Touring - Saddle bags vs. paniers

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.




View Full Version : Saddle bags vs. paniers


hamr22
04-11-06, 08:45 AM
What is your opinion on saddlebags vs. paniers? I have used paniers many times and would like to try a saddlebag, but it looks like the thing would make the bike less stable by raising the center of gravity.

Any thoughts?


supcom
04-11-06, 11:07 AM
Even if you use a large bag, such as the Carradice Camper Longflap, you're not likely to have more than 20 lbs of typical touring stuff in the bag. You'll be able to feel it there, especially when you rock the bike when standing, but it won't be a problem. I've ridden many miles with a large saddlebag and don't think twice about it.

biodiesel
04-15-06, 11:06 PM
only tip on the carradice type bags is to get the bagman support. The bags are great, better position, good aerodynamics, and stability is better than a rack since it's closer to the middle of the bike though higher than a rack.

that's just until my soon to be patented "five gallon bucket" sadlebag catches on.


Machka
04-15-06, 11:23 PM
I use both when I'm touring, and just the saddle bag when I'm randonneuring. I have never noticed a difference in bicycle stability with my saddle bag.

The first photo is my touring setup, the second is my randonneuring setup.

.