Review: Blackburn Outpost Handlebar Roll

The Outpost Handlebar Roll is a bikepacker’s bar bag, adding 10 litres of luggage space to a bike that won’t take (or doesn’t have) a front rack. It suits more malleable luggage, such as clothing or a sleeping bag, and includes an integrated stuff sack.

Its quick release carrier is secured by straps and a bar-bag-style bracket, which fits best to a flat bar. Attaching it to a riser bar meant bending the mounts, and I was concerned that the stress could cause a failure out on the trail. On a flat bar, it works well: the roll is held a couple of inches in front of the stem, with ample room for brake and gear cables.

It will obscure a front light, unless you use a Minoura Space Grip or similar. I tested the Outpost with a sleeping bag, jacket and bivvy bag. It was easy to attach and remove from the bike. Openings at each end make access to kit simple, and the securing strap acts as a carrying handle off the bike. It’s not waterproof so a dry bag would be required for wet conditions. Otherwise, it’s a well-thought-out design that’s good value.

Blackburn Outpost Handlebar Roll, £49.99

Pros

• Easy access to contents
• Doesn’t squash cables

Cons

• Not good on riser or carbon bars

First published in Cycle magazine, June/July 2015 issue. All information correct at time of publishing.