Pannier Questions
#1
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Pannier Questions
Do panniers come in pairs or do you order each one separately?
If only using one pannier, does it make your bike feel off balance in a commute?
Any recommendations on best pannier rack for a Trek Crossrip?
If only using one pannier, does it make your bike feel off balance in a commute?
Any recommendations on best pannier rack for a Trek Crossrip?
#2
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https://www.google.com/search?source=hp&ei=v5iZX-vbMYT4tAXfyJKICg&q=rear++rack+for+a+Trek+Crossrip&oq=rear++rack+for+a+Trek+Crossrip&gs_lcp=CgZwc3ktY WIQAzIICCEQFhAdEB46BQguEJMCOgIILjoCCAA6CAguEMcBEKMCOggILhCxAxCDAToLCC4QsQMQxwEQowI6BQgAELEDOggIABCxA xCDAToFCAAQyQM6BQgAEJIDOggILhDHARCvAToLCC4QsQMQgwEQkwI6BQguELEDOg0ILhCxAxDHARCjAhAKOgQIABAKOgcIABDJA xAKOgsILhCxAxDJAxCTAlDzH1iggwFgsLMBaAJwAHgAgAGNGogB_E6SAQU1LjktM5gBAKABAaABAqoBB2d3cy13aXo&sclient=p sy-ab&ved=0ahUKEwirt5OY19fsAhUEPK0KHV-kBKEQ4dUDCAk&uact=5
https://www.nashbar.com/search?s=rack+bags
https://www.nashbar.com/search?s=panniers
https://www.nashbar.com/search?s=rack+bags
https://www.nashbar.com/search?s=panniers
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#3
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I think this depends on the brand and/or seller. I bought mine separately, but that was back in the 90s. They do last a long time.
I regularly used just one. Didn't notice a change in balance at all. I only tend to use 2 when it's really cold, or when grocery shopping.
Order some from a place with a good return policy. Put them on your bike, fill them with clothes or stuff that will make them 'fill out', then go ride for a mile or so to make sure you don't get heel strike.
It may take some tweaking of the mounting straps to get them to sit far enough aft to clear your feet.
If only using one pannier, does it make your bike feel off balance in a commute?
Any recommendations on best pannier rack for a Trek Crossrip?
It may take some tweaking of the mounting straps to get them to sit far enough aft to clear your feet.
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You can purchase them either as a pair or individually. I purchased just one.
I’ve never felt unbalanced with just one pannier. Although, I keep the pannier on the right side when riding and my left handlebar grip was constantly sliding off. So I assume unconsciously I was compensating for the unbalanced load. That was fixed with some upgraded locking Ergon grips.
as far as recommendations there are so many options you need to find something that you like.
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#5
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Using just one front pannier (or loading them unequally) applies a side force to the steering. The bike is still ridable but don't try to ride no-handed! (Actually you can, but yo have to lean the bike to counteract the panniers.) I find barely notice running that same (front) pannier in back, even with fairly heavy loads.
Ben
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Using just one front pannier (or loading them unequally) applies a side force to the steering. The bike is still ridable but don't try to ride no-handed! (Actually you can, but yo have to lean the bike to counteract the panniers.) I find barely notice running that same (front) pannier in back, even with fairly heavy loads.
Ben
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#8
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it depends on how much is in there. my bike can feel a bit softy with one with maybe 5 or so pounds in it. kind of like the white liens on the road can make a back wheel feel.
#9
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I will be using them for work commuting. I need to have enough space for work clothes (business casual), shoes, change of clothes, laptop, etc.
#10
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Panniers for Work
Recommend leaving dress shoes at work; shoes are bulky and heavy.
I have had good luck so far with Rhino which is a cheaper knockoff of an Ortlieb:

I generally have one I carry into the office and the other has repair items. I ride with just one on frequently with no issues. Adequate attachment points for supplemental lights.
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#11
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Just bought a set of Ortlieb Back Roller. Expensive but they're good quality and do last a long time. Plan on using them on my future bikepacking trips and work commute.
#12
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Since you are xporting laptop and clothing, I would think two waterproof would be prudent. Especially if you ride on cooler mornings and warmer afternoons. You'll need more room to stow the jacket, gloves and leggings/sleeves/base layer(s)

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#13
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I used a single pannier for 15+ years of bike commuting. I used an Ortlieb shopper bag, waterproof, easy to open, easy to put on and take off your bike, all important features for me. I worried about the "zip-lock" closure premature failure. It is still going strong. While the back roller Ortlieb panniers have the roll closure I prefer the zip lock style as I often had to open/close my bag because I also used a train. I was constantly going into my bag for ticket, books, coffee etc. The roll closure, while kayaking dry style, is a hassle. I paddle and use dry bags with similar closure (roll), I always find it a hassle opening and closing while retrieving stuff. BUT this style is the best when submerged. The 'zip-lock' style never allowed water to enter the bag. They also are sold as single.
https://www.modernbike.com/ortlieb-b...ag-slate-black
https://www.modernbike.com/ortlieb-b...ag-slate-black
#14
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This isn't a pannier. BUT... It didn't affect the handling of the bicycle. 700C x 30mm Schalbe CX Pro cyclo-cross tires.

Cheers

Cheers
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I'm currently riding with only one pannier. Before my job moved my rig was a double bag. Both sets of panniers are from Axiom. The reason for changing was easier access to the U-lock during my commutes.

Here's the old setup
Big Ramada Path by res1due, on Flickr

Here's the old setup

#17
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#19
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One pannier definitely effects the handling of the bike once it gets into the ~15 lbs range. Riding in a straight-line, you'll never notice it. When you corner, the bike will tend to corner faster to one side vs the other. It's not a big deal, and you get used to it quickly. But initially, it may feel a little squirrely
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