Bike Cargo Racks Review

The bicycle is the most efficient mode of transport known to man. Not only can they get us to work, be raced or used for leisure, they can also move cargo. Aside from buying a specific freight bike with carriers built into the frame, there are options to add bike storage and racks like a Bell rack to a standard bike to carry cargo.

Bicycle touring is big in Europe and accounts for many adventure holidays there. Not only is it an environmentally friendly way to travel, it’s also a great way to see different places, meet people and visit out of the way locations. You get to see, hear, smell and experience much more while on a bike as you are part of the experience, rather than insulated from it like you are in a car. Electra bike accessories offer a variety of storage and cargo options.

Cargo carrying bikes are also used heavily for deliveries in dense urban environments. Everything from post to pizza can be delivered by bike. In some cities, the Chinese style rickshaw is becoming increasingly popular as a taxi because they can cut through traffic and don’t pollute.

To be able to use a standard bike to carry larger items you’re going to need a bike cargo rack. Racks like Topeak racks are generally a steel frame that fits onto the front forks or over the back wheel and can have panniers, boxes or a myriad of other things attached to them for transportation. These can also take the form of a trailer that can be attached as a bike rear rack of the bike to carry even more.

The type of bike cargo rack you buy depends on what you need it for. What are you going to be transporting?

If you’re planning a bike tour, then panniers front and rear should be ideal such as Sunlite panniers. They are waterproof and well suited to riding long distances. You can fit a surprising amount into them, and as long as you balance the load equally they don’t affect the ride too much.

For transporting things larger items, like boxes, you’re going to need a platform rack with a wider base such as a . The best place for these is at the front on top of the forks, but can also be rear mounted. Bike cargo racks come in all shapes and sizes and will be designed to suit different types of bike and cargo. For example, the rack for a mountain bike has different mounting points, are sturdier than those for a road bike.

When transporting boxes, especially reasonably heavy ones you have to balance it, and beware of momentum when changing direction. Remember that unstable mass, outside the center of gravity will only want to travel in the direction it’s going, and will need to be “convinced” to change it. This can affect balance, so be careful when transporting larger or heavier loads.

Using a bike to transport goods isn’t new. People have been doing it for hundreds of years. In this age of environmental awareness, traffic congestion and the high cost of cars, bicycles can be the practical, cost effective solution you’re looking for. So look into getting yourself a Wald basket to help you transport items as you commute.

Models

Pricing

A basic cargo rack will cost from around $20, all through to the most expensive at $300.