Depends on how heavy the load, and how significant the affect on balance.

I had no problem with balance when biking the 6 miles from the WalMart with yesterday's load of 12 Litres of soda pop, with 2lbs of cheese, 5 rolls of film, and a loaf of bread in the white plastic bag. With my standard tool kit and cold beverages (for on the road refreshment) in the blue bag.

Click to enlarge






For larger shopping needs, I use the trailer/bike combo.