(no subject)
This weekend I finally got around to making a pannier for my new mountain bike. My other bike has a basket pannier attached, where I just throw by backpack when I bike to work. For the new bike, I don't want to attach a basket, as I will be using large panniers for touring this summer. But I intend to borrow the touring panniers, so I still need a way to carry stuff on the new bike, without using a backpack, too sweaty. :)
SO I decided to convert an old messanger bag into a pannier to clip on the mountain bike rack. Here is the bag:
It is quite hardy and water resistant, except for a small hole in the top of the flap. I purchased pannier clips and an elastic with J-hook from MEC. Then I used foamboard to stiffen the back, so as to prevent the bag from sagging into the spokes, NOT a good thing. Here is the back with the hardware:
And lastly, here is the finished product on the bike:
It is very sturdy and doesn't move at all on the bike. I have to admit I am ridiculously proud of it. It took about an hour or so. Added bonus, there is now a place for my U-lock in the back of the bag, where the screws are fastened on the inside. Score!
Other plans for my bike include bar ends to vary hand position, front and rear lights (purchased, but to be mounted), water bottles and cages and possibly new, slicker tyres.
(Props to Aaron for great pics!)
SO I decided to convert an old messanger bag into a pannier to clip on the mountain bike rack. Here is the bag:
It is quite hardy and water resistant, except for a small hole in the top of the flap. I purchased pannier clips and an elastic with J-hook from MEC. Then I used foamboard to stiffen the back, so as to prevent the bag from sagging into the spokes, NOT a good thing. Here is the back with the hardware:
And lastly, here is the finished product on the bike:
It is very sturdy and doesn't move at all on the bike. I have to admit I am ridiculously proud of it. It took about an hour or so. Added bonus, there is now a place for my U-lock in the back of the bag, where the screws are fastened on the inside. Score!
Other plans for my bike include bar ends to vary hand position, front and rear lights (purchased, but to be mounted), water bottles and cages and possibly new, slicker tyres.
(Props to Aaron for great pics!)