Keep Construction

[WesTexas]

As promised here is how I build and install a fail proof system for keeping my bicycle bags closed.

(Move Left to Right while looking at the photos.)

1 Bag with long slot cut in flap and strap lined up with it and about 1 inch longer than the flap. On this bag the strap and loops for holding the hooks are one.

2 Tools and materials. On this bag I'm using Al welding rod. You can use brass brazing rod, heavy copper wire or even nails.

3 A finished keep ready for installing. This is a jig I made out of 3/4 inch angle iron to bend the keep. NOTE: Al will crack if bent to sharply. It is soft enough to bend with your fingers and then gently tap with a hammer.

4 Fold the flap down and use a piece of the metal to mark where the holes need to be.

5 Because I don't have a satisfactory way to back the leather to punch it, I simply drill it. (I do finish the hole with a touch of edge coat)

6 Keeps pushed into the holes in the bag.

(Imagination time! Next four photo are not an actual installation - because I can't get a camera into the bag!)

7 Keep pushed all the way through the bag and a spacer block set between the prongs.

8 Prongs folded over and trimmed. (This does take work on brass and steel! Of course if you able to do it in a larger space . . .)

9 A leather patch is glued over the keep to prevent it from being pushed into the bag. I've use white, contact and Super with success.

10/11 I use a spring clamp and some medium dense foam to hold the patch in place.

12 Bag's ready for some finish touch up and onto the back of a Brooks Saddle.

That's it. Simple, inexpensive, functional and if needed, easy to repair along the road.

WesTexas

[cowgirlrae]

Thank you so much for sharing, I'll be printing and keeping these instructions. I hope to have a set of bags to share in the future featuring your slick closures.

[Luke Hatley]

A very useful item.........Thank you so much for posting.