Do you ride with front panniers?

[metal_cowboy]

O.K., I am getting ready for spring, getting the tandem up and running. My problem is that my tandem (Co Motion Big Al) does not come with rack braze ons on the seat stays for a rack. Since all of my riding is recreational, a rear rack/bag is essential for rain gear, food, tools, pump, etc. I have jerry-rigged clamps for the seat stays in the past, but with the rack and fenders all having to connect to the bike on one single brazeon, it gets a little crowded.

My bike does have brazeons on the front fork for a rack. I am thinking about going with a front rack and panniers to replace my rear bag. My question is: does anyone ride with front panniers instead of a rear trunk style bag? They will not be heavily loaded, 5-10lbs at most.

[vosyer]

I ride with both because it keeps the load down in the rear when I need a big load. Tubus front and rear rack. Takes alittle getting used to wiith a loaded front rack

[simsi]

We ride exclusively with front lowrider panniers at the moment, because our rear pannier rack is occupied by a child seat and small boy. With the small weight you want to carry I don't think you'll notice much difference in handling, if any.

From a quick look on the web the smallest panniers I could see were 15 litres (30 for a pair).

Ian