MrBearSir

Does anybody have anything to say about touring long distances (say, across the states) using '****ty' low end panniers? I'm looking at very basic Nashbar panniers and how I can literally save HUNDREDS of dollars if I choose them over top notchers like Ortleib.

10 Wheels

I use these. Got them on sale 2 years ago for $15 a set.

https://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product...AID=1011808570

LeeG

low cost doesn't mean it's ****ty, just make sure it's securely mounted.

prathmann

I've had the waterproof version of Nashbar's panniers for several years now (they were about $30 on sale). I've used them for both touring and grocery shopping - no complaints so far. Here they are on a camping tour near Carson Pass in the Sierras:
https://www.everytrail.com/picture/vi...ure_id=1569230

Rob_E

I have those. They're pretty roomy. I got two sets for front and back. They do encourage me to pack too much.

I don't have the extensive use to speak to their longevity: one mini tour, one weekend trip, one overnighter, random trips around town and day trips. They're holding up fine, but it doesn't really compare to a long tour.

Open hooks with velcro loops help hold them to the rack. Not nearly as convenient as some other attachment systems, but it can be made to work.

Not waterproof.

I would still like a good set of waterproof panniers, but last winter I was making a list of all the touring gear I thought I needed, and the costs were getting up there, so when I had a chance to grab four panniers for under $50, I did it, and I'm glad. If you have the money, I'd still say to invest in a better set. Lack of waterproofing and the not-always-secure attachment system will cause a certain amount of frustration. Over a long tour, it might add up to over $100 worth of frustration. But at the end of the day, these work. They hold a lot. They attach to your bike. If, like me, they are what best fits your budget, then go for it. They get the job done and get you on the road. Everything else is gravy.

Cyclebum

Those Nashbar panniers will serve you well and probably weigh less than the high end ones. Pannier weight can be significant.

rogerstg

My wife and I use the Nashbar waterproof panniers. They're light, have held up to days of rain and not too big, or too small. They have a simple but functional attachment system, though your bags will probably come loose if you take a header off a cliff.

They've held up fine to about a month of touring so far, and numerous shopping trips.

StephenH

Read the reviews on the websites. I've seen some (about trunk bags with fold-out panniers, specifcally) that were very negative.

bwgride

I've used the Nashbar waterproof panniers for commuting for several years. The only weakness is the attachment system since it is a simple hook design the panniers can fall off if bumped. That, however, can be solved in many ways such as adding an Axiom posi-lock attachment, using string wrapped around hooks and rack, etc.

Also, some have reported that the rivets holding the hooks sometimes pull through the support backing over time when carrying weight. I solved this by removing the rivets and adding washers and bolts (and an extra small piece of plastic backing for more rigidity) . The panniers are now very secure.

Someone above mentioned they were not waterproof. The material is very waterproof and if properly closed neither rain nor road splash will wet items in the panniers. However, since the panniers are not designed as dry bags with rolled tops, if the panniers are placed in water items will get wet.

Overall if seeking less expensive waterproof panniers, the Nashbar panniers work very well.

MichaelW

I have used cheap panniers with hook and elastic. Expensive ones with locking, quick-release mounts are much better. They never bounce off and when you do need to remove them, they come off in an instant with no messing around.
If you do get the cheaper ones, consider upgrading to locking mounts such as Rixen and Kaul.

bradtx

I've used the Nashbar panniers and rack bag for over ten years and except for damage caused by one of my dogs as a puppy, no problems. The rack bag has seen the most use, both on the bicycles and on the motorcycles and still works like new. Mine are not water proof, but I haven't had anything wet inside the bag as long as I remember to reposition the cover over the zippers.

Brad

Rob_E

I don't doubt that the waterproof panniers are waterproof, but the cheapest set, the set linked in post number 2, are not. I've taken them through a downpour with no bad results, but I also had everything dry-bagged that needed it. Lots of people on hear are talking about the waterproof version, and they also sound like a good deal, so the OP may want to consider spending a little extra on them.

I don't know about the pricing for the waterproof, but if you're patient, Nashbar has periodic sales, and you might get the panniers even cheaper then listed. I paid 19.99 a set last March for the non-waterproof version.

staehpj1

I like the Nashbar or Performance Waterproofs just fine. I actually think I might prefer than for their lower weight over many of the more expensive brands. I found the mounting to be adequate. The only drawback to the mounting was that it is easy to bump the hook off of the rack when you lay the bike on it's side. It might also happen for rough off road conditions. If going off road I would maybe add a cable tie at each hook. We used these bags for the TA and I used them on a few other longish tours. They have been pretty trouble free other than the little velcro tie points tend to be awkward to use and also come off. I just left the velcro off when it came off.

On a recent tour I also used the Nashbar ATB panniers that were used by my companions on the TA. I used them as front (and only) panniers. They are OK and pretty light, but I have had to mend one of them once. It had maybe 6000 miles on them when I had to mend it. We found that if not stuffed pretty full that on some bikes if mounted on the front they tended to brush against the spokes, but it was easy to avoid with a bit of care in packing.

Mr. Jim

I've used the performance Bike set for several years now. It seems these are no longer offered (probably just not currently knowing PB). They worked fine, are waterproof and decently durable. I think I paid less than $75 for the whole set, two rear. two front. The nashbar ones are probably exactly the same except for the logo. Here are some things about them in general.

• Waterproof? definitely, never had a problem as long as I closed them properly
• Attachment-hooks are a little small use the velcro tabs or they may bounce off under light loads
• Velcro safety straps-can tear loose if the pannier is over loaded.
• Durability-excellent, I've had mine since 2008 and used them for daily commuting also. Just starting to see some wear where I fold them down to make a water proof closure
• Style-meh, they are big black bags.

Doug64

+1 The mounting could be improved. This is one of a pair of front panniers that was used in a ride across the U.S. They did OK, but caused some concern when going downhill on bumpy roads. It did come off several times. Usually just one hook. This is one that we fabricated insulation for to keep food and drinks cool. I still use them to haul groceries, and around town, but am thinking about replacing the flimsy "bungee" with stronger shockcord to keep them securely on the rack. They will do the job.

prathmann

I added a third hook to each of mine using the same hooks as on the Lone Peak panniers. These include a little lever that locks the hook around the rack tubing and prevents it from coming off even if the lower bungee is insufficient. Didn't actually have any problems with the original two hooks/pannier on mine, but felt more secure knowing there was the additional locking hook in case I hit a bad bump or one of the other hooks were to come loose.

Spld cyclist

Several people have recommended the Nashbar Waterproof Panniers. I didn't have good luck commuting with those, as they kind of fell apart after a while. The handles came off, and I couldn't see a good way of stitching them back on. The Plastic stiffening sheet on the back of one came off. I unsuccessfully tried gluing it, then used a small bolt and nut (which sticks into the bag now). They have just one big compartment, and I find that having at least one smaller compartment or pocket is really nice.

However, the hook and bungee cord suspension is the biggest problem. It's not very secure. Also, there is no way to adjust the hooks fore and aft, which is critical if you want to shift them back to avoid heel strike. (Or you can buy a longer rack, but that offsets the cost savings). In some cases, it's nice to be able to adjust the hook locations due to the position/spacing of the rack cross bars.

I have a pair of Inertia Designs "cam excursion" panniers that have been absolutely bomb-proof in over 5,000 miles of commuting. They would be small for interstate touring, but Amazon currently has a great deal on one of their larger sizes: https://www.amazon.com/Inertia-Design...6341296&sr=1-7 If I was thinking of going on tour, that's what I would definitely buy. Not waterproof, but they make waterproof covers for them.

Jim

liamof

Another option...
This is the perfect time to check out the used gear you can get on craigslist or similiar sites. I alwas buy my camping and bike gear out of season "lightly used" to get some really good savings. Tomorrow I am picking up a pair of brand new Gatorskins tires for $50. A christmas present he didn't want. It is amazing what people get rid of in the winter season.
I would advise to go on the cheap in the beginning and you will learn what to up grade to later. Avoid the media hype and keep you money in you wallet. Have fun on your tour.
Liam

MrBearSir

Thanks guys. Much appreciated on all of the comments. Just a follow up: Can someone please shed some light on the locking system used for Nashbar panniers? Are they just simple 'hooks'? Pictures would be greatly appreciated.

10 Wheels

Mine have a velcro lock strap that connects to the top of the rack.
https://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...rsstrap001.jpg

Dumped my bike yesterday and the pannier stayed on.
https://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...nBooBoo017.jpg
https://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...nBooBoo005.jpg
https://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...nBooBoo038.jpg
https://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...nBooBoo044.jpg

You can also crimp the top hook tabs to fit very snug on your rack.
Two panniers connect together.
I used them as carry on bags when flew to NY to start a bike tour.

mtnbud

Are these any good?

$70; 1490 cu. in.; 4lbs

LeeG

read the reviews, same mounting as Ortlieb. Look good enough.

fietsbob

sewing the bags is cheaper, but needle holes are leaks ,
so just have to cope with that.
poly bag contents or do some rain covers..

bwgride

Thanks for the clarification - yes, I was referring to the waterproof version and overlooked the note about the ATB version.

bwgride

Yes, I bought two pair. Although the primary image shows the smaller front pannier, the version Sierra Trading Post carries is the larger rear version. They are very well made, are similar to backpacks. and work well. I highly recommend these panniers. Also, if you join Sierra Trading Post email list, you will receive a 30 or 35% discount advertisement which drops the price to $46 -- best panniers available for that price without a double.