roll top frame bag

[chrisx]

I sewed my first frame bag a couple of years ago.  I think a roll top will out last a zipper bag.
If I make a second one, I will add 2 inches or so to the top straps, and make the side and bottom
straps shorter.

[sean salach]

Interesting! Does the entire top of the bag drape over the top tube, or does it roll up under and then have a flap on the other side? You may have just created the basis for dry-frame-bags.

[chrisx]

The entire top of the bag goes over the top tube. 
The mistake I made was to measure the top straps with an empty bag.  Full, the top straps need another inch or 2.  It works so I did not correct the mistake. 

I cut one continues strip of fabric + - 2 inches wide (+5/8 seam allowance on each side,) for the bottom and sides.  I used a piece of news paper to make a pattern for the 2 side panels.  The side and bottom straps were sewn into the seams.  There are 2 Velcro straps in the interior to stop it from puffing out at the sides.

It is just a simple bag cut to bicycle proportions.

I prefer the roll top because:
Easier to sew.
More leeway to switch bikes
Should out last a zipper bag

[chrisx]

You may have just created the basis for dry-frame-bags.

I cut this bag to the size of two 2.5 liter soda bottles. I use it to carry 5 liters of water.

edit
Hm-mm;  it took a few minutes for that statement to soak in.  Would you modify a store bought dry bag to fit a bike frame?  Is anyone up to date on some kind of Swiss technical fabric that does truly keep water out?

[Marna]

I like your design.  Very Clever!  Zippers break and then need to be replaced.  With your design (if you keep the velcro clean <smiles>  your Frame Bag might last longer than those made with Zippers.  Something to think about.

[chrisx]

That old bag is still use-able.  I have sewn used and thrown out a couple of zipper bags since then.  I suppose I could have replaced the zippers.  I sewed another roll top bag instead. 

At this time I would like to clearly state.
  Zipper-less bags lasts longer, a lot longer.

[wunnspeed]

Is anyone up to date on some kind of Swiss technical fabric that does truly keep water out?

I assume that's a rhetorical question but.... I'm a bag maker living in Switzerland and I don't know of anything. However, that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. :-)