Originally Posted by
autonomy
Every time I see a roadie with a Camelback on my first thought is "Cool, that person must be going on a VERY LONG ride!". Point being, people do it, if it works for you, go for it! I have gone on 'fast' rides with panniers mounted on my road bike and they did not detract from my enjoyment of the ride.
If you're trying to squeeze every bit of speed and power, then a camelback/panniers/etc. may not be optimal.
Though the OP is referencing going for longer rides vs. the 20 miles he's doing currently.. So let's say 50 miles. There should be no question that a Camelback makes no sense for this, unless you're riding thru a barren desert with nowhere to stop. A sweaty weighted bag on your back is not something you'd seek to add because it looks 'cool'.