[QUOTE]Originally posted by MichaelW
You can see a modern instant clip-on fitting for panniers here:

I posted earlier that I used a backpack because it was quicker than the panniers that I have, which are cheap ones from Nashbar. Might take only 30 seconds (more or less) to latch on, but even 3 seconds is longer than it takes for me to put on a backpack.

My ride is about 6 miles (10km) long each way, and in my backpack I carry tools, pump, clothes, wallet and keys. Maybe 5-7 lbs (2.25-3.25kg).
I never notice the weight. And as I said before, I don't worry about my back getting sweaty because the rest of me gets very sweaty, with or without a backpack, and I have to shower anyway.

I think all I'm saying is that a backpack works FOR ME. And I spent maybe $15 (US) for this backpack several years ago. I don't think I can get quick-and-convenient panniers for anything near that.

Now when I go on longer, recreational rides, I do use my panniers because the times spent mounting and unmounting them is a tiny fraction of the total time spent on the ride.

Enjoy your riding!