Kicking Donkey Water Bag: a full review of the Italian bikepacking bag
Kicking Donkey is an Italian brand born from the passion of Roberto, a cycle-tourer who started making bikepacking bags using upcycled materials. What began as a personal hobby has evolved into a full range of accessories, thanks in part to the support of his partner, Martina. But is the Water Bag really worth it? Here is my review after a year of heavy use.
Technical specifications of the Water Bag
Before diving into the user experience, let’s look at the technical specifications of this handlebar bag:
Main fabric: VX21 by Dimension Polyant (USA)—the same material used for marine sails
Durability: high abrasion resistance
Base: rigid HDPE for added stability
Dimensions: 9.7 cm diameter, 16.5 cm height
Mounting system: 37 cm fork strap, 19 cm handlebar Velcro strap
Weight: 103 grams (personally weighed)
Colors: various options available
Price: starting at €49 per pair
Why I chose a handlebar bag
My search for the perfect bikepacking bag stemmed from very specific needs. I dislike riding with stuffed jersey pockets, as they prevent my back from breathing. Furthermore, I needed a practical way to carry my camera—an item too large for a pocket but not bulky enough to warrant a backpack.
I needed something compact yet functional that would keep essentials like a headband/neck gaiter and gloves within easy reach, so I wouldn’t have to stop every time to dig them out of my rear bags.
Field testing: real-world performance
After weeks of testing on varied terrain—from paved bike paths to technical singletrack—the Kicking Donkey bag proved to be exactly what I was looking for.
Handling and stability
Even when using a single, fully loaded bag, the steering remains responsive and balanced. There is no swaying or unwanted movement, even on the roughest sections. Before buying this bag, I used to literally strap my camera case to the handlebars—an unsightly and decidedly precarious solution. Now, everything is protected and easily accessible.
Mounting system
Installation is simple and secure: one bag attaches to the stem via Velcro, the other to the handlebar itself (or both to the handlebar, depending on preference). An extra strap tightens around the fork for added stability.
The closure clip might look delicate at first glance, but it helps keep the product lightweight. After a year of heavy use, it hasn’t caused any issues.
Waterproofing: what to expect
The materials are waterproof, but the seams aren’t heat-sealed and the closure isn’t airtight. In practice, the bag performs very well in light, brief rain showers but isn’t designed to withstand prolonged downpours. Practical tip: always keep a few waterproof bags inside to protect delicate items like smartphones or cameras in case of bad weather.
Daily use
On morning rides when it’s still chilly, I stow my headband and arm warmers in the bag. As soon as the sun comes out, I take them off and put them in the Water Bag, keeping them handy for the subsequent descent. This convenience really makes a difference on long rides.
Also ideal for e-bikes
An interesting alternative use: this bikepacking bag is perfect for e-bikes. Due to the bulk of the battery, most models lack frame-mounted bottle cages. The Water Bag offers a brilliant solution to this problem.
Aesthetics and customization
A detail that—while not essential—is certainly nice: the wide range of available colors allows you to match the bag to your bike, maintaining a polished, professional look.
Final Verdict
After a year of testing on tarmac, gravel, and singletrack, the Kicking Donkey Water Bag proves to be an excellent product for bikepacking. It offers great value for money, durable materials, and a functional design.
Pros
Ultra-lightweight and compact
Excellent stability, even on technical terrain
High-quality materials
Competitive price (€49 per pair)
Italian-made, handcrafted product
Cons
Not completely waterproof in heavy rain
Requires additional bags to protect electronics
If you are looking for a practical and reliable solution for carrying small items during your bikepacking adventures, I unreservedly recommend the Kicking Donkey Water Bag.
Link to the original article published on Life in Travel.
