Private utility on the cheap.
 

I fixed up a 1970's panasonic ( 10 bucks at a garage sale )10 speed for my dad(he won't be using it now ) comfy saddle pullback bars ( expenditure 30 bucks)small front rack .It is mine now and I am sick of the price of Gas continually rising so tuesday I put a rack on the back ( I had it).Wednesday I installed a folding basket.It attaches to the rear rack .(Wald brand for 12 dollars and change).So now I use it to go to the building I inherited and carry my laundry in the basket or run to the store for food for my dinner.22 miles on it in 2 days and I have saved a gallon of Gas.:D

I bet it's turned out to be a lot easier than you thought. I look forward to running errands on my bike, which never happened when I used a car to do the same. Plus... as you mention... your gas mileage is excellent :)

Danke
 

Thanks ,that rack on the Bamboo Bomber is giving me ideas.