8 Pros + Cons of the Banjo Brothers Bike Panniers
I love biking for transportation. But carrying stuff is an underrated PITA among the urban cycling community. Backpacks get *real* uncomfortable *real* quick – and so do shoulder bags. I’ve got a basket, but it’s small, etc, etc.
Either way, back in 2013 I put a rack on my road bike and bought some Banjo Brothers bike panniers off Amazon. I’ve used them for 12 years (like, the same pair). Here are a few notes from using them.
Banjo Brothers bike panniers strike a great balance between function and simplicity, offering excellent weight distribution and solid construction. They have plenty of storage space, but the shoulder strap can be uncomfortable, and the straps need frequent adjustments.
- Excellent balanced design prevents awkward swaying
- Material holds up in various weather conditions
- Well-designed straps provide secure carry while riding
- Generous storage capacity with easy access to items
- Shoulder strap is uncomfortable for carrying
- Straps need constant adjustment
- Can get caught in the wheel if not loaded correctly
- Newer models may have different design tweaks
Pros
Excellent Balanced Design
The pannier’s design strikes a good balance between functionality and simplicity. On my Trek road bike, the weight distribution feels natural even when loaded down. I particularly like how the pannier sits close to the bike’s center of gravity, which prevents awkward swaying during rides (unlike a front-loaded basket). The rectangular shape helps maintain stability while cornering, and the low-profile design reduces wind resistance compared to bulkier or rigid options.
Material Lasts a Long Time
After 10+ years of near-daily use in Atlanta weather (crazy hot, crazy cold, and absurdly humid) the material has held up. The heavy-duty waterproof fabric shows minimal wear despite constant exposure to sun, rain, and road debris. I’ve never experienced any water seepage, even during heavy downpours. Except for the bottom right corner when it got caught in my spokes (in the cons), the stitching remains intact with no loose threads or separating seams, demonstrating pretty good construction quality.
Straps Are Well-Designed for Secure Carry
The mounting system is straightforward yet secure. The main strap loops around the saddle post. And the over-strap hooks onto the base of the rack inside the pannier on either side, and haven’t loosened during rides. If I strap it correctly, it does not swing while pedaling.
Lots of Usable Capacity
The storage space is deceptively generous. I can easily fit my laptop, gym clothes, lunch, Nalgene, and miscellaneous tools with room for errands. The main compartment’s wide opening makes packing and accessing items simple. Two small pockets help organize smaller items while the large main space accommodates bulkier gear.
Cons
Not Comfortable to Carry Across Shoulder
The shoulder strap design is one of my biggest frustrations. After dismounting my Trek I often need to carry the pannier into shops or my office. The basic strap digs uncomfortably into my shoulder, especially when the bag is fully loaded. There’s minimal padding and the strap tends to twist. I’ve tried adjusting the length but haven’t found a truly comfortable carrying position. For short distances, it’s manageable, but anything over 5 minutes becomes noticeably uncomfortable.
Straps Need Constant Adjustment
Even though the straps that hold the pannier to the bike are still good, they don’t have any clicking or lock to keep them in place. They stay purely on tension in the buckle. On one hand, it does make the design more versatile and simpler, but it’s also never strapped perfectly.
Can Get Caught in Wheel If Not Loaded Correctly
Through trial and error, I’ve learned that proper loading technique is crucial. Several times (usually when pedaling too hard), the bottom corner of an improperly loaded pannier has caught in my rear wheel spokes. The key is to pack heavier items at the bottom, ensure the bag is properly tensioned on the rack, and not pedal or rock too hard.
Newer Models May Have Different Design Tweaks (Mine is circa 2013)
My decade-old model has been reliable, but Banjo Brothers has made several updates to their newer panniers. The mounting hardware appears more refined, and reflective elements have been added. The shoulder strap design may have improved too. While I can speak to the long-term durability of my 2013 version I can’t verify if the newer manufacturing maintains the same quality standards. The core design seems similar though.
Tips & Best Use Cases
Optimal Packing Method
I always pack heavier items at the bottom and closer to the bike frame. My laptop goes in first followed by books or groceries. This prevents the dreaded wheel rub that can happen with poor weight distribution. Soft items like clothes work great as padding between harder objects.
Weather Protection
While these panniers are water-resistant I still use trash bags inside during summer storms.
Next Steps
Panniers on a rack were a little pricey upfront compared to just using a backpack. But so far, it’s been totally worth it. No sweat on the back, safer riding, no aches, and more weight capacity – all make the panniers worth it. A++
