The lower hook has a good range of sideways movement and can be slid right off and refitted pointing the other way according to what works best for you. Unlike Ortlieb's QL2 system on my old panniers, there's no up-and-down adjustment for this hook, which makes it slightly less versatile. Ultimately, the Altura is an excellent bag, and though it is quite expensive I would still recommend it – it's extremely easy and convenient to use, with confidence-inspiring protection and good urban-friendly features. Being lighter than many waterproof panniers also makes it an attractive proposition for occasional touring use, adding to its value. Verdict

It fits my essentials, and I only occasionally find myself thinking I could do with a bit more space. I can fit my laptop and peripherals, a book, pair of shoes, lunch and headphones and still have a bit of space to spare as well. Oxford's ever-expanding range of bicycle bags and panniers builds on the company's years of experience with creating reliable motorcycling luggage. The Oxford Aqua V20 Single QR Pannier Bag is affordable, easy to use and adjust, and utterly bombproof and protective. Only the weight and the stiffness of the roll-down top stop it from being pretty much perfect. It's a pity these didn't turn up in time for my tour of the Netherlands in June as they would have got a proper weather testing on the two days it tippled down. In droughty July and August I resorted to testing with the garden hose (no ban in place here); I was surprised to see the water run off with a soapy residue in it. I hope this is just a bit of excess water-repelling treatment and not the whole lot washing off. The water beaded quite well, for a few minutes at least; and I found no hint of damp inside the bags. I’ve not only used this bag while riding but for a wide range of uses and it’s done everything I’ve needed it to without any issues. Build quality I can fit plenty of stuff in there, as long as the top edge of the bag can be rolled over a couple of times to seal it from the weather.

Apidura City Messenger

The biggest issue I found with this bag was condensation, especially in the colder autumn and winter months. Often, I’ll open my bag to find everything inside is a little damp. It’s not horrendous – but it’s something to bear in mind when transporting things such as laptops, which brings me onto my next point… If you wish to return your bike to us please keep it in the box it arrived in and call us on 01772 644340 and we will arrange a collection. I had a small spill while wearing this bag which meant a slight slide down the road, and the bag stood up superbly, with only slight scuffs on the edges. As a responsible retailer we take all steps possible to ensure that our business meets all requirements of any EU & UK consumer protection laws, particularly the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation & Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 and other legislation specific to the products that we sell. I’m very impressed with the build quality. It felt sturdy and solid throughout the time I have spent with it. Threads have started to come loose towards the end of stitching rows, but nothing that jeopardises the waterproofing. Features

Despite the fact that this is aimed at the commuter market, I'd be happy taking it touring too – the additional weight of the pannier itself isn't a deal breaker, and its waterproof and rugged build make it ideal for long days of inclement travel. When I put it on it would take a bit of adjusting to get it fitting right, without the top half hanging off. When it was fitted right however, I could barely feel the bag. Versatility a) If we have sent you the incorrect bicycle, we will cover the cost of collection and delivery of the correct model.Tell us what the product is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it? One of the first things you notice about this pannier, other than the fact that it actually looks quite smart, is that it nicely straddles the line of rugged and protective without tipping over into heavy. The TPU-coated polyester fabric screams durability but the pannier itself isn't going to add too much to the on-bike weight.