Quote Originally Posted by Crankin View Post
Not to put a fly in the ointment, but I did find that having the handlebar bag did make a difference in my handling. I had a Detours bag, not too big, on my Trek 5200 for at least a year and when I took it off, I realized it was affecting my stability and cornering. Of course, I am a spazz, so take it for what it's worth. I won't use another one.
I have a pannier on my Jamis, and even when it's jammed packed, once I get rolling, I don't notice that at all.
Do you notice the pannier while getting started? Not that I would start out loading 20 pounds worth of stuff... I am also looking at racks. I would love to get Surly's racks but they are quite heavy so will probably go for a lighter option that will carry at least 40 pounds.