Last spring, due to a complicated injury, I decided to stop wearing a messenger bag on my back while I ride my bike. I have been experimenting since with bag options/combos.
My first attempt at this was to buy an open-top pannier-tote that I have outfitted with a shoulder strap. It fits a brown bag perfectly so it can't be beat for groceries. It is lightweight, and folds up when not in use. It is no good for general commuting, though as it has no pockets, cover, etc., so right now I am shoving my beloved Timbuk2 messenger bag (this is truly a bag of the past- I bought it used from a friend in '96 and it is still going strong!) into the tote. It barely fits (not easy to stuff in or get out), so by doing this I am losing the functionality and convenience of both bags- it is cumbersome and basically a big hassle to try to access anything that is in my messenger bag once it is shoved into the tote. I do own traditional panniers, but really want a bike bag that I can sling over my shoulder and dart into the bar/work/library (hopefully not in that order) with. I am now thinking about purchasing the Timbuk2 Bullitt Pannier. It is a pannier and messenger bag in one. I think I'll be happy with it, but am looking for a second opinion/last minute suggestions before "bite the bullitt" and shell out $100. <http://www.rei.com/product/797673> I was wondering if anyone else has seen/tried this product, and what they think about it. I am prepared to compromise- I know it won't be a perfect pannier, or a perfect messenger bag. I am looking for these features: -a decent pannier- i.e. easy to place onto/take off rack, stays put on the rack and doesn't rub against my heels while riding -easy access to things placed inside - while the bag is on or off the bike - Comfortable to carry over the shoulder, not too heavy, bulky, etc. -Enough pockets to store my smaller crap (glasses, keys, gloves, wallet, etc), and enough cargo space to fit extra clothes or books -Weather/water-resistant (I don't expect miracles here- I'm not comparing it to an Ortlieb) Thanks fellow bikies, India _______________________________________________ Bikies mailing list [email protected] http://lists.danenet.org/listinfo.cgi/bikies-danenet.org
