Happy with progress...

[Crankarm]

I tried panniers and just couldn't get on with them. I use a backpack and it can have some serious weight in it but am used to it now (it also makes weekend riding without it a dream!). I wouldn't worry about speed. I spent a phase trying to get my speed up to an average of over 16mph on every ride...When I did, I realised that I didn't enjoy any of the rides as I was miserably pushing away as hard as I could, usually with my head down looking at the tarmac. Now have realised that it's much better just going at your own pace enjoying the scenery :-)

Reason WHY you can't ride any faster is because you have so much weight on your back. Move it to panniers and faster you will go. Period.