What level of load do you want to carry?

Bike carriers are generally classified into three types in relation to how much weight they can safely handle.  Lightweight carriers or cargo cages usually have limited support (2 struts/legs) or they will be suspended or screwed to something like a handlebar, down tube or seat post.  Mid weight carriers will be stronger and have three struts/legs to cope with weight up to 30kg.  It is this type of carrier that is best used with rear mounting Kids Bike Seats.  Mid weight carriers are versatile and give you good options.  A strong heavy weight carrier (35kg+) will be used for bike touring and is designed to take the weight of loaded panniers on the front and/or back of your bike.

What type of bike do you ride?

Carriers and racks need to be attached to your bike and not all bikes are compatible for this type of use.  Carbon frames should have nothing screwed or attached to them so carriers are out.  The best material a bike frame can be constructed from for attaching carrier that need to take heavy loads is steel.  If your load is not going to be heavy then reinforced aluminium will work.

Full suspension mountain bikes are difficult to attach things too.  Often they don’t have the space on the frame, and rear suspension eliminates traditional rear carriers as an option.  A new type of carrier has been designed to work with these types of bikes (see Lightweight Bike Packing Carrier) but these carriers can only take lightweight loads.

Special mention of cargo bikes which will come with gear carrying ability in the form of buckets and/or flat extended rear racks.  E-Bikes also often have integrated strong rear carriers and are perfect for the challenge of riding with extra weight.

Match your gear to a type of Carrier

Some carriers are just designed for certain things so should be what you consider for that specific task.  They is a strong connection between the type of things/stuff you want to carry and the best method of doing this.  A simple example is the ease of use of a front carrier or basket for round town riding where you do not need to transport much – perhaps a handbag or jacket.

If there is a need to carry heavier or bulky items we recommend a rear carrier with panniers.  Panniers are perfect for this type of gear carrying.

The following stories will give you some ideas about gear carrying and what might suit you the most.  How to Carry Gear – Bike Path, Easy Trail, Supported Day Riding.  How to Carry Gear – Commute or Urban Riding.  How to Carry Gear – Unsupported Multi Day Riding

Carrying a Lot of Gear

As your gear list or shopping list gets large your carrying options will need to expand.  This can be done by having multiple carriers, racks, cages or baskets to spread the load.  What you chose here may depend on where you intend to ride your bike or the type of bike you have. Again understanding what you will be taking with you on your rides, really helps in choosing the right methods of attachment for that gear.

Lightweight Carrier/Cage Solutions

Mid Weight Carrier Solutions

MAKE YOUR PURCHASE A SUCCESS…

Carrying gear and being safe.

Always spread your gear making the load easy to manage.  Keep yourself and your bike well balanced.  Practice in a safe environment before carrying a lot of gear for the first time.

Regularly check attachment points and tighten loose screws as the vibration of riding can loosen them over time.

What is the right Bike Carrier solution for you?  Your success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solution