When we enter a
higher level of cycling tourism, we also want to increase comfort while riding.
One of the pieces of equipment that have a significant impact on this aspect of
the journey is bicycle panniers. How to choose the right model? Here are some
tips to help you make the right choice.
On a trip or to
the city?
The first thing we
should determine is the purpose of the pannier. Another pannier will work in
the city, where it will be used to transport a laptop and documents or other
small items. Such a model does not have to offer a lot of space. Its appearance
and modern design will be much more important. Yet another bicycle panniers
will prove themselves during a bicycle trip. The one that we want to take on a
distant journey must have more specialized parameters. A suitable model,
intended for cycling tourism, should be, above all, waterproof.
Bicycle pannier
capacity
The pannier that
we will have with us when moving around the city does not have to be large.
Bicycle panniers with a total capacity of 30 liters will be optimal. A long
trip on a two-wheeler requires us to take more things, which is associated with
the need to increase the luggage space. The minimum capacity of panniers, in
this case, is 50 liters. Currently, there are many models with much larger
dimensions on the market, but the Ortlieb brand remains unsurpassed in this
competition, which was one of the first to introduce panniers with a total
capacity of 70 liters! However, if we no longer have smaller panniers and we do
not want to buy another set, we can always buy additional pockets and bags.
Where to install
bicycle bags?
Where we install
our panniers is important. The appropriate distribution of the weight of the
luggage contributes to the optimal balance of the bike. Which, in turn,
translates into its maneuverability and safety while driving. For this reason,
with heavier luggage, you should consider having two sets of panniers - one for
the front and one for the back of the bike. A load on the rear wheel only could
lead to its overload and damage. To avoid serious complications on the route,
even at the planning stage, we should pay special attention to weight
distribution.
Watertightness and
durability of the bicycle pannier
The best models
are sewn from durable and damage-resistant materials, such as Cordura or
polyester. In both cases, the manufacturers additionally coat the fabrics with
a PVC layer, which guarantees complete waterproofing. This effect is further
enhanced by the use of glued seam technology. The method of closing the pannier
also affects its water resistance. Proven and at the same time, the most
popular closing systems are hood and roll-up. Both solutions allow easy access
to the contents and guarantee full waterproofness. If our choice is a model
that meets all the above-mentioned requirements, we will be 100% sure that our
equipment will not get wet. This is all the more important because water-soaked
equipment noticeably increases its weight,
What else should
you pay attention to?
Another point to
keep in mind when choosing the right model is how to assemble and disassemble
it. The best bicycle panniers have mounting systems refined in every detail,
even the smallest ones, and enable the pannier to be attached with one
movement. In addition, our pannier should have reflective
tape elements that will increase visibility on the trail during
cloudy days or when it gets dark. Many benefits also come from having models
equipped with transport handles, allowing you to easily transport the pannier
after the ride. A long journey increases the number of essentials, which in
turn also increases the volume of luggage. In such a situation, the presence of
compression belts, which will reduce its volume, may prove invaluable.
Extra space -
bicycle bags
A great
alternative to another, large panniers are bicycle bags, which are perfect as a
kind of "hand luggage". The most popular models are mounted on the
steering wheel. The handlebar bag allows quick and direct access to the
essentials. Inside such a bag you will find accessories such as a phone,
camera, power bank, wallet, first aid kit ... that is, everything that is most
important during a trip and that it is always good to have at your fingertips.
In addition, a map holder can be mounted on the flap of the bicycle bag, which
will serve as waterproof navigation. Of course, on the tourist market, there
are also other, equally practical models, e.g. mounted on a frame or placed
under the saddle.
How to pack the
equipment?
In the case of the
simplest solution, i.e. a set of panniers mounted on the rear part of the bike,
the matter is very simple. You just need to remember the appropriate division
of equipment into categories. One pannier should contain only things such as clothing,
cosmetics, and a towel. The best solution will also be to put a light
sweatshirt or a raincoat on the top so that in case of bad weather you can
quickly use the additional cover. The second sajwa should be used as a place to
store camping equipment - snacks, freeze-dried food, burner, and tourist
dishes. If you are also planning to sleep in the wild, it is worth having a
transport bag to protect the tent, sleeping bags, and mats against rain.
