New to panniers for commuting

GiantRuss

Hi all

I've just attached a Blacburn MTN 1 rear rack to my 2005 Giant XTC 4 (standard apart from some Schwalbe City Jet slick tyres) so that I can start using some Carradice Cordura Rear Panniers that I was given in 1996 (and have not used until now) for use on my 12 mile commute to work. I have done the same commute, generally a couple of times a week and in all seasons, for the last two and a half years using various rucksacks (generally smaller in the summer when less kit is needed).

I used a single pannier on my first commute with the panniers this morning and was quite surprised at how heavy and lop-sided a single pannier feels on the bike, and was therefore wondering whether it would be better to use two panniers half filled rather than one pannier full?

Also, as I'm new to panniers, I'd be keen to hear about any other general tips on commuting with panniers.



Cheers, GiantRuss

DavidTQ

I definetely prefer to keep the weight balanced in my triple pannier, but having the pannier on does affect handling but not as badly as if the weight isnt balanced.

mbukfan

dpeending on how much I'm carrying I'll normally go with a single, I don't commute with much though.

most people in the UK put the pannier on the right side, theory being car drivers see a larger lump infornt of them. One thing to be very carful of is that the bottom of the pannier wont loosen. If the pannier stays upright when you go round a corner you get very off balance.

PrettyBoyTim

I could fit all my stuff into one pannier, but I use two because:

a) It gives me spare space to carry stuff I've bought in town home
b) It balances out the weight
c) It makes my bike look bigger*
d) If I have to strap anything onto the rack, it helps keep it even


* Does My Bike Look Big In This? :P

ash68

Use two panniers as well.Find it balances out the bike better. IMO.Also keeps weight low down if you have two half filled panniers for lower centre of gravity.Also more likely to carry spares and dry clothing if you have more room.

mbukfan

what size panniers are people using?

I've got these
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/ProductDetail.a ... 20Panniers

h i r 0

I carry my laptop, power supply, jacket (when not worn) and lunch to work all in one pannier. It felt lopsided for the first couple of days, but after a while I barely notice it.