Bicycle Panniers

Bicycle panniers are sometimes called saddlebags. They allow riders to carry more bulk and more weight than they can in an underseat bag, under tube bag, or handlebar bag. They also tend to be more secure as the distribute weight evenly.

It is important to assure that panniers are securely attached. Riders also have to assure that the panniers won't imped pedaling and won't move about in the wind. Placing the bags as far to the rear as possible is sometimes necessary and anchoring them to the frame or rear axle may be necessary. You'll need a good rack on your bike for the panniers to attach. Tubular steel and aluminum alloy racks are often the most secure.

Panniers on the rear of the bike are most common, but they can also be carried over the front wheel when touring. Having panniers both front and back may be overkill for many of those who bicycle, but for touring, it can certainly balance the weight well.

Some panniers include a top or trunk bag. Some are open and others zip shut. Which one is best, depends upon how you will use the bags and the types of things you'll be placing in them. Open bags may be fine for grocery shopping, but on long trips, zip closure can help assure contents stay where they should and aren't exposed to dirt, moisture, and so forth.

Panniers allow you to carry additional weight on your bicycle safely. They distribute the weight evenly, should be secure, and should not interfere with your pedaling. There are a few things to consider when purchasing bicycle panniers.

1. Size and Configuration.
You'll need to determine what you will be carrying along with you. If all you need to carry is a cell phone, some sunblock, and a wallet, you don't need panniers, you simply need an under seat saddlebag or a handlebar bag. However, if you take longer trips or want to use your bike for shopping trips, then you'll need the storage that panniers can offer.

Aside from looking at the total cubic inches of storage, be sure to consider compartment size and configuration. If you'll be toting along a change of clothes, a lunch, a few tools, a cell phone, and a wallet, having multiple compartments of various sizes is ideal. However, if you'll be grocery shopping and buying milk and other bulky items, then having larger compartments is critical.

Open pockets are good for items you want to retrieve easily, like waterbottles, but zippers are good for items you want to be sure won't get lost, such as wallets, keys, and so forth.

2. Construction and Durability
Cordura is strong and durable. 600D nylon or better is also easy to clean as well as long lasting. Metal zippers are longer lasting than plastic. Certainly water repellant fabrics are good but a waterproof rain cover will assure everything stays dry. You'll want to be sure your bicycle panniers stay in place. Clips and bungee cords can do the job. Metal clips with plastic or rubber coating may offer the most durability and strength, while bungee cords can keep bags secure and reduce any movement as you ride.

Double stitching helps assure bags last longer as well. Metal frames can keep bags rigid and easier to load, but lightweight is critical.

3. Convenience.
Like any bag, bicycle panniers that include carrying handles or shoulder straps will be easier to carry/manipulate when they aren't on the bike.