Ok, I've seen a few bikes over the years with what looks like plain old backpacks or other apparently non-bike specific bags somehow affixed upon the sides of bike racks. I'm guessing this is one of those "why didn't I think of that?" things, but I can't seem to figure it out. So please, how do you do this?

I have been using day packs (gifts...). I used carabiners to attach them to the bicycle. However, unless you can attach it securely the bag will tend to swing a bit, the carabiners will bounce on bumps. When you arrive at your destination, unhooking the carabiners is a bit of a struggle, too.

One technique that did work with me with carabiners is this: if you want the bag on the right side of the bike, hook the carabiners on the left side of the rack and let the bag drap over the rack. This is good for a daypack, as there is then no issue with heel strike. The load is a little top-heavy (actually, a lot...) but it works reasonably well.

Another problem with re-purposed bags is that the ring attachments are normally not that well sewed. The bags don't last that long.

In the long run, if you have to use a day-pack, you should get some good pannier hooks (Arkel and Axiom and Mec sell hook kits...) or make them yourself from something like 5/8 inch by 2 1/4 inch angle brackets (used for framing..) I think this setup would last a lot longer on a quality day-pack.

However, in the long run, I think I would never go out and buy a day-pack to use on a rack. Reasonable panniers are priced just a little higher than quality day-packs.

I bought 2 for $5 each at the reject shop
CUt the straps..leaving 6 inch... which I then sewed together...
Flop over rack and tie down
I've done 1000's of miles with them and they still go well

http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee220/Leigh_caines/4.jpg

I bought 2 for $5 each at the reject shop
CUt the straps..leaving 6 inch... which I then sewed together...
Flop over rack and tie down
I've done 1000's of miles with them and they still go well



so they're like saddle bags?...i did that with some small leather single strap backpack things....thx for reminding me

Yes end up like saddle bags
works well

I strap my backpack to the top of my rack (using an inner tube)

It moves around a little bit.....but it works.

I use two bungee cords, one on the bottom 1/3 and one on the top 1/3. The bag lies on the rack on its back. Working out ok, but may try to rig it so it hangs off the side like a saddle bag.