I'm looking for a weatherproof pannier that will work well for both a bike+bus commute and to use during the day (off the bike). In terms of capacity, I'd need to be able to bring a change of clothing, food (small lunch container), small u-lock, and sometimes a (thin) laptop. I've been looking at the Ortlieb Commuter QL3 which looks quite nice, but I'm wondering if there are any other options. Quick release is something I definitely want as I'm not a big fan of dealing with hooks, etc... and would prefer to save time.

At the moment, I have a Topeak MTX trunk bag dx (has two side pockets that fold out) which I got about two years ago. Even within a year of buying it, it had started to fall apart (zippers not working, etc..) plus I'm not a big fan of not being able to put it down on the floor without it flopping over. Hence my thinking of getting more of a messenger bag style bag. It's also not the easiest to get off/on the rack and it's very easy to mount it so that it doesn't completely grab onto the rack but still feels solid without a lot of inspection (and hence in danger of falling off). I also don't want to switch over to a backpack/messenger bag as I don't like biking with either.

In case it matters, my total commute each way is about 11 miles, most of which is by bike but probably at least some amount of bus each way. Pannier will need to come off when I get on the bus and go back on when I get off as well as coming off when I get to the office - hence the preference for quick-release.

Thank you in advance for any recommendations!

https://www.amazon.com/Thule-Pedal-Co...mmuter+pannier

That's one option. I ordered this exact set ($119 for two) and received the shipment within a week. Blew me away. Wish I could say the same for the tour rack and side rails, which I ordered Jan 7th and am still waiting for.

As far as impressions on it, the bag could certainly fit your requirements for space, albeit somewhat snug. Check this video out for reference:


This will be my first set of panniers as I commute 12 miles each way.. If looks were the primary parameter, I would've kept with my 44L backpack. Unfortunately, the discomfort of it keeps me looking for the perfect setup. Hope this helps you.

Ortlieb QL3 does not stick out like the hook type 1 & 2, there are buttons on the rack side of the fitting ,
and so a socket on the bag side , so when you sling the bag on your shoulder there is less to dig into your back.


https://www.ortlieb.com/en/technisch...uick-lock-ql3/

one of their waterproof bag options https://www.ortlieb.com/en/produkt-d...ear%20Panniers

But I'm OK with just using the strap on my Back Rollers and shouldering them with the hooks facing away from Me.

Old school but carradice makes solid bags and you can get one with a quick release.

kyuby naruto

If it wasn't for the laptop, I'd say just get a jandd duffel rack pack; relatively cheap, holds 15 liters, and easy to carry with the included shoulder strap.

I don't know... backpacks work for me. I can wear one for 11 miles. Longer even. I would leave the U-Lock on the bike. FWIW

Another option...a Wald folding basket and just put a msngr bag/backpack into the basket while on the bike. Anyway, it's probably cheaper going this route.


There's a Canadian company that makes bags ppl really seem to like....hang on an internet minute while I google it...ah here it is, Arkel (Best waterproof laptop commuter panniers on the market)

That's what I do. Though it's frequently wet and dirty. It's cleaner than the hook side.

After three years of hard use and abuse, including a 2,000 mile tour and more local trips overstuffed with large/sometimes heavy objects than I can recall, I have come to believe the sun rises and sets on Ortleib's Bikepacker Plus rear panniers. Ortlieb Bike Packer Plus Rear Panniers - Pair - REI.com

If it matters they come with a detachable shoulder strap.

Understuffed they're no big deal to carry, and there's no substitute for those 21 liters of room per bag when you need it.

Mike

+1