Steel is real. This applies to frames obviously, but it applies to racks as
well. As people have begun to use their bikes to carry things more and more stuff, the
need for sturdy utility racks has grown. Fortunately there are a number of good
choices out there nowadays. Last year we
started making the Soma Porteur rack. It’s based on the classic French paperboy
racks and allows you to carry lots of things such as pizza boxes, grocery bags,
record crates, a pair of panniers, fire wood and just about anything else you can think
to put on it. We also sell a removable fence to help you keep your load in
place. Adjustable mounts allow you to attach it to braze-ons or directly to your front axle. Available in Black CrMo or Stainless Steel.
Our friends at Gamoh
in Japan have begun making a great line steel racks. These are another great option for front or rear loads. Like the Soma
Porteur the KCL series have a large open platform for oversized loads and
mounting crates or containers. The Cargo Series features an integrated fence
and wooden slats to keep your load from slipping out from the bottom. They make
a great place to stash your purse or backpack and you can use a bungee strap on top for added security.
If you’re looking for unbeatable value in a simple,
versatile rear rack you can’t go wrong with Wald. They’ve been making bike baskets
in the USA since forever, but they also make the really excellent 215 rack
as well. Recently they’ve begun making it with a woody top as well.
And of course everybody who knows nice racks know
Nitto. They make some of the prettiest components around and their racks are no
exception. The Campee series is the premier rack for touring and camping bikes,
with demountable pannier frames for when you don’t need the extra load
carrying capability. The super low placement of the panniers makes them very stable and
keeps them out of the way of heels and toes. You can also mount a Wald basket
to the top with zip ties for an extra place to stow items that you want to keep
within reach. They are made in different sizes to fit 26", 650b and 700c wheeled bikes.
So don't be scared to take your bike on your next grocery run. Maybe even to Costco?
