Originally Posted by
tarwheel
I've used front and rear racks extensively and prefer to carry most loads in the back. For me, loads on the front seem to affect handling more adversely and also block my view of the front wheel and tire. Perhaps my bikes were not designed for carrying front loads. My touring bike had a Nitto M12 front rack for many years and I rarely used it for reasons mentioned above. I finally removed it when I installed a dynamo wheel and light and haven't missed it, as I mainly used it as a place to mount my LED headlight. I also had a Salsa Casseroll for several years that came with a front rack, which I only used a few times, such as carrying light packages to the post office.
I do use a small front handlebar bag on bike tours. I also have a front pannier and rack that I use for heavy loaded touring when I need to distribute weight better across the bike. But for general use and commuting, front racks are not for me.
I had my daily bike set up the same way, and I've used the front rack..once? I need a strap to keep anything on it, and then while I can keep an eye on something getting loose, I don't want it to fall into the chain/wheel. Imagining a jacket falling off into my rear wheel..
That said, I do have a fixed gear with a basket on it, and it's fantastic. I ride 18 miles each way, so the upright position is kinda tough for that ride, but for short 2-5 mile rides, I love having the basket. It adds some versatility to it, and I have a cargo net that goes over it to keep everything in line. It gets mocked a bit, but it always ends up that someone asks to put a purse in it or a jacket.