Yay! A non-spam question today. I hope it doesn't get lost.
Have a RadCity 5....Love love love it. I bike to work when weather permits - about 5 miles, city roads and some hills. I have a briefcase bag with computer (about 16 x 12 x 5 inches) that rides strapped in a Hoobbii rear basket that is starting to split. It's not bad for the ride...not too wobbly or anything. (I find the front rack more dicey for heavy things) Debating on switching to a Pannier bag to carry my work items (computer and tablet, wallet, etc) or to get that larger rear rack Rad sells or something else. I like the idea of the Pannier (like Arkel) but worry it will make the bike feel lopsided. Or that my feet will hit it. I would love feedback from commuters and what they prefer. Thanks!
i used to have a milk crate on my back rack for all my stuff for commutes. and then one day, one of the bungee cords that attached it stretched out a bit too much, and kerplunk.
I switched to Panniers and realized I should have just gone that route all along. I do have them on both sides, but as far as weight distribution, I've never done such a thing, so presumably any lopsidedness is not enough of a difference to matter.
funny thing - when i first was switching, i was worried about hitting the panniers, but those worries are unfounded, and when i really thought about it, people have been using these sorts of bags forever, and if hitting it with your feet was an actual issue, they wouldn't have become so popular.