Ortileb rear panniers for Specialized Allez 2009 - confusion

Adrianh

Can anyone advise, possibly?

I have a great Specialized Allez 2009, basic model, black frame. It has the lugs on the rear forks to attach a pannier which I can attach bags to. I'm thinking of going for the large (red) Ortliebs pannier holdalls. However I'm confused by the two Ortlieb 40 litre options. One is the 'Plus' featuring the QL2 (Quick Lock) option; the other is the 'Classic' version with the QL1 lock option.

Any thoughts on which version I should go for, given my bike? I also need to buy a (black) pannier, too. I've been to two local bike shops and neither could give me an clear idea of the options - at least with any conviction.

Many thanks

Adrian

Jim C

The classics are bombproof. Buy those
The others R a bit lighter and more expensive for little benefit

Racks- best bet is to take the bike into a proper bike shop. Most racks can be made to fit, but U may need some particular pieces for the seat stays ( that's the top bit near the saddle). If they can't show U what U need and how to fit it, U need to try a different shop. U may need 'p' clips- do a google

Adrianh

Thanks Jim. That's good advice. The rack situation is slightly tricky as I'm looking for a rack with a central cover 'bit' to act as a makeshift rain guard, rather than have it open as there won't be any room for the 'Swan' curved rain guard (which is great).

I've been on the Ortileb site and they don't make it clear what the benefits of the Plus version over the Classic version are...

Cheers

Adrian

Jim C

Rack - look for Blackburn Mtn1 (I think) that has a platform as U describe.

Benefit of the more expensive Ortleibs is supposedly more abrasion resistance. I have red classics from around 1996 (if memory serves me) used regularly. They clean up like brand new

Does your allez have rack bosses/ bolts at the top of seat stays as well as near the rear end? A photo might help
P clips will work if U haven't, but bosses make things easier

Adrianh

Thanks Jim. The Blackburn looks great, and is on offer currently with a 49% discount from Evans. See snaps attached. I think the lugs are clear....

Adrianh

And the Classic Ortilebs are now on order... Cheers

Jim C

The rack will bolt straight on, the metal stays might need a bend, but nothing major.

Good choice on panniers. You won't regret that decision

redvee

Jim C wrote:

The rack will bolt straight on, the metal stays might need a bend, but nothing major.

Particularly around the cable adjuster on the brake, though you might be lucky and not need no tweaking to make it fit.