Originally Posted by
no1mad
Actually, the point is valid. If you really want to haul a load, then a proper utility bike like the Ute (which
according to this is available on your side of the pond) or Yuba Mundo, Sun Atlas, Surly Big Dummy, Xtracycle...would be the better bet. Or a trailer. However, since you are wanting to work with what you have, then you may have to make some concessions on how much you can carry at one time.
The Ortliebs mentioned earlier make a fine choice. A more budget friendly option would be the
Banjo Brothers Market Pannier and this is the link to
their E.U. distributor. Something else to consider other than possible heel strike is the weight limit of the rack- so look at that number while shopping (unless you already got one...) and that not all racks are equal.
And as far as baskets not being useful or practical- I ain't buying that one.
Some Wald 532 Folders on the rear, possibly a basket up front for lighter, bulkier items can carry some volume. Augment that with a big backpack (rucksack in the Queen's English, I believe) for more capacity.... or get a trailer.
it is not valid to tell someone to dump their bike for another one especially when it is double the price and only for general food shopping as i specified in my original post, besides you have to try the bike out they dont stock such bikes anywhere in my town, they would probably ask me to pay for it up front or at least half of it to even order it in; they would not want to be lumbered with a bike that is a specialised bike and is hard to sell. I bike to work, such such a bike is too long for the racks, it isn't suitable for a bit of shopping and sight seeing.
i dont have anywhere to put such a long bike i haul mine up 2 flight of narrow stairs and leave it in my small bathroom, either way it was a very unhelpful reply from that poster; he didn't consider any of these points. Baskets are no good to me as i have to think about the weather i don't want a front basket just rear panniers, i am new to cycling so i dont want something interfering with my balance up front. but thank you for your input for the pannier suggestions.