One of the most important things to consider when you begin cycling to work, is how to get your stuff to work. Another important question is getting it there without destroying your lunch/shirt/vital documents.
On a good day, maybe all three.
On top of keeping your kit safe, you’ve also got to think about your comfort. That rucksack you’ve had since school isn’t going to cut it. No bike specific structure means it’ll be drenched in sweat in no time. No unique compartments means your lunch may well meet your shirt earlier than you expected. Buying something that is fit for purpose will keep you comfortable and your gear clean and safe.
There’s a two ways you can achieve this. Cycle specific bags are one. Created with individual compartments, often waterproof with a good airflow system. Another is something that’s attached to your bike, large saddle bags and of course panniers.
Both have their advantages…
Bike specific backpacks are great for those after a more adaptable
approach – something that can just as easily be taken off the bike.
They aren’t really suitable for longer distances, with even the
best-designed backpack feeling a bit uncomfortable after a while. For
relatively short distances though, or for those who want something
that’s more versatile this is the way forward.
Ogio bags are relatively new to the biking scene but are quickly making an impression. Their backpacks are skate/snow inspired in looks but have enough bike specific features to make them very popular with cyclists.
Want something that’s easy to access whilst on the bike? Then you’ve
got to be looking at a messenger/courier bag. Not just easy to use and
comfortable over short distances, messenger bags are also style icons.
Knog’s Baksak is a great example of this. It looks good, has a load of
very handy features. Rip resistant, waterproof tarp, big volume…
Pannier bags are the classic way to transport belongings on a bike. The
main reason for this is because they leave you’re body unencumbered and
allow your bike to take the strain of heavier stuff. Panniers need a
bike rack to attach to your bike and generally have either water
resistant covers or an accompanying tarpaulin. Most also have some kind
of reflective surface to ensure you’re bike is visible at the level of
the car driver.
Saddlebags and trunk bags are getting more useful. Mostly because
better technology is allowing for bigger loads to be attached to your
seat post. Topeak do a fantastic range of bags and racks that attach to
your bike via your seat post.
Whatever you plump for there's some things that you should consider. Even if you're a fair weather commuter you'll probably get rained on at some point. Also, if you cycle on roads a degree of reflectivity is very important. Some bags will even come with a very handy clip for attaching lights. Try and buy your bags accordingly.
