Different Types of Bicycle Racks and Bags That Cyclists Can Explore

Nearly 3.43 million people in Australia use a bike for transport or recreation purposes in a usual week. In fact, cycling is the most prevalent in Western Australia and the northern territory. Irrespective of what you use your bike for, it’s essential to find something to carry your essentials. It is especially true for those who regularly go on long trips or run errands on their bike. A bicycle bag can best serve this need of all cyclists. Today you can find bicycle bags in Australia having padded back and shoulder straps that you can hook on your bike or carry on your shoulder. Such bags are also waterproof and can withstand heavy showers. Read on to know the different kinds of bags and racks you can carry on your bike.

Racks

Rear rack

This type of rack gives you a stable framework for holding gear on the bike. You can strap items directly to the rack when the weather is fine. Besides, you don’t need a cover. But for rough weather conditions, you can attach bags like panniers and rack trunks to the rear rack. The rear racks can easily carry up to 20 to 50 pounds. Some heavy-duty models can even hold up to 80 pounds. 

Front rack

The front rack provides an extra mounting spot for gear. This kind of rack is mostly suited to the needs of touring cyclists who often carry huge gear volumes. There are two basic kinds of front racks. A standard rack enhances gear capacity because the load can be hung off the sides and carried above the bicycle’s front wheel. The other is the low rider rack that allows you to keep bags on the sides, but the weight is held nearer to the ground, which provides a significant balance.

Bags

Panniers

These are perfect for cyclists to carry everyday essentials and camping gear. You can easily put several items in it, including clothes and get ready for a long-distance ride. These kinds of bags provide a lot of storage space and weather protection. Cyclists can also easily disconnect from a rack on their cycle and take their gear with them. 

Panniers attach to racks through spring-loaded hooks or bungee cords. You can use them either single or in a pair. They are developed particularly for rear or front racks.

Saddle Packs

You can find them in several names, like saddlebag, seat bag, or under-seat bag. They are suitable for carrying small objects, like a spare tube, multi-tool, patch kit, tire levers, and the like. A saddle pack fits below the bicycle’s seat and attaches to the saddle rails itself. Some larger saddle packs have the capacity to carry extra items. On the whole, saddle packs are best for taking lightweight items. They eliminate the need for a bulky rear rack.

Rack trunk

If you require a bag that is small in size than a pannier but bigger than a seat bag, then consider rack trunk. You can carry food items, tools, and a jacket in it. If you’re heading out to a camping trip, you can load your lunch, bike tools, and clothing items in it. Rack trunks also have plastic sheets that reinforce their base part and shape. It also features divided storage, which makes the task of packing very simple. 

In the Australian cities of Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, cycling is being embraced by many families. You can find high-quality bicycle bags in Australia designed to match perfectly with several brands of e-bikes. They have a hook-on system that makes it effortless to hook your bike back on different carriers. Such spacious bags can easily store many daily necessities and allow you to ride with ease.