Archive for November, 2009
Axiom Champlain Panniers on a REI Novara Safari
November 22nd, 2009
This is in response to the number of inquires I received in regards to the panniers I use on my Novara Safari. I use the Axiom Champlain Panniers. The specs are as follows:
- Rear-specific double pannier
- Reinforced with 1000 Denier water resistant polyester fabric
- 3M reflective safety strip for increased night visibility
- Top mounted shock cord for extra storage
- 3mm Polystyrene Stiffener for rigid back panels
- 4 easy-access exterior pockets
- #5 self healing Nylon Zippers (with tassel to eliminate rattling zipper pulls)
- Compression strap system for larger loads
- Includes rain cover and spare hardware
- Dimensions: 50 x 44 x 16 cm ( 20″ x 17″ x 6″)
- Volume: 65L – 3667 cubic inches
Before I go any further you will see in most my pictures a third bag that sits behind my seat. That is a Topeak Trunk Bag so please just ignore it.
Axiom Champlain Panniers are well made and quite large. In fact so large that I do not require front panniers although for the sake of balance many riders would not recommend this. I believe each bag holds up to 30lbs. The large main compartment is entered through the top of the bag which exposes a drawl cord that keeps all your stuff nicely secured inside.
There are four exterior pockets on each bag. 2 small pockets one which is mesh. A 3rd one that most notable is located at the rear of the bag and will hold a 32 oz Nalgene bottle. 
The last is a zippered compartment located on the top and back of each bag where the included rain covers are stored.
At the bottom of each bag (facing the ground) has a rubberized lower splash plates for durability. There is also a 3 compression strap system for larger loads. One that runs horizontal to the bag and two that run vertical.
The bags secure to your rear rack rack using 2 hangers, a bungee cord that hooks to the bottom of your rack, and a rotating lock that keeps your bags securely attach to your rack even on the roughest roads.
If you have any questions just leave a comment and I will respond to it.
