Pages: [1]
Reply Reply New Topic New Poll
  Topic Name: Frame bag for Ladies Bicycle on: February 07, 2017, 07:12:52 AM
Fizazzle


Posts: 2


View Profile
« on: February 07, 2017, 07:12:52 AM »

Hi all,
I'm planning my first bike trip, across Europe and Asia, and I'm trying to design a frame bag that fits a ladies' bicycle. It will also convert into a backpack (My philosophy here is to make sure that every item I take has at least one other use - minimising weight by maximising utility. So far my kit weighs around 5kg excluding food/water). It will be the only luggage I take, besides a small security belt for my passport, wallet, and keys, and maybe a packable handlebar bag for consumable items.
However, I haven't yet come across any designs that work for the low frame of a ladies' bicycle; only for typical wedge shaped frames. The obvious issue is that it would probably interfere with pedaling if it spans the whole frame, but if I leave space for that, it may be too small or bulky.
Because I am still searching for a suitable bicycle, and in case it outlives the bicycle, I want it to be fully adjustable for any bike.
Can you suggest any improvements or flaws?
Here is my design so far:

A bit more of an explanation:
With the zip along the outer edge closed, it will create one fully enclosed U-shaped area. This area is divided by the two pockets on hanging down on the inside, but is open underneath them. In between those two pockets is another space that remains open on the outside. I could possibly zip this area up too, to create another separate section, but might be difficult to sew.
The straps that go under the upper tube, when used as a backpack, could slot something like a small tent or jumper on the top of the backpack.
The bottom of the straps are adjustable, like normal backpack straps, and can be used to go under the lower tube and tightened for extra security.
There will be a loop that secures the bag to the handlebar tube which stops it from slipping down, and this can be used as a handle to carry the bag.
The bag can be folded in half and zipped up, still hanging from the upper tube, but so the pockets are hidden from view from passersby. The zip wouldn't be fully up since the tube would be in the way.

Apologies for the poorly laid out post, still haven't gotten the hang of inserting pictures properly.
Thanks guys, and happy cycling!  thumbsup wave


* ContactSheet-001.jpg (799.78 KB, 2400x3000 - viewed 578 times.)
« Last Edit: February 07, 2017, 07:30:04 AM by Fizazzle » Logged

  Topic Name: Frame bag for Ladies Bicycle Reply #1 on: February 08, 2017, 10:52:57 AM
bikeny


Posts: 140


View Profile
« Reply #1 on: February 08, 2017, 10:52:57 AM »

What exactly do you mean by a ladies bicycle? Like the old style step through design? If so, I have to ask why you want to use that style of bike.
Logged

  Topic Name: Frame bag for Ladies Bicycle Reply #2 on: February 10, 2017, 11:53:59 AM
Fizazzle


Posts: 2


View Profile
« Reply #2 on: February 10, 2017, 11:53:59 AM »



Something like this.
It's just a lot easier to stop and start without having to swing your leg over the top every time!
Logged

  Topic Name: Frame bag for Ladies Bicycle Reply #3 on: February 10, 2017, 12:39:01 PM
pilotintraining


Location: Bozeman, MT
Posts: 13


View Profile
« Reply #3 on: February 10, 2017, 12:39:01 PM »

Fizazzle,

Sounds like an incredible trip. Your bag design looks very intriguing, I don't think I've seen anything like that.

I do have a couple of concerns though... Namely, the available space for a framebag is quite narrow (width wise ~4in/10cm max), and with your design, a fair amount of space and weight will be taken up with extra layers of fabric/zippers/straps compared to a traditional frame bag. I think it might be a struggle to fit even the most streamlined kit in that space.

Rather than maximizing the multi-purpose-ness of each object, I'd think about making each item as efficient as possible. For instance, how much will you really be using a backpack? If you want to easily remove your storage from your bike (like to stay in a hostel overnight), panniers might be a good solution. There's even pannier systems that convert to backpacks. If you are not needing to remove everything from your bags that often, but would still like a backpack, I think traditional bags coupled with a lightweight and packable backpack could be a good option.

In terms of your suggested bike type, comfort is critical on long tours, but I would encourage you consider a more traditional touring bike. The bike you have shown below is designed for commuting, and while comfortable for shorter stretches, it may not handle as well loaded down, and it is less ergonomic than a traditional bike—important on long rides. Touring bikes have evolved into their current form over decades of tinkering and experimentation. While cumbersome to lift your leg up and over the seat, there are bound to be challenges much greater that you will face while crossing continents.  icon_biggrin

That being said, all rules were made to be broken! If you are bound and determined, there is no shortage of posts here or elsewhere that you may find helpful in designing and constructing bags or preparing for long trips. I would be very curious to see your bag idea come to fruition!
Logged
  Pages: [1]
Reply New Topic New Poll
Jump to: