Utility Cycling - those big front baskets

I just bought an Electra Townie I am planning on turning into my town/utility bike and I want one of those big front baskets that attachs to the handlbars at the top and the quick release at the bottom. Two of the local shops don't have them. Does anyone know of a site that has them?

Thanks for your help!

Try Amazon? (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw/104-3472218-2337522?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=bicycle+basket&x=0&y=0)

Your local shop ought to be able to order them even if they don't have them in stock; I'm surprised they wouldn't immediately suggest that.

Here's the main manufacturer of such baskets. Unfortunately you can't order direct, but maybe you can find a retailer through their site: http://www.waldsports.com/index.cfm/baskets.html

If you're feeling expensive/awesome, I stumbled across this recently:

http://cetmaracks.com/

There was an Ebay store that seemed to have every basket Wald made- check there.

Basil (http://www.basil.nl/gb/assortment/)is another good brand for baskets and they use a selection of modern mounting systems.

My LBS has baskets made specifically for the Electra and a few others baskets. I don't know what the difference is, because I never really looked. But if you bought your Electra at an LBS, they should be able to order one for you. If it is what you want.

Otherwise, eBay and Amazon would be the best option.

Another vote for Wald. I had a Wald on an old antique balloon-tire cruiser that could hold two cases of beer. But be warned: too much weight up front and up high can be tough to manage! Take two cases of beer for example...

Thanks all, that Wald site is exactly what I am looking for! I'll comb through there to find the right one for my LBS to order.

If you are looking for old world craftsmanship, and are not in a hurry, check out David Hembrow (http://www.hembrow.eu/bicycle.html).

If you are looking for old world craftsmanship, and are not in a hurry, check out David Hembrow (http://www.hembrow.eu/bicycle.html).

Oh, my. :love:

http://www.hembrow.eu/P_C_Sandwich2.jpg

Dicks sporting goods carries Wald metal wire baskets. I've seen them at their stores. Can't remember if it was the front kind or the rear pannier kind. HTH.

The folks at Rivendell are big fans of the classic Wald metal baskets, which Rivendell sells in both the large and medium sizes. However, they seem to prefer keeping the basket on the bike, as they suggest attaching them with zip ties rather than the "quick release" type of attachment.

If you phone Rivendell today, they can ship you your baskets this afternoon.

www.rivbike.com