Well just an update, thought I'd share a few pics but didn't want to start a new thread. I ended up deciding to give the Carradice bags a shot... I liked the style of the Super C and seemed to still resemble classic styling but modern hardware and good prices. I have a few red & black bikes, and this chrome voyageur with red and black on it so thought if it doesn't work well on one I can use it on another (or use it on multiple bikes regardless).

As for the Voyageur, surprisingly the handlebar bag would actually work without modifying anything. Plenty of room for the cables between the bag and bar, and even the turkey levers fit. Now that isn't ideal, and I wanted to better the setup anyhow, but just thought I'd mention it could work without having to do anything.



I wanted to put new wrap on it and those old levers are just not up to my comfort level anyhow, though I do like the vintage looks. I've got some TRP retro brake levers hanging around that I've been dying to try on something, so figured what the heck I'll put new levers on and route the cables under new wrap. The TRP's were gum colored hoods which I'm still debating if I like. But with gum walled tires this bike was a decent shot of them looking ok on. The wrap turned out to be the wrong color (black/red instead of just solid black) but decided I'd give it a try on the bike and see. I wrapped it to cover up the red edge, and the bit of red that shows through the holes actually looks ok I think. Its growing on me, I'll have to take a photo.

I did mock up the handlebar bag on the black & red Super Sport, along with the Super C Audax bag and rack in the rear. I really like this combo, and can carry everything I'd need for a daytrip or even if i did some short credit card touring and packed well. But at least enough room for tools, snacks, and my dSLR in just the handlebar bag. I just got to pick up another one of those Klikfix brackets and I can move the handlebar bag around easily, though it cost half of what I paid for the bag+klickfix. (well on amazon its 30-some bucks anyone know of a cheaper source?).






I've got new wrap for the SS to, but leaving the old levers and exposed cables on that one for now. They seem like it be nothing more than a minor annoyance when getting into the bag. The rear bag also can collapse down to almost half size for a more compact look (side pockets collapsed flat and lid pulled all the way to base)...



Just got to finish up the work and get them actually mounted, and ride.