Carrier & accessories

Buying advice for: Carrier & accessories

• Types of pannier rack & accessories

  Bike racks and the corresponding accessories are essential for cyclists who use their bikes for commuting, touring or everyday shopping. There are a variety of rack types that can be selected depending on your needs and bike type. Rear pannier racks are the most commonly used and are mounted over the rear wheel. They are ideal for transporting bags, baskets and even child seats. Front carriers, which are mounted above the front wheel, offer the advantage of distributing the weight more evenly, which is particularly important on long tours. A special form of front carrier is the lowrider, which is mounted on the front fork and holds lower panniers, which improves the stability of the bike. Seatpost pannier racks are easy to fit and ideal for bikes without fixed mounting options for pannier racks. They are particularly useful for light loads. In addition, there are a variety of pannier baskets and panniers in different sizes and designs, including waterproof versions and those with additional compartments for better storage space.

• Luggage carrier & accessory brands

  The materials and workmanship of the carriers are crucial to their functionality and durability. Aluminium is lightweight and rustproof, making it ideal for most applications. Steel is more robust and durable, but heavier than aluminium, making it more suitable for heavy loads and harsh conditions. Plastic is often used in baskets and lightweight luggage carriers. It is lightweight and inexpensive, but less robust than metal.

• Materials and workmanship

  The materials and workmanship of luggage carriers are decisive for their functionality and durability. Aluminium is lightweight and rustproof, making it ideal for most applications. Steel is more robust and durable, but heavier than aluminium, and is therefore better suited to heavy loads and harsh conditions. Plastic is often used in baskets and lightweight luggage carriers. It is lightweight and inexpensive, but less robust than metal.

• Technical features

  Modern carriers and accessories offer a variety of technical features that improve their usability. Many carriers are adjustable in height and width to accommodate different bike types and frame sizes. Quick-release mechanisms enable bags and baskets to be fitted and removed quickly and easily. The load capacity of luggage carriers varies, so it is important to choose a carrier that can safely carry the required weight. Additional attachment points for rear lights, reflectors or pumps increase functionality. For road bikes and touring bikes, an aerodynamic design is advantageous to minimise air resistance. To summarise, the different types of pannier rack and matching accessories offer a variety of solutions for different requirements and preferences, with high-quality materials and sophisticated technical features ensuring safety, comfort and durability.