A frame bag is an integral part of your bikepacking rig. It typically needs to be measured and custom fitted to your bike. Sure, there are a few companies out there that stock bulk bags, but most do not. More recently there have been a lot of bag manufactures that have specialized in custom frame bags. One company that is almost fat bike exclusive is Becker Sewing and Designs. Although they make custom frame bags for any bike, his base in Alaska showcases his work in the fat bike market. Recently, we transformed a Surly Moonlander into our daily commuter machine. Along with changing over tires, handlebars, and adding a rear rack – we ordered a custom frame bag for the medium size Surly Moonlander frame. We stenciled out a template with measurements and sent it into Tupper Becker, the man behind Becker Designs. What we received was a beautiful red and black bag.
Becker Custom Framebag
a detachable, clear divider…Creative.
Becker Custom Framebag
Clear divider stowed away.
Featured on this frame bag is a clear divider attached by Velcro, two zippers on one side accessing the large compartment, and two zippers accessing two separate small compartments. The large zippers, stitching, detail, and durability is what stands out on the Becker custom frame bag.   The main body of the bag is made up of standard black X-Pac which helps keep the bag weight relatively low. Sewn into each side of the bag are two zippers: One side accesses the main compartment and the opposite side accesses two small sleeve compartments, perfect for a phone, map, or access for more frequently needed items. The top zipper on both sides hugs the top tube, for easy access. IMG_4831 The bag features a textured nylon fabric on the top tube and down tube sides of the bag. The nylon is tough, protects the frame, and acts as a sticking agent for more stability when the bag is full. Red X-Pac accents the bag nicely on the seat tube side. The red stitching on the black body is a really nice touch, giving the bag a clean, sleek look. The stitching stands out on a professional level. The inside of the bag is very spacious with the ability to make one or two separate compartments. A super neat feature is the clear divider attached by way of Velcro. If you ever forget what is stored down there you can just look through the main compartment to see what beers are hiding down there. If you no longer need the separator, just pull the Velcro, fold it and attach it to the Velcro that is stitched to the inside. The bag is divided with a bright orange thin nylon material which separates the large compartment from the two smaller compartments. IMG_4818 We really enjoy the makeup of this custom frame bag. The large zippers are a neat feature, and likely will hold up longer than that of a smaller zipper.  However, the zippers are not waterproof. While we noticed very little water enter the bag during a prolonged rain storm, we did throw a hose directly on the zipper and noticed water enter the bag. We did enjoy the fact that the entire bag was seam sealed, which is a nice feature to ensure the bag lasts, and keeps water out. The clear divider is a pretty cool feature when you need to take a quick look, and we really like how it cleanly stows when you don’t need to use it. The stitching was crisp and clean, giving you the confidence of it’s strength and durability. It never hit the crank arms even when it was stuffed to the max. We also enjoyed the effortless zipper functions when the bag was packed full.
Textured Nylon
Textured Nylon
If you’re looking for a bag that is tough, a custom Becker bag will be right up your alley. Becker Sewing and Designs specializes in Custom Frame Bags, but also repairs any gear you need fixed. If you have an idea, I sm sure Tupper will love to help you out, a genuine guy that knows how to work with a customer. Give Becker Sewing and Designs a look. Becker Custom Framebag
Becker Custom Framebag
Small Compartment is separate from the larger one.
Becker Custom Framebag
This bag could easily hold a 12 pack.
IMG_4828 IMG_4822

One Comment

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *