Bicycling Tips: How to Carry Stuff
When people are asked why they commute by car, one of the most common answers is that “it’s just easier.” Many factors lead to this view. While we can’t address them all in a single blog, we can take a look at one of them! Commuting via bicycle can be challenging when you are bringing along some extra cargo. Say you are grocery shopping and know you will have bags when returning home. It’s easy to rule out bicycling because you have nowhere to put the bags. While a bike doesn’t have a trunk, there are a lot of ways to make some space. Here are a few of our favorite ways to carry things on a bike.
To make the most out of these methods, install a rear rack on your bike first. If it didn’t come with one, it is well worth the investment if you hope to use your bicycle for commuting. You can find them online and install them yourself, or visit a local bike store if you need assistance on what to get and how to install the rack. A rear rack is an essential item for the commuter.
Backpack
A backpack is a great go-to for a quick and easy trip! Most people have one already, and it doesn’t take much work to throw it on as you grab your bike. It is perfect for carrying small items such as wallets, keys, and phones.
Keep a few things in mind when you use a backpack. Biking is hard work, and your back might get sweaty and irritated from having something in such close proximity – especially with the Memphis heat! Additionally, adding weight to your back can make it harder to ride.
Front Basket or Handlebar Bag
This is another excellent option for light loads. If you are looking to hop on the bike and go, a front basket or bag is the answer for where to stick your keys, phone, and other small items.
Remember that anything hanging from your handlebars can affect handling if the load starts to get too heavy. You also need to be careful to not mash your gear and brake cables when attaching the bag or basket.
Milk Crate
Cheap, resourceful, and useful! You can never go wrong with the classic milk crate for carrying heavy loads while you ride. When attached to your rear rack, the weight will be evenly distributed on each side of the bicycle frame. The crates can easily be connected by bungee cords to hold them in place and are easy to remove if you want to take the crates off and carry them inside when you reach your destination.
One thing to watch out for is that your back might bump against it as you ride, but this consideration should not be a big concern.
Trunk Bag
If you want to carry delicate or breakable items, look no further. A trunk bag is the perfect means of transportation for something that is lightweight and needs a little protection. These bags sit squarely on your rear rack and also help to protect the contents from the elements. As a bonus, some of them have panniers that will fold out the sides.
Panniers
While we are on the topic of panniers, have we mentioned we love them? They are fantastic for carrying a wide variety of things. Not only do they evenly distribute heavier loads to make biking easier, they also carry them lower for easier handling. If you are commuting to work, a pannier is a great way to carry items like a laptop. While they can be on the pricier side, they are worth the investment. The right pannier will last longer than you expect. Additionally, certain brands are entirely waterproof, making them perfect to brave the weather with items that cannot get wet.
When using a pannier, keep in mind that it may shift and strike your heel while riding.
Extra Bungee Cords
Having a few extra on hand can be a game-changer! You can attach unexpected or oddly shaped items directly to your rear rack, or secure items in a front basket that might fall out. If you get an unexpected gift while visiting a friend that you weren’t prepared to carry – bungee cords to the rescue! Stop at that store that you said you wouldn’t? You know how to secure your purchase. No matter what the scenario, bungee cords will save the day again and again.
Cargo bikes
If you carry items often, you may want to consider investing in a cargo bike. They are a very common sight in countries around the world and are becoming increasingly popular and affordable here in the U.S. Cargo bikes are perfect if you are carrying kids, pets, and almost anything else you need to take with you!
So, do you feel ready to ride? We love how easy these methods are for helping you get cargo from point A to point B.