mshattuck

Does anyone have any experience with this backpack/pannier product from Nashbar? It looks like a pretty good deal. Basically I'm looking for my 1st pannier set. I don't need any top quality panniers (like Arkel) as we'll likely tour about once or twice a year.

What do y'all think??

Here's the link if you're not familiar:
https://tinyurl.com/5yca2

Thanks

Cyclist0383

NO, NO, NO, NO, NO! It's the biggest POS I have ever seen! I can honestly say it's the WORST designed product I have ever purchased. I had this, (I gave it away to a workman who showed up at my house on a bike with a rack. Before that the cat slept on it) and I have the Bug. The Bug costs a bit more but it is QUALITY and well designed. And Arkel will ship direct to Poland. Get the Bug, you won't regret it.

YES!
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ight=Arkel+bug

YES!
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ight=Arkel+bug

YES!
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...ight=Arkel+bug

NO!
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...shbar+backpack

NO!
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...shbar+backpack

NO!
https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...shbar+backpack

mshattuck

Figured it was too good to be true for that price. I've been looking at some panniers in town that are made like a pair of Orliebs...the lbs guys say that they are the Polish version, good quality, and about $100/pair. I'm leaning in that direction. The Arkel bags are awesome but pretty expensive it seems.

Cyclist0383

I'm in Latvia and don't make a Western salery. I'd buy The Arkel again in a heart beat. It was worth every penny. They'll last a long time. And they have a lifetime guarentee.

mshattuck

Just looking at the Arkels (again). So here's another question...I'm trying to figure out how much space is really needed. For instance, would the T-42s be a good fit if we are not going to be cooking while camping (stealth hammock camping)?? I think a couple changes of clothes will be the things that take up most space...along with needing some space for food to take along with us as we go.

Cyclist0383

I don't have the T-42s, but judging by what I can stuff in my 23l Bug you should be able to fit quite a bit in them. The T-42s are 21l apiece. To get an idea of the size of the panniers go to any sporting goods or luggage shop and check out a 21l backpack or bag.

mshattuck

Hey Ziemas...do you have the Crosso brand in Latvia? This is the Polish version of the Ortlieb...here's the link (in English):

https://www.crosso.com.pl/startowa_e.html

Cyclist0383

No, we have Ortlieb and Abus. Abus makes great locks and horrible panniers. There really isn't a touring culture here. The road bike culture is rather small. There are a lot of people on mountain bikes. Most of what you can find here is made of alu and has 26" wheels. It's really frustrating. I'm having a hell of a time finding a slick 700x32 tire.

Thanks for the link.

Cyclist0383

They look like they are taking a little bit of Ortlibs technology and a little bit of Arkels technology. They aren't cheap either. The dry pannier is €115. The 52l Clasik panniers are €125. The Arkel T42s are €132. For a little bit extra you know you are getting quality.

How long have you lived in Poland? The reason that I ask is I've seen many knock off products in this part of the world that just don't hold a flame to the original. I use my Arkel pannier every day. It's usually loaded with about 15 kg. I don't have a single complaint. As my wife said the other day; "If you haven't destroyed it yet it must be good".

Cyclist0383

If you buy the Arkel T42s via the Arkel American website they are USD154, which translates to 122 EUR. When I bought mine two or three day shipping was a very reasonable USD30.