DiyProject

DIY Custom Padded Bike Bag: The Ultimate Transport Solution

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Ready to take your bike on your next adventure without worrying about nicks, scratches, or grease stains? Whether you're stowing your ride in an RV, hauling it on a boat, or simply keeping it safe in the garage, a custom-fit bag is a game-changer. In our latest video tutorial, Seth Grant walks you through the entire process of creating a professional-grade, padded bike bag that’s as rugged as it is stylish. Grab your gear and let’s get sewing!
Video Chapters:
  • Intro - 0:00
  • Cutting Out Fabric - 0:35
  • Cutting Out Lining Material - 6:49
  • Creating Zipper Plaque - 12:16
  • Adding Shoulder Straps - 21:30
  • Sewing Lining fabric to Main Body - 27:58
  • Sewing Boxing to Main Body - 29:56
  • Stapling Boxing & Sewing Second Panel - 39:23
Materials List:
  • Cordura® HP Black 60" Fabric - SKU: 122055
  • Boat Blanket Black 72" Fabric - SKU: 100113
  • PremoBond® Tex 90 (V-92) Black UV Bonded Polyester Thread 4 oz. (1,350 yds.) - SKU: 123338
  • Lenzip® #10 Black Continuous Coil Zipper Chain - SKU: 124598
  • Lenzip® #10 Black Style C Single Pull Non-Locking Metal Zipper Slider (Coil Chain) - SKU: 124606
  • Sailrite® Woven Sew In Tags (2 pack) - SKU: 121627
Tools List:
  • Grease Marking Pencil Yellow - SKU: 111002
  • Kai Stainless Steel Bent Handle 9" Scissors - SKU: 125661
  • Scribe-All® Water Soluble White Marking Pencil - SKU: 120681
  • Sailrite® Clear Acrylic Ruler 6" x 24" - SKU: 102400
  • Sailrite® Ultrafeed® LSZ Walking Foot Sewing Machine (110V) - SKU: 311602
  • Large Fabric/Leather Grip Clips - SKU: 126365
  • Sailrite® Fabric Edge Match Pliers - SKU: 123498
  • Stapler
  • Straight Edge

Transporting a bicycle can be a logistical headache, especially when you’re trying to keep your vehicle interior clean or protect high-end components. A store-bought bag rarely fits perfectly, but with a DIY approach, you can tailor the dimensions to your specific frame. This project is perfect for sprucing up your travel setup, ensuring your bike stays secure and your gear stays organized.

Smart Design & Protection. One of the standout features of this build is the integrated padded protection. We use Boat Blanket material as a lining, providing excellent rigidity and a soft, non-abrasive feel that won't scratch your bike's finish. The design even includes a dedicated internal pocket for the front wheel, keeping it separated from the frame to prevent metal-on-metal contact.X Ht 300835 1

Key Techniques You'll Learn In this video, we dive into several essential bag-making techniques that will level up your sewing skills:

  • Custom Patterning: Learn how to use your actual bike as a template to ensure a perfect fit.

  • Installing a Zipper Plaque: We show you how to create a continuous zipper run with dual sliders for easy access.

  • Reinforced Webbing Straps: Discover how to securely attach shoulder straps that can handle the weight of a heavy mountain or road bike.

  • Managing Bulk: Seth shares expert tips on handling large, stiff projects at the machine—including a clever "stapling" trick to keep layers aligned!

The Best Supplies for the Job. To ensure this bag lasts through years of travel, we recommend using high-performance materials. This project features Cordura® HP, a heavy-duty fabric that is incredibly resistant to unraveling and abrasion. For the heavy lifting, the Sailrite® Ultrafeed® Sewing Machine quickly handles multiple layers of Cordura, Boat Blanket, and heavy-duty webbing. Don't forget the SewReady™ Seamstick Basting Tape and a Clear Acrylic Ruler to keep your lines straight and your assembly precise.

Part of the Sailrite Community. If you enjoy this build, you’ll find it pairs perfectly with our other outdoor gear projects. This bag is a natural companion to our DIY duffel bags and equipment covers, helping you create a matching set of custom luggage for your boat or RV.

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