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Join Date: Feb 2016
Location: SE Wisconsin
Posts: 1,852
Bikes: Lemond '01 Maillot Jaune, Lemond '02 Victoire, Lemond '03 Poprad, Lemond '03 Wayzata DB conv(Poprad), '79 AcerMex Windsor Carrera Professional(pur new), '88 GT Tequesta(pur new), '01 Bianchi Grizzly, 1993 Trek 970 DB conv, Trek 8900 DB conv
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I think lower(lower center of gravity) will improve handling, but..there's always a but, it depends on where you're riding. The low pannier on front rock-brush strike issue is always raised in discussions like this. I have to wonder just how many people actually run into exactly this same issue when riding. If one is riding an open area trail or gravel/fire road, then I'm not seeing any obstacles to get hung up on. If the intent is to ride more technical single track then clearly low front panniers aren't the best choice. In town, low panniers can brush curbs depending on how low the panniers are..just being mindful solves that.
The (one) alternative of course is the bikepacking route where everything is mounted up high on the frame. This solves the technical single track issue, while trading off a much higher CG..and experiencing any potential associated handling issues everywhere except on technical single track.
..the right tool for every job..