A bento box is an attachment bag that is secured to the seat tube of the bicycle, just below the handlebar. It is useful for reaching items on long rides or competitions. Cyclists or triathletes typically employ it for carrying such items as sealant, CO₂ cartridges, a repair kit, or snacks and energy gels.
“Bento box” is derived from the term for Japanese lunchboxes, with its usage found in races such as triathlons as well as for long-distance riding. There is varying size and style of bento boxes, ranging from zippered soft containers to hard, wind-draft-reducing shapes. With bento boxes, athletes in longer races such as Ironman races or century rides will not exhaust themselves with innumerable halts. Keeping items in close proximity simplifies everything when every second counts. The ideal bento box is an ideal balance of easy access, wind-resistive design, and adequate room, which benefits an endurance competitor.
