Bike Accessories For Car-Free Grocery Shopping

Car Free Grocery Shopping Accessories

Public Bikes Rear Rack: On my beach cruiser I have chosen to upgrade from my Wald rack to Public's rear rack. The rear rack I chose is Light grey and it compliments my newest cruiser which is banana yellow. I love that it came with a cateye reflector and a trap mechanism that  holds my panniers in place. They even included the hardware that made it possible to secure the rack to my fender bolt. Cost around $60.00 but well worth the extra cost.

Basil Mara 26L Panniers: These panniers I got on ebay for around $30.00  and they are very sturdy. They are not the largest panniers but they do hold a great deal more than other panniers in the same price range. I also love that the bags do not need to zip closed, which allows me to stuff them fat on dry days. They also have bright reflective strips on the back section to add visibility.

Wald 139: The basket mounts to the front handlebars and to the front wheel bolts for extra security. This mounting system allows the basket to hold an amazing 50 pounds. I even hauled a 60 pound bag of cement home from Home Depot in the front basket and it didn't even snap off. The original without wood cost me around $25.00 and the upgrade was $68 on ebay.

Front Rack: I have a dutch bike and it came with a sturdy front rack. I love this rack; it mounts like the Wald basket, and can really carry the weight. I usually set a basket or crate in the front and attach with bungees. A front rack will set you back $40+ dollars.

Folding Grocery Baskets: When we decided to start commuting by bike the folding basket became our friend. The baskets fold up when not in use. This allows us to park in tighter spots unlike the Wald 520 grocery rack that does not fold. You can buy them from several manufactures but we have only purchased Wald's. You can expect to pay $15 to $30 each side.

Warm weather bicycle commuting tips

Seasonal Bicycling Tips

Bicycling  tips for summer commuters.

•  Try to avoid exertion and excessive sweat by slowing down and preparing for a slightly longer commute than usual. Find a pace that minimizes increased body temperature. Arrive at your destination early and give yourself time to cool off. Your body’s response to warm-weather activity is delayed, so it will continue trying to cool itself long after you get off your bike.
• Slather on the sun screen you don't want to end up with cancer.

• Choose neighborhood routes with tree-lined streets and avoid densely packed city streets. The exhaust from large vehicles and buses will make you heat sick. 
•  Stay off roads that have a fresh coat of black asphalt, they are sticky, smelly, and hot. 
• Wear loose-fitting clothes made of thin fabrics. Choose shorts, dresses, and tanks that catch the breeze. For work, bring a change of clothes and change into your fresh clothes at your destination. Leave your backpack at home on hot days, in warm weather, it makes your back sweaty. Bring a pannier, basket or canvas bag with you instead and clip or bungee it to a rack.

• Consider switching helmets and try one that is vented.
• Bring a water bottle or two to stay hydrated. 

• "The risk of heat-related illness dramatically increases when the heat index climbs to 90 degrees or more. So it's important -- especially during heat waves -- to pay attention to the reported heat index, and also to remember that the heat index is even higher when you are standing in full sunshine. WebMD"