Wednesday, April 01, 2009

Rackless paniers for commuting


Well the first thing to figure out when cycling to work is how you'r going to move your stuff.

Two options become obvious:


1. A Rucksack

2. Rack and Paniers


I've had a bike with a traditional panier system for some time and it's been handy for local shopping, fish and chip runs and the like but it is bulky and fairly ugly and the rack has to be fitted permanently.


I've also tried the Backpack route, which is cheap and simple and definetely works. Downsides are a sticky back and again some balance issues on the Bike. Also pulls on the shoulders which start to ache after a while.

Well I found an alternative in the nattily entitled Knog Dog range from Australia.

In essense they offer a variety of Rackless Paniers - which clip to the Bike frame with sturdy clips and then can be stored when not in use off the bike leaving the whole frame clear, clean and rack burden free.

The one I bought was the £109 item which fits several shirts, undies, socks and a Laptop and Power Supply and works well.

Of course balance on the Bike is effected and extra caution is required when sprinting along but on balance it's a great solution as it can left off the bike and in the office until the end of the week and leaves others standing.
Recommended - seek it out.
Meanwhile here is the Manufacturers spec:
Manufacturers funky website : http://www.knog.com.au
Rackless double pannier bag.Super light weight internal bag frame slips smoothly and securely into three nano small frame attachments.Handmade wter resistant construction using heavy weight 1200D fabric with taped and sealed seems.Water sealed zippers all round keep dust and water out.Wheelside, waterproof hardwearing tarp and a full wrap raincoat.Drape your threads over and ride crease free.An extra tough padded 'no fleck' laptop sleeve vertically fits laptops up to 15.5", there are pockets for your mp3, phone, pda or bike tools.Internal organiser pockets and a zippered rear pocket complete the inside.Can be unzipped to the full length of your clothes. Hardware allows you to wear you NEAT DOG left or right handed.

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