bluehorseshoe

I'm considering buying an Arkel briefcase/pannier to use on my 5 mile (each way) commute to the office each day. I carry a laptop, papers, usual toys, and maybe a rain jacket in foul weather. Has anyone used them regularly? How do they hold up over time? Are they worth the substantial investment, in terms of durability, conveniece and quality?

Any lower-priced briefcase/pannier competitors I should know of? (A backpack won't work for me.)

Thanks in advance.

Cyclist0383

I don't have an Arkel briefcase, but I do have the backpack/pannier that they make and the quality is outstanding. The hook system is superb and an ease to use. Arkel has wonderful customer service and a lifetime guarentee. I think that Arkel products are worth the money if you use them on a regular basis.

Simplebiker

I've had the Arkel briefcase for two years now. It's holding up great. Occasionally, the bungee cord part of the mounting system has come loose. But I simply slipped it back through the loop and retied the knot that keeps it from slipping through the little loop and its ready to go. I broke one of the buckles and that was probably fully my fault as I tend to be a little rough with the buckles. I called them up to inquire about buying are replacement buckle and they sent me two replacements free. Otherwise, there is no significant wear. I think it stands up to its worth in durability. I've been riding 8.5 miles each way for the last year usually carrying my clothes rolled up in one side and lunch in the other side. I did 5 miles one way commutes the year before.

But I should say beware about the laptop carrying. Take a look at the measurements and make sure yours will fit. I didn't buy it to carry a lap top, but one day I tried to fit my wife's Dell into the lap-top pouch that comes with it and it wouldn't fit. She might have a lap top that is larger than most.

dee-vee

I have the Arkel bug and the quality is top notch. Im sure everything they make is well worth it.

tulip

I recently purchased an Arkel briefcase and I'm very happy with it. I had to adjust the hooks to sit farther back on the bike rack to avoid heel strike, but Arkels are designed for such adjustments. My laptop fits in it just fine.

My commute is about 12 miles each way. I can fit a change of clothes in it, but not a pair of shoes. I would like to get another pannier (although something cheaper than another Arkel) to carry my clothes on the other side of my pannier rack.

It is a bit heavy all by itself, and quite heavy with a laptop (my laptop is brand new, and not an old heavy one). It's not a problem when on my bike, but just as a regular briefcase it can be a bit heavy if carried around all day with a laptop in it. Luckily I don't have to do that often.