Well, I think the Radical Design Small Panniers are practical for a low-racer; however,, I think they are more practical and look better having shape as opposed to just hanging as shown in my initial photos below.
So, here are a few photographs with the pannier walls stiffened using Corflute [vinyl corrugated sign material].
I‘ve used the better part of 2 days in completing this project. With the pannier walls in place: I have a nice tunnel for the rear-facing camera [if I choose to shoot video with the panniers on]; I do not have to worry about my taillight being masked my the left pannier; the chain will not make contact with the right pannier; the panniers will not make contact with the rear stays. I fashioned a stand-off for the right pannier that supports its weight. I contact the right stay with a rubber suction cup. I can protect my paint at that point using protective tape. I’ll test ride soon and adjust as needed.
Here are some other views:
Jim,
Those panniers look great! I will definitely have to make the same mods to my set so I can commute on the VK2 or Carbent during colder, wetter months. Thanks for the inspiration. I’m glad you are still having fun with the bike.
Dana
Hi Dana,
Thanks for the visit and compliment. If you have questions, when you are ready, let me know. As I modified them, they are easily installed and removed–less than one minute. I’m loving my VK2 and thinking about my SXP mods, yet riding my DF a lot–near 3K miles so far this year. I’m now working on a way to mount Dinotte Amber lights as side running lights–stay tuned.