Commuting - My kingdom for a pannier ...

... that can double as a fashionable (or failing that functional;)) carry bag type thing. Main intended use would be university type gear (books, writing stuff etc...), would hafta be carryable on the bike and off, do they exist ???

thanks

Colin

Are you looking for something like this?

http://www2.clicshop.com/stores/triketrails/c56713p9551663.2.html

I use Arkel small panniers. They are a little smaller than the regular size, and can be used as either a small rear pannier (which I use them for, combined with a Blackburn rack on my mtn bike) or as a front pannier.

(I ust checked the web site, and they don't have these exact ones, but similar)

http://www.panniers.com/text_index.html

They come off in literally 2-3 seconds, are extremely secure, and, yes, have a handle so they can be used as a carry around bag.

They have no inner partitions, however. But many Arkel do have partitions and pockets.

I got them at a nice sale (I think for about $65 for 2). My wife and I both have the same setup on our mtn bikes.

They are excellent quality.

I can get about 2 plastic grocery bags of food in each one. When combined with my very neat fold up Campmor backpack (about $10.00 - Campmor.com) I can carry a total of 5 grocery bags (six if I want to get daring and tie one to the top tube)!!

Arkel has many other choices, including a briefcase. I think they are tops in quality.

More info then you wanted!!

Carradice make couple of pannier/shoulder bag thingies for your type of application.
http://www.carradice.co.uk/city-rider.htm

DnvrFox mentioned Arkel panniers and the url for their website. Arkel is in Canada. The dealer that is closest to you is in Denmark:
Dansk Cyklist Forbund,
C/O: Allan Cartensen
Romersgade 7,
1362 Kobenhavn K.
Denmark

The Ladybug model is a single rear pannier that converts to a backpack.
capacity - 21 liters
size - 40 x 28 x 15 cm
weight - 1.1 kg
color - black and red

Ron

hey sorry for no reply dudes, but I've been in paris the last week (and a nice place it is too).

Thanks a lot for the info, I have checked out (briefly) the URL's you guys provided, lotsa good stuff.

thanks again

Colin
P.S. DnvrFox, there is never too much information :)