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I sometimes use panniers for bikepacking on the mtb, usually when I'm taking a packraft and don't have enough space with just the normal bikepacking typed bags. I've got some Altura ones, Vortex ultralight I think. About 15ltrs each, very lightweight and waterproof. They were ideal until they slowly fell apart over the course of my last trip, needing ever more cable tie repairs each day.
I'm now looking for replacements. Something similar but more durable (presumably this will come with an increase in weight). They need to be able to withstand 'proper' mountain biking on the back of a hardtail without getting shaken to bits. Ideally they would be reasonably un-faffy to take on and off, as when I'm using a packraft they go inside the cargo fly.
Anyone got any suggestions? Currently thinking either some smaller ortlieb front panniers, or possibly contacting a local firm that make custom climbing/mountaineering rucksacks and seeing if they can make something
Have you looked at the Alpkit stuff , currently on offer too.... https://alpkit.com/collections/panniers-and-mountable-drybags
I'm using Agu sport quorum on a Thule pack 'n pedal rack on the suss. The Agu are older and a bit heavier, but really well made of cordura and have built in waterproof covers.
They usually pop up on ebay and you can get them for a song. They usually have the klik fix system.
I've use carradice super c front panniers all along the WHW and some other tracks. An extra strap over the top to stop elephant ears flapping and they are solid and have worn well.
I keep coming back to using Ortlieb front roller panniers on the back.
I am using Vaude ones now which are fine but ortlieb is better in my experience.
I prefer panniers for bikepacking anyway as I hate big bags on the handlebars and I don’t like swaying seat packs.
I had a look at the Alpkit panniers in their shop and didn't really rate them. No quick release and could probably only handle roadie stuff.
I went with Ortlieb gravel panniers. Quick release and double bottom mounts to help with the shaking. Plus a long warranty...
Ortlieb front rollers here. Had them about 12 years and were used daily on the commute, then no commutes, but back to commuting off road with them on my 90's rigid MTB along the canal. They are very tough.
Thanks for the answers all. Liking the look of the Ortlieb gravel panniers
You can add a second anchoring hook to Ortlieb panniers to hold them more securely over rough ground and reduce rattle.
2nd the Ortlieb Gravel Pannier, bought and used for King Alfred's Way. Good and solid with the 2nd clip as standard, maybe a bit smaller than your existing ones though. Bought for under £100 for the pair earlier this year.
I used Ortleibs for many years until they fell apart, before going the bikepacking luggage route in 2014. I'm not anti-pannier, though, and got a set of Carradice Carradry Universal panniers as an experiment in April this year. Simple, 20l the pair, front or rear. I initially strapped them down with a Rockstrap but gradually gained enough confidence not to bother - they hold at least as well as the Ortleib classics I used to have. I still prefer bikepacking bags (I'd forgotten what a pain pushing/portaging can be with even small panniers), but overall pretty pleased after a couple of multi-day trips in Wales and Scotland.
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