Panniers

[Remy]

Got any recommendations for decent sized soft panniers (pref weatherproof)?

[Capitano]

I've had a pair of oxford blue nylon ones for what seems like for ever (early 90s at least) and they weren't new when I got them.

Definitely recommended but not very sartorially elegant.

[Guest philgale]

think i had some oxford ones upstairs i dont use anymore, got the bigger expandable ones. there either oxford or buffalo (pretty sure the oxford) with waterproof covers for them.

[techno]

Are they the ones referred to as oxfors first?

As for water proof, hmmm I would recommend putting eveerything in carrier bags as well anyway.

[Capitano]

Mine predated the Oxford First-time panniers.

They came with wrap around grey nylon covers.

Even without them they have been 100% waterproof...in fact I've never used the covers and don't even know where they are now. Fold-over seams and yards of velcro keep 'em sealed.

Would I trust 'em though? Well the fact that every trip with them is prepared for with the purchase of a roll of 20 bin liners is the answer to that one.

[salsarider79]

I've used my Oxford First soft panniers in some pretty nasty weather (I use the rain covers if it's wet) and so far nothing has got wet (I should also point out I don't wrap things up in bin bags). They are easy enough to fit, best if you get help to hold them in place as it can be a three handed job sometimes. I doubt it'd be any better with any other soft panniers mind.

I'm always carrying stuff so they have been well used from last summer to the first part of this year. I crashed my bike at 60mph in April and they don't show any marks on them at all. Doubt that would sway anyone to buy them but it's good to know they are that well built.

[Throttled]

I've used my Oxford First soft panniers in some pretty nasty weather (I use the rain covers if it's wet) and so far nothing has got wet (I should also point out I don't wrap things up in bin bags). They are easy enough to fit, best if you get help to hold them in place as it can be a three handed job sometimes. I doubt it'd be any better with any other soft panniers mind.

I'm always carrying stuff so they have been well used from last summer to the first part of this year. I crashed my bike at 60mph in April and they don't show any marks on them at all. Doubt that would sway anyone to buy them but it's good to know they are that well built.

 

OK, so potentially silly idea, but I had been thinking for biking in the snow and ice (I have already done it as I started last November and intend to ride all year) to get cheap soft panniers, fill them with rags and then if I fall, they act as protection for me and the bike. I would be doing speeds at no more than 20mph, usually less in such conditions anyway.