Daily bicycle users and commuters have to carry stuff, for example, a change of clothes, lunch, a laptop.
Where do you store it? In a backpack, a pannier, or a basket!
Here’s what we suggest.
How to carry stuff on your bike ?
Fun and useful.
The backpack is a cyclist’s friend. Just look at a busy bike path. You will see backpack in all shapes and sizes. Why?
By essence, the backpack is super versatile! It carries everything you need, doesn’t really bother you while riding, and, obviously, is very useful while walking.
All cyclists must also walk. This is why we need to propose bags adapted to active transportation.
Accordingly, we carry several brands, like Arkel, Vaude, and Meuniers, which offer a variety of looks and shapes. It’s up to you to choose!
Choosing the right bag.
Many among you will not have a problem choosing the right backpack for your needs. Often, any basic backpack will do. However, as cyclists, there are several factors to consider: volume, water resistance, comfort on and off the bike… You may find the following opinion interesting, Most backpacks designed specifically for cyclists are in fact excellent for leisure activities (e.g. mountain biking), but aren’t well adapted to daily use.
Volume must be sufficient and fluid – you have to be able to carry your usual stuff, but an interesting backpack has to accommodate the unexpected. Look for side pockets, straps to carry oversized things (a yoga mat), a rollable opening that can be easily adjusted to, for instance, accommodate leek shoots.
The aesthetics of a backpack are essential. There is no reason why a backpack should not reflect your personality. Aesthetics and style are up to you.
Materials should give you minimum protection against the elements, and maximum durability. But remember that water resistance should not imperil the environment nor the health of future living creatures. Choose wisely.
Weight is directly related to the choice of materials. Manufacturers either compromise on resistance or follow this sole criterium (the bag and its seams must survive you). In the second case, it often means that the bag is heavy, even when empty. Take the time to check the posted weight, and compare different bags in store.
Finally, comfort has to be the best possible. There’s no other way than to try them on. Remember that the strap design is important for all, especially for women. Moreover, if the backpack is so large as to prevent you from viewing what is happening behind you, you might want to consider another size. Even if you can use a rear view mirror, ensure your head remains flexible and that the bag doesn’t interfere with your line of sight.
Arkel Signature D
Liberate your back with panniers!
With bike panniers, you can carry more weight and relieve your back. They are also a great solution for women, eliminating discomfort in the shoulders and on the chest, although everyone will benefit from having a liberated back.
There are many kinds of panniers for bicycles. Keep an eye on volume, the attachment system, and materials used.
Arkel, Vaude, or Basil are the brands you will find at Dumoulin Bicyclettes. Versatile by nature, we offer a wide variety of bags adapted to your needs and priorities.
Arkel bike panniers
Vaude Bike panniers
Baskets
The basket is another staple of the city and commuter bicycle. Whether at the front or on the rear rack, it’s an easy solution to carry some or all of the things you need.
First, you can use it to carry your backpack and other things! It’s solidly attached to your bicycle, so no need to fear theft.
In the basket category, we include “pizza-racks”, which are super practical to attach large containers, baskets, or simply to be used with straps.
The questions you must ask yourself before purchasing: is it compatible with my bicycle? Is there enough space in front of my handlebar? Can it be installed securely?
There are many solutions, but compatibility depends on your bike. Please contact us to find out which basket is for you.
More options and solutions
There are many solutions to carrying your stuff as you cycle. We’ve discussed some of them here: backpacks, panniers, or baskets.
Depending on the quantity of stuff you need to carry, you might be interested in a trailer or a cargo bike.
👀 Meet THE amazing urban trailer, the Burley Travoy.
👀 Do you know Locomotion? Depending on where you are, you might be closer than you think to a trailer or a cargo bike. Want to know more? Click here.
👀 While we wait to offer their products in store, check out Memento Cycles, two artisans who make very nice racks and cargo solutions here in Montreal!
Let's talk!
Call us or come visit the store. We are always available to help you find the best solution that works for you.