New Commuter needs help

[Pace]

Richard,

For panniers, look at ortlieb -- something like the back roller classic or really anything in their line. Some people flinch at the price, but they are completely waterproof, will adjust to securely fit any rack (i've seen them on a city commuter, there's no reason interceptor would be different), hold a ton or roll down to a smaller size and will outlast most bikes. I'm pretty sure they make handlebar bags too if you want that. Arkel is another good brand for waterproof bags, although I like the attachment systems on ortlieb's a bit better.

On lights, for headlights I really like the B&M Ixon IQs that I have, they work really well and last a long time on 4 AA's (I use rechargeable AA's). Look at Peter White's web site and you will find a ton of info on lighting and good brands.

 

[Richard Beck]

Thanks for all the info. Good news bike shop called this evening. Interceptor is in ! Picking it up in the morning.

 

[Reddy Kilowatt]

Congratulations on your new ride.
I can't help you much with regard to panniers. I got some L.L. Bean Grocery Panniers, and they rock, but they don't even attempt to be waterproof as they have drawstring closures at the top. They're made for hauling grub; not camping gear.
But vis-à-vis lights, I am loving a pair that I got from Light and Motion: the Urban 800 headlight and the VIS 180 taillight. While these aren't cheap, they're well made (in the US, no less), are truly waterproof, recharge via USB, and truly kick-a** and take names.
As the name suggests, the Urban 800 has an 800 lumen output and a great beam pattern that totally works for me. In high gear—aka ludicrous output—it almost blisters paint (well not really, but it does annoy the hell out of motorists). I usually use it in the last mode which is a pulsing low that still outputs 175 lumens. It makes me hard to ignore and does a respectable job lighting the way to boot. (I save ludicrous output for the country roads on my commute.)
I hope this helps.
Happy trails on your new eBike.
Allen

 

[eBob]

I personally like the cruiser style seating position as I think it makes it easier to see traffic, and you don't need such an aggressive riding position on an ebike. I have some minor back and wrist issues so the upright seating is key for me. Ymmv.

As for panniers, I just picked up the Thule pack and pedals at bikebagshop.com. Great sale! When I got,mine there were not many left. Act fast.

http://www.bikebagshop.com/thule-commuter-pannier-set-p-3637.html

Not as waterproof as the Ortliebs but they come with a rain cover too. I haven't yet had them in a downpour, just light rain and they were fine without the covers. These are really quite nice and at that price, ridiculous! The pair is cheaper than the cost of one for the new models that replaced them.

As for lights, I also just got the Cygolite metro 400/hotshot combo. They work well and have some good light patterns that make you very visible.

 

[opimax]

I currently have Ortleibs, one City set and one original. Much prefer the original for 1 strap easy closing Original compared to 2 harder to reach on the City which also doesn't have interior pockets. Before purchasing on eBay I checked the web for differences most said the differences read the difference was minor, I would disagree.

I have another question for panniers, I am looking for a set that is covers the motor completely, the ortlieb'sare a little short. I need my stealthiness completely. Anybody found a set ? Other wise the Ortleibs Originals are great.

Mark

 

[Brian(J)]

I currently have Ortleibs, one City set and one original. Much prefer the original for 1 strap easy closing Original compared to 2 harder to reach on the City which also doesn't have interior pockets. Before purchasing on eBay I checked the web for differences most said the differences read the difference was minor, I would disagree.

I have another question for panniers, I am looking for a set that is covers the motor completely, the ortlieb'sare a little short. I need my stealthiness completely. Anybody found a set ? Other wise the Ortleibs Originals are great.

Mark

The larger size Topeak MTX trunk bags have fold down panniers that cover the motor. I leave mine down 100% of the time.

 

[opimax]

Brian, don't remeber if you have a stromer and if you have the city kit , checking details, this will be awesome!

Thanks

 

[Brian(J)]

Dash.

 

[Brian(J)]

Correction,
the Topeak bags don't hide the motor at all. Not sure what I was thinking.