Process

I knew that I wanted to make something for my bike, but it took a while to decide on what would be the most useful. Also, I wanted to propose a project that I had a decent chance of completing. So, after looking at a lot of different bike accessories like frame bags, handlebar bags, and backpacks, I settled on a trunk bag. 

I started by defining what I needed my trunk bag to do: carry a change of clothes and a lunch for commuting, and then some extra biking gear and more food for exploring on weekends. I also researched commercial bike trunk bags (such as these: http://www.arkel-od.com/en/tailrider.html, http://www.axiomgear.com/products/bags/trunk-bags/caboose-11/). Most of the bags I found attached to the rack with velcro, had a top panel that could be completely opened, and had side pockets.

I wanted to simplify the closure mechanism in order to access the bags contents easier. Thus, I went with a duffle-style zipper closure. Additionally, my design calls for straps that cinch the top of the bag down to compress the bag contents and prevent it from being too bulky. This idea was taken from backpacks that have straps on the sides to keep the bag thin when it isn't full.

I also hope to include a small side pocket on each side of the bag. However, I am still trying to figure out a way to easily fabricate them.