by Larry Lagarde

It can be challenging to transport items on a folding bike.

Being that folders are designed to fold compactly for storage, travel or transit, many folding bicycles have small wheels and shorter bike frames - features that can make it impractical to ride with panniers or even a milk crate strapped to the rear carry rack. Here are some solutions that do work.

Collapsible Wire Baskets
A variety of companies make wire baskets that fold when not in use. I like the ones with a wire mesh bottom so items cannot fall through. Wald is one company that makes them; they've been around for about 100 years and most bike shops carry some of their baskets.

Hard Shell Carry Rack Trunks
There are hard cases that are made to attach to the top of a rear carry rack. Typically, these cases bolt to the carry rack and are rain proof. The one pictured here is sold by PlanetBike for $64.99 (there may be one for less; I'm looking). Made from ABS plastic, it's hinged and has a lock that's good for prying eyes but won't stop a thief. This case is large enough to hold a wine bottle and picnic items (perhaps more practical use would be for your bike helmet, change of clothes and some gear).

Strap It To Your Carry Rack
Naturally, you can simply strap items onto the carry rack itself. If you do this and have a small wheel folding bike, try to limit the width of the item to the width of the carry rack (so your leg won't hit the rack while pedaling) and strap the item as best you can. A cargo net like Delta's MEGARACK will work much better than one or two bungee cords and is definitely worth the $8.99 investment.

I've had good results with the Megarack and am testing a wire basket and carry trunk now. Photos and details soon to come.

Labels: folding-bike-basket