Hi all,

I am still in preparation mode for my cross Asia ride around this time next year. I have become pretty well set on a pair of Lone Peak panniers for their simplicity, price, and they are made in America to boot. Also I just happen to think they have that "classic" pannier look that I have always liked.

In-particular, I really like the p-400 here. Its a "Panel-Loading" panniers. http://www.thetouringstore.com/LONE%...ERS%20PAGE.htm

Its compeditor is the p-500 which is slightly bigger and is a "Top-Loading" pannier.
http://www.thetouringstore.com/LONE%...ERS%20PAGE.htm

I have always loved the look of the old cannonade Panel-Loading panniers. I have even tried to get some off of ebay a few times and failed.

My experience with rear panniers is only with my Top-Loading Transit Epic panniers. I hate those bags! Whatever it is you need is always at the bottom of the bag. Panel-Loading sounds like just the ticket but I am sure there must be some unforeseeable drawback right? I understand that I will lose the ability to "over-stuff" using the floating lid design but I am a really light packing and just going with a full set of four panniers is a bit overkill in my mind so I dont think that total volume will be a huge issue. I am also keen on the idea of attaching a dry bag for tent/sleeping bag to the top of the rear rack.

Soooooo long story short. Does anyone have direct experience with either the p-400 or p-500 bags for extended periods of time?

If not, can you compare and contrast experiences with Top-Loading vs. Panel-Loading panniers?

Also, I would love for someone to try and talk me out of Lone Peak panniers in general just to make sure that I am getting the bags!

Thanks a lot everyone in advance!