Quote Originally Posted by Biciclista View Post
put the panniers on your bike and see if they interfere with your feet or anything else.
It took me less than 10 feet to eliminate a set - to my great disappointment.
Sadly I can't try it out and there are no local REI stores.... I must admit that the small trunk/panniers have become less attractive since running across the Arkel.

Quote Originally Posted by Blueberry View Post
Haven't tried the REI product, but can vouch for the tail rider. I adore it! I've not been disappointed with anything from Arkel. They go above and beyond IMO with their workmanship. It's just not like what you usually see. The rain cover in the tail rider is really neat, and the straps allow you to attach a jacket to the outside of it. Lots of mesh pockets along the sides. Reflective velcro - they thought of everything. Add a small handlebar bag, and I think you'd be good to go for all but maybe a 1200k (and you get drop bags on those IIRC).
Thanks for your experience with this! It is expensive, and I can get something far cheaper on eBay, but I would rather get something that will last than just go on price alone. I cannot find any bad reviews on the Arkel trunk and I have tried! I also like this will get me a free $40 Adventure Cycling membership if I get it direct from Arkel. Which I will

They do have slightly used models from the Olympics for a small discount, so I guess Mr. Explorer is going to get a bright red trunk

They seem to have a pretty nice map holder that folds out to 8.5 x 11 - that is better than what I have. The fact my cycling glasses doesn't have bifocals means my cue sheets must be in a pretty large font