Originally Posted by
gerundium
Don't know where these guys are training, but if i am doing a 5+ hour ride in variable weather conditions and don't want to stop (for training reasons or covid) the jersey pockets end up rather overloaded. That's the only reason i can think of.
This was it for me. I bought a bag two weeks ago. Got tired of heading out for 70-100 miles when it's 31F then trying to deal with clothes as it warms into the 60s. The damned new race jerseys are super elastic, and the overloaded pockets just bounce with any move you make. And I'm talking about adding only vest, gloves, and warmers to the mix.
The other thing I did was move to Bar Mitts for winter this year. It has changed my life for cold weather hand management -- I've ridden in the mid 20s with them, wearing summer gloves underneath. The tiny ass handlebar bag I bought for $11 on ebay can hold these giant neoprene Bar Mitts.
Originally Posted by
TMonk
what
mattm said. We were getting along just fine without them. I routinely put in 5-6 hour rides with a 20+ degree temperature differential and I manage to carry enough food. The pockets are stuffed with food when I leave and clothing when I return.
Yeah, I've been fine without them for 30 years, but it's just a good idea. I think the turning point for me this year was: getting back into racing with the newer stretchy jerseys, adoption of Bar Mitts, and pandemic miles ramp-up. The pockets were more full than ever, and had less structure to accommodate. I guess I'm also talking about 35+ degree swings since I also start riding pre-dawn.
The last thing I feel with them is fashionable. Although Austin's current local pro (Lawson Craddock) trains with a bar bag around Central TX.