8bar Bikes, a Berlin-based manufacturer, has been producing bicycles and accessories with a clean, minimalist design since 2011. Instead of mass production, 8bar views each bicycle as an individual project, developed in collaboration with the customer: From a selection of high-quality components, the customer's dream bike is assembled and then meticulously built by experienced, cycling-enthusiast employees. With its 74 Grad line, 8bar has extended this principle to the bikepacking sector. The brand combines technical functionality with aesthetic reduction, a principle clearly reflected in the 74 Grad bags. The range extends from handlebar bags to saddlebags and dry bags, offering practical solutions for anyone who wants to travel in style and with excellent organization.
74° handlebar bag
The 74GRAD handlebar bag is a compact, high-quality bag made of robust nylon. Thanks to its Velcro straps, it can be attached to and removed from the handlebars quickly and easily. Compared to the other bags in the test, it is significantly smaller and therefore particularly suitable for tours with light luggage. The small mesh pocket on the side is also practical, as it allows you to store the included carrying strap, making it easy to sling the bag over your shoulder after parking your bike. In testing, it impressed with its pleasant feel, ease of use, and overall very clean, high-quality workmanship. However, it is only splash-proof and not completely waterproof, which should be taken into account depending on your intended use.
Technical data:
- Dimensions: 23 10 x x 10 cm
- Weight: 160 g
- Packing volume: 1,8 l
8bar Top Tube Bag
The 8bar Top Tube Bag uses a modern-looking, 3D-molded TPU material that is completely seamless, making it not only robust but also reliably waterproof. Its slim profile keeps it discreetly in the background while riding, but depending on the bike, it can be either screwed on or simply attached with Velcro straps; the contact points are cleanly welded. In our test, we were particularly impressed by the feel: the bag is pleasant to the touch, retains its shape, but has just enough give to allow for easy access to items while riding. Even with the Velcro, it sits surprisingly securely on the frame and doesn't slip, even on rough terrain. Overall, the Top Tube Bag leaves a very positive impression – practical, high-quality, and refreshingly uncomplicated for everyday use.
Technical data:
- Dimensions: 23 10 x x 7 cm
- Weight: 135 g
- Packing volume: 1,5 l
74° frame bag
Made from robust, waterproof nylon (according to the manufacturer) and featuring cleanly welded seams, the 8bar 74GRAD frame bag demonstrates its suitability for everyday use from the very first touch. The flexibly positionable Velcro straps are a real plus, allowing for highly customized adjustment to different frame shapes. The soft fleece lining on the straps provides a pleasant feel and protects the paintwork. Inside, there's a small zippered pocket for small items that shouldn't be rattling around loose. Since the bag isn't rigid, it can deform slightly depending on the load, which can occasionally be noticeable while pedaling. This is something to keep in mind when packing. Overall, however, it impressed in testing with its good workmanship, comfortable handling, and versatile use.
Technical data:
- Dimensions: 46 14 x x 6 cm
- Weight: 220 g
- Packing volume: 4 l
74° saddlebag
With the 74GRAD saddlebag, 8bar Bikes demonstrates how well-thought-out design and practical functionality can go hand in hand. The bag is made of robust, waterproof material, is impeccably crafted, and can be securely attached to the bike thanks to its sturdy mounting system. A particularly positive feature noted in testing was the small elastic straps that prevent the straps from flapping – a simple yet extremely effective detail. The integrated vent valve is a real boon, aiding in closing the bag and allowing for proper compression of the contents without the hassle of trapped air. Overall, the saddlebag made a very good impression in testing: clean and robust construction, comfortable handling, and equipped with features that make everyday use and touring a real pleasure.
Technical data:
- Dimensions: 61 15 x x 15 cm
- Weight: 590 g
- Packing volume: 15 l
