Which panniers? Boardman CX with Tubus Vega rack

[Boris Bike]

Hi All,

I've got my Boardman CX (disk brakes) fitted with a Tubus Vega rack but I haven't got around to buying any panniers yet.

It's my commuting bike so I'd like them to be waterproof and large enough to be able to get a shirt in without folding it too much; also maybe some A4 papers from time to time.

Any suggestions? Cheers

 

[GrumpyGregry]

You've gone for a quality bike, and a quality rack, so some sort of quality pannier like an Ortlieb or a Vaude seems in order. I use Back Roller Classics myself.

 

[Boris Bike]

Cheers. I'll see if I can find some of the Back Roller Classics at a hands-on shop to check them out.

 

[lejogger]

I have the same bike and the same rack... and I use the Ortlieb Back Roller plus... Very pleased with them. They're completely waterproof and pretty big... I only use one on the commute and that carries my full suit and shirt etc, shoes, washbag and compact camping towel, so one measly shirt may get a bit lost in there! You could always look at the front rollers as they'll still fit on the back. Really easy to get off and on the bike - it's just one action. The difference between the classic and the plus is that the plus have a quick release adjustment mechanism for if you need to make any adjustments on the move, whereas the classic require a screwdriver. Usually you only ever need to do this once anyway.
Also, the plus are a matte finish in a slightly lighter weight material while the classic are a very glossy (almost pvc) finish. That's the main reason I went with the plus - mere aesthetics.

The only downside is that they're one big cavernous space with one internal mesh pocket for valuables and a slot down the back that you can put papers in. It means that you still really need a rack/saddle bag for your tubes, pump, multi-tool, buff, spare cleats, spare batteries, rain-jacket etc..
Well you do if you're me anyway! I've got the Ortlieb trunk bag with QR fitting for that.

 

[Barbelier]

I've used the Deuter DS Rack Pack Panniers for over 2 years now and they performed well during my JOGLE and since. Totally waterproof and hard wearing.

If you want something smaller you could consider their Deuter DS Rack Pack Low Rider Panniers.

 

[lejogger]

[QUOTE 1753488, member: 45"]Try one of these to carry your shirts in (inside the pannier). They're great.

http://www.breakingfree.co.uk/product/3238/Eagle_Creek_Pack_it_folder_15[/quote]

Ooooooh, it's like a big, cheap one of these! http://www.shirtshuttle.com/main/how-it-works