Originally Posted by
exile
Looking at the axiom website I would look at the streamliner road. It says it allows for more heel clearance.
I did look at that one. I like how it weighs less and has more heel clearance and sits further in the rear. Just I don't like how it connects at that one spot by the brake caliper. Using two braze-on mounts on each side seems more secure. I mean there's going to be one pannier on one side and there's just that one attachment by the caliper. And reviews don't seem as good for the road ones.
If you are worried about rain, I cover my backpack in plastic garbage bags. You can also purchase rain covers for backpacks as well.
My back sweats big time for long distances for 40-50 degrees outside. Sometimes it's the only thing sweating. My backpack needs serious replacement. It has a gigantic hole in it and several tiny ones.
Panniers carry the load lower on the bike. This helps with stability. Also Panniers can give the illusion of making you look wider than you are making cars give you a wider clearance.
My bright taillight has that covered already. They don't come near me because it's pointed a tad up and left in their faces.