Small pannier??

[chris-s]

I'm taking the road bike to France for 10 days camping and have managed to get pretty much everything into the camper longflap saddle bag plus a small bar bag, BUT, I haven't got anywhere to carry any food for the day.

I can only think of a small lightweight pannier bag, it's only for a bit of daily grub so no real weight to speak, something like the Altura Arc 15 Rolltop but that seems like it protrudes above the level of the rack which is going to be a problem with the saddlebag that is sat on it. The other option I thought of was just taking something like a football boot bag and cable tieing it to the rack.

Suggestions appreciated.

Chris

 

[hubbike]

what about a fairly large handlebar bag? then you can reach in and grab a snack whenever you feel peckish... also, does that set up (with the weight quite high) mean lousy handling? perhaps 2 small panniers would be preferable..

 

[chris-s]

hubbike, already got a handlebar bag, there is a bit of space in there but not really enough for lunch/snacks plus a bit more on early-closing days.

Being a short-wheel based road bike, the handling is far better with the saddlebag than two loaded panniers where most of the weight would be further back, plus there isn't a lot of heel room.

Chris

 

[pshore]

One approach is to take a rucksack, but buy provisions late in the day so you don't have to wear the rucksack all day. But, having just got back from France, I found you have to buy everything early in the day before all the shops shut.

Looking at your photo, could you: ditch or move the underseat pouch. In that space you might be able to squeeze something wider - another bag, or perhaps move your green tent from the top of the saddle bag leaving room in your saddle bag.

I am mighty impressed you have full camping gear in there - it looks almost like credit card touring !

 

[chris-s]

Think I may have found the answer...

...a small rucksack I found I'm the back of the wardrobe? It's bigger than what I had in mind but doesn't need to be filled up and is very light.

I did a short five mile ride all loaded up this evening and it felt sweet, tho it did feel a little squirrelly when I got to 30, not that I intend to do that much on tour.

The large saddlebag is chocca, hence the reason for a little extra. The small toolbag could probably be done away with but I think anything large enough for grub and little bits would likely rub on the back of my legs.

I'll do a kit list before I leave, it's all there and under 10 kilo's, I hope!

Chris