Bicycle panniers are a convenient alternative to traditional backpacks. They are roomy, durable and do not get in the way while driving. Both amateurs and professional travelers will easily find the right model for themselves. Check what types of bicycle panniers are available in stores and what to look for when buying them.
Bicycle panniersare perfect for multi-day trips on a two-wheeler, as well as on a daily basis, on the way to work or while shopping. Modern models offer a number of functions that will meet the expectations of every group of cyclists: avid travelers, amateurs of recreational trips and people who cycle around the city.
The advantage of all panniers, regardless of the model, is practicality and convenience of use. A bicycle equipped with a pannier is evenly loaded and its center of gravity is low. This significantly improves driving comfort, provides freedom of movement and greater stability.
A large selection of panniers available in stores makes it easy to get confused about the types and functions of individual models. Before we decide to buy, it is worth carefully studying the functionality and parameters of bicycle panniers to make the best choice.
Bicycle panniers - which type to choose?
The basic criterion for choosing a bicycle pannier is what kind of travel we want to do. Therefore, the available models can be divided into three types:
- professional panniers- suitable for multi-day trips. Made of solid materials, they are durable and work well in all weather conditions. They generally have a large capacity (up to 60 liters).
- amateur panniers- designed for shorter trips (2 or 3 days) and recreational trips. Made of less solid materials, they are usually not impregnated and can pass water. Their advantage is a large number of additional pockets, zippers and an affordable price.
- city panniers- used to transport small items, as well as laptops and cameras. They do not have any special protective qualities, but are distinguished by interesting patterns and rich colors.
Is it worth riding a bike?
Bicycle panniers - what to pay forattention when buying?
When choosing a bicycle pannier, pay attention to the following parameters:
- capacity,
- mounting system,
- mechanical strength,
- waterproof,
- additional elements such as reflectors, carrying handles, etc.
Bicycle pannier capacity
First, we should consider the capacity of the pannier. For recreational travelers, to work or shopping, a bag with a capacity of approx. 10 liters is enough. Saddle bags in the form of saddle bags and mounted under the frame are good for taking smaller items, such as keys, wallets, or phones.
For 2-3 day trips, it is best to choose panniers with a capacity of up to 40 liters. Longer, multi-day or multi-week journeys require more roomy bags - 50 or 60 liters.
Professional cyclists can additionally increase the capacity of panniers by stocking bicycle bags. They have the form of a cylinder ended on one side with a durable buckle closure. They are placed on the trunk with lines, between large panniers.
Bicycle pannier mounting system
Another important issue is the mounting system. The most common way to attach a bag to a bicycle, especially a large-capacity bag, is to attach it to the rear rack. Most panniers fit almost all types of bicycle racks, but it is also possible to buy special models with additional cables and reinforcements. There are also panniers that can be attached to the front wheels (then you need to buy a front rack) and to the steering wheel.
The quality of the fasteners is also important - they should be made of durable materials, preferably steel. It is important that the hooks are located at the top and bottom of the pannier to prevent the bag from swinging sideways while riding. Professional panniers are equipped with systems of adjustable hooks that attach the bag at any angle - this way you avoid hooking it with your heels while driving.
Mechanical strength
Pay attention to the durability of the material from which the pannier is sewn. While driving, it often happens that the bag is hooked on, for example, a protruding stone or sharp branches - in such situations, we must be sure that the material will not be damaged. Good quality panniers also have special plates sewn on to the side of the wheels to ensure that the bag does not get caught in the bike's wheel. The plate should be made of a solid material, for example polypropylene. Unfortunately, in cheaper models there are stiffeners made of much less durable materials, for example cardboard.
Waterproof
Manufacturersprofessional panniers designed for multi-day trips are offered almost exclusively by bags made of waterproof materials. The tightness of the pannier is increased when the seams are additionally taped or welded - it prevents the penetration of moisture, dust and mud into the bag. When you buy a pannier made in this way, you can be sure that in very rainy weather or when your luggage accidentally falls into the water, its contents will remain dry. In the case of cheaper models, water resistance is a less common feature, so if you want 100% protection of your luggage, it is worth investing in a more expensive pannier. Another solution is to buy a rain cover.
Additional items
Panniers should be obligatorily equipped with reflective elements, which increase the level of road safety. In good-quality models, the reflectors are sewn onto the pannier in the form of stripes, and their visibility reaches 600 m. Carrying handles and harness are also very practical solutions. They allow you to detach the pannier from the bike and put it on your shoulder. This feature is especially useful when you transfer from the bicycle to, for example, a train.