Carry it by bicycle: Panniers and racks

A bicycle commuter with waterproof panniers / Mickie Quick, Flickr.com

Ah, the rack. Although you generally see them empty or with only a water bottle wrapped in a spider web of bungie cords, they are actually quite useful. Racks are designed to be used with panniers, or side bags, that attach to the rack and hold your cargo. Not only are you able to carry two or more panniers, offering greater capacity than a single backpack or messenger bag, but the weight is carried by the rack and bicycle. The first time you ride with a heavy load that’s not bearing down on your body, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to start using a rack.

Rack and pannier combinations vary widely and offer many combinations for different bicycles and uses. Many racks are very inexpensive and can be purchased to fit most bicycle frames. If you are going to carry more than a few pounds of cargo, you should buy a rack that connects directly to your bicycle frame with rack braze-ons and bolts or clamps. Avoid racks that attach to the seat post with a single clamp.

Specialty and custom racks cost much more than budget, basic racks, but can be built to fit unusual bicycles or meet unique requirements. However, unless there’s a specific reason to spend the extra money on a high-end model, a standard rack is perfectly sufficient.

The most important decision is the type of pannier or bag that you use with your rack. Panniers cover a wide range of cost and features, from expensive, waterproof, touring-specific models to low-price, wire baskets designed to carry grocery bags and produce. For most cyclists, the panniers will be a much more significant investment than the rack.

Be honest when evaluating how you will use your bicycle and purchase your bags accordingly. Many riders buy high-end, touring panniers because they want to ride across the country someday. Finding an economical, practical basket would be a wiser choice for most of us. Wait to purchase the Orleibs until you actually plan the great touring adventure!

Companies like Avenir, Jandd, Delta, and Arkel offer specialty panniers that can carry work clothing, computers, and files. Wald and Delta sell collapsible wire baskets sized for paper grocery bags. You could even attach plastic milk crates to a rack if you’re on a budget.

No matter what kind of rack and panniers you decide to purchase, you’ll be amazed at how functional and practical a bicycle can be when you can carry heavy loads without breaking your back.