Originally Posted by
habals
Hi All,
I know there are tons of threads asking for this same question,
and trust me I tried several ones that was recommended in this thread.
Unfortunately, most of them didn't fit my need.
I'm looking for a pannier that satisfies the following requirement
1) Must have the shoulder strap (or something I can use it like a back pack)
2) Must have bike mount like panniers.
3) Spacious enough for 15" laptop, towel, clothes.
4) must be comfortable
So basically, I like Timbuk 2 messenger bags, but I wish I can hang the bag onto the rack.
I tried Ortlieb Office bag, but this bag is somewhat inconvenient.
The shoulder strap was not attached on the center of the bag, so when I put heavy laptop the bag is skewed and doesn't feel comfortable.
It is really hard to find a pannier that can be also used as a backpack or a messenger bag.
Is there any other product you guys recommend?
Thanks in advance.
The Ortlieb Office bag has three attachment D-rings. If you use the two D-rings on the same side, you should carry it as a shoulder bag under e.g. your right arm with the hooks facing away from your body.
If you attach the shoulder strap to the third D-ring, (asymmetrical) you should carry the bag, either on your backside like a messenger bag, or in front of you. The latter is useful for when entering elevators, trains or other narrow places.
The Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic (my personal favorite) is more flexible than the Office bag when it comes to carrying huge loads and bulky items. Very good for hauling groceries on your way home. You can attach an external pocket or mesh helmet holder to the side. Very sturdy design. Doesn't have any zippers which I like, because zippers tend to die after some years of daily abuse.
You carry a Back-Roller on your backside like a messenger back, hooks facing outwards.
Features that are good on a commuting pannier;
Some kind of auto-lock system instead of hooks & bungee. Ortlieb and Rixen & Kaul/Klickfix have systems that auto locks the pannier to the rack, so it doesn't fall off no matter how big a bump you hit. The Ortlieb system can be used one-handed; taking the pannier off or putting it on takes very few seconds. You don't have to bend down or grab a hook that perhaps have been covered in road grime and slush. Some hook and bungie systems can come undone while riding, so the pannier either falls off, or worse, the bungee grabs hold of the rear wheel spokes.
Integrated waterproofness. Not only nice when it rains, but it also make it much easier to clean the pannier both inside and outside; just put it in the shower. It dries fast after cleaning because it is waterproof.
Stiff rear side; soft panniers on many racks can twist into the spokes.
Shoulder strap; would never buy a pannier without. Great for having both hands free when unlocking doors, or when carrying heavy loads.
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Regards