Rjays versus Ventura

**Ms Piggy** · 27th September 2009, 14:38

I'm looking to buy a reasonable sized tail bag that I can use for everyday commuting as well as for touring.

I've found a Ventura tail bag that expands to 56L for $189.00 or a San Remo (formally Rjays) that is 47L and I can get for around $130.00.

I've done a search on KBer and there seem to be contradictory opinions on which is better. Obviously because I'm gonna using it on an almost daily basis I want it to be hard wearing.

Any feedback appreciated.

**Blackbird** · 27th September 2009, 15:50

Got a zip-together Ventura system. Have had one bag for 4 years and the other for 8. The older bag had faded slightly and the newer one is till fine. They don't leak as such but a spot of water does get in (I suspect wind blown up through the zip) in continuous heavy rain. No big deal though as I always put stuff inside in a large bin liner. Well-made with no zip problems or stitching. You can also buy straps to turn them into a back pack. I've never done this but it's an excellent idea.

No experience of RJays I'm afraid.

**Highlander** · 27th September 2009, 15:54

Similar to Mr Blackbird.
I have only used Ventura, and have the same set up. A couple of things in the pockets of the bags have benn dampened in HEAVY rain, but in the main part of the bag I have always put everything in plastic bags so has stayed dry.

**sinned** · 27th September 2009, 16:02

I have got two RJ Bags (made prior to San Remo). They both look the same but one expands. I have used both for close on 3 years and have no complaints. They don't leak, even without using the waterproof cover. If in really heavy conditions there is a waterproof cover that stretches over the whole bag.

I don't know what the quality of the new bags but mine are first class. I bought the RJ bag after reading a recommendation from Hitcher.

Clicked the wrong poll option and can't change it Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

**klingon** · 27th September 2009, 16:47

I have an RJays bag that I use to commute every day. It is the expandable one but holds a heck of a lot of stuff even before it's expanded! Every day I carry at least a change of shoes (sometimes a complete change of clothes), my lunch, some paperwork (files, diary), and my (large!) handbag, and there is still plenty of room for occasional extras like wet weather gear, change of gloves, etc etc.

It is not showing any wear and tear although I think we've had it for about four years now and use it for touring as well as daily commuting. I also use it to do the grocery shopping and when expanded it seems to take a whole trolley-full! I put about 30kg of groceries in it at a time!

It comes complete with straps to turn it into a backpack, extra pockets, and a zip-off outside bag so if you're touring you can carry your valuables with you.

My one and only complaint is that it's not waterproof. Water gets in when it rains, and the rain-cover is only really suitable when the pack is expanded, otherwise there is too much extra fabric flapping around. Keeping the stuff inside in plastic bags is essential when riding in the wet.

I have never owned another brand of pack, but I am very happy with the RJays and would recommend it as a really good, versatile pack.

**Hitcher** · 27th September 2009, 17:29

We've got a big Rjays/Sanremo bag. It's marvellous. Capacious, robust, works well on a Ventura rack. Easily repaired if it happens to "go down the road". The rain cover is brilliant and completely waterproof. Use with total confidence!

**Laxi** · 27th September 2009, 17:34

+1 rjays, have a tank pack I use everyday never had a problem

**Coldrider** · 27th September 2009, 17:34

Have ventura pack system since 1993, still in use today.
San Remo, isn't that a small cigar from years ago ?

**sinned** · 27th September 2009, 18:28

Originally Posted by Hitcher

We've got a big Rjays/Sanremo bag. It's marvellous. Capacious, robust, works well on a Ventura rack. Easily repaired if it happens to "go down the road". The rain cover is brilliant and completely waterproof. Use with total confidence!

A 3 year old version of this recommendation resulted in my purchase of Rjays bags.

The Ventura bags appear flimsy.

**Usarka** · 27th September 2009, 18:31

Only ever used ventura but i like 'em. Plus i got some awesome quick (local) service from the manufacturer when there was a tiny issue.....

**slofox** · 27th September 2009, 18:31

My Ventura seat bag was the best thing I ever bought for the bike...bar none.

But I have never tried the other brand so what the f would I know..?

**TOTO** · 27th September 2009, 18:45

Ive got a san remo one, and super pleased with it.heaps of pockets and looks good and not "saggy" when put on. comew with plastic side pannels that keep its shape, so it does not fall on top of my tail light. not expandable tho.

**pete376403** · 27th September 2009, 19:36

Not on your list but Oxford do a pretty reasonable expanding bag, about 300 x 300 mm base expanding to about 450mm high. Has extra straps to convert it to a backpack or shoulder bag, bungies to tie it on, waterproof cover, etc $99 at Motomart.
Havent tried it in the rain but on a recent adventure ride it didn't allow any of the very fine dust we were riding in to penetrate.