The luggage
After researching various models of panniers I settled on Ortlieb bags. There were a few reasons I selected these bags over other models;
So in the end I ordered the front and back roller panniers, rack-pack and Classic handlebar bag. I picked yellow for the panniers as I liked how they do standout. When I received all the bags I was impressed with the quality of the materials and how the rear panniers and rack-pack clip together.
I've not had any problems using them on tour. To assist in finding small items in the big spaces I make use of smaller stuff-sacs. This keeps things organised and tidy. WIth them being bright yellow I certainly have had a few nice comments by other road users that it is easy to see me from a distance down the road thanks to the choice of colour.
The adaptor for the handlebar bag is very secure on the bike. One thing to be aware of though is that if you change the adaptor to a different set of handlebars, like I did when I changed mine, you might find the cable which holds it in place is mangled. Which makes it a bit of a pain to reattach. So a bit of patient is required!
- Waterproof - A lot of Ortlieb bags are waterproof, which appealed to me as I didn't need to worry about stopping and putting waterproof covers on the bags every time it rained.
- Easy maintenance - No zips, instead one big compartment. Less chance of things breaking, thus one less thing to have to fix whilst on the road.
- Tried and tested - A lot of other people have used Ortlieb and have been pleased with them.
So in the end I ordered the front and back roller panniers, rack-pack and Classic handlebar bag. I picked yellow for the panniers as I liked how they do standout. When I received all the bags I was impressed with the quality of the materials and how the rear panniers and rack-pack clip together.
I've not had any problems using them on tour. To assist in finding small items in the big spaces I make use of smaller stuff-sacs. This keeps things organised and tidy. WIth them being bright yellow I certainly have had a few nice comments by other road users that it is easy to see me from a distance down the road thanks to the choice of colour.
The adaptor for the handlebar bag is very secure on the bike. One thing to be aware of though is that if you change the adaptor to a different set of handlebars, like I did when I changed mine, you might find the cable which holds it in place is mangled. Which makes it a bit of a pain to reattach. So a bit of patient is required!
