Originally Posted by Rowan
Their advantage was the big opening when unzipped, and the small sidepocket. They also could be rolled up into a tight bundle for storage. I used them a fair bit for commuting after the tour, too, and I have sometimes wondered about making up bike-specific panniers to a similar design, but with a stiff backing and some waterproofing of the zipper.
The stiff sides and waterproof zipper are exactly why I used that bag. And being able to lay the top open is why I like it for a camera bag.
And yeah, I've got white and red grease pencils laying all over the house. I use them more than duct tape.
--A