Aero-dynamic design with water resistance and wear resistance materials which increase its practicability.

• 600D Polyester & 420D Nylon (rip-stop)
• 1000D Cordura
• Small (0.5L) (other sizes available)
• Weight: 90g
• Size S: L 17cm x W 8cm x H 10cm
• 3M Scotchlite reflective strips
• Aero-dynamic design
• Water resistant & wear resistant
• Durable
• Velcro fastening
• Water repellent fabric used

There's a huge choice of saddle packs available, some with clever quick release fastenings, others huge enough to carry a sleeping bag. The catchily named Lotus SH-6702 M Commuter Saddle Bag is a straightforward and well featured pouch capable of carrying all the essentials at a really good price.

Looks-wise, the Lotus is very similar to the Topeak Aero Wedge Saddle bag (and a very similar price too), sharing a pretty functional yet not ugly aesthetic. It's made from a mix of tough fabrics, with water and road grot-repellent areas at top and bottom. There are lots of reflective accents to help visibility after dark, and there's a rear light tab too.

The bag itself fastens with a zip, while it attaches to the bike with a pair of straps, one Velcro for the seatpost and a buckle strap for the saddle rails that wraps around the bag itself. Inside, there's a small mesh pouch in the lid and a hook on which to attach keys.

Size-wise, there was plenty of space for a good selection of tools and spares, snacks and even a compact windproof shell. Only a CO2 pump would fit, rather than a standard small pump. The mesh pocket and key clip meant there weren't small things like patches rattling around in the body of the bag too.

It was extremely easy to mount to the bike and sat snug and secure when riding, with no rattling, and didn't cause any interference with legs or pedalling. The Velcro seatpost strap was a bit long and difficult to trim because of a small hook area in comparison with the loop, leaving that a bit untidy and at risk of catching unwary shorts. However, a spot of gaffer tape sorted it.

For £9.99 I reckon it's a bargain for a good sized, well-featured if basic seat pouch with all the room you need for ride essentials, even bearing in mind the slightly overlong seatpost strap. Well worth the money.

Verdict

Excellent value, well featured and rugged, with space for all the essential