I was a bit in doubt between /r/bikecommute and /r/bikepacking but my guess was that this sub had more experience with the “packing” part.
I’m looking for a way to commute 100k with this bike (50k single way) but want to avoid having a backpack. What would be the easiest/cheapest way to fit a laptop, keyboard, some chargers and lunch on this bike?
It’s a Triban RC500 with some “preparations” for certain racks etc.
by Polygoon_BE
3 Comments
Rear rack and one pannier. Use a small saddle bag to put the tools, patch kit or tube in.
I have the same bike. As you have mentioned you can attach a rear rack and carry panniers. I didn’t do this for commuting but I have done for bikepacking.
50k commute one-way is a crazy distance, though!
Really depends what you want to take.
I currently am running annortlieb pannier for days where after work I am heading to training (thus carrying work clothes, work stuff (laptop), tools (spare tube some lube a pump etc)), and for days where its hust work and back I am running my savotta askare hip pack where I mounted the the same ortlieb hooks (spare parts available) onto the molle loops which turns it into a nice little pannier that fits laptop, tools. If I dont hve spare clothes at work those days Ill strap a drybag unto the rack with them.
If you dont need to carry the bag with you during the day a pannier is great, easy put on and off, fits a ton, waterproof, etc. If you have to use it as a bag during the day then they are cumbersome (thus me having my self assembled pannier that still is fully functional as a hip pack/bag).
Go cheap and see if it works in concept and then splurge on something good if needed.