Pannier
From biketrip.org
If there's a thing that divides bicycle travelers, it's the question of panniers. Or more the perpetual debate between panniers and trailer. Basically, you either choose to carry everything on your bicycle, or pull a trailer attached to your bike. We'll essentially talk about panniers here, and since I (Alex) have no experience whatsoever with trailers, someone will have to write the article because I won't !
Contents |
[edit] What to look for ?
Here again, let's repeat the main rule of bicycle touring: Strong, Light and Simple !!!
[edit] Waterproof
Waterproof bags are a plus, but a very convenient plus. They're more expensive than non waterproof one but it saves so much troubles. There's different levels of waterproofness, depending on the fabric used. You may want to avoid treated fabric and choose a dedicated fabric for waterproofness. The treatment is very likely to wear off usually because of the sun. Other ways to achieve waterproof is to have covers for your bags, but it's extra room and water always make its way inside. In any case, even with waterproof panniers, be sure to store all your equipment in ZipLoc bags.
[edit] Closure system
Avoid zippers that will get jammed, break and let water in, sealed zippers tend to break when exposed too long in the sun. Choose a simple closure system that allows you to be able to get stuff from your bags easily, something that opens from the top to avoid spilling the content in case you'd start biking while it's still open. Usually, a good closure system is a rolling attached with buckles.
[edit] Fixations
It has to be simple, strong and be re-adjustable easily, most likely without tools. If it takes you 1 minute to attach a pannier, tape, bungee ropes and screwdriver, there's a problem somewhere. Don't buy a bag that fastens on the rack with a bungee. It will tear off and break sooner than you think.
[edit] Volume
Make sure the volume provided by the bags is enough for you. It usually is. Extra side pockets are useful, too much is just ridiculous and useless. Make sure the side pockets are waterproof too.
[edit] Hand Carrying
You must be able to hand carry your bags easily, by the means of straps on the top. Try to carry your full four bags at once to test.
[edit] Reflectors
It's a good idea to have reflectors on your bags because the pedals reflectors will most likely be hidden by the panniers.
[edit] Panniers manufacturers
[edit] Ortlieb
Ok, here again, one brand is flying way over the others, Ortlieb. Let's face it, they've been making the best touring panniers for years. The Front and Back roller Classic equipment is just made for long distance touring. The closure, fixations, waterproofness, handling is outstanding. Really, if you're considering equipping for a long trip, stop looking and go for Ortlieb, panniers will be one problem you can forget about.
- Ortlieb outdoor equipment - Ortlieb bike bags and waterproof equipment.
- Blackburn - Pumps trainers racks tools bags
- Arkel OverDesigns - Bike panniers commuting bags
- Decathlon - Bikes bags panniers sports stuff
- Karrimor - Panniers Bike bags Backpack
[edit] See Also
The packing list project.
