The requirements for gear will depend on what you are doing. Commute riders, riding to work or school, usually take a bit of stuff, from work clothing to books, laptops and lunch. If you’re doing the shopping or choosing to ride while tackling errands it will be more about what you are taking home with you. You don’t want or need to be loaded down with too much whatever it is you are doing around town. How much gear you need to take or carry home depends on…
- the season and your commitment to riding in all types of weather
- how far you are going
- if you’ll be riding in the dark
- the purpose of your bike trip
For more information on what you need see our story: Gear List for Commute or Urban Riding
Will you be loading your bike up rather than your body? Your ability to do this depends on what type of bike you are riding; standard, E-Bike, Cargo bike. Some types of bikes are better at handling heavier loads than others.
Carrying Gear on Your Body
Back Packs
Back packs come in a lot of size options giving you the ability to choose a bag that will suit your needs. If the bag is primarily for cycling in town look for features that will help you in this environment like a place to attach your helmet, reflective stripes & bold colours to increase your visibility, compartments/pockets to organise your gear so you can access it quickly. A back pack gives you the ability to throw quite a lot of stuff into it. For comfort don’t load your body up too much, we recommend a bag between 13L to 24L.
Why we like back packs… Packs are quick as they are attached to you so go where you go – there’s no mucking about once you have parked your bike.
What you can choose in this section may be expanded by the type of bike you are riding, it’s carrying capacity (strong steel frame) and the size of the frame. A lot of urban bikes will come with rear carriers. When adding weight it is better to have a wide gear range and a good brake system. Remember whatever is attached to your bike can be removed by a thief so if you are leaving your bike unattended you will need to lock it to the bike, empty it out or take it with you.
Front Baskets/Bags
Front baskets or bags offer quick and easy access to gear. Simple things like your handbag, laptop bag, jacket or a couple of books. Bags tend to come with a closing system to secure things, whereas baskets will be open so you need to think a bit more about how your gear is going to be safe.
Why we like front bags/baskets… These options are really handy to easily throw things in. Some will be removable and can be used like a shopping bag when you arrive at your destination.
Rear Baskets/Bags
They will need to be attached to a rear carrier. When used in combination with a front bag/basket they will expand your carrying ability and give you lots of options. Again they can be enclosed or open, so what is better for you?
Why we like rear bags/baskets… simple and small so great for the basics. Some are removable so can be taken like a shopping bag when you arrive at your destination.
Panniers
Good for the heavy stuff, a must for grocery shopping. Again you need a rear carrier to attach them too. Great investment for wet weather riding if you buy waterproof. Even a single pannier will provide you with a lot of space.
Why we like panniers… panniers are a great investment to expand your riding. They give you options and for urban or commute riding let you take more or bring more home.
Towing Gear
Gear trailers
May be something to look into if you’re going car free and it’s not a cargo bike that you ride. A gear trailer or gear platform gives you the ability to tow bigger loads, things that are awkward shapes etc. The placement of weight low to the ground makes the riding more balanced but you will be long, so no tight cornering.
Kids Bike Trailers
If you are a town riding, commute riding family, and you want your child being towed by the bike, consider extra storage or a double seat rather than a single. A lot of the kids bike trailers on the market today come with gear storage or their own panniers. You can also use a kids bike trailer like a gear trailer when your child is not with you.
Why we like Trailers… towing things is an awesome way to take heavier or funny shaped loads. They really give you the ability to take most things by bike.
Your bike riding success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solutions.
Stories & Support
Use our full range of stories & support for gear carrying. All on an easy to navigate page.
Carrying Gear Buying Guide
See all your bike bag, basket & pannier options for riding. Be guided to the right buying decision for the riding you do.
How to Carry Gear - Bike Path, Trail Riding
If you ride on bike paths, easy trails or tracks and want to carry gear with you then this story shows you the options.
Kids Bike Trailer Buying Guide
View your options and let us help you make good buying decisions. This guide gives tips & advice when buying a bike trailer.
Town Riding - Am I Safe?
When you go out for a ride what will keep you safe? Do you need to plan or prepare in a better way? Lets find out.
Riding with Kids Attached to your Bike
When it comes to taking your kids with you on your bike their are lots of options. What would work best for your family?
Support and inspire other riders and families to ride
Share your riding outings, adventures and experiences on our quick and easy question and answer forms. Join us in helping others ride bikes. All entries receive a free shipping coupon and go into our seasonal prize draw.
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