Switching from Milk Crate to Panniers - quick question

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10-08-13 | 04:09 AM

#51

AngeloDolce

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Joined: May 2008

Posts: 342

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From: Delaware

Bikes: Many English 3 Speeds

Quote:

Originally Posted by Giant Doofus

... Every once in a while I want "exactly right," and for some reason this is one of those times. I want a really well constructed pannier that is absolutely waterproof in an obnoxiously bright color. Also, I've made a few newbie mistakes buying less expensive things (like that stupid seat-post mounted rack!). So, in an abundance of caution and with just a little bit of celebration, I'm going to adorn my brand new rack with high-end panniers. If it's a mistake, it's not a big one.

Thanks for weighing in. I really do appreciate it.

The panniers won't be a mistake. If there is a mistake, it will be if you already cheap rack. This is not a big mistake and is not necessarily expensive to fix.

10-08-13 | 07:57 PM

#52

Giant Doofus

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Joined: Sep 2013

Posts: 1,050

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From: Memphis, TN

Quote:

Originally Posted by AngeloDolce

The panniers won't be a mistake. If there is a mistake, it will be if you already cheap rack. This is not a big mistake and is not necessarily expensive to fix.

The cheap seat post mounted rack was something I picked up about ten years ago when the bike was just for recreational purposes. It worked fine for longish rides along a rail trail when I didn't really carry much with me. I realized how inadequate it was for commuting purposes pretty quickly. Just this weekend I got a good back rack, and it has already made a big difference, even though I'm still using the milk crate. No more bouncing around when I go over the railroad tracks!

My panniers just arrived today. I couldn't believe how easy they were to put on and take off. I'll commute with them for the first time tomorrow. Can't wait!

10-10-13 | 06:18 PM

#53

Giant Doofus

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Joined: Sep 2013

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From: Memphis, TN

Panniers arrived. I love them! They are a great size - plenty of room. I'll normally need to use just one. They are super easy to put on and take off the bike. I'm very happy to be able to swing my leg over the back of the bike again. I'm also finding that the bike seems to steer differently/better with the weight lower on the wheel. Here are before and after shots: