon bikes, TT, and gravel bikes. Or bolt it to the downtube in place of a bottle cage.
The VALDORA bag is perfect for carrying nutrition, gel pouches, energy bars, and phone models up to 5.5″ x 2.8″. It can also be installed beneath and behind the saddle to carry bicycle tools or a flat kit. The bag can be attached to the bottle bosses on your frame with screws, making it a versatile and portable option that can be moved from bike to bike.
If you’re looking for a top tube bag that can also be used as an e-bike controller bag for e-bike conversion kits, this bag will hold an e-bike controller measuring 5″ x 2.5″ x 1.5″. Mounted on the top tube/stem interface, it is perfect for plugging in all accessories, especially those mounted on the handlebar.
Overall, the VALDORA Bicycle Top Tube Aero Bag is a stylish and durable option that provides multiple configurations and uses. Whether you’re a triathlete, gravel rider, or just looking for a convenient way to carry your essentials on your bike, this bag is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best triathlon top tube bag, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your purchase:
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of the top tube bag is an important consideration. You want to make sure the bag is large enough to hold all your essentials, such as energy gels, a phone, keys, and a multi-tool. However, you don’t want the bag to be too large and bulky, as this can affect your aerodynamics and slow you down.
Material and Durability
The material of the top tube bag is another important factor to consider. Look for bags made from durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. You also want to make sure the material is water-resistant, so your belongings stay dry in case of rain.
Accessibility
Easy accessibility is important when it comes to top tube bags. Look for bags with easy-to-use zippers or Velcro closures. You should be able to access your items quickly and easily, without having to stop or slow down.
Mounting Options
Top tube bags can be mounted in different ways, including Velcro straps, bolt-on mounts, or magnetic mounts. Choose a mounting option that works best for your bike and riding style.
Additional Features
Some top tube bags come with additional features such as reflective detailing for increased visibility, internal dividers to keep your items organized, or headphone ports for listening to music on the go. Consider these additional features when making your purchase.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best triathlon top tube bag for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a high-quality triathlon top tube bag?
When looking for a triathlon top tube bag, it’s important to consider the features that will best suit your needs. Look for a bag that is made of durable and water-resistant materials, has adjustable straps for a secure fit, and has enough storage space for your essentials. Some bags may also have additional features such as reflective detailing for increased visibility, or mesh pockets for easy access to nutrition during your race.
How do I choose the right size top tube bag for my triathlon bike?
Choosing the right size top tube bag for your triathlon bike is important to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Measure the length and width of your top tube to determine the maximum size of bag that will fit. It’s also important to consider the height of your stem and the clearance between your top tube and handlebars to ensure the bag won’t interfere with your riding position.
Can you recommend some aero top tube bags that won’t hinder my speed?
There are many aero top tube bags available on the market that are designed to minimize drag and won’t hinder your speed. Look for bags that are streamlined and have a low profile, such as those made from lightweight materials like nylon or mesh. Some popular options include the XLAB Stealth Pocket 500 and the Topeak Fuel Tank.
What are the best ways to securely attach a top tube bag to my bike frame?
To securely attach a top tube bag to your bike frame, look for bags with adjustable straps that can be tightened to fit snugly against your top tube. Some bags may also have additional attachment points, such as velcro or bungee cords, to ensure a secure fit. It’s important to make sure the bag is not interfering with any cables or brake lines, and to test the bag’s stability before using it in a race.
Are there any waterproof top tube bags suitable for triathlons?
Yes, there are many waterproof top tube bags available that are suitable for triathlons. Look for bags made from waterproof materials such as PVC or TPU, and ensure that all zippers and seams are fully waterproofed. Some popular options include the Ortlieb Top Tube Frame Bag and the Topeak TriBag.
How do I maintain and clean my top tube bag after a triathlon event?
To maintain and clean your top tube bag after a triathlon event, first remove all contents and shake out any debris. If the bag is particularly dirty, use a mild detergent and warm water to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly and allow the bag to air dry completely before storing. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the bag’s materials.
