Since Iceland will be the biggest trip that we have done to date, we decided that we needed to do a test pack to check that all the kit would fit into the new panniers. After doing this, we realised how much stuff we had and decided that we would need to do a test ride to check that we could actually cycle with it all on the bike. This will be my bike. I usually only use small front panniers on my rear rack but these are the full size proper rear panniers with a large drybag containing sleeping bags on the top. I didn't really notice too much difference as it's been such a long time since I rode with panniers that I don't remember how heavy they were. Still it felt like hard work!
This, however, is Tim's bike. He has small front panniers on the back with the tent on the rack, so far so normal for him. For extra space for all the kit we have, Tim has bought a front rack and is using my usual front panniers. Apparently it's feels rock steady to cycle in a straight line but turning is like turning a tanker. The thing he dislikes most about it? The colours don't co-ordinate any more!