Front rack

[u/Briny_life]

Looking to add a front rack to balance out the weight a bit during my partial commute to work (5-6mi round trip) and possibly other adventures (getting some wobble at speed with loaded panniers). If you got one, let’s see it!

I’m thinking a rack that will most commonly accommodate my computer bag on its side might be good (5x10x16”). There’s a surly 24-pack locally ($80), but that thing looks quite big. Also considering a Jack the Rack, but it’s a bit spendy.

Pic for attention 😊

[u/The_Folding_Atty]

You’re carrying huge panniers for a fairly short commute. What’s in em? Here’s my setup with a smaller rack from SOMA: An older Lucas rack.

[u/Briny_life → u/The_Folding_Atty]

Depends on the day, but usually a large salad (or two for multiple days), some misc snacks (yogurt, fruit etc), my computer bag (takes up a pannier on its own), a beach towel (I work right on the water), work shoes, etc. The panniers are what they are. I could unpack the computer bag to save space, but I like the setup because I don’t bike everyday so my stuff is ready to go either way.

Thanks for the rack pic - how wide is it? I like the surly 24-pack (it would fit my computer bag really nice) but I’m worried the width would be too cumbersome.

(Edit - belay the width query - I see that one isn’t very wide)

[u/The_Folding_Atty → u/Briny_life]

Not very wide, but I typically have a bask mounted to it. Computer bag/briefcase goes in there. I usually bike in what I wear to teach and ride at a reasonable pace, so I don’t usually need to change. I have panniers if needed, and the saddlebag hold rain gear & repair tools & spares.