Test the Restrap Stem Bag – A practical accessory!
The Restrap Stem Bag is a stem bag that attaches to the bike for quick access to your essentials: a water bottle, snacks or even a small camera. A handy little accessory! After numerous outings with it, here's my detailed review.
Test video summary
My summary
I liked
- Easy access to content, even on the move
- Versatile use: snacks, water, camera
- Simple installation
- Fabric quality
I liked it less
- Velcro could be longer
- Compatibility varies with stem size
How do I use the Restrap Stem Bag?
The Restrap Stem Bag is a small bag ideal for cyclists wishing to keep certain items close at hand. Normally designed to be attached to the stem, it can also be placed on the handlebars or even the frame if space is at a premium (in my case, my stem is far too short!). Its main use is to store small items such as energy bars, a bottle of water or a compact camera. Personally, I use it to store my camera, so I can keep it close at hand without having to sling it over my shoulder or search for it in a larger bag.
Comment soutenir La Sportive Outdoor?
L'une des façons de nous soutenir est de faire vos achats via nos sites partenaires.
L'idée n'est évidemment pas de vous pousser à la consommation: n'achetez que ce dont vous avez besoin mais, lorsque vous le faites, passer par nos liens nous aide car nous touchons ainsi une petite commission sans aucun coût supplémentaire pour vous.
Vous pouvez par exemple en ajouter certains en favoris pour vos prochains achats. Pensez à accepter les cookies de nos partenaires dès l’arrivée sur leur site.
- i-Run: jusqu'à -50% pour les soldes
- Alltricks: jusqu'à -50% pendant les soldes
- Ekosport: jusqu'à -70% pour les soldes
- Intersport: jusqu'à -50% pour les soldes
- Alpinstore: jusqu'à -70% pour les soldes
- Compressport: jusqu'à -50% pour les soldes
- Decathlon: plein de produits en solde
- Tonton Outdoor: jusqu'à -70% pour les soldes
- Lyophilisé.fr: jusqu'à -40% pour les soldes
- Andros sport: frais de port offerts avec le code SPORT24
- Ekoi: jusqu'à -70% pour les soldes
Pour plus de façons de nous soutenir, c'est ici.
Features
- Capacity: 1.1 L
- Weight: 82 g
- Material: Textured, weather-resistant nylon
- Closure: Drawcord
- Fastening: Two Velcro fasteners + one adjustable retaining strap
The Restrap brand
Restrap is a brand specialized in bikepacking equipment and based in the UK, in Yorkshire, where all the brand’s products are made. Founded in 2020 by an enthusiast who started out with his sewing machine, Restrap is now a well-known brand among bikepackers, recognized for the quality and durability of its products. As for me, I’ve been using them for several years now, and I’m very satisfied!
Our full test of the Restrap Stem Bag
Installation and mounting
Installing the pannier is easy, thanks to the two velcro fas teners that enable quick attachment. However, if you have a small bike with a short stem, you won’t necessarily have room to attach it, and I also find that the velcro fasteners are too short, which limits the possible attachment points. For my part, I opted in the end for a mounting on the front of the frame, which suits me just fine.
An additional strap reinforces stability by attaching to the frame or handlebars. Once in place, the pannier won’t budge, even on rough terrain. I was able to put it to the test on a gravel trip in southern Alsace, and stayed calm with my camera in it (but make sure it’s hooked up properly!).
Capacity and practicality
At 1.1 L, the bag isn’t huge, but it’s perfect for small, essential accessories. Ideal for :
- Carry a small bottle of water
- Storing energy snacks or gels
- Keeping a compact camera close at hand
Its drawstring opening allows quick access, even on the move, without forcing.
Read also
Durability and build quality
Like all Restrap products, this pannier is handcrafted in the UK from strong, durable materials. The textured nylon used provides good protection against rain, although, as I mentioned in my Restrap frame bag review, the waterproofing isn’t 100% perfect. In case of heavy rain, I’d be inclined to add a small plastic bag if what you’re carrying is fragile, just to be on the safe side.
Conclusion
The Restrap Stem Bag is a great accessory for bikepacking enthusiasts. Compact, lightweight and well-designed, it provides easy access to small essentials without stopping.
This article contains affiliate links.