Conference noted::bicycle

2087.0. "Rhode Gear pannier" by NODEX::KIERSTEAD () Mon Sep 23 1991 09:07

    
    I lost a Rhode Gear pannier just five days after I purchased it.
It was lightly-loaded and came detached as I was riding hard along the
Boston side of the Charles River to my job at MIT.  I believe that the rings
that attach the panniers to my bike near the hubs were too soft.  I had noticed
one open up before and had squeezed it back closed with my hand, but I had been
unable to procure replacements.

    Lost in the pannier were important and valuable trappings of my life,
including my wallet (containing $100), my contact lenses, some bike tools,
and a favorite sweat shirt.

     I am attempting to recup the losses from Rhode Gear.  The ring is
missing from the surviving pannier, and the lost pannier has never turned
up.  It is difficult for me to convince Rhode Gear that fault lies with the
product.

    Is anyone is aware of any similar incidents within the bicycling community?
Please, if you own Rhode Gear Panniers, examine the rings and let me know 
your assessment of their quality.

    I have purchased Rhode Gear products in the past and been very pleased.  I
still think that the pannier I bought is an excellent, sturdy product.  I wish
that I had it now.  I am confident that once I got a good, closed, steel ring
on the tie down strap that I would get years of hassle-free, dependable use.


Fran Smith