Best bike panniers & rack trunks according to redditors
We found 271 Reddit comments discussing the best bike panniers & rack trunks. We ranked the 140 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 271 Reddit comments discussing the best bike panniers & rack trunks. We ranked the 140 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
Was inspired by this post to show my own reflective gear!
I tried to keep the logos visible so you could see what it all is but:
Roswheel bike bags. They're cheap, but they've served me well in the past couple years. Plus the color scheme works wonders with my bike :)
You don't seem to understand the actual dynamic, here. It doesn't matter how "good" something is when the cost is 50-30% of your rent every month. It's not 50 for shoes or 200 for good shoes. It's 50 for shoes or you go barefoot.
Or pannier-less, in this case. You can get by just fine with a set of less than perfect paniers. I got a set of Axiom Seymour 30s for about half the price of the ortliebs and they've been treating me just fine.
Huge reply inbound!
Kit:
These MWave panniers are fine. I put a large dry bag inside it and it worked great. Frustratingly these only come in left (there is slight shape to help add heel clearance), but you could absolutely have them on both sides without a problem. MWave also makes a double pannier but it doesn't fasten very securely and this is a large problem. I am sure you could probably figure something out, though. Just make sure it isn't too hard to remove them.
I had the cheap Nashbar front panniers which are okay and I would recommend for a not multi-continent trip. The thing though is that they really were unnecessary. Even if you take a fair bit more stuff than you need you should still be able to fit it all in your rear panniers and your cargo rack. If you really insist on taking a ridiculous amount of equipment then take front panniers, but don't take a ridiculous amount of equipment to begin with.
If (like me) you have a cheap sleeping bag and roll mat, these things will be very, very bulky. You will be envious of the people with the $200 roll mats and $700 down sleeping bags. Those things really are nice. They probably store both of those things in a third of a pannier. If you were to store your bulky equivalents in a pannier it would take up the whole thing, so don't do that. I got a large dry bag (get a heavy duty one, like for kayaking) that my sleeping bag and roll mat would fit in. Also get a dry bag for your tent and store that also on your cargo rack. I kept my rain kit in a small dry bag also with these two on my cargo rack, and everything else was in my panniers. Fastening these three dry bags sideways (perpendicular) to my cargo rack with bungees worked very well. I started out without the dry bag for my sleeping bag or tent and brought along a tarp to put over them in case it rained as you can see here which was a terrible idea. Definitely just take dry bags.
Also, a huge plus side of your ridiculously big dry bag with your sleeping bag and roll mat inside-that garners significant sneering from all the equipment snobs-is that it makes for a fantastic camp seat. So neener.
I will highly advise that you spend some money on a couple merino wool shirts and ideally socks as well. And ideally a light hoodie or jacket or something. Basically, you can never have enough merino. The Clymb has amazing deals very often. Merino is a luxury, but it'll make a very large difference. And then you'll find yourself wearing it all the time when you get home, too, and wondering why you own any clothes that aren't merino. (I'm trying to answer this question myself.)
My tent is actually a 6x4 children's tent. I fit all my six foot three of me in it diagonally. It weighs about three pounds, which is rather spectacularly light for a cheap tent- I'd have to spent quite a bit more to get a 'real' tent that weighed so little. In the US, Academy Sports seems to have exceptionally cheap tents that are adequate quality. Just make sure it either has a rain fly or you have a tarp or some means of keeping dry.
Fear of getting lost:
When I started my trip I was terrified of this, and was enormously glad to be going along with a well toured friend. My fear was completely unfounded. Like /u/DannyPinn said, just go, and you'll quickly get very comfortable with it.
If you're in a not remote place than you have lots of people and tools to be able to figure it out. If you are in a remote place than there's probably only one route to go anyway, and the people will be way more willing to help you and give you their time. Also, if you're using Warm Showers (why wouldn't you??) then you'll be getting the best advice possible for free from your kind hosts. Well, I would bring them a bottle of wine or something, but for nearly free anyway.
And the thing that should make you the most comfortable is that people love touring cyclists. We are the opposite of hitch hikers in that regard- people want to spend time with us, have us stay the night at theirs just so they can figure out why the hell we're doing this, and generally are enormously enamored with the idea and think we're crazy. People will help you if you let them. A lot. I could not and still cannot comprehend the amount of generosity I received. This incomprehensible never ending string of intense kindness from strangers that I experienced last Summer was one of the most perspective and life changing experiences I have had in my life. People will take care of you. Don't worry, be happy. =)
Edit:
Forgot to mention some things.
Rain gear: If you anticipate that you will be in rain you absolutely need overshoes. Everyone I have met has disliked their overshoes and found them not very functional. I have these ones and they are absolutely fantastic. They don't let any water in at all.
I bought super cheap rain pants and a jacket. The advantage of the ones that don't even try to be breathable is that they truly are water proof, but cycling in them is hell. If you try to compromise and get cheap, breathable waterproofs you will find that they are neither very breathable or very waterproof. If you are doing a Summer tour in a dry place these are probably fine. If you anticipate downpours than you need to decide if you want to be miserably moist and hot inside impermeable waterproofs or if you want to fork out the hundreds of dollars for Gore Tex. Whatever you choose, never buy a waterproof that also is a jacket. Always buy liners. If you need extra warmth wear an extra jacket. Jackets that are both waterproof liners and thermal insulation are silly and destroy the layering principle. I see these in outdoors stores a lot, but I never see outdoors people wearing them. I guess urban guppies buy them or something, because I've never seen anyone actually using one.
Pedals/shoes:
I started out my tour completely sold on clipless pedals. I had been using them for several years, and I still love them for road cycling. I will not be taking them on another tour, however. At the pace that you will be cycling most of the time they will not give you any benefit, and the disadvantage of needing another pair of shoes is actually a very high cost for touring cyclists. Shoes are bulky.
In my opinion water resistant approach shoes with large flat pedals is the best choice. However, if I were doing a summertime tour through Baja California or something like that I would probably just take some Chucks(read: whatever shoes you're comfortable walking around all day in).
Ibera Bicycle Bag PakRak Clip-On Quick-Release All Weather Bike Panniers (Pair), Includes Rain Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KW2ZIMQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_yqrhDb1K7HQ6D
I love these. They offer good protection and come with rain flys. They hold my laptop fine. They hold a ton
I commute with the Ibera trunk bag and seat post mount. I've been happy with it. The rack comes off in 15 seconds for weekend rides and the pack fits my lunch, change of clothes, and repair kit easily. The bottom is big enough for my large Tupperware containers to sit flat, which is nice when I'm bringing a double serving of chili for lunch.
Side bag attached to the luggage rack, soft case with sling wrapped around the opposite side of the seat to secure it and resting against my back while riding. Not comfortable, by any means, but didn't interfere with pedaling. The side bags are this model: https://www.amazon.ca/Ibera-Bicycle-Quick-Release-Weather-Panniers/dp/B00KW2ZIMQ/
I'm pretty sure those are not waterproof. Axiom does have some that are waterproof. http://www.amazon.com/Axiom-Monsoon-Aero-Waterproof-Pannier/dp/B006Z0O6NQ/
Just be careful and dont get a beach cruiser!!!!! id recommend a hybrid bike like a trek 7.1 and put a rack on it for panniers so you can carry your stuff. Also if you are over weight i highly recommend a brooks saddle i have a b17 and its wonderful on my ass. Also bike shorts 4.3 miles aint long, but it will make your life much easier. A cheap walmart bike will break often and be expensive to repair. Refer over to r/bicycling to learn more if you are strapped for cash id go with this bike its a good all rounder and bikesdirect is a good company, or a trek and the seat brooks b17 bike rack panniers shorts
Once again do not buy a bike from walmart it will make you hate bicycling. Oh also rules and sheldon brown a repository of all things cycling
Best of luck to you, safe riding and Dont buy this!!
Shaving 20 minutes off that time should be no problem, you only need to average 4 more miles and hour. Stick with it. I started commuting to work 6 miles each way about 3 weeks ago and it's awesome. Here's some stuff that'll make your ride more pleasant, if your bike doesn't already have these:
Also, I'll vouch that cycling is possible in any weather, if you dress for it. I've gone mountain biking in December in Denver, and not just once.
Also also - don't think of it as taking 20 more minutes, think of it as an hour workout that only takes you 20 minutes :)
Funny, I just asked myself the same question today, with a very similar use-case (leaving the bike lights in a locked container on the bike while running).
I was thinking of a small hard-case that would have a metal ring or something so that I could put my U-lock through it. That way it wouldn't need to be locked to the bike when the bike isn't locked.
Haven't looked too hard yet, but lockable hard cases for racks definitely exist. I don't know how they are secured to the rack itself, but you could always take a cable lock to secure the box to the bike.
Some I came across on a quick search:
Edit: OK, not really road bike containers, sorry for misreading your question. I leave the comment here anyway.
Edit 2: This thing from PacSafe might work... found via relevant thread on Stackexchange.
If it's an 11 mile one way commute, then you'll probably want a road bike. The Raleigh Merit will be well suited for your needs but I would recommend adding or swapping the following:
You may wish to check out /r/bikecommuting for additional information. If this will be your first bike, you will also need to get the following items:
If this seems like a lot, don't worry. You can get a really cheap and good pump from Walmart. Just make sure it has a presta valve hole. They also sell helmets which are required to meet the same safety standards as all other helmets sold in the US, as well as chain lube and auto degreaser. Amazon has good deals on the other stuff, especially lights.
Finally, I find this frame mounted cell phone holder extremely valuable. The reason being, that I have a horrible sense of direction and this enables me to view Google Maps biking directions while riding to various places without having to take my phone out. Plus I can easily listen to music while riding.
Also a bike that has the ability to add bags to the sides of the back wheel is very important for transporting. A heavy backpack on a bycicle is very tiring.
I got these a few weeks ago http://www.amazon.com/Avenir-Metro-Panniers-Cubic-Inch-Capacity/dp/B00165Q90I/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1413001286&sr=1-1&keywords=panniers. No latches to deal with; they have nylon straps you can tighten on the rear rack.
Not aliexpress, but I bought this $15 frame bag from Amazon, intending for it just to last me a trip or two until I decided whether bikepacking is something I really enjoy, in which case I would buy a higher-quality (and expensive) Revelate or whatever. Four years and a lot of use later, it's still in great shape.
The Large fits my size-medium Surly Ogre perfectly.
Topeak mtx trunk bag. The side panels unzip to unveil fold out panniers, I've been pretty happy with it!
I do this. I have a $15 frame bag in which I put food, stove, repair gear, etc. Then I pack a 20L dry bag with sleeping bag, clothes, etc. (stuff I really don't want to get wet) and strap it and my thermarest to my rear rack. Finally, I strap my tent to my handlebars (Jones H-bars). I also have a small "gas tank" bag in which I put my phone, wallet, and snacks. I keep meaning to take a photo of the packed bike but haven't remembered to yet.
EDIT: Note that while my bike is all-terrain, I haven't done any serious off-roading with this setup. Mostly dirt, gravel, and crushed stone. Also, I strap them down with these stretchy rubber belts that my wife found somewhere - like a belt you would wear to hold up your pants, but made out of rubber. I find them much more secure than bungees. Found them.
EDIT#2: I have a Surly Ogre so it has braze-ons everywhere. My water bottles go on either side of my front forks, plus one more beneath the down tube.
I bought my gf this Wald Giant Delivery Basket for her school stuff and her Maine Coon cat (around
2214lbsI thinkconfirmed). It's the sturdiest thing I found out there. It doesn't have an actual weight rating as far as I could tell, but it could hold the cat just fine and this reviewer says it's okay for his 25lb dog. I feel confident it would not break, but I can't guarantee it so test it out first with something else if you use it.The bigger concern would be how it would throw off your steering. 30lbs of dog + 7.8lbs of the basket is gonna do a number on your control. I have no idea if that would be steerable.
I commuted on a 1994 Stumpjumper for the past few years at school. I used cheaper Kenda 1.95 road tires that are still good after I bought them summer 2011. I also put a rear rack that carried either m-wave panniers for grocery shopping, or a trunk for small stuff.
Lights are a big thing. You can get them cheaply, I've been using a planet bike set for a while. The tail light is either solid or flashing and is very bright, but the headlight leaves something to be desired.
Good luck!
Cell mount(don't let it distract you):
https://www.amazon.com/Universal-Bicycle-Handlebar-Motorcycle-BlackBerry/dp/B015C03SI8/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1468274577&sr=1-1&refinements=p_72%3A1248957011
Choices for rack trunks and/or panniers
timbuk2(highly advise you look into it):
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R936DOS/ref=twister_B00B3XWZD8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Hardbox(rack trunk, used to own one, very nice and good for clothing and light gear):
https://www.amazon.com/M-Wave-122461-Amsterdam-Hard-Box/dp/B001EVAYFK/ref=sr_1_13?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1468274731&sr=1-13&refinements=p_72%3A1248957011%2Cp_n_feature_keywords_two_browse-bin%3A6035256011
Affordable rack trunk:
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Roswheel-Trunk-Handbag-Pannier/dp/B008S4SX5E/ref=sr_1_2?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1468274753&sr=1-2&refinements=p_72%3A1248957011
Or if you already have a backback you can go for the oldschool option(i.e. mil crate with zip ties):
Milk Crate:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001ACQQA/ref=twister_B002BDTFP0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
zip ties:
https://www.amazon.com/BuyCheapCables%C2%AE-Standard-Locking-Strength-100-pack/dp/B00IRMTYA0/ref=sr_1_sc_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1468275702&sr=8-3-spell&keywords=heavfy+duty+zip+ties
All of these items should have amazon free shipping(two days for prime, 6-8 for non prime members but still free)
I'll probably get the Axiom Monsoon Aero DLX 35 Pannier Set for $90 that I've been looking at. Will see how big my nxt paycheck and might just splurge on the Ortieb Back Roller Classics.
http://www.amazon.com/M-Wave-122461-Amsterdam-Hard-Box/dp/B001EVAYFK
You can always sew your own bags or fasten litter boxes to your rack.
Or you can just buy these for 30 bucks
http://www.amazon.com/Avenir-Metro-Panniers-Cubic-Inch-Capacity/dp/B00165Q90I
Well, I use my standard entry level road bike for pretty much everything. It's a 2015 Felt F95 Sora which has been treating me really well. I have around 7,000 Km on it.
For touring, especially for carrying stuff, I wanted something sturdy and cheap so I went with this rack and this easy clip-in bag. The bag is really great as it can easily come off the rack and double as a shoulder carry bag. There's another small saddle bag (Standard) for tools and spares. Additionally, I had 10L cycling backpack (Not in the picture). If you have any other questions, ask away.
Edit: Grammar
added https://www.amazon.com/Roswheel-Water-Resistant-Bicycle-Carrier-Pannier/dp/B01FFBQVBK/ref=sr_1_190?keywords=bike+bags&qid=1567658178&s=gateway&sr=8-190
to the bike.... good enough temp solution and frankly other than the color would probably be perfect.
FWIW I used these every day all last summer without issue: https://smile.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Clip-on-Quick-Release-Panniers/dp/B009LNOXF0/ref=pd_sim_468_12?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B009LNOXF0&pd_rd_r=HMXDHHDFM28KD6DMQ0RP&pd_rd_w=h5S82&pd_rd_wg=NeSH1&psc=1&refRID=HMXDHHDFM28KD6DMQ0RP
This rack: https://smile.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-IB-RA4-Non-Disc-Frame-Mounted/dp/B002T5H8MW/ref=pd_bxgy_468_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B002T5H8MW&pd_rd_r=AS4WPBTSD6MSHYPGNT6G&pd_rd_w=Tukkq&pd_rd_wg=wvdFy&psc=1&refRID=AS4WPBTSD6MSHYPGNT6G
$120ish all in, but worth it.
I picked up the Roswheel 3 in 1 so far so good, minus the missing shoulder strap. I just need to find a better rack so I'll be watching to see what pops up.
These Axiom monsoons have treated me well thus far. Not fancy, but the waterproofing is legit, and there's quite a lot of room. The mounting system works well, although I don't take them on and off much, since I have a secure place to park the bike at my work.
edit: phone screwed up link, fixed
I'm going to point you towards bike and seat combo options that allow for carrying some cargo since you seem to want to go car-light(er) around town. If cargo isn't something you care much about you can basically pick any non-carbon fiber bike that has decent rear braze-ons for mounting a quality rack as most bike seats mount this way. So moving on to recommendations...
SomaYuba Boda Boda - This is a compact cargo bike with an integrated rear rack. It is shorter than traditional long cargo bikes like the Surly Big Dummy so it's easier to manage both on the street and in storage, putting it on the bus, etc. You can mount a child seat directly to the rack for your toddler but as he/she gets older and more mature they can just sit directly on the rear deck (there are accessory handlebars you can add so they can hold on). This is my dream bike right now. Can carry up to 2 kids on the back as well as cargo. Under $1,000, but you'll have to buy a seat and maybe a couple other accessories.If you know that cycling is something that will always be important to you and you are serious about reducing your car usage I'd strongly encourage you to find a way to up your budget to around $1,700 including accessories and buy one of the touring bikes I listed above. It could possibly be the last bike you ever buy, and reduced driving will help recoup that extra cost over time. Here's an example price list of what I would buy if I were you:
A child's seat is going to cost you around $200 (+/- $100) no matter what so that's a sunk cost. Front rack and pannier are such a small price for the value that you get; tubus is one of the best racks so you can save money in this area or omit completely if you don't want to carry cargo. Note however that it will be tough to fit rear panniers AND a rear child seat because of clearance issues which is why having a front rack helps a ton on this type of setup.
The biggest place to save money is the bike itself. you should be able to find a used but well-sorted newish touring bike for $900 or less depending on your market. But if you buy new from a reputable LBS they will do a proper fit for you and get you on the right size frame with a comfortable setup that will let you ride all day without issue - you can't get this buying used and it's definitely worth the money if you don't already have a very good idea what size frame you best fit (i.e. seat tube length, effective top tube length, reach, handlebar height, etc.).
Good luck!
check out wald's front baskets. they're cheap and well built, and you can just put a backpack, or whatever, inside without worrying much about retention. they attach at the axel and at the handler bar, close to the stem. this one is quite large and under $50. personally, i prefer heavier loads on the front of the bike.
I have a set of axioms I've been using for 6 years - I don't think they make my model any more (lasalle) but they've served me well. The panniers themselves are black, but they came with a high vis rain cover with a reflective accents.
These are similar and if the raincovers aren't included they can be purchased separately
One alternative that I've really liked is this Free Rider Pannier. I use it to carry my backpack, or groceries, or anything. Very useful.
https://www.amazon.com/Green-Guru-Gear-Multicolor-22-Liter/dp/B00SA2ZU0U/ref=sr_1_66
Lots of good answers here, so I'll just give some extra advice. I highly recommend getting a good bike lock. It'll save your bike and give you peace of mind when you leave it for long periods of time. I personally use an ABUS Granit XPlus. I also recommend getting a rear rack and bag. PakRak makes a really good combo (sold separately).
>tell me your experience and why you started doing it
I didn't want to pay for a car, insurance, gas and upkeep. Now I do it because I've developed such a passion for it. The place I bought the bike from offers free maintenance for life, so that was a good bonus incentive.
The low-cost option is to get a front porteur style rack or a big Wald basket and just bungee your backpack to it. I did that for a while and it worked fine (though handling with that much weight on the front takes a bit of getting used to).
I eventually switched to a rear rack with a Green Guru "grocery" pannier (https://www.amazon.com/Green-Guru-Gear-Multicolor-22-Liter/dp/B00SA2ZU0U). With that I could just drop the whole backpack right in the pannier. Only down-side is no rain protection, but I wasn't committed/suicidal enough to ride in FL thunderstorms, so it wasn't a problem for me.
I put an Ibera Rack on my BikesDirect CX Bike without issues. I used the one for disk brakes. It can be installed at different angles, and I've never had a rattle or a squeak from it. I liked the way the Ibera looked, and it works well with its companion bags.
I only have the one bag, so the bike was unbalanced at a stand-still, but I really liked it. It has a shower-cap bag stowed in a bottom pocket for when it rains. I managed to put two 2-liters and my personal and work laptops in the one bag once. It was tight, but fit.
The TOPEAK bags and racks are much more popular, for sure.
If you have serious trouble with the screws squeaking, you can use split-washers to hold tension on them.
I like my Roswheel panniers. They seem well made, have a big thin "document" pocket along the back of inside the main bags and small rear pocket on each side which is nice. Plus they're easy enough to get on and off the bike.
Here's a picture of them on my bike in france....I think they look nice and go well with my colour scheme.
Thanks for the well thought out response! I'll have to look into some clipless shoes that still allow you to walk... I mostly "commute" to the movies, bank, etc. My work is a 7 mile ride, I sweat a lot, and work doesn't have showers... so I'm not too eager to ride to work yet.
Speaking of rear panniers, I was looking into buying this bag, what are your thoughts?
If you need a rack:
http://www.amazon.com/Ventura-Universal-Bicycle-Carrier-Rack/dp/B001NGF6AY/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3OY6HF63O6TLG&coliid=IPFXPV3JDZ7ON
And some pannier that fit that rack:
http://www.amazon.com/Avenir-Metro-Panniers-Cubic-Inch-Capacity/dp/B00165Q90I/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=3OY6HF63O6TLG&coliid=ICF3KQI5Q2CTG
All that for less than $50, so it should fit a college kid's budget.
Yeah I'm gonna give it some time. I like the look of this one, and the way the back of it is shaped makes it easy to pick it up to swing the rear end around when locking up. I'm also thinking I may want to get a front rack. Hopefully something large and sturdy enough to carry something like a case of bottled water.
edit: I think I found the perfect front rack/basket: http://www.amazon.com/Wald-Front-Delivery-Bicycle-Basket/dp/B0012DQAM6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426292215&sr=8-1&keywords=Wald+giant+basket
That bike should work fine, assuming it's all running well. Do you plan to camp or stay in motel/air bnbs? Also are you planning to make and haul your own food? Or just buy as you go? If youre buying all your food and sleeping indoors and you wanna go really light weight you could just get a rack and strap a duffle bag to it with everything you need. If you have camping and/or cooking gear your best option would just be a couple panniers and some sort of bag on top. If money is a factor something like this should work decently well (just don't expect it to last forever). After that all you really need is some basic tools (pump, multitool, tire levers, etc), a way to carry water, spare tubes/patch kit and camping/cooking gear if that's what you're doing. Beyond that most things are comfort and preference.
These are the ones I got. I had two pairs because I lost one for a while and they were cheap. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00165Q90I/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1371790175&sr=8-2&pi=SL75
They aren't that bad but the elastic straps they use are pretty short and the clips are under a lot of stress. It was really just a matter of time before they broke and it unfortunately took my iPad with them. I got a bike trunk yesterday that should prevent anything like this from happening again.
In my experience, Luna triangle bags are poorly designed. The cheap zipper supports the weight of the battery and thus fails. The rivets/eyeholes came off the first time I rode. Before I bought my bespoke Alpkit bag, I had really good luck with the Ibera triangle bag on Amazon for $15.
These are the ones I got. I planned on only using them as front panniers, but turns out I ordered two too many. So I'm managing. They aren't completely waterproof, so I'm going to have and find some raincovers :\
Ask 10 cyclists for pannier recommendations, and you'll get 11!
Still, to make sure I'm doing my part, I really love my Roswheel 3 in 1 panniers. It's way more space than what it sounds like you need (it's more than I need too), but gives you plenty of room to toss in a repair kit, a spare jacket/rain gear in case the weather turns on you, heck I even stash my spare/alternate biking gear in there (like the old pair of fingerless gloves I never wear anymore), and when I take them off I toss my lights in too.
This thing gives you pretty close to the best capacity for the price I've seen. Plus, the top bag quickly detaches; I pop it off and carry it with me to the bathroom so I can change into/out of my work clothes.
For reference.
No idea how well they will hold up long term, but they shed rain on the first outing.
Except don't wear a backpack. They make your back all sweaty. Use a trunk bag like this one instead.
Not to hijack the thread or anything, but I was curious (since you sound like a seasoned veteran) - what waterproof panniers do you recommend, how much are they, and where did you get them?
I bought these, but they say nothing of being waterproof, and I'm assuming with our weather they won't hold up come Fall...
They are on amazon and I think their website is http://m-wave-bike.com/ not sure if you can buy through them there.
Here is an amazon link to their double pannier
He
Wald makes some very good baskets, both front and back. You just have to ride slower when hauling stuff in a basket.
Thank you very much for this information! Is there any under-the-seat bag that you would recommend? I will definitely pick up the items that you recommended. They all seem to be important once you get a few miles away from home.
EDIT: And what about one of the racks like this that only connect to the seat, instead of multiple points on the frame?
My Helmet
I also wear it to mountain bike, but its nice and light and breathes well; also it has an awesome price.
Panniers which are way better than having to wear a backpack when you ride around.
There are links on the side as well that have reccomendations.
Allez Comp. The Thule rack I use can be mounted without braze ons. It has a ratchet mechanism that mounts on to the rear stays.
http://www.amazon.com/Thule-Pack-Pedal-Tour-Rack/dp/B00ASSOORE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370216387&sr=8-1&keywords=thule+rack+touring
i just used these on a camping trip, i like them. rainproof wise, who knows. it sprinkled, but didn't pour.
They were very similar to this.
These must be the new version of them, they look a bit better made (also, sorry a little more pricey). I'd still recommend them at $60 - $80 which seems to be what they go for these days.
Yup. https://www.greengurugear.com/collections/panniers/products/freerider-31l-pannier
or from Amazon slightly cheaper (I think it is the same pannier) https://www.amazon.com/Green-Guru-Gear-Multicolor-22-Liter/dp/B00SA2ZU0U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1512065447&sr=8-2&keywords=green+guru+pannier
I've got a Green guru pannier, fits my disc golf backpack perfectly. I'm about to buy another one for my new ebike.
Thule Pack n Pedal - it's pricey. My coworker has one.
https://www.amazon.com/Thule-Pack-Pedal-Tour-Rack/dp/B00ASSOORE/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1467640171&sr=1-1&keywords=Thule+Pack+n+Pedal
I've got the Topeak MTX Explorer - Note if you have disc brakes get this one instead
and Topeak MTX EXP with zip down panniers
The bag slides into the track on top of the rack and snaps in place. Panniers fold up into the sides of the bag when not in use. Total cost for both, about $130.
On my old steel touring bike that came with racks I use Swiss army bread bags as panniers. They look nice, and are cheap!
20% off these Iberia panniers. I've actually had my eye on them for awhile, going to pull the trigger today!
If you have time time to wait, track them with camelcamelcamel.com and Amazon will have them for ~$150 eventually. You could also see if you can snag a used or open-box version on ebay (by waiting patiently).
At one point in the past, I had these: http://www.amazon.com/Avenir-Excursion-Small-Panniers-Inches/dp/B00165Q4RG/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1457957849&sr=8-8&keywords=Axiom+Pannier. They did hold groceries, but they were a pain to take on and off the bicycle, and after two years were starting to come apart.
I have a set of panniers made by a company called Axiom
They are close to your price range, and they are tough bags for an economical price. They are water resistant, but they are not waterproof though.
My bike doesn't have eyelets either, I have this rack, ordered from my lbs (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ASSOORE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_Ek6Lyb9YCG7NG). Have the shop install it, they're cumbersome if you haven't used it before. I zip tied a milk crate into it and it works great.
Thank you! And sure, here ya go 🙃
Back seat post rack with bag = Ibera PakRak Bicycle Seat... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002YSN5W6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Top frame bag (front) = https://www.revelatedesigns.com/index.cfm/store.catalog/cockpit/Magtank
Top frame bag (back) = https://www.revelatedesigns.com/index.cfm/store.catalog/cockpit/Jerrycan
Feedbag on handlebars = https://www.revelatedesigns.com/index.cfm/store.catalog/cockpit/MountainFeedbag
Front rack = https://www.rei.com/product/117429/salsa-exp-series-anything-cradle-dry-bag-and-straps
Dry bag/ compression sacks = https://www.rei.com/product/730882/sea-to-summit-event-compression-dry-sack
Cheers!🍻
Thanks for your feedback, I decided to buy this rack, because of the quick release system of the bag https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLv8108LQN0
Also this bag has great user reviews in the US Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Ibera-PakRak-Bicycle-Quick-Release-Commuter/dp/B002T5MZ70/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1413082486&sr=8-3&keywords=Ibera+PakRak+Clip-On
https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Quick-Release-Weather-Panniers/dp/B00KW2ZIMQ/ref=sr_1_1
the link you shared are not the panniers he has. the ones he has (and that I have) are about $70. like I said...cheap.
https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Quick-Release-Weather-Panniers/dp/B00KW2ZIMQ/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=ibera+pakrak&qid=1558961477&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-3
I use this:
Ibera PakRak Bicycle Quick-Release Commuter Trunk Bag https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B002T5MZ70/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3c14CbRYV5H8C
You need to get their rack as well but it works fine for me. I fit in there clothes, lunch, mini pump, tools, tube and accessories.
if you want panniers which are affordable you could go for these. Its not awesome like ortleib or vaude. but its something which would last at least a year or two if you take care of it.
https://www.amazon.com/BV-Panniers-Adjustable-Carrying-Reflective/dp/B00ESLVDIU/ref=sr_1_4?crid=25CUWT5ZU3FBV&keywords=panniers+for+bicycles&qid=1557945714&s=gateway&sprefix=panniers%2Caps%2C170&sr=8-4
>https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KW2ZIMQ
Sounds like this bag may be a better fit. It has a separate shoe compartment, Fidlock magnetic clips, a carabiner hook and padded laptop sleeve. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/pocampo/the-worlds-best-sustainable-bike-bags-with-15-feat?ref=23b9d3
I got these ones a couple years ago but I swear they were no more than $50 when I got them. They've held up well for me.
This has been one of the racks I have used. The best part of them is that they are quick release so you don't need to have any holes in your frame in order to mount it. It is compatible with just about every frame and trunk bag.
Also I found that a trunk bag makes the bike unstable when you are awaiting at a light or getting started. A better choice for me has been these bags. They are deep enough to hold three changes of clothes a computer and 2 pairs of shoes. They comes with rain protectors that will keep the bags and their contents dry and clean.
​
Ibera Bicycle Bag
Quick Release Rack
​
The combination of the two should make the ride that you have easier. Not to mention that the bags have an a ajustability that will allow them to fit any rack that you might have..
​
You can buy http://www.amazon.com/Axiom-Seymour-Pannier-Black-Single/dp/B009P3KQNO/ref=sr_1_14/188-1944618-3075044?s=cycling&ie=UTF8&qid=1417713521&sr=1-14 and cut that cost by at least a 1/3. I commute nearly every day through sun or rain and they've stood up for the past 2 months I've had them. That universal clip is pretty much standard now for commuting. And they have a warranty. I don't get why people drop so much on stuff...
The Ibera frame bag is nice and dirt cheap.
http://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bike-Large-Triangle-Frame/dp/B00H55I8J8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419109068&sr=8-1
People LOVE Ortileb around here. I mean they really love them. And don't get me wrong, you definitely can't go wrong with them. However, you don't need to drop that kind of coin to have decent panniers that work well. I went with these bags from Avenir and they have held up well for hundreds of miles. I'm just riding 17 miles round trip and I'm not riding through any hurricanes or anything but they definitely get the job done.
You can get a lockable box for your rear rack like this one (Amazon Link), your helmet should fit inside but of course check first.
I sort of ended up doing this. I found a pair of these for 25$ on craigslist and my work bag juuuust fits inside. Now it's protected from grit during the commute so I should be able to avoid what others were warning me about. https://www.amazon.com/Ibera-Bicycle-Quick-Release-Weather-Panniers/dp/B00KW2ZIMQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480685514&sr=8-1&keywords=ibera+panniers
I'm hesitant to replace the bag that I use every day and is still in great condition, just something that I can buy to make it so that I can still use it. After research, I found that I could get a this Topeak Bag and a Topeak Basket for groceries. I could fold my messenger bag and have enough room for stuffs.
I have the same, use them for commuting for about a year, no complaints at all.
http://www.amazon.com/Axiom-Seymour-Pannier-Black-Gray/dp/B009P3KQNO/
This should work:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wave-Amsterdam-Box-Cargo-Topcase/dp/B001EVAYFK
There are cheap panniers on Amazon. This one is 20 bucks and is the best seller of that kind of thing.
what should you know about saddle bags? Buy a topeak MTX quicktrack rack and the expandable EXP bag This system is too amazing to describe. Small bag for short trips, unfolds into full pannier setup. Securely fastening it to your bike in under 10 seconds is a dream compared to conventional veclro/bungee systems. Both of these together will be over your $80 budget for your helmet/lock/bag but it's well worth it. I'll never use another bag/rack again. The rack is also lighter than the cheaper rack I was using before.
If you are worried about showing up unwrinkled. Perhaps something like [This](M-Wave Amsterdam Hard Box https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EVAYFK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gT8XCbWS15V8F) hardcase would suit you better then panniers.
I ride with the Axiom Seymour 30's. Not waterproof, but definitely resistant (probably not ok through a downpour). Mounting hardware is ok. Been using them for a year, carrying up to 30 pounds of groceries in them (lots of bottles and cans), and have been pretty solid.
r/bikecommuting
I love commuting by bike, my rear rack and my previous pannier were about $60. The rear rack has the added benefit of my wife being able to ride seated on the back (with a cushion for comfort).
I have a single stack 9mm in this. Works fairly well for around town/commuting. The gun does barely fit, and that bag is sizeable, but I actually bought the bag for the phone feature first.
I picked up these Avenir Small Panniers and I've been pretty happy with them for general commuting and running around town. They're fine for what they are, and reasonably water resistant, but if you're wanting something for overnight trips you'll need a larger size.
These are Axiom Seymour DLX panniers. Don't know about OP's size, but I got the 30L. They are intended as a front pannier but attach just fine to rear racks.
They aren't as waterproof as some other options, though. Just mostly water resistant. If you're going to be in a downpour, I wouldn't rely on these without at least a garbage bag as a liner.
my Virtue Truck with accessories from left to right:
Thule Yepp Maxi Rack Mount Child Seat
Thule Yepp Maxi Easyfit Adapter
Schwinn Kids Bike Helmet - Teddy Bear
Brooks Saddle (used - exact make unknown)
Velo Orange Copehagen Double Kick
RockBros MTB Pedals
Origin8 Urban-Pro Riser Handlebar
Origin8 Time Clock Bell
Cork Chop Bicycle Grips
21x15" Wald 157 Giant Delivery Basket
15x15” Bungee Net
Kobra Ultra Bright Bike Light - 1200 Lumens
I love everything currently on her, but may end up going a bit wider on the bars now that I'm riding the rig fully loaded.
It looks like there are eyelets for rack mounts so any rack like this should work https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002T5H8MW/ref=s9_top_hd_bw_bEHOX_g468_i2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_r=ZWM7T83HJTAQ5WKKA7WP&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=4fa95ac1-9313-504c-a40b-72e9b9823f04&pf_rd_i=3403461
Panniers are can be a bit more 'sized'. Are your boots high tops? I'm thinking something like this https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ET9W146/ref=abs_brd_tag_dp?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
Full disclosure I have a Blackburn rear rack and some large drawstring top Jaand panniers I found used.
Yeah. I initially bought a pair of these. They did the job OK. One of the outer pockets' zippers was sewn shut and I ripped a seam unzipping it that I had to fix.
I'd avoid them and just go straight for some classic Ortlieb panniers that are twice the price, but only have to be bought once.
Depending on what you're travelling with, you could look into a bike rack and detachable bag.
I use this rack and this bag.
Not with a cervelo but with a fancy (to me) road bike. I use the Ibera pack rack seat post mounted rack and bag. It can wobble a little bit when standing but that's because of the high weight load and center of gravity. all the "stress" is really put on the post and taken off your back!
On Amazon it's about $80 for the combo: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002YSN5W6/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_T0p.ub0JQFSTA
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