4.02.2012

Backpacks vs. Racks

I need to put a rack on this thing! When I put the weekend's worth of stuff, a laptop and today's clothes in the backpack, it became more than I want to handle. Maybe it makes sense for some people to carry stuff on their back. But if you're doing it because you think it's "good enough," I'd challenge you to try a rear rack and panniers. A backpack makes my back sore and it's a lot more sweaty than running a pannier set-up.

You can find this stuff cheap online and it makes commuting so much nicer. I have a buddy who runs these panniers and I use this rack. For $65 you can have a lot of cargo capacity and get everything off of your back. It may seem like a pricey leap, but once gas prices begin to get up there, it's negligible if it keeps you commuting more. When I think about building a bike, a rack is a non-negotiable. You won't regret it.

But for the sake of debate, anyone out there commuting regularly with a backpack who prefers it over a rack? I'd love to know why, if so.

Get out there.

15 comments:

  1. Im a rack guy 95% of the time. The only prob Is weight and general non-raciness. Racks are more stable and carry So much more. Axiom has a nice inexpensive one.

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  2. I go with the backpack, but that's because I commute on a folding bike. I could put a rack on if I wanted to (I used to have one, actually) but the fold wasn't quite as compact as without. This is especially important if I stay late at work and take the train home - it's nice for it to be as small as possible. SO I go with the backpack.

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  3. @ Tex69 - I've never used Axiom stuff but it looks like a great option.

    @ Chris - Looks like you've made a good point!

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