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Bicycle Commuting

Steve M.

Front rack vs rear rack

posted over 2 years ago | Report

I currently use a rear rack with panniers and it works well, but I do have to say I would like to keep an eye on my stuff.

Any advantages to using a front rack?

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  Scott M.

  If you use a low-rider front rack the weight will sit a lot lower and have less of an effect on the handling of the bike. I have racks front and rear but I always use the front racks because of this.

  posted over 2 years ago | Report

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  Peter S.

  Rear racks work best for me.

  If the front rack is fitted low down and doesn't carry too much weight then it should have little effect. I've never used front racks, but putting anything in the front basket on hers plays havoc with handling. But putting my 3 year old on the kids seat at the back makes less difference, even though she weighs much more than the stuff in the basket.

  So, mostly it's the difference in handling I'd worry about most.

  posted over 2 years ago | Report

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  Steve M.

  Best argument I've heard for keeping my load on the rear rack if possible. Sometimes in the city I just don't want my stuff pinched, but handling makes sense.

  posted over 2 years ago | Report

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