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    Pannier bags or fork bags? What are your experiences?


    For a 10-week tour through Europe, I need some extra storage space. Would you recommend rack bags or fork bags, especially in terms of riding comfort?

    Or do you have any other ideas?
    My current setup consists of Cyclite bags (saddle bag, Top Tube Bag Large, Frame Bag XT, Handlebar Roll Bag, Handlebar Aero Bag, food pouches). Switching entirely to different products isn't really an option.

    With rack bags, I could probably do without the saddle bag thanks to the extra volume and continue using the taillight from my ECLIPS dynamo system. On the other hand, I wouldn’t have any splash protection on wet roads…
    With fork bags, I’d have less extra storage space and would still need the saddle bag, but I wouldn’t need a rack.

    Whether on the rack or the fork, I would probably go with Ortlieb Gravel Packs or Fork Packs.

    by FGK_

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    13 Comments

    1. HG1998 on

      Some smaller panniers on an Ortlieb Quick Rack with the accompanying fender.

      The fender is pretty useless for commuting because it’s way too short but in this case, it should be more than enough. You also won’t have to deal with a dirty bag (at least not to the same level)

      Edit: Ah yes, Ortlieb Gravel Pack indeed.

    3. OttawaExpat on

      I did fork-mounted panniers for Europe. It helps balance the weight. But I wouldn’t do this for off-road due to visibility of the ground.

    4. rogermbyrne on

      What about a full frame bag, move one bottle to the down tube and one to a stem bag.

    5. Appropriate-Fudge-49 on

      If riding comfort is your priority, fork bags are the way to go. Especially of you don’t want to rethink your whole setup. Yes, their volume-to-weight ratio is low, which is why they’re usually the first thing to stay at home on shorter rides. But if you need just that little extra space, use them.

    6. TheDaysComeAndGone on

      Tubus Fly rear rack and a pair of small-ish panniers. Then get rid of all the other bags except 1 handlebar bag.

    7. Asleep-Sense-7747 on

      Depends on the volume needed/desired. I have and use both, sometimes at the same time. I much prefer either to a saddle bag as they’re easier to pack, get the weight lower and ride better (unless on technical trails). So I’d recommend the rear rack and panniers without the saddle bag. You can strap something on top of the rack as a spray protector. I put a butt pad and chair there.

    9. GlitteringEngine4225 on

      For 10 weeks I’d go rack and panniers, I’m looking at the ORTLIEB quick rack for a similar trip this summer. Lots of room and flexibility and frees the frame up for bottles.

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