Many riders desire multipurpose panniers, but size ultimately dictates purpose. Those panniers large enough for your urban commute are often oversized for adventure touring, which makes using one pannier for all a compromise. Tailfin’s solution is its new 16-litre pannier product, ideally sized between the brand’s compact 5-, 10-litre, and large 22-litre options. Conceptually referred to as a ‘midi’ pannier, Tailfin’s new gear-carrying solution is marketed as a true Goldilocks pannier, designed to be more things to most riders.

Experienced gravel riders and adventure touring cyclists know that 100 miles of corrugated dirt roads can become a deeply annoying ride when large panniers start shifting. But panniers that are too small lack the carrying volume required for a daily commute or extended gravel tour. 

Tailfin’s 16-litre panniers balance the need for anxiety-free gravel adventure riding with urban commuting utility. These panniers will accommodate a 14-inch laptop for your ride-to-work needs but won’t feel like a drag when linking some flowing singletrack on that weekend adventure gravel ride. 

2024 tailfin pannier explode.jpg
2024 tailfin pannier explode (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
2024 tailfin pannier explode.jpg, by Liam Mercer

Like all Tailfin pannier bags, the new 16-litre option features an X-Clamp mountain system. Designed to reduce bag unwanted bag movement, the X-Clamp has three CNC-machined aluminium components. A single lever cam helps keep the pannier securely mounted, while the X-Clamp’s combination of aluminium, stainless steel screws and nylon bushings promise excellent durability and corrosion resistance for season after season of riding, even through the muddiest winters. 

Weatherproofing is provided by the Hypalon and ripstop nylon construction, protecting your laptop during the weekly commute and keeping those overnight garments dry during a multi-day adventure ride. 

2024 tailfin pannier on bike.jpg
2024 tailfin pannier on bike (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)
2024 tailfin pannier on bike.jpg, by Liam Mercer

Tailfin’s 16-litre ‘Goldilocks’ pannier weighs 570g, with the laptop holster adding 120g. Load limits are 8kg if you commute on smooth tarmac or cycle lanes and halves to 4kg if you use these panniers on more demanding off-road terrain. 

The Tailfin 16-litre pannier is priced at £100, with the laptop holster adding £20. 

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