Originally Posted by
I-Like-To-Bike
Hmm, carrying a 12-14 lb load on your back for 72 minutes? I'd rather take an extra 10 minutes.
You might also consider how valuable those 10 minutes are after shedding "heavy" fenders if you ever have to commute in wet conditions.
I have no plans to switch to the road bike for day to day commuting - the convenience of being able to carry everything I want and need, and the relative comfort of the commuter more than make up for the extra time. However, it is nice to know that I can shave significant time when necessary.
I hardly notice the weight of the backpack - perhaps because I used to carry well in excess of 35 on a moderately regular basis -- but it interferes with my rear view in my mirror, so I avoid it for that reason.