Rear basket - how to pull it off without looking like a fred
#26
totally louche
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 18,023
Likes: 12
From: A land that time forgot
Bikes: the ever shifting stable loaded with comfortable road bikes and city and winter bikes
JANND makes a nice folding soft basket pannier. Easy on/off the rack.
alternatively, like others have posted, you can embrace the basket look. i like my basket bike.
alternatively, like others have posted, you can embrace the basket look. i like my basket bike.
#28
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,766
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From: North of the 49th Parallel (GPS grid soon)
Bikes: MTB Peugoet Canyon (forgot the model), Nikishi? roadbike, MTB custom build,
I like to Bike,
You have a closer shot of this bike basket? Perhaps more of a top down shot?
https://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...2&d=1170979912
Thanks.
Zero_Enigma
You have a closer shot of this bike basket? Perhaps more of a top down shot?
https://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...2&d=1170979912
Thanks.
Zero_Enigma
#29
Been Around Awhile

Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 30,670
Likes: 1,982
From: Burlington Iowa
Bikes: Vaterland and Ragazzi
Originally Posted by Zero_Enigma
I like to Bike,
You have a closer shot of this bike basket? Perhaps more of a top down shot?
https://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...2&d=1170979912
You have a closer shot of this bike basket? Perhaps more of a top down shot?
https://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...2&d=1170979912
I will take a picture later today. It is a typical German rear basket (hinterradkorb) for sale in all sorts of sizes at every store selling bicycle accessories in Germany which means every K-mart type discount department store as well as all the bicycle stores. I don't think I ever spent more than the equivalent of $10 on these rear steel baskets. Note that they have two little brackets underneath for hooking onto a typical bicycle rear carrier. The carrier mousetrap clamp and the brackets, as well as a handle make the basket easy on easy off for those who want to take the basket inside for light shopping. The brackets didn't fit on to the non -typical rear rack on the Schwinn Cruiser, so I used zip ties to attach. I also removed the handles on all my baskets since I never take carry the baskets anywhere. The baskets I bought are lower in the front part to clear the seat for some bikes.
#31
.


Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 12,769
Likes: 38
From: Rocket City, No'ala
Bikes: 2014 Trek Domane 5.2, 1985 Pinarello Treviso, 1990 Gardin Shred, 2006 Bianchi San Jose
I think I'm going with a couple of these: 
They unhook in seconds from the bike so I can use them as I get my groceries, then hook them back on and take off. If I don't need them, I can just unhook them and not have to carry the weight or the Fredness.

They unhook in seconds from the bike so I can use them as I get my groceries, then hook them back on and take off. If I don't need them, I can just unhook them and not have to carry the weight or the Fredness.
#32
Been Around Awhile

Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 30,670
Likes: 1,982
From: Burlington Iowa
Bikes: Vaterland and Ragazzi
Originally Posted by Zero_Enigma
I like to Bike,
You have a closer shot of this bike basket? Perhaps more of a top down shot?
https://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...2&d=1170979912
Thanks.
You have a closer shot of this bike basket? Perhaps more of a top down shot?
https://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...2&d=1170979912
Thanks.
Cans added to give perspective to an identical basket to the one on the bike. Note the bracket on the bottom to hook the carrier. The handle has been removed and was attached on the sides of basket.
Last edited by I-Like-To-Bike; 02-11-07 at 04:50 PM.
#34
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,766
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From: North of the 49th Parallel (GPS grid soon)
Bikes: MTB Peugoet Canyon (forgot the model), Nikishi? roadbike, MTB custom build,
Originally Posted by I-Like-To-Bike
Ask and Ye Shall receive.
Cans added to give perspective to an identical basket to the one on the bike. Note the bracket on the bottom to hook the carrier. The handle has been removed and was attached on the sides of basket.
Cans added to give perspective to an identical basket to the one on the bike. Note the bracket on the bottom to hook the carrier. The handle has been removed and was attached on the sides of basket.
Thanks mate. My inital views seemed to seen that basket as a bit smaller/narrow but seeingthis image it does look rather large.
I've got a Amoxin rack on my bike and mainly looking for a basket that is only 1in wider on all 3 sides of the rack and about 1-1 1/2 inches high. THat way it looks nice and low profiletothe eye and looks good yet fully functional when you add a cargo net and I'm sure it'll win points to help with convincing the local people to ride the bike more often then driving as many poeple have 'carrying issues' as everyone seems to comment on.
Zero_Enigma
#35
Been Around Awhile

Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 30,670
Likes: 1,982
From: Burlington Iowa
Bikes: Vaterland and Ragazzi
Originally Posted by Zero_Enigma
Thanks mate. My inital views seemed to seen that basket as a bit smaller/narrow but seeingthis image it does look rather large.
Here is a picture of a similar basket on another of my bikes after a quick shopping run. Those are 2 liter bottles of soda pop, as well as my blue tool/odds and ends bag and a shopping bag with some stuff from the store. It may help give a better idea of cargo capacity idea.
#37
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,392
Likes: 2
From: Central Coast, CA
Bikes: Surly LHT, Specialized Rockhopper, Nashbar Touring (old), Specialized Stumpjumper (older), Nishiki Tourer (model unknown)
I bought my daughter these:

Hers are shiny black (to match the shiny black basket she put on the front when she bought her bike.) They fold up when not in use. She thinks they're pretty great.
I don't remember where I bought them, but you can get them through Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Rear-G...sporting-goods

Hers are shiny black (to match the shiny black basket she put on the front when she bought her bike.) They fold up when not in use. She thinks they're pretty great.
I don't remember where I bought them, but you can get them through Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Rear-G...sporting-goods
#38
Fred
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 277
Likes: 0
From: Boston, PRM
Bikes: 1983 Schwinn Super Sp0rt, Trek hybrid, eBike, Xootr
Originally Posted by ModoVincere
I say - Embrace the Fredness. If its a basket you want, then get a basket that suits your needs. To heck with the way it looks or what others think of it.
I found this alternate definition at bicyclesource.com:
2) n. a person who has a mishmash of old gear, does't care at all about technology or fashion, didn't race or follow racing, etc. Often identified by chainring marks on white calf socks. Used by "serious" roadies to disparage utility cyclists and touring riders, especially after these totally unfashionable "freds" drop the "serious" roadies on hills because the "serious" guys were really posers.
#39
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 92
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I don't buy this whole "Fred-empowerment" argument.
I guess I'm inherently not a fred. If I am in the owner of an item that is used for utility, I'd like it to be decent looking as well. A mix of "form + function" factors into every purchase I make, even it's just for transportation. For example, my car is a 2000 hand-me-down Grand Marquis, but I still wash it every couple of months and try to avoid errant shopping carts.
Also, I don't need more reasons for the idiots with "motorist balls" to treat me like some second-class hippie swine.
I guess I'm inherently not a fred. If I am in the owner of an item that is used for utility, I'd like it to be decent looking as well. A mix of "form + function" factors into every purchase I make, even it's just for transportation. For example, my car is a 2000 hand-me-down Grand Marquis, but I still wash it every couple of months and try to avoid errant shopping carts.
Also, I don't need more reasons for the idiots with "motorist balls" to treat me like some second-class hippie swine.
#40
.


Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 12,769
Likes: 38
From: Rocket City, No'ala
Bikes: 2014 Trek Domane 5.2, 1985 Pinarello Treviso, 1990 Gardin Shred, 2006 Bianchi San Jose
Originally Posted by bradchu
I don't buy this whole "Fred-empowerment" argument.
I guess I'm inherently not a fred. If I am in the owner of an item that is used for utility, I'd like it to be decent looking as well. A mix of "form + function" factors into every purchase I make, even it's just for transportation. For example, my car is a 2000 hand-me-down Grand Marquis, but I still wash it every couple of months and try to avoid errant shopping carts.
Also, I don't need more reasons for the idiots with "motorist balls" to treat me like some second-class hippie swine.
I guess I'm inherently not a fred. If I am in the owner of an item that is used for utility, I'd like it to be decent looking as well. A mix of "form + function" factors into every purchase I make, even it's just for transportation. For example, my car is a 2000 hand-me-down Grand Marquis, but I still wash it every couple of months and try to avoid errant shopping carts.
Also, I don't need more reasons for the idiots with "motorist balls" to treat me like some second-class hippie swine.

Hey, I understand. It's why I went with the Trek interchange stuff. they are easily removed when not needed or if there's danger of them being stolen off the bike. Not the cheapest but if being stylish was cheap there'd be no Freds.
#41
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 134
Likes: 0
From: Somehere West of The Rockies
Bikes: 2005 MTB
Originally Posted by bradchu
I am considering using a rear basket instead of my rack trunk, as it seems like it would just be less hassle and allow me to carry more stuff.
What are the best options? Pictures of your rear basket system are appreciated.
What are the best options? Pictures of your rear basket system are appreciated.
The first story I clicked on...lo and behold,
I seen this basket...it just might be what you are looking for.
Take a look here.
#42
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 3,692
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I saw a bright pink crate on the back of a Volpe a month ago. then I started to see it again, and again. It's my neighbor's. I'm beginning to dislike it. You see, I like neither the color of the Volpe (The San Jose is so much nicer!) or bright pink: especially together... well...
Of course, whatever works for her. But one of these days I'm going to have to tell her that her chain really needs adjusting. One of these days, yessir, and she really needs to start wearing a helmet.
But of course, the bike is to please her, not me. I'm so selfish.
I like grocery panniers. As to the theft problem, well, you can either carry them in with you and just have the cashier use them instead of bags (save the environment!!1) or you can get a pair like my dad's, which are so covered in dirt and chain oil I can't imagine a thief wanting to go near them without latex gloves.
Of course, whatever works for her. But one of these days I'm going to have to tell her that her chain really needs adjusting. One of these days, yessir, and she really needs to start wearing a helmet.
But of course, the bike is to please her, not me. I'm so selfish.
I like grocery panniers. As to the theft problem, well, you can either carry them in with you and just have the cashier use them instead of bags (save the environment!!1) or you can get a pair like my dad's, which are so covered in dirt and chain oil I can't imagine a thief wanting to go near them without latex gloves.
#43
The Legitimiser
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 4,849
Likes: 6
From: Southampton, UK
Bikes: Gazelle Trim Trophy, EG Bates Track Bike, HR Bates Cantiflex bike, Nigel Dean fixed gear conversion, Raleigh Royal, Falcon Westminster.
Originally Posted by jsharr
Dress manakin in cool cycling kit. Problem solved.
#44
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 466
Likes: 0
Originally Posted by GeoKrpan
Go down to Pier 1 or Cost Plus or something like that and buy the nicest wicker basket that you can find.
Then merely zip tie it to your rack.
Then merely zip tie it to your rack.
#45
I love my big totally fred wald rear baskets. They carry a lot of groceries and you can just drop your laptop bag or briefcase in. I should note that I got out the torch and added a stiffener.
#46
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 873
Likes: 0
From: Livonia, MI
Bikes: Pacific Duece AL with mods
I just took off my black 7-up/Dr.pepper crate that has worked wonders for me. the great thing about it is I could drill holes anywhere to mount reflectors, lights, or whatever I wanted. It will be going on another bike in the spring, but for now on my new commuter I will be using the Wald folding baskets. I fell in love with them when due to financial reasons my family was car free for a few years when I was 11-13. I always volunteered to do the grocery shopping on my mom's old 5 speed Schwinn Suburban with the huge rack and Wald baskets on the back. I guess I miss the simplicity and closeness our family shared at that time and the baskets have always been a reminder.
#47
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,766
Likes: 0
From: North of the 49th Parallel (GPS grid soon)
Bikes: MTB Peugoet Canyon (forgot the model), Nikishi? roadbike, MTB custom build,
Complete your Fredness with one of these. https://www.awn.com/mag/issue1.4/imag...Schechter6.gif 
https://johnkstuff.blogspot.com/uploa...EL7-776580.jpg
Zero_Enigma

https://johnkstuff.blogspot.com/uploa...EL7-776580.jpg
Zero_Enigma
#48
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 873
Likes: 0
From: Livonia, MI
Bikes: Pacific Duece AL with mods
Originally Posted by Zero_Enigma
Complete your Fredness with one of these. https://www.awn.com/mag/issue1.4/imag...Schechter6.gif 
https://johnkstuff.blogspot.com/uploa...EL7-776580.jpg
Zero_Enigma

https://johnkstuff.blogspot.com/uploa...EL7-776580.jpg
Zero_Enigma
#49
put our Heads Together

Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 3,155
Likes: 1
From: southeast pennsylvania
Bikes: a mountain bike with a cargo box on the back and aero bars on the front. an old well-worn dahon folding bike
I'm in the "embrace the fredness" camp.
I drilled holes in a 14 gallon container like this one and used pieces of tire tube to fasten it to my rear rack. Waterproof basket goodness!
I drilled holes in a 14 gallon container like this one and used pieces of tire tube to fasten it to my rear rack. Waterproof basket goodness!
#50
Senior Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 1,766
Likes: 0
From: North of the 49th Parallel (GPS grid soon)
Bikes: MTB Peugoet Canyon (forgot the model), Nikishi? roadbike, MTB custom build,
Originally Posted by BigBlueToe
I bought my daughter these:

Hers are shiny black (to match the shiny black basket she put on the front when she bought her bike.) They fold up when not in use. She thinks they're pretty great.
I don't remember where I bought them, but you can get them through Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Rear-G...sporting-goods

Hers are shiny black (to match the shiny black basket she put on the front when she bought her bike.) They fold up when not in use. She thinks they're pretty great.
I don't remember where I bought them, but you can get them through Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Bicycle-Rear-G...sporting-goods
Zero_Enigma




