Originally Posted by
jeffpoulin
In 1998, I bought a Topeak MTX DX bag and 3 racks (2 normal, and 1 seatpost) for my various commuter bikes. After nearly 14 years, this setup is still used every day. Zippers still work, no tears in the fabric, and the bag still slides on/off easily in a second or two. The only "problem" is the molded panels eventually lost their support so the bag became lopsided. I put a sturdy cardboard box inside mine to keep its shape and it works well. It's not glamorous looking, but it's well made.
That's impressive! I had a Topeak EXP bag with Panniers that I picked up from Sports Chalet a few years back, and it has held up pretty well too. I use it to carry a change of clothes, u-lock and cable, pump, spare tube and a magazine or two, for my 10 mile commute. I haven't had any issues with heel strike on the panniers, but the wheelbase of my bike is a bit longer and it is set up towards the rear of the rack mounts, so it hasn't really been a problem. Biggest drawback is that pannier space is a bit limited for groceries. Still beats having to carry around a backpack every day though . . .
I'll second jdefran's comment too - the black finish does take a beating and the paint wears off pretty easily. Polished metal would be nice.