tl;dr version at the bottom of the post
So I’m looking at getting some Panniers for my bike because my backpack is keeping me ridiculously hot right now (plus it’s just not comfortable with all my food containers and a change of clothes/shoes/etc.)
I’ve got a friend that loves his Ortlieb panniers (http://www.rei.com/product/604989), but the price is kind of turning me away right now.
I’m thinking about getting a pair of Banjo Brothers water-proof panniers (http://banjobrothers.com/products/01110.php), but don’t know anyone who has them. Anyone familiar with them? Also, anyone have suggestions on different brands/models/etc? Waterproof is preferred, but I can always throw some garbage bags on them if they aren’t.
Also, I’m looking for some commuting clothes suggestions. Right now I’m wearing some Nike DryFit shorts with a pair of Novara padded cycling boxer-briefs (they don’t live up to their name) and a t-shirt (cotton/poly blend), but would like something lighter/cooler (temp.). I don’t know if it’s the boxers or the shorts that are keeping me warm.
And finally, I’m looking at getting a pair of good sunglasses. I kind of like these http://www.rei.com/product/800339 because of the interchangeable lenses, but I don’t think I have a ‘small to medium’ face. Anyone with a large face have a pair of glasses you recommend?
So, to make a tl;dr version, I’m looking for:
-Suggestions on Panniers
-Suggestions of bike commuting clothing
-Suggestions for a pair of sunglasses
Thanks!
I have the novara safari panniers ( both the smaller front set and the larger rear set). They are great. Totally water proof. Also quite a bit cheaper than ortliebs and at least as good of quality. I have never used the banjo brand. I commute year round in Colorado and the novaras have always kept my stuff dry. I have used them for probably 5000 miles of riding and they still look new. I just checked reis site and they don’t list them but check the local store they might have a set. Also. The ortliebsvseem expensive but I would be suprised if they didn’t last for at least 10 years of daily riding. Check out thetouringstore.com. He sometimes has better prices on them and is a great guy to deal with.
As far as shorts go. Check out the mens technical liner made by swobo. The have a very light fabric with good ventilation. The chamois is a little soft if you like a dense chamois i would try some of the sugoi pro shorts. Not as airy but a great chamois feel.
Let me know if you have anymore bike commute questions
Dave,
Thanks for the reply. I’m going to stop by my REI and see if they have any in stock. It looks like they’ve been discontinued.
Looked at the Swobo liners and they look nice. I may pick up a pair or two of shorts from them that have liners built in and just save myself the hassle of wearing liners+shorts.
You have any suggestions on the sunglasses?
What I use: http://pacoutdoor.com/bike-gear/panniers
As for sunglasses i get cheaper ones at www.performancebike.com cause i always lose/break them.