Abus Lyria Silene bag

The Silene bar bag from Abus is a bit different from the norm, turning away from the common box type shape of many bar bags, where the lid can often be used for maps, towards a more ‘handbag’ like shape, complete with compartments, padding and even a shoulder strap. It’s the kind of bar bag that could be used on day rides just as happily as long tours requiring maps and GPS, and wouldn’t look out of place slung over your shoulder at the supermarket.

Weighing 724g for 4 litre capacity, it’s not the lightest, weighing as much as many bags of a bigger volume. Much of this weight however, is down to the serious padding used in the Silene. Every compartment is padded to a greater or lesser degree, with the front pocket sporting a serious amount of cushioning. This does mean it’s a good choice for cameras and other more fragile items, although it’s only water resistant rather than waterproof, so you’d still want to use a dry-bag for further protection. The 450D and 630D nylon fabrics are nigh-on bombproof and it’ll withstand a lot of abuse for many years to come. The bag also has a vinyl splash resistant base.

The four pockets all fasten with sturdy zips, the optional shoulder strap is well padded and comfortable, fastening easily to the sides when needed, or there’s a handle on top if you don’t want to bother. Reflective piping enhances visibility and there’s a pretty floral design that will appeal to the ladies, or men who like flowers (it IS a fairly low key tonal design and blends well with the dark brown colouring of the bag).

The mount is a standard high quality KLICKfix affair, making it easy to swap and change bags if you have several different ones for the same touring bike, without having to dismantle the fixtures. It fastens quickly and easily to the mount with no fuss.

In essence, this is a good option to consider if you’re not likely to have too much to put into a handlebar bag, but want an easily detached way of carrying your valuables with you at rest stops. It’s also more protective than many, for gadgets and gizmos.

Verdict

A versatile and useful bar bag, perfect for touring and for recreational rides where you're on and off the bike a lot. Great for keeping valuables close at hand, but just a little bit pricy itself.