Every cyclist has things they carry with them on their bike, whether that's just a few personal items (wallet, phone, keys, etc.), repair tools like pumps or spare tubes, or heavier cargo, like groceries and a change of clothes. Whatever gear you need to bring with you on your ride, there's a bag for that!
Bags, racks, and cargo equipment can greatly enhance your biking experience, making it easy and convenient to take whatever you need wherever you need to go. And while backpacks and messenger bags are always an option, they can be bulky and uncomfortable, creating an unequal weight distribution.
So, let's explore the different bag and rack capabilities! Whether you're carrying one or two items or a whole plethora, there's a wide array of bag sizes, styles, and mounting options to solve your cargo and transportation needs.Â
In the following post, we'll cover:
- Different kinds of bike bags for racks
- Bike rack usage and functionality
- Different kinds of bike-mounted bags
- Hydration products
Bike Bags: Keep Calm and Carry Cargo
It may seem obvious, but bike bags are a perfect way to carry numerous different items, including:
- Personal items (phone, wallet, keys)
- Bike lock or lights (remember to take them with you if you're leaving your bike unattended!)
- Tools (flat repair kit, spare tubes, pump, multi-tool, etc.)
- Snacks or water
- Clothes (especially if the temperatures fluctuate)
- Groceries and other heavier cargo items
The first and most important question to ask yourself is a no-brainer: What do I need to carry? Determining your size and weight needs will help you find the perfect-sized bag and lead you toward the ideal mounting option(s).Â
On that note, bike bags can be separated into those that attach to a rack and those that attach to the bike frame. Let's start with bags that attach to racks.Â
Bike Bags for Racks
There are two main types of bags that attach to a bike rack, which is usually found on the rear of the bicycle. Because of the greater size capabilities with this kind of bag, they're ideal for carrying larger, heavier items and distributing the weight evenly on the back of the bike.Â
Panniers
Bike panniers are larger bags that hook onto the rack and can be removed easily. Rear panniers, which attach to or hang over the rear bike rack, are the most common, although front rack panniers are also available if you need additional carrying capacity.Â
Due to their size and flexibility, these are great for larger items like clothes or laptops/tablets. Some have straps so they can be turned into backpacks, and many of them have additional features, like waterproof materials and open-top design (like a grocery bag), to make them even more convenient.Â
Our Recommended Pannier: Ortlieb Back Roller Pannier
Whether you're touring or commuting, if your cargo has to reach its destination dry, the Ortlieb Back Roller panniers are for you. Durable polyester fabric makes this pannier a long-lasting touring companion. The waterproof roll closure ensures safe and dry storage, while the innovative fixing attachments make it quick and easy to mount and take off the bike rack.Â
Trunk Bags
Trunk bags generally have expanded capacity for carrying larger items, and some have fold-down pockets that work like panniers. Trunk bags attach to the top of the rear rack through a variety of mounting options, including integrated attachment systems (which allow the bag to easily slide and click into place) or straps for easy on/off access.
Our Recommended Trunk Bag: Topeak MTX DX Trunk Bag
The Topeak MTX DX trunk bag is a medium-capacity bag featuring a divided main compartment and two zippered side pockets. It's constructed with Topeak's process that combines rigid molded panels with flexible, water-repellent fabrics. This trunk bag integrates with all Topeak MTX QuickTrack system racks for extreme ease of use and stability.
Bike-Mounted Bags
There are many different sizes and styles of bags that mount onto different areas of the bike frame: under the saddle, on the frame (most commonly the top tube), or on the handlebars. These are generally smaller than panniers or trunk bags, which make them ideal for just a few personal or repair items; but some bike-mounted bags take up the entire frame triangle, providing a decent amount of cargo space.Â
Our Recommended Bike-Mounted Bag: Pretty Good Bike Goods Medium Saddle Pack
Stick the Pretty Good Medium Saddle Pack under your saddle and attach it to your seatpost for an easy way to bring light, compact items on long rides. Comes with reflective accents for high visibility. Pretty medium and very convenient.
Feed Bags
One important subcategory of bike-mounted bags is feed bags, which attach to the handlebars near the head tube. As the name suggests, these bags are designed to hold snacks or water bottles, and they're easy to access while riding so you don't have to stop and get off your bike for a little nourishment.Â
Our Recommended Feed Bag: Cedaero Devil's Draw Pack
The Cedaero Devil’s Draw feed bag is that pack you just can’t stay away from...especially when it’s filled with Swedish Fish or certain beverages. The drawcord closure cinches around your water bottle’s neck like your favorite Minnesota scarf and can be operated with one hand.
Bike Baskets
While not bags per se, baskets are a popular cargo option, especially for recreational riders. They can be mounted on a rack or, more commonly, on the handlebars. When selecting a basket for your bike, make sure it's compatible with your bike's current setup—for example, if you're currently outfitted with a cycling computer, phone holder, and/or feed bag, you may not be able to mount a basket on the handlebars as well.Â
Furthermore, be mindful of weight limits on bike baskets: overloading them can lead to an unsafe, uncomfortable ride (panniers or trunk bags are generally smarter options for heavier cargo).Â
Our Recommended Basket: Axiom Pet Basket
With the Axiom Pet Basket, now your pets can comfortably join you on your ride! Designed to easily mount onto the handlebars or a rear pannier rack, this basket is made from durable, reinforced steel; it can withstand up to 12 lbs. when mounted on your handlebars or up to 50 lbs. on a rear pannier rack. A Quick Connect attachment system and padded carrying handle make off-bike use quick, simple, and convenient. (Check out our pet trailers for even more safety and comfort for your furry friends!)
Are Bike-Mounted Bags Compatible with All Bikes?
In a word, no: frame shape, saddle height, handlebar height, and other accessories may prevent you from attaching certain bike-mounted bags to your bike. Once again, an ERIK'S Brain Trust agent or customer service specialist can help you verify whether your desired bag fits with your current bike setup.Â
What About Bike Racks?
For cyclists who carry a lot of gear on their bike (such as commuters who lug groceries, a change of clothes, and other everyday supplies), a rack for larger bags is essential. Front and rear racks are both available, but rear racks are much more common.Â
There are two general types of rack attachments:
Bolt-On Racks
These racks attach securely to four specific mounting points on the bike frame, known as braze-ons. Bolt-on racks are lightweight, versatile, and compatible with various bag styles and sizes. However, compatibility needs to be verified: not all bolt-on racks fit every bike.
Clamp-On Racks
Clamp-on racks attach to the seatpost or frame without bolts, making them easy to install and remove. They're perfect for bikes that lack the braze-ons required for bolt-on racks. They're also ideal for riders who only occasionally need to carry extra gear. However, clamp-on racks are a bit heavier and have lower carrying capacities than bolt-on racks.Â
Our Recommended Rack: Topeak Explorer MTX 2.0 Disc Rear Rack
The Topeak Explorer rear-mount rack features an integrated top plate for quick-mount Topeak MTX and RX Quick Track trunk bags. It's made of tough aluminum construction for worry-free durability.Â
Other Cargo Points to Consider for Bikes
These are the primary bags and racks to be aware of when outfitting your bike to carry cargo. However, there are some other cargo considerations to keep in mind.Â
- Some bikes come with rear racks pre-installed nowadays, especially newer e-bike models.Â
- Rear racks can be added to most bikes if they're not pre-installed. An ERIK'S technician can perform this service.Â
- Some racks feature click-system technologies, making it easy to attach or remove bags.
- You can be sure that manufacturers' rack-bag systems are compatible with each other. Some brands' bags may be compatible with other brands' racks—ask an ERIK'S Brain Trust agent or customer service specialist for guidance.
- There are also numerous hydration products, like water bottles, bottle cages, and hydration packs. Read our Hydration Guide for more information.Â
Conclusion: Bike Bags and Racks at ERIK'S
Outfitting your bike with a bag and/or rack is a great way to make carrying items convenient and comfortable. Whether you’re just carrying a few personal items or doing a major grocery haul, there are many cargo sizes and styles to suit your needs.
Start by asking yourself what you need to carry on your bike, then explore the options above and/or stop into your local ERIK'S for assistance. We look forward to making your cycling experience easier and more carefree than ever before!