Yup. That crate is gone now. It wasn't sturdy enough and too big. I would like something slightly smaller and stiffer. But since this bike will get overhauled when my Big Dummy goes into service I don't want to do anything now. Ideally, I'd like to find a used Topeak rackpack with a locking mechanism that's compatible with the rear rack and hack that mechanism onto a basket to make it easily removable.

The commuter will get all new cables (compressionless Nokon brake cables and sealed Gore derailleur cables), 180mm rotors and metallic pads, new RD, new cassette, crankset and chain and maybe a DIY lighting kit like the one you have. Then it might get a proper basket too. It'll be my backup bike.

This bike evolved kind of organically over time with function and comfort as top priorities. I was making changes to it gradually as I saw a need. It may not be pretty (although, like you, I like the way it looks!) but it's reliable, strong, it handles great, can haul lots of stuff and is certainly visible I can do 40+ mile rides on it comfortably too. I may even swap the frame for the Troll frame if I have the money. The current frame is too small.

Oh, and my Stem Captain clock arrived yesterday: