Originally Posted by badsac
Erick, what wasn't convienient about them?
Mine were similar to the current
Cartier, except a bit larger. The quality was there, but details weren't so well thought out. For exemple, the rear pocket zipper was on the wheel side, making it difficult to reach. Both pockets were too small. The mounting system was not so quick.
Now I use Arkel T-42, which have the same basic main bag, rear, top and mesh pockets, except the main bag opens with a zipper. The back plate is stiffer, mount quicker, zippers are stronger, pockets are large and easy to reach in. The Arkels cost a lot more though. Top-loading panniers like Axiom are cheaper to make, and the other details make for the rest.
I wouldn't hesitate to tour with Axiom. I'd look at the MEC too.