Chance to design panniers!
 

I did a favor for a friend, needed a buddy to choose a bike - "I'd like to ride to work year round". He said thanks, and I asked him about bags, and he said "Oh I'll make my own". What!? He owned an upholstery shop for 18 years. He still has most of the industrial sewing machines. "I've been meaning to use them".

so...

I can design my own bags. I'm thinking a 2 piece design with waterproof velcro insert, like a chrome messenger bag. A tent pole attachment aka Arkel, and a roll top aka Otrlieb. I'd like a blinkie mount in velcro and reflective stiching.

Questions are color (lime green?), size (back 5000 cu) and attachment (can it be bought seperate?). Should I shoot for touring and commuter bags? Cost estimates are about 10% of retail, minus beer.

Sorry for the ramble, I've spent $$ on arkels, Jannd, etc all close to great, but not perfect.

Let me know when you decide to go into business and need a website. :p

I thought I had heard one could buy the otlieb mounts separately

You can buy Rixen and Kaul mounts which are a bit like Ortleib but used by a lot of other manufacturers (like carradice).
I think carradice are a good model for home made bags. The Correx stiffening is very tough and light and the basic pattern is simple and well designed.

Sounds cool. Thinking about safety, I'd go for a high-vis color myself.

You can get quite a few attachments. Arkel, Ortlieb, Lonewolf and I recently found Axiom. Dont forget you can make saddlebags too.
Lime Green???, color is personal but I prefer the softer darker tones like burgandy, navy or hunter green, Isn't 5000 cu a little... um... gigantic?
If you are using a dry bag inside, then a roll top closure isn't neccessary. A draw string and lid is very durable and expandable as well.
Have fun,
scott

I just found another supplier of hooks... MEC. (see grocery pannier post)

Just my opinion, but you might consider web puches on the outside for stashing clothing and such that needs drying or quick access. I also like bags that clip together when off the bike and carry one-handed like a suitcase. Pick a color that doesn't look like roadkill after a rough rainy day....let us know what you come up with!