johngwheeler

I have a carbon cross bike that doesn't have any bosses for fitting a rack. I have another commuter bike with Ortlieb & Topeak panniers, for heavy loads, but was wondering what options there are for bikes which can't easily fit a heavy-duty rack?

I've seen some "light duty" racks that fit to the seat post, but have no idea if these are any good, or whether they would hold a bag large enough my daily gear. I need to be able to transport a 15" laptop & accessories, and a set of clothes (normally packed in an Eagle Creek "envelope" to keep them flat).

I could just wear a back-pack or course, but this would probably end up about 6-8kg (c 18lbs), and I don't really like wearing a lot of weight on my back when cycling - too sweaty and a bit unstable.

What other options would work for laptop-sized loads?

Thanks for your advice!

John

a1penguin

I find the Timbuktu Uptown backpack to be a good choice for toting my 15" laptop on the 22 mile commute. It has a smaller pocket in the front for doo-dads. There's a large area that holds clothes. And a dedicated slot for the laptop with nice padding for the back. I weighed it just last week and it was 8 a mere 8 pounds and I don't feel top heavy.

Oh, I leave a set of clothes, shoes and towel at work. Fortunately they have showers available. I try to carry as little as possible.

slebo3213

I sometimes use an Apidura tail rider with my 15" laptop and a change of clothes. I posted a review on here somewhere. It's got it's upside and downsides. No rack needed.

I actually prefer a backpack with that kind of weight when it comes to stability. That kind of weight on the rear end will throw you around pretty good regardless of the bag it's in or where it's mounted. The closer to the center of the bike the better in my opinion.

rfmarotti

Have you considered using P clamps and just using a regular rack/pannier setup?

SloButWide 

Would a frame bag like the Relevate Ripio work?

BobbyG

I immediately thought of that, but then I wondered if a carbon fiber frame can handle clamping forces and other weight and forces in directions it was not designed for. They do have racks that mount to the wheel hubs, so that would aleviate some worry, but wherever on the frame the stabilizing arm (or arms) connect to may not be able to handle the clamps, force and weight.

What about one of those big carradice bags that hangs off the back of the seat?

johngwheeler

Thanks for the suggestions! The Relevate frame bag looks interesting - although cross winds might be a big challenging with all that surface area.

John.

GeneO 

You won't be unstable with a backpack. There are some pretty light weight ones out there, though I know you meant the load itself.

I am in the same position with two bikes that don't have accommodations for racks, one carbon. I use a Mission Workshop backpack, waterproof, light weight, durable and I really like it. Carry my laptop and clothes for 30 mi+ RT commuting:

https://missionworkshop.com/collecti...ksack-backpack

but I understand a lot of people don't like the feel of a bag or sweat, but I don't notice. The other body carry option of course is a messenger bag, but basically same difference.