Restrap race top tube bag review

The Restrap Adventure Race Top Tube Bag is a cockpit bag that provides a tonne of storage for long races and all-day bike rides.
It sits just behind the stem and extends halfway down the top tube but doesn't extend too high. it is held in place by three straps: an elastic strap on the stem, and a velcro and fabric strap on the tube. It stays in place really well, partly thanks to rigid sides. Nor do my knees knock into it when I'm riding out of the saddle.
The top of the bag is a zip opening that pulls backwards so it doesn't end up dangling over the side while open. However, this is also a weakness: it is easy to catch the top and pull it backwards, potentially allowing rain to come in if you leave it open. It also means that if you put your bike on the roof of your card, the wind will pull the top open.
The storage is huge, though. I can easily fit a bunch of energy bars, my phone, sun cream and maybe even some gels in there, too. I find it perfect for the cycle legs of full distance triathlons like IRONMAN as I can find all of my in-race nutrition in there.
The way the top keeps opening is annoying but I find it worth tolerating for the increased storage space.

[@scottjones9362]

For your car journeys, could you just loop a thick elastic band through the zip and onto the handlebar somewhere? That would stop the tendency to unzip with the air pressure. Quick to attach and remove 👍🏼

[@arycwarneke]

Great review!

[@gabrielmarias972]

Hi! Do you notice touch with the knees on stand climbs, it happen with some bags..
Thanks

[@ChrisWorfolk]

It depends how much I'm leaning the bike. But the lower profile and rigid structure means I notice it a lot less than I did when I was using the Topeak bags.

[@TrkJustin]

Good review! You dont have any problems with hitting your legs on the sides of the bag while riding? My pedal width is quite narrow, if i would hit it. it would be really annoying.

[@ChrisWorfolk]

It's slim and well structured, so I don't get that problem (and I have had it with other top tube bags). That said, with narrow pedals, you're more likely to run into it.