Handle bar bag/ back rack pack
 

Currently I have MEC panniers, but no handle bar bag or rear trunk. I find that one pannier is way to big for when just myself goes out for a boot. When my wife joins on the tandem, one panier is great, as she always overpacks : ) So as I am looking for a handlebar bag, I would like to get, or at least consider a trunk at the same time (to match). What are your experiences with Jandd, Ortlieb, Arkel, ? . Cost isn't my concern- but it has to be justified. Form, function, waterproofness, portability(shoulder strap) are important. Your thoughts?

Klick fix bar Bag mounts are able to be adapted to go on seat posts.. I use my Ortlieb HB bag on them..

or do you just want a color match ?

Ortlieb has a suitcase like rack pack http://ortlieb.com/_prod.php?lang=en...&biketoy=trunk

and a handlebar bag with an electrical contact set in the QR for your electronic toys charging current from the Hub Dynamo.

http://ortlieb.com/_prod.php?lang=en...biketoy=handle

& both F&R bags Come off, easily, when desired .

I don't use a rear trunk. The top or my rack is used for my bulky items (tent, Sleeping bag, pad, and sometimes bear canister).

My handlebar bag is a Topeak TourGuide DX attached with a Velo-Orange Decalear (Drilling mounting holes through the stainless steel bracket was quite tough).

I have an Arkel large handlebar bag. Better mounting system than the Ortleib or Jandd in my opinion. Mine is older and isn't fully waterproof, but I haven't had any issues with the inside getting wet or damp the few times I got caught in the rain. I believe the current version is fully waterproof, as is the Ortleib. The Arkel has a large main compartment, an inside compartment in the top of the bag, two front pockets (one zippered at the front with an open sleeve behind it, and a mesh pocket on each side. It also has the customary plastic map case that attaches to the top and a shoulder strap. You can also get extra mounting brackets to use the bag on multiple bikes (I assume the other brands do as well). I probably could have gotten away with the smaller bag, without affecting the way I use it.

I don't use a rear trunk when touring, but have a cheapo, no-name, shoe-box shaped, soft cooler type that I sometimes use for day trips when I want to have the ability to keep something to eat cool. Arkel has a nice looking rear trunk that matches their bags.

You may want to consider whether your trunk has the ability to be used as a cooler. It's a real treat to be able to pull a nice cold beverage out of your pack for a little refreshment. You could always jerry-rig your trunk to be used as a cooler by using ice packs and added insulation if needed, but I believe some trunk packs have been purpose built with that in mind.

I picked up a smallish soft sided cooler at Goodwill and sewed on some nylon webbing with release buckles. I use that when I think I might stop by a store for something that needs to be kept cold for later.

As far as handlebar bags go, I'd recommend something with a quick release system so it can be quickly put on and taken off. This is a real nice place to stick your camera, wallet, and any other valuables because you can easily pop it off and carry the bag with you.

I just got the Arkel trunk bag and love it. I doubt I'd use it if I was doing a fully loaded tour but for daily riding or short overnight trips, it looks like it will work pretty well in combo with a handlebar bag.

Here's a review of it: Review: Arkel Tailrider

If you have canti front brakes, a Nitto M12 front rack attaches to the cantis and fork. I use one with an Acorn front bag. I use strings to the bars for upper bag support. It is nice and light and doesn't move around and affect steering.

On the rear I put a sleeping bag and top and don't use a trunk bag. I do use seat bags and have small, medium and large bags for that.

I love my Ortleib, once the mount is attached, it really isn't an issue. I find it to be very convenient, easy on and off. 100 percent waterproof as well. That is the biggest feature for me. I don't have to worry abut it.

I have a Axiom trunk that works well for me. Try their site for some nice gear

I recently purchased a Topeak tourguide bag. It got a lot of storage pockets to get your stuff organized. It is a little small but it serves my purposes. It is a vast improvement over the little unsupported bag I was using before.

I LOVE my Tailrider, great for day trips, I use mine with Dolphin48's for overnite's but doubt I would use it for longer treks.

BINGO! My Arkel fits the bill perfectly.