Bags and Baskets for Sale in Chicago

Earth Rider Cycling is a full service urban bike shop that has a variety of bike bags for sale, including backpacks, bags that hang off the side of a rack, known as panniers, bags that fit on your rear bike rack, known as trunk bags, and bags or baskets that hang on the handlebars. Some bags convert from one form to another, such as converting from a backpack to a pannier like the Ortlieb Vario

What to Carry in a Bike Bag

Bike bags allow you to conveniently carry items while riding your bike. Essential items you might carry are lock, bike tools, money, cell phone, keys, lunch, computer or tablet, a change of clothes and shoes, and spare clothing in case there is a shift in the weather. You can also use a bike bag or basket to transport items that you shopped for while out on your bike, such as groceries or take out food. Being outdoors and exposed to the elements, bike bags take a beating from the weather which is why bags from Earth Rider are selected to be durable and either water proof or water resistant with sturdy attachment points and enclosures and pockets for organization. Some bags have generous warranties from the manufacturer and spare parts are available. When you get off your bike you can detach the bags and take them with you using the built in carrying handle or shoulder strap.

Backpacks for Cycling

A backpack is a general purpose bag that is worn on the center of the rider's back and has a lot of carrying capacity. They come in many sizes and the best one for you depends on what you will use it for, i.e. a daypack for carrying only the essentials for a day of activity or a large backpack for carrying large loads, maybe even the gear for an overnight trip. Sometimes having a lot of pockets is useful for organizing your gear, other times retrieving items is difficult when you can't remember which pocket you put that item in! Bags come in neutral or bight colors and patterns in a variety of materials.

Panniers for Cycling

If you have a permanently mounted rear or front rack on your bike you might consider a pannier or saddle bag. You can use one or a pair on either side of the rack. A roll top is popular to close the bag, it has a stiff backing on the side that attaches to the rack, and clips to attach to the rack. Using a bag on the bike puts the load on the bike, letting the bike do the work, and gives your back a rest.

Trunk Bags for Cycling

A trunk bag is a rectangular shaped bag that attaches to top of the rear rack. Since it is shallow, it allows easy access to the small number of essential items the bag can hold. When you get off the bike it often comes with a wrist or shoulder strap for carrying.

Handlebar Bags for Cycling

A handlebar bag is useful for carrying small items within easy reach on the front of the bike. It attaches with a bracket or strap on the bike handlebar and comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Another option is a basket made of metal, plastic or wicker.

For a more detailed analysis of the pros and cons of each type of bag check out our blog post Smart Ways to Carry Things on your Bike. You can order a bag from our online store for curb side pickup, we can ship it to you, or come into our store in the Bucktown neighborhood of Chicago to view our selection.