REASONS TO BUY
Waterproof
Durable
Simple design
REASONS TO AVOID
Non-adjustable mounting system
Low storage volume
Banjo Brothers Waterproof Pannier Review
A simple, durable, waterproof pannier that is affordable and easy to use
Credit: Banjo Brothers
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Our Verdict
The Banjo Brothers Waterproof Pannier is a simply designed pannier that is durable, waterproof, and very affordable. While its basic mounting system falls short of other higher-end systems that are more adjustable and customizable, this pack is simple to mount and remove from your rack and is also easy to load and unload with its convenient roll-top closure. Its durable waterproof liner makes it a good candidate for keeping cold drinks on ice, its shape and dimensions make it ideal for running errands or packing groceries, and its solid construction makes it capable of daily use.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Banjo Brothers Waterproof Pannier doesn't score as well as other higher-performing models with top-end materials and fancier adjustable designs, but it fills the role of a simple, easy to use bike pack that is durable, waterproof, and plenty affordable.
Performance Comparison
This is a durable and waterproof pannier that has one of the lowest prices in the entire lineup.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Mounting System
The Waterproof Pannier is equipped with a very basic mounting system that consists of a fixed set of metal hooks up top and a lower strap with a triangular hook on the bottom. The two hooks up top are very strong and securely mounted to the pack, but don't offer any adjustability when it comes to their location on the pack or the size of the openings that grasp the bike rack. Depending on the size and shape of your bike rack, it's quite possible that you may not be able to dial in a perfectly snug attachment. We also found that the lower attachment strap and triangular hook are pretty difficult to work with, and potentially ineffective depending on whether or not your rack has a suitable attachment point. While this system is simple and easy to use, it doesn't offer any adjustability and will potentially not work very well with certain rack designs.
The upper metal mountings hooks are very strong but don't offer any adjustability. The lower strap with triangular hook is difficult to work through the adjacent loop.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Storage
The Banjo Brothers Waterproof Pannier scores near the bottom of the lineup in our storage ratings. With a listed volume of 1000 cubic inches, this bag has a single main storage compartment with no other pockets or sleeves but is ideal to use for daily errands or hauling groceries. We found that the internal waterproof liner, which is attached to the pack with velcro tabs, is somewhat bulky and can make it a little awkward to optimize the storage space but can easily be removed during drier weather.
The large main storage compartment is easy to load and unload and has plenty of capacity.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Durability
The Waterproof Pannier is a very durable pack with a rugged 840 denier nylon outer layer with a welded-seam waterproof liner. Unlike many other models, most of the hardware, reinforcements, and mounting system components are made of metal. The thick material is evident when you hold it in your hand, providing confidence in its long term durability. We expect that this bag will last for several years with normal use.
The heavy-duty nylon material and internal liner provide excellent durability.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Weatherproofing
With its welded-seam waterproof liner and simple roll-top closure with a cinch strap, the Waterproof Pannier scores well in our weatherproofing ratings, hence its name! The liner material is very thick and durable, and we would expect that the outer nylon material will provide some initial protection to water penetration as well. The internal waterproof liner is so thick that we would be comfortable using this bag as a cooler to keep drinks cold on shorter day trips. Overall, we are very pleased with this bag's ability to keep water out.
The waterproof internal liner is a little bulky but can be removed during drier weather.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Ease of Use
With its very simple design, the Waterproof Pannier is certainly easy to use but has a few key areas where user-friendliness could be improved. While the main mounting hooks are easy to use, the lower triangular mounting hook is very difficult to feed through the adjacent support strap, reducing its usefulness. And while we appreciate the included shoulder strap, it is not adjustable for ultimate carrying comfort. We do, however, appreciate the reflective trim that is visible from every angle.
Overall, the Waterproof Pannier is easy to use with its simple design.
Credit: Nick Bruckbauer
Value
The Waterproof Pannier is one of the most affordable models in our lineup! While it lacks certain refinements that we might expect to find in more expensive higher-end offerings, it certainly provides simple and basic utility at a fair price. We think that it represents a tremendous value for users looking for a reasonably priced waterproof pannier.
Conclusion
The Banjo Brothers Waterproof Pannier is one of the most affordably priced models in our lineup, and provides great value with its durable and waterproof construction. While it lacks adjustability and certain high-end features, it hits the mark for solid performance at a solid price point.
—
Nick Bruckbauer
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