Price: $40 (Feed Bag), $60 (Sling Bag)
Sizes: 6.5” H x 4” W x 3” D (Feed Bag), 9” H x 9” W x 4.5” D (Sling Bag)
Volume: 1.5L (Feed Bag), 5L (Sling Bag)
Color: Black
Weight: 0.12 kg (Feed Bag), 0.4 kg (Sling Bag)
Available: Online
How Obtained: Company Sample
RBR Advertiser: No
Versatile, Multiuse, and Affordable Cycling Bags
Chrome Industries is not a brand I was familiar with before receiving two of their newest bags to test and review. The Feed Bag and Handlebar Sling Bag are from their Doubletrack series. They are well constructed, versatile, and have features for the cyclist, commuter, bikepacker in mind.
Let’s look at the Feed Bag first. Commonly used in randonneuring or bikepacking, the feed bag provides a convenient way to store and access nutrition without stopping. It mounts to the handlebars using a hook and loop strap and another strap attaches to the stem. The strap can be moved to various positions around the bag via daisy chain loops providing a custom fit for all types/sizes of bike frames. Off the bike, the feed bag can be attached to another bag or belt with the wider hook and loop strap as shown below.
Thinner hoop and loop straps are used to attach the bag to handlebars and stem. The wider strap is used for attaching to a belt or bag when off the bike.
The large main pouch is padded for protection and closes with a cinch cord. There’s room to store a water bottle, camera, phone, nutrition, or other supplies. Two side mesh pockets are perfect for additional nutrition, gels, etc.
Top view of Feed Bag
The only downside I could find with the Feed Bag is when it rains or snows, the cinch top does not totally seal out the elements. I only stored a water bottle and nutrition, so wasn’t concerned about moisture getting into the bag.
Handlebar Sling Bag
This bag is extremely versatile and great for taking valuables with if leaving the bike unattended. The Handlebar Sling attaches to the bars with two hook and eye straps and around the head tube with a buckle stabilizer strap. Once removed, just pull on the stowable crossbody straps and the bag converts into a hip bag or sling.
The Handlebar Sling is quickly removed and converts to a hip bag or a sling bag
The interior of the Handlebar Sling contains two mesh storage pockets ideal for a phone or wallet. Unfortunately, the interior lining is black making it hard to find items. Ideally, the next version should have a brighter color interior. The exterior has two side quick-access mesh pockets and daisy chain loops to attach items like a keychain or carabiner. A magnetic pinch lock securely closes the bag and can be opened using one hand while cycling.
Stowable strap converts handlebar bag to a crossbody or hip bag
One issue to note with mounting the bag on the handlebars is when there’s an out-front mount for a GPS or an under-mount for a front light. The bar straps can be loosened to enable the bag to slide under the out-front mount, but then access to the bag’s main compartment is impeeded.
Bottom Line
These two new bags from Chrome Industries are an affordable option when looking for added storage on the bike. And for off the bike, the Handlebar Sling bag is nicely designed to transition to a hip or sling bag. Stylish and functional, the Doubletrack line is worth a double-take.
Nice review, Sheri and I’m so happy to see you pointed out that the inside of the bag should be a light color! I hope Chrome listens as it will make the bag much more user friendly.
Thanks!
Jim
Purse makers need to do the same. So many have black lining, can’t find a damn thing. LOL