Like tulip, I think panniers are wonderful. BUT. I don't have a rack on my Bianchi, as I do on the Larkspur. AND. I have to carry the bike + whatever's on it down a flight of stairs to the basement of the clinic, and back up at the end of the day. SO. I've taken to riding the much lighter Bianchi, and putting my stuff either in a backpack from Target ($12) or my medium Timbuk2 ($60). Of the two, I'd say the backpack is the most comfortable! Of course! The Timbuk2 holds more, however, and looks cooler. Depends how cool I want to think I am, I guess! The stability strap on the Timbuk2 keeps it secure against my back. I sweat under both of them.