Best ebike panniers and bags: 5 picks compared

Panniers hang the load low and to the side, which keeps weight off your back. That suits an e-bike, which already has weight to move.

What to look for

1. A rack that fits. Panniers hook onto a rear rack. Check your rack's load rating before you fill a pair.
2. Waterproofing. Roll-top closures and welded or taped seams keep rain out. Look for a stated rating, such as IP64 or IP67.
3. Capacity and weight. Compare litres per bag, and note whether the maker's weight is per bag or per pair.
4. Mounting system. Quick-release hooks let you take a bag off in seconds. Check that the hooks match your rack tube diameter.
5. Heel clearance. Large bags can hit your feet on short chainstays. Look at the dimensions.
6. Warranty. Makers state their own terms; read them.

Our picks

Ortlieb Back-Roller

• Why: A classic rear pannier with a waterproof roll closure and a quick-lock mounting system.
• Key spec: 20 L, waterproof (IP64), a listed weight of 33.5 oz, and a 5-year warranty.
• Check: The US page is titled "Pair" while listing one weight; confirm what the weight covers on the listing you buy.
• Source: Ortlieb US.

Arkel Dolphin 24L

• Why: A larger waterproof pannier for hauling gear on long trips or big shopping runs.
• Key spec: Arkel says it is 100% waterproof, made of 420D ripstop nylon with taped seams, with 24 L per bag (48 L per pair). It lists 1.1 kg per bag.
• Check: At 24 L per bag the pair is bulky, so check heel clearance on your bike.
• Source: Arkel.

Two Wheel Gear Pannier Backpack Convertible LITE

• Why: A pannier that converts into a backpack, useful if you carry things into work.
• Key spec: 22 L, 1.27 kg (2.8 lbs), recycled 600D polyester ripstop with a TPU waterproof coating, and a 2-year warranty.
• Check: It is a single bag, so it loads one side of the rack.
• Source: Two Wheel Gear.

Arkel TailRider

• Why: A trunk bag that sits on top of a rear rack, for lighter loads and commuting.
• Key spec: 11 L, about 0.6 kg (1.3 lbs), an expandable design, and an integrated rain cover stored in its own pocket.
• Check: Confirm the rack top is wide enough for the bag.
• Source: Arkel.

Ortlieb Frame-Pack

• Why: A frame bag for tools, a lock or snacks, which keeps small items off the rack.
• Key spec: Sizes of 4 L and 6 L, waterproof (IP67), and 7.1 oz for the 4 L size.
• Check: E-bike frames often carry a battery, so check that the space inside the main triangle is free before ordering.
• Source: Ortlieb US.

Which bag for which job

• Weekly grocery runs: a pair of 20 L to 24 L roll-top panniers.
• Commute plus office: the convertible pannier backpack.
• Tools and a lock: a small frame or trunk bag, so the main panniers stay free.

How to fit panniers

• Mount the hooks to the rack and adjust them so the bag hangs straight and clears your heels.
• Pack heavy items low and balance both sides.
• Close roll-top bags by folding the top at least the number of times the maker says, then clip the ends.
• Stay under your rack's rated load and your bike's maximum total weight, both listed in its manual.
• Check that straps and hooks do not touch the rear wheel or disc brake.

FAQ

Do e-bikes need special panniers? No. The bag does not know what powers the bike, but the rack and the bike's maximum load do matter.

What does IP64 mean? IP codes are defined in the IEC 60529 standard. The first digit rates dust protection and the second water protection. Check each maker's page for what it claims.

Backpack or panniers? Panniers keep weight off your back. A convertible bag gives you both.

Why do the makers quote weight differently? Some list the weight of one bag and some a pair. Read the label on the page, and compare bags on the same basis.

Can I fit panniers to a rack made by the e-bike maker? Usually, but check the rack's rated load and hook spacing in the manual.