This Is the Perfect Bike Bag! | Chrome Kadet Sling Bag Review

The best gear is the gear you don't ever think about. I just realized that I've been using the Chrome Kadet sling bag almost daily for the past five years, and I haven't made a video on it. At 9L, the Chrome Kadet is the perfect size for going out for a day ride. Comfortable, not too sweaty, tough as nails build quality, jam packed with useful features: this is the perfect bike bag.
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#fixedgear

[@finalbattle777]

glad to know you are still around zach

[@ThaBlockisHotPodcast]

Can 100% agree, I have my Kadet sling bag for about 4 years and I use it damn near everyday.

[@russell1466]

Long time listener, thanks for the suggestion... I've used a Citizen bag for maybe 13 years. I had a Kadet come in the mail today. Thanks again, good work on pushing pedals

[@emilplougnakahara387]

This was the greatest review of the Chrome sling bag!Thank you.

[@milliondolladivabritt92]

Great video! I love biking and edc bags so this was a two for two for me. Keep up the good work!

[@TheFriendofnight]

As a left handed person my only complaint is the strap isn't ambidextrous. Otherwise everything he said is true. I wear my reversed and it's such a great bag. I'm the second owner and it's still going strong.

[@hippie324]

thank you for the info i seeeek! left handed people are people too!

[@Stefonewheel]

Thank you for this video. I bought one of my own. Loving it so far.

[@thecyclopath8845]

I couldn’t agree more. Been using my Kadet constantly since it first came out. So freakin’ handy. It even makes for a decent DSLR camera bag in a pinch.

[@edwin9395]

best review for this bag so far on youtube.

[@notl33t]

I use something similar--the Topo Quick Pack--it feels like it has much less separated space, so I have a frame bag with tools and my bike pump strapped to my frame. The Quick Pack's advantage for me is that its more visible (comes in much brighter colors) and a lot of the webbing and extra bits are great for putting a light on or a lock. I think most Chrome bags are definitely gonna last longer so if folks can afford the Chrome Kadet, they should go for it!

[@jamesfiegel9675]

Thank you for reviewing this bag. I have follow ed your channel for years now and respect your opinion. I have been indecisive on buying the Cadet… one reason if the iPad Air would fit in it… for occasional surfing at coffee shop use… watched other videos that shows it fits… somewhat 😑 But ur review has made me put it into the buying cart thank you and hopefully Chrome have u a gift too😄

[@nokia6800]

Have had my kadet for years and i love it. It's my go to day travel bag. Ive been looking at getting the new kadet max cause sometimes i do wish i was able to bring my laptop or even just my tablet

[@Rifvision]

I have the kadet for about a month and I never regretted it.

[@mouthgina3213]

Great info and review thanks!

[@radoslawczyz]

My favorite bag ever 🔥

[@rlbink2498]

Yep, am rockin the Kadett. It is excellent for the daily and commutes on and off the bike. Even stuck an iPad Air in there. Snug but no problems in two-3 years of use.

[@sonymicronin]

Perfect, I’ve actually was just recently wanting to buy a nice bag for biking over my shoddy little backpack

[@roguecode2354]

I got the light gray one with chrome buckles, I really like it too. I don't have any water bottle mounts so this is necessary for me.

[@seymour2113]

Looks like a clean and practical bag

[@quadroff]

Dang, those new handlebars look crazy

[@rapstarD]

I have 5 other chrome bags. Just ordered one of these to try and add to the collection

[@alek0stoev878]

I own a vintage chrome messenger, I’ve also owned timbuks but chrome is by far the quality you want from a bag to wear when commuting, etc.

[@wyldz6763]

Happened to order this yesterday, I already have the Barrage and the waispack so this seems like a nice middle ground between those. I especially wanted a crossbody that could carry my U-lock for those times that I don't want to take my backpack, since the small waistpack is a little bit too small and unpadded for even a mini messenger lock. Hopefully it will live up to expectations!

[@motaparatu]

I have to keep an extra set of work boots, rain gear for work and a poncho (when riding) extra clothes for cold weather or storms. I also carry a thermos for coffee(I put my lunch on the bike, or my rain boots if it's dry and my lunch goes in my pack.). I have a big military style back pack. I try to carry the heavy stuff on my bike though. I do have a messenger bag but it is not as nice as the one you have.. I use it on weekends sometimes.

[@VeryAwesomeSheep]

Can't say anything about sling bags, cuz I carry a laptop like 99% of time, but Chrome Urban-Ex Rolltops are great. No worries about getting anything inside wet and after 1,5 years of using 20L version almost daily it's like brand new and I think it will stay like it for years. Currently planning on getting 30L too for days with more cargo. Only thing that's missing is some water bottle pocket, but that goes on a bike, so not a biggie.

[@hpgrant601]

Fasho Flying Lion Kadet Night Series and Duck Camo are my favorite ones 🤘🏽Stay Dangerous Bruv

[@Shawn-fw6uf]

I just bought a Walmart bike but the a super cheap kids bike. And I started watching KZbin videos on bike accessories. And I found your videos and I subscribed and started watching since. I would love it if you would do more bike accessories and attachment videos. I know you like a minimal setup but it’s nice for others who like accessories. I am an accessory maniac. So thanks hope to see some soon

[@Rektumresizer]

I just bought my dream bike! A nitro orange wabi lightning! And having owned a kadet sling for over 4 years now i can agree on most points hes said.

[@ALeoHughes]

I have one, but sadly never use it. Feels always either to big to use or to small, so I usually go with my other bags. Definitely want to use it more and even thinking about the bigger or even the smaller version.

[@mannyorozco842]

I bought mine from scrod in San Diego and have been using it for almost 7 years now

[@rejanrams1339]

you playing tennis?

[@jar3737]

I've been looking at switching from regular/base trek mountain bike to a single ⚙️ bike. I went to a shop in Chicago that has specializes in such bikes and they had a "rush" bike they recommended for $500. They also said you won't find much info online and they are right. You know anything about them? It was an aluminum frame and had similar components to the state 4130. Thanks

[@danielheibel1434]

Ive got the chrome messenger, fits a macbook

[@jd_exploder]

bought one about 2 weeks ago and i take it everywhere

[@eurobeatmachinist732]

I love mine!

[@Terminator_T-X3]

The bag reminds me of the Hazard 4 Plan-C/Plan-B bags that are 12 litres.

[@WooferG]

I know you used to have the Chrome Citizen Messenger bag before, what made you switch to the Kadet?

[@sethclops]

I bought the Litelok X1 based on your recommendation but was extremely disappointed that it doesn’t fit I the u lock holster of a kadet. What U lock fits the Kadet?

[@ColonelCrabcake]

Dammit I just bought a citizen literally 15 minutes before this video dropped. Was wondering if I wanted the larger citizen or the smaller kadet. This seems perfect, hopefully I don't drown in the citizen.

[@event4216]

Got SKS Explorer frame bag of 4L volume for my day rides. It's reasonably big, puts weight inside main triangle and is very light (just 10 grams heavier than 2x smaller Aliexpress frame bag of 2L volume). Riding with no weight on shoulder(s) is pure fun, roadies do this right way. No sweaty back is a big bonus, too.

[@event4216]

Came back from 2day ride in strong headwind. Frame bag allowed me to carry water bottle hidden from sun, spare tube, some food and my long sleeve jacket. If I had to carry all of this on my back I would be never able to write this comment!

[@feve6071]

The issue with Chrome is, that they went away from Made-In-USA manufacturing and kept the prices. Mission Workshop and ILE are still doing MiUSA and the prices have been stable.

[@bloodonthesnow]

underrated comment

[@thereisn0m0re]

Did the quality change?

[@feve6071]

@@thereisn0m0re you can tell it is all machine made with little manual labor. inherently, manufacturing overseas is not a bad thing. it saves a ton of money tho so that should reflect in the price for the consumer. but they just kept the prices and gobbled up the savings.

[@Nick-ls6bu]

What u lock stays stuck my messenger mini kryptonite slips through at 3.5 the the clearance is 5.5?

[@theodditik]

You carry so much stuff!

[@purpl3Fairyy]

Hello, thanks for the video. Has the black buckle gotten scratched? I'm kind of worried about getting the black colour after seeing some people say that it got scratched within the first few weeks.

[@paulfogarty7724]

It does wear off on the corners - as expected, but I think that kind of looks cool, takes the " new " look off it. Its aluminium, so at least no fear of rust.

[@tannersmith6912]

Other good options are the Metrorunner or the Metromonger (if you need to carry a small laptop) from Greenroom136.

[@jakubfabisiak9810]

Nice bag, though IMO the LBB Echelon is the shizz. They have a smaller option (the slingshot) if you want a 9L bag (echelon comes in 22, and 32L), brilliant design, magnetic buckles, cobra buckle option, 4-point harness (the second strap packs away in the flap), with built in compression straps, and floating TPU inside, with the laptop compartment away from your back, and a U-lock holster holds a kryptonite fahgettaboudit with no problem. I really haven't seen a better designed messenger bag.

[@dawsdep]

I’ve been using the LBB Echelon for 7 years and it’s still my favorite bag!!!

[@dawsdep]

Often I’ll put my U lock in the spot that’s for hiding away the extra shoulder strap. It’s really fast to pull the lock in and out of that spot

[@jakubfabisiak9810]

@@dawsdep I ran with a slingshot for a while, before pulling the trigger on a full size echelon - no regrets, except I wish I'd done it sooner. It really is a fully featured bag that's hard to beat. Life Behind Bars sure hit it right with this one.

[@AnsonChiu]

For me… the only thing i find missing from my Kadet that would make it 20x more functional is a simple grab handle near the top of the U-lock slot

[@sethclops]

Kadet Max that just came out has one!!!

[@floppycheese96]

Next video Zachs probably gonna have a prosthetic leg as handlebars at this rate lmao

[@tomcruz3774]

I need a version of this that can fit a 15inch laptop

[@krishnansrinivasan830]

Nice & Thanks :)

[@Breethepig]

I love mine too ! Best investment for 60€ in sale !

[@alphonseav986]

I've had my Kadet for about two years now, and whilst it really is an awesome little bag, I'd have to disagree with Zach. It's almost there as the perfect bag, but that I think Chrome missed mark on a few points. The four compression straps are woefully short. It's difficult (or impossible sometimes) to thread a jacket or hoodie through, which is one of my main uses of compression straps. They need to be about double the length and have side release clips. The stabilising strap clips at too high a point on the main strap. It doesn't do great job of keeping the bag steady and is slightly uncomfortable. I've zip-tied a Fidlock clip to the lower half of the main buckle, and it's a noticeable improvement. I know most people aren't keen on the look, but I really think it needs MOLLE straps on every surface. I've always bought military style/tacticool bags, and MOLLE webbing is great for when you need to strap some large or odd-shaped item to the outside of the bag. You could also have an exterior water bottle pouch to save it taking up some interior space. A carry handle and a semi rigid back panel would be nice, too. I know that was a lot of complaining, and I am on the lookout for something more suited to my preferences, but despite that it really is a great bag and I'll be keeping mine for when I want to travel light and minimal. Awesome video as always, Zach

[@brujosx]

Please keep us updated when you find that dream bag-- sounds like the knees

[@j.ballsdeep420]

Little to no interior organization is what lost me, plus it really seemed too easy to pick-pocket when off the bike and shopping or something, not trying to wear it on my chest and at least an interior pocket makes me feel a little better. Pass.

[@alphonseav986]

@@j.ballsdeep420 the small front zipped pocket is where I keep all my bike tools, the back interior pocket I keep pens, cables daily meds (paracetamol, hayfever tablets etc.). Apart from the pens, all of those items are just swimming about randomly. I know specific organisation would be difficult to do, given how individual preferences can differ, but I feel like Chrome could have done something more. I hadn't thought about the pick pocket point, but it's a good point and something to keep in mind. I still like my Kadet, but as soon as I find something more suitable it'll see a lot less use.

[@crayolarizona]

Cdmx?

[@gazziesukor4859]

I have the exact same bag (black) kadet and i've been using it for a few years but i gave it to my friend for one reason that cost me lots of money. The seatbelt buckle looks cool and all and that's partly the reason i bought it BUT just be careful bcoz if u accidentally just lightly press on it without even holding the strap the sling will come off so easily. It happens to me a few times and the worst is when i carry all my camera stuffs inside and for whatever reason when i tried to hold the strap casually while walking suddenly my finger accidentally pressed on it and my whole bag with my camera gears dropped!!! There's not even any force applied. Just something for u guys to take note of. Besides that it's the best looking and durable sling bag out there. 👍

[@paulfogarty7724]

Maybe you have a faulty buckle ?.. I've had this bag a few years and never had the buckle open unintentionally. I even tried it just now, and you have to press that plate properly to open it. There's a tutorial on Utube on how to replace the buckle ( though probably just as cheap to buy a new bag )

[@FIXIELATED]

WE WANT A STEP BY STEP PROCEDURE OF HOW THEY MADE THE WABIIIII, PLS IT WILL BE A SATISFYING VIDEO.

[@Planklike]

The old nosy guy in the back lol

[@vfclists]

The problem with all bags is that the inner lining is always black, meaning poor visibility. I wonder why bag makers never think for this. At night you need a helmet light to see the stuff inside.

[@dblissmn]

My Chrome backpack is black on the outside, but bright white on the inside. Have had it for about 15 years -- it's a Chrome Transport, unfortunately long discontinued (perhaps too simple for current tastes, it's just one great big padded, white vinyl-lined waterproof compartment with a small pocket on the outside) -- and love it. Also check out Waterfield, with mostly yellow-lined bags including their Cargo bag that I have (and all made in the US), and Tenba, whose messenger bag that I own is lined grey.

[@paulfogarty7724]

Well Chrome bags are mostly grey or red lining - not too bad.

[@groupnakub]

mine destroy themself.put on desk for a year . then realize all fall apart chrome staff said i broke them not in warrantry.both chrome weltherweight kadet sling and citizen weltherweight. both of them fall apart crack every where . no more

[@awfully.average]

are you ok ? i hope you're ok.

[@maxsievers8251]

I prefer to have a front rack bag instead of a bag on my body.

[@chillwill1083]

They also just came out with an AMAZING rainbow reflective version for pride

[@angeldagook7948]

eyy

[@grad545]

Мде... Оно казалось лучше... Спасибо за обзор. Но пока тактикульный рюкзак на 15 л вне конкуренции.

[@elecaire9094]

Bottle Opener!

[@polthedestroyer]

Love the channel, and I don't even ride fixed gear. You've got a lot transferable knowledge to non-fixie riders. So thanks. But I think you think because the headband is black that it "goes with everything" and is "not really noticeable". I'm sorry to say, it does not and it's actually a loud fashion statement. You look like the 90's Fox cartoon version of Gambit crossed with a background actor in a Taebo video. Just go full Vazquez from Aliens, dude. Pick a color or a pattern; make it obvious that you're wearing head gear. Otherwise it looks like a medical device, or like you cut the top off of a doo-rag. Thanks again. I am buying a Kadet Sling now. And you can tell Chrome you did that.

[@julianflores6363]

Noice 37 min

[@philipk419]

👏 "Promo sm"

[@bonbones4890]

Why not get a bag that attached to the bike? Not having a back pack on is magical

[@staticdisaster]

Would ruin the aesthetic .. this is style over substance

[@bonbones4890]

@@staticdisaster no way what about Ron’s bags?

[@motaparatu]

Trust me you don't want a waterproof pack/bag. Use plastic bags. The problem with a waterproof bag is when water gets inside it's hard to get it out.

[@angeldagook7948]

first again??

[@juliancorona234]

Congrats you got the first comment.

[@zonatedproduct]

He doesnt know about the secret pocket in the bag

[@user-jr7dn5ei1n]

He knows now.

[@chiefscotthoffman5237]

Didn't you do the same review a few years ago? How about something new. Fenders, computers or something else.

[@jeffdur1330]

Lol that thing is bigger than you