Suggestions for bar bag when cables go into the head tube

One thing to check out is Restrap’s Bumper Bar which helps keep bar bags off the head tube. They make a version that’s compatible with Giant’s Overdrive steerer now too!

Look for something with a rigid mount, I use an Aeroe handlebar cradle, the Jack Rack or the Salsa Anything Cradle will give you a rigid mount as well.

Mount bag to areobars going out from the frame. Might look a bit strange but is a great option. Handle bars stay completely accessible this way.

I rode across Canada and also loved the areobars as an additional position. I'm sure if I was to calculate it I spent most of my time in them. More recently I picked up a rack that Salsa makes and mounted it to the bottom of the bars which makes it much easier and more secure. I want to have an actual bag made for it this season. A great setup that's totally underrated.

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Not necessarily a true suggestion as it's a little bit wack, but I like using my lil LeadOut burrito bag under the bar behind the cables to get small things I hopefully won't need out of the way and out of easier to reach bags (tube, mini pump, tools, tire levers, etc.) and then a rigid cradle in front of the cables with pad, sleeping bag, first aid, and tent poles. I feel like it maximizes the space available on the bars and I keep the load super light.

No clue if they still do it but LeadOut would sell less-than-perfect mishap bags at pretty low prices once or twice a year a while back and that's how I got all 3 of my burritos. Mine are all slightly ovalized at one end. Totally unnoticeable and usable.

Arkel makes a FrontRoller bag that uses a stable cradle and doesn’t touch the headtube at all.

Costwise? 3D printed cradle.

https://mountainlaureldesigns.com/product/border-handlebar-harness-system/

Routeworks

On my revolt 1, I have the Ortlieb handlebar-pack plus (you need to also buy the attachment system). Best decision ever for me.

It has 11L volume, and the attachment system let a comfortable room for the cables. The bag itself is very convenient: you can detach it in 1sec, and use it as a small shoulder bag, and it let room for the hands on the handlebars. I’m unsure if it’s large enough to fit a tent, but depending on your frame size, you can strap additional things under the bag.

In my setup, most of my sleep system goes to the rear (I’m team « rear rack + waterproof bag strapped on it »).

You can get an inexpensive handlebar bracket, typically used to mount little extra accessories? And turn it down to act as a sort of bumper. If you strap your bag to that and the handlebars too, i dont think it'll interfere with the cables.

Or maybe just a pile of foam spacers on your headtube

New bike

Check out the Ortlieb handlebar bag QR

I use the Miss Grape Ilcoso with a standard dry bag