After 6 months of panniers, I finally see why my knees stopped hurting

I used to ride with a backpack to work every day for like 2 years. My knees always ached by Wednesday. Switched to a pair of Ortlieb panniers last spring and the difference was pretty much instant. After 6 months, I can actually bike 5 days straight without any pain. Anyone else notice how much a backpack messes with your lower body?

2 comments

2 Comments

patriciaellis1mo ago

Yeah that backpack thing really throws off your balance on the bike.

fiona3321mo ago

Idk, I think it's more about the weight distribution than pure balance. When you have a backpack, the weight is all on your upper back so you naturally lean forward to compensate, which puts more strain on your knees trying to keep yourself upright. Panniers keep the load low and centered over the rear wheel so your body stays in its normal riding position. Maybe it's just me but I noticed my lower back stopped aching too after switching, not just my knees. Your knees are probably happiest when your weight stays evenly on the pedals the whole ride.