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DIY Long Haul Trucker Basket
June 10, 2008
I've been interested in getting my messenger bag off my back during my commute. I know, I know, it kind of defeats the purpose a bit. But having a swampy back at the end of a ride isn't the most pleasant experience, especially if you're trying to make a short trip in regular clothing. I needed a rack, for sure, but wasn't too keen on spending $80 on a pannier when my current, waterproof bag suits me just fine.
So I got the rack. After reading some feedback online about cheap vs. expensive, I decided to go with the Tubus Cargo. Steel, instead of aluminum, and oddly enough, lighter than any of the cheap racks I looked at. It's the one that was unanimously recommended in online bike forums, and the one the shop owner at FreeRange suggested I get. I figure, get something quality, just in case I want to do some long touring trips later, fully loaded. This rack will likely live to experience another bike years from now.
Now what? I wanted a basket of sorts, something that I could just toss my bag in for the commute and grab it out whenever I arrive at a destination. They make wire baskets like this, and I'm sure they're very light. But considering my current lust for wood fenders, and considering I ran across this photo and a few other DIY basket applications, I decided to make my own. And you're damn right I wanted a vintage wood crate!
So I approached a vendor at the WS Farmer's Market on Sunday that still used wood crates for his produce. No way would he sell me one. He said he's been using some of those crates for 15 years, and they don't make em anymore. Move it along. My next stop was an antique shop under the Viaduct: jackpot. I found several of varying sizes, but I wanted one that was nice and deep; something I could put a couple bags of groceries in and not worry about losing my load. Most bike stuff these days is just plain cheesy. Nylon this, plastic that, and oh boy, you bet we've got a bad logo on it! I really dig what people are making on their own, be it racks, baskets, handlebars (wood ones!) or bike frames. It's flipping sweet.
I'm pretty pleased with the results. I was hoping to mount it lengthwise, but it didn't seem like there would be enough support in the ass end, so horizontal it was. The width is the same as my handlebars, so hopefully it doesn't cause me to clip anyone/anything. Tomorrow should be the maiden voyage, so we'll see how she handles. Just riding around the neighborhood to test it out, it's obvious that carrying anything requires some getting used to. I'm really looking forward to how useful this thing will be though. Line it with a trash bag, and you've got one helluva cooler!
Posted by Aaron on June 10, 2008 05:44 PM| Permalink