PenPaperSteel Passport bikepacking review

All in all we have to say that for the money you can't go wrong.

We were lucky enough to have been given a set of these a while ago from Ison Distribution and have been using them on and off ever since. With bikepacking becoming more popular and the fact that you can easily strap a couple of bags on a bike and get away for the weekend, we don’t see it disappearing anytime soon, and that is a good thing. For those that are just getting into bikepacking and don’t want to spend too much, these are a good place to start and for under £145 you couldn’t go far wrong. 

We were sent a variety of bags which would be ample for a weekend trip or if you pack very light a ride similar to the Transcontinental.

The main frame bag comes in three sizes which allows it to sit snug in the frame and not move around too much, highly important when climbing. No one wants bags swinging around between their knees when out of the saddle giving it some.

While the handlebar bag comes in one size it is easily able to fit between the drops simply by rolling it up more. This, however, does mean you cannot fit as much in.

The seat post bags which come in two sizes gives enough room to stash a pair of trainers, socks and a few extra items depending on what you are packing. The side pockets allow you to store items which you may need in a hurry, tubes etc. Lightmount and adjustable sides come as standard.

All the bags are made from a durable, water-resistant 210D nylon body and EZ find hi-vis 210D nylon TPU waterproof liner. While the seat post bags have a 500D wipe-clean tarpaulin base, rubberised seat post area for increased grip and roll-top closure with LED light mounts.

All-in-all we have to say that for the money you couldn’t go wrong. It is a simple and easy step into bikepacking with little to think about. You get a lot of bang for your buck which gives you no excuse to get out there and try a weekend’s bikepacking.

3 Sizes Frame Bags

Small: 38 x 4.5 x 12.5cm - 2.1 L

Medium: 45 x 5.5 x 13.5cm - 3.3 L

Large: 51 x 5.5 x 17cm - 4.8 L

Saddle Bags

Large: 50 x 13 x 15cm - 9.8 L

Medium: 45 x 11.5 x 13.5cm - 7 L