Originally Posted by
BattleRabbit
Removed the rack, panniers, and toe clips. The rack and panniers are great when I go shopping, but are way more cumbersome than a backpack when I'm just going to class. (the 27 stairs and four doors between the street and my dorm room are much easier to navigate without the rack too)
Same here... I decided to remove the rack and go with a backpack too. I also installed DIY mud flaps at the front and rear fenders. The front fender mud flap is already paying dividends... less mud/salt spray on my shoes and on the bottom bracket area of the bike.
My commuter sans rack/panniers:
