Versatility
After looking at all the camping alternatives for bikes the last few days, I decided to add a bit of versatility to my own road bike.
The rack only adds about 170 grams extra weight to the bike, and the bag adds about 265 grams....empty of course. I'm sure by the time I add enough "stuff" to take me on an overnighter it'll add about 150 pounds. All kidding aside, I noticed more bikes with racks and bags like this at the "tour de Trees" ride than ever, and it seems to be a growing trend. Into these things disappeared all the extra cold weather clothing, food, extra gloves, rain gear, tools, spare tubes, spare parts, pumps, etc. I have a smaller bag as well, but it weighs empty a little more than this larger one does. It also has the added advantage of making a solid platform for my rear light. I got this with the idea that I would probably take the rack off and put it on when I needed it, but after lifting the bike with it on and riding it a short distance, I may change my mind and leave the rack on permanently. I can also attach the frame mounted pump to it and get it out of the way.
The rack only adds about 170 grams extra weight to the bike, and the bag adds about 265 grams....empty of course. I'm sure by the time I add enough "stuff" to take me on an overnighter it'll add about 150 pounds. All kidding aside, I noticed more bikes with racks and bags like this at the "tour de Trees" ride than ever, and it seems to be a growing trend. Into these things disappeared all the extra cold weather clothing, food, extra gloves, rain gear, tools, spare tubes, spare parts, pumps, etc. I have a smaller bag as well, but it weighs empty a little more than this larger one does. It also has the added advantage of making a solid platform for my rear light. I got this with the idea that I would probably take the rack off and put it on when I needed it, but after lifting the bike with it on and riding it a short distance, I may change my mind and leave the rack on permanently. I can also attach the frame mounted pump to it and get it out of the way.
