no1mad 

This is another one of those 'which bag do I get?' threads, with a twist. I know what I want, sort of.
I am going back to school in the fall and need a new bag to carry my books. I want it to be waterproof, whether I'm in the saddle or behind the wheel. After searching the forums (and the link to FGG's mess. bag review while searching the forums), I've narrowed my choices down to either the Jandd Iniki mess bag or the Banjo Bros. backpack. (I was thinking about the BB mess bag, but you can only carry over one shoulder.)

From what I understand, a backpack is generally considered the better choice for carrying a heavier load of books (more comfortable). But it was also pointed out that the more weight you put in a backpack, the more it messes with bike handling (turning in the saddle to check out that cute jogger...). And I'm concerned that 1500 c.i.'s might not be big enough.

The Jandd Iniki is 2500 c.i.'s, which should be more than enough, but I'm unsure how comfortable it would be carrying a load of books.

BTW, I looked at tb2's, I'll pass. Also, my budget won't allow triple digit price points, so please no testamonials/recommendations/shameless plugs for Chrome, REload, Freight, Sealine, Pac, Baileyworks, Seagull, Chicago Wig, etc.

Sirrus Rider

A backpack full of books is a good way of damaging the nerves in your shoulders. Depending on how many books your carrying I would look at something similar to the Performance Transit Metro Pannier
https://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_ID=2312 which is adaptable into a messneger type bag.

intrepidbiker

Haven't tried the Jandd bag you mention, but I've used their panniers (front & rear), grocery bag panniers, handlebar bag, day and a half backpack, and saddlebag... and I haven't been able to wear out any of them. Definitely bombproof.

That tends to make them heavier than other brands... but if durability is a concern, then I recommend them.

As to waterproof, I line each of my panniers with a tall kitchen garbage bag and have never had anything get wet. Heck, even when I didn't line them, nothing got wet.

filtersweep

I would use the BB panniers--- definitely waterproof-- and bullet-proof (and priced nicely). I use them in the winter when it rains non-stop.

If you don't want to attach your load to your bike, I recommend a mess. bag over a backpack--- any day. Even with "one shoulder"-- the load is really on your back. I have used both backpacks and msgr bags-- and won't be going back to a backpack anytime soon. Also, most decent bags are waterproof anyway.

Torrilin

I use a backpack primarily when I'm walking or doing a *lot* of off bike walking/transit. Backpacks work very well for moderate weight loads and walking (45lbs or less). I don't find the balance changes problematic on the bike... the real problem is a pack that fits well for walking doesn't fit well on a bike. And if the pack fits well on a bike, it won't work well for walking... Once you're over around 30 lbs, you can start to get shoulder pain and bruising. A good hip belt helps.

If I'll mostly be on my bike, I use panniers or my basket (depending on the load). My bike is stronger than I am, and it's easier for me to manage a heavy load on it. My bike doesn't get bruises either *g*.

A one shoulder bag is *painful* if you're dealing with anything but the lightest loads, so I don't do that anymore. If you're not dealing with any real weight, any bag works.

no1mad 

Too small. Two of these combined have less cargo volume than the BB backpack.

no1mad 

Situation resolved. Just found a review of a new LARGER version of the Banjo Brothers backpack over on fgg. There was no info on release date or pricing. Doesn't matter, it's my precious.

boog

Well, it seems you've already decided, but I will still chime in here. I have the Jandd Andrew bag, the middle sized one, and it has held up quite well to daily commuting, grocery shopping, weekend trips, and airline carry on duties. I keep waiting for it to wear out so I can justify replacing it, but it doesn't seem to be happening anytime soon.

Enjoy the Banjo Brothers! Post up some pics of it, especially loaded up, when you get it!

boog

AGuyNamedSteve

I'm a little late to the party also, but I know the BB bag is out in the 2000 cube variety. I called a Seattle shop that was listed as a retailer on the BB site. They were the only one listed that actually had them in stock. I went expecting the 1500 since that's all that BB had on their site when I looked a few weeks ago. I got there and all they had was the 2000. Since all I carry are shoes, lightweight pants/shirt/socks/und/chamois/soaps, 2000 is way too big for me.

So I ended up ordering one from World Cycling Products, who gives out a 15% discount by signing up for spam from them. It showed up a week ago, but I haven't ridden with it yet. But it looks like it will be perfect for what I'll use it for.

neilfein

Banjo Brothers panniers are good... to a point. Mine are scratched and even a little ripped after a year of use. to their advantage, they still keep stuff bone-dry.

If you can afford a set of Ortliebs, I'd go for that. Jandd has a good reputation.