Handlebar-stem storage solution for micro 4/3 camera

[KenGlman]

Over the years I have become disappointed with the quality of photos and video from my point and shoot. On a typical bikepacking trip I take a POV (GoPro) and point and shoot. My point and shoot fit nicely in a gas tank for easy access. But recently I purchased a high quality micro 4/3 camera. It's much bigger and the only storage solution that I've seen is a Porcelain Rocket Slinger. Unfortunately they are not taking any new orders and I've got a backcountry mountain bike trip coming up at the end of the summer. So I am looking for other options, preferably ones that allow access from the cockpit. I've done a lot of reading on this, in fact Dirt Rag just published an article about camera bags and backpacks for cycling. Just not interested in keeping it on my back. If you have have some ideas I'd like to hear them.  

[Lentamentalisk]

I have a pancake lens on my Sony a6300 and it fits perfectly into a J Paks SnakPak (top tube bag). It also fits nicely into a feed bag. Neither of these is totally water proof, so you might want to put it in a ziplock or dry bag first if you are in for serious inclement weather. Neither of these solutions will work with a larger lens though.

I've seen lots of clever solutions involving Ortlieb front bags, but that eliminates a lot of packed volume in a handlebar roll.
I imagine you could stash it in your frame bag too, if you don't mind a little digging around.

[fxpose]

How about something like a Condor Digi Pouch?   It's a tactical pouch for small digital devices.   You can strap these things almost anywhere.
I use their ammo pouch as a small handlebar bag.

[Adam Alphabet]

I'd always recommend PR first, which you've mentioned.
Here's another option..
http://atmhandmadegoods.bigcartel.com/product/camera-sack

[RonK]

Bedrock Tapeats perhaps?

[KenGlman]

Thanks for the suggestions, but none of the stem bags I've seen are large enough. Initially I thought that would be the solution. And as for weather protection, aside from the camera's weather sealed body, I bought a down carrying bag from Matadorup that has a built in rain fly. My new camera is a Panasonic Lumix DMC GH4. Dimensions, with the included 14-140 mm lens, are W: 5.5", H: 4", L: 7.5". I went with a mirrorless micro 4/3 because of it's compactness, but the size is "compact" only if you compare it to a regular DSLR. I have a possibility from a local Michigan bag maker, Barking Bear Bags, to make something for me. Until he commits to this project I'd still like to have a decent backup plan.

[bmike-vt]

call up ruthworks and see how they can modify their ultralight brevet bag:
http://www.ruthworkssf.com/store/p65/Ultralight_Brevet.html

[Aushiker]

Thanks for the suggestions, but none of the stem bags I've seen are large enough. Initially I thought that would be the solution. And as for weather protection, aside from the camera's weather sealed body, I bought a down carrying bag from Matadorup that has a built in rain fly. My new camera is a Panasonic Lumix DMC GH4.

I have carried my Olympus OM-D EM-1 and a 17mm Olympus lens in a top-tube bag, an Alpkit Fuel Pod. I haven't tried it with my 14-150mm lens but it might be a goer, just has to be disconnected when riding.  I have blogged on it as in my write-up of my Bacchetta Giro. Just do a search on the page for the section if interested.



Not having the camera ready to go and really finding the OM-E- EM-1 really too big for bikpacking and touring purposes I have now decided to purchase a second-hand Panasonic LX100 which is on the way to me. Hopefully this is a reasonable comprise for its role as my on bike camera.

[TomiKoo]

I allready posted this picture to my DIY-gear-post but accidentially found this topic. Maybe this is helpful, sorry for double.

I tried to find good solution for Nikon D90 and 18-200 zoom (+additional 35mm lens) and found from local store Lowepro Toploader Zoom 50 for less than 40€.

It's a perfect match for rigid 483mm Salsa fork and 27+ tire.

[Wozza]

I tried to find good solution for Nikon D90 and 18-200 zoom (+additional 35mm lens) and found from local store Lowepro Toploader Zoom 50 for less than 40€.

Hmm - did you have to modify the bag to attach it like that? Looking at ways to get my Canon 7D on a bike, and I have always had good experience with lowpro gear. I do also like Aushikers feedbag set-up but think my camera might be a bit big, but could look into getting a custom bag made up that sits on the top tube, then I still have my handle bar real-estate...

[TomiKoo]

Hmm - did you have to modify the bag to attach it like that?

No I didn't. I removed shoulder strap and used four selfmade straps to mount the bag on handlebar and fork. Mounting is well secured and original raincover is easy to use.

[Endless Trails]

So, I'm not sure if you solved this already but I figured I'd post anyway. I'm getting ready to launch this bag, been running this prototype for the last couple of month's with great success. It used a magnetic buckle to lock the lid, just pull on the strap to release the lock and grab the camera. Both the body and the lid is waterproof (including sealed seams) but the opening will of course let water in if submersed or if hell breaks loose Fully padded and with an movable internal divider attached with velcro.





I will release it in two sizes, the larger pictured here will fit most DSLR's. The internal dimensions are 110x145x200 mm (4,3x5,7x7,9 inches) and the smaller will be 70x120x150 mm. A roll top version will follow. I'm leaving on a three week trip next weekend and I won't order more buckles or put these up on my website until I'm back but I do have a few buckles lying around so I if you are quick and contact me I can make you one before I'm leaving. Price will be around 900 SEK (including tax) or about USD115 including shipping outside of EU.

/Edvin
Endless Trails Outdoor Equipment

[KenGlman]

Yesterday I received my camera bag, custom made by Jason Snell from Barking Bear Bagworks. I couldn't be more satisfied with the results, good craftsmanship, solid attachment points, and well designed. My camera, along with the MatadorUp camera base layer, fit snugly inside. I'm looking forward to taking it out for a test ride within the next couple of days.