Bento Boxes
Want easy access to nutrition and tools during big rides or events? Then top-tube storage is essential. We test four contenders
01 Topeak Fastfuel Tribox
£32.99 Capacity 650ml Weight 207g
● YOU CAN EITHER strap this angular option down or bolt it onto your bike if your top-tube has bolt threads. Instead of zip closure, the Tribox has a rubber opening on the top for quick, easy access and the bag allows you to run cables through to the top-tube for better aerodynamics. A slimline design meant our inner thighs didn’t brush the box, even when climbing. The rigid material allowed room inside for four energy bars, plus you can squeeze in other small items like sweat salts. If you want aero top-tube storage, then this is a good investment.
02 Zéfal Z Aero frame bag
£27.99 Capacity 400ml Weight 95g
● ZEFAL’S NO-NONSENSE bag is water repellent, lightweight, and has a universal fit, thanks to removable straps and bolt holes. The 400ml capacity translates to six bars at a push, with a tough zipper ensuring no rain, snow or debris gets inside. The rigid polyester outer helped keep the bag secure and fixed in position when we used the straps to attach it to our bike, and its slim design doesn’t compromise aerodynamics. A handy pull tab makes it easy to open at speed while, because it has no front strap, you can mount it anywhere on your top tube.
03 Lezyne Aero Energy Caddy
£36 Capacity 700ml Weight 125g
● LEZYNE HAS BIKEPACKING and commuting storage options to deal with all your needs, but the Aero Energy Caddy is aimed at ‘triathletes and gravel racers’. Thanks to having easily the largest capacity on test, nine bars fit in the main compartment, plus one more in the handy open side pocket that runs the full length of the bag. The side pocket could be useful for compact items that aren’t likely to go flying on precarious road surfaces. You can opt to bolt down the bag if your top-tube has bolt threads, or use the sturdy removable straps underneath and on the front if not.
04 XLab Stealth Pocket 100C
£25 Capacity 330ml Weight 80g
● XLAB’S STORAGE SOLUTIONS are popular with aero-focused riders, particularly its super-low-profile top-tube bags. The ‘c’ in Stealth Pocket 100c stands for carbon, as the outer material has a cool carbon look. Mounting with the three straps was a breeze, but there’s no option to mount using bolts. A large rubber zipper tab helps with opening/closing on the go, and the tough outer ensures the bag stands up to the elements. Inside, a divider separates smaller items from larger nutrition products. We could fit five energy bars, but there are roomier Stealth Pocket 400 or 500s.