Reddit mentions: The best bike pack accessories

I use the DXP for my groceries every week, and have for years. The biggest issue is that when putting stuff into the panniers, you may have to take stuff out of the shopping bags and let them be loose in the panniers to get optimal fill. I'm not sure if I've put 20 pounds in each bag, but I've definitely carried 20+ between the bags. I've carried two twelve-packs in each pannier several times, and the weight was a non-issue.

But I also wanted to be able to carry more groceries, so I ordered those exact bags from Bike Bling. Sadly, they sold out and but were super-friendly and gave me a free upgrade to the Soma Fillmores, which are practically identical. They work great with reusable grocery bags for carrying stuff, and with my Tourist rack, I can use my trunkbag AND two grocery panniers! The main compartment of the DXP is insulated, so I try to put my cold stuff in there, and it's never been an issue. However, you will need one of the Tourist racks that has the second set of rails for panniers to use at the same time as any of the Topeak trunkbags, so be aware of that.

I also have the TrolleyTote that /u/tepidviolet recommended. It definitely holds more than the main compartment of the DXP, but it puts the weight up higher, so the bike feels wobbly if you're getting 20+ pounds of stuff. I love it, but I'm not sure I'd recommend it for your solution. But the nice part about Topeak's MTX system is you can swap all the different parts out! I even have an old Office Bag that I can put on if needed, but I think it's discontinued.

So, if you want my recommendation to get the best bang for your buck: start with one of the various Topeak Super Tourist racks for your bike and get the MTX Trunkbag DXP. I use this bag daily for commute, groceries, errands, etc. It holds a good amount of stuff, and you can pack up/unload the pannier sides as needed. With the Super Tourist rack, you'll have the ability to add on or swap panniers as needed while keeping your DXP, to increase or specialize your load.

Storage:

For my gravel bike I use this seat bag, size large, it holds 2 tubes+patches, levers, a decent amount of food, keys, cash, etc. I carry a pump on my gravel bike, so without CO2, it holds a lot. For my road bike, I use a much smaller pack that fits patches, 1 tube, 2x CO2, levers, a CO2 nozzle, keys, and maybe 1 or 2 Cliff bars. Most smaller seat packs will let you cram all that in and then some. Just enough to fix 2 flats, so if you get a flat, you can decide whether to press on with a little bit of risk (hopefully you didn't pinch the tube doing the road repair, happens to me often, eaten by mosquitoes and rushing it), or go home. Go off Amazon reviews if you want a smaller pack, but if you want a larger one, I swear by that Topeak I linked.

For phone mounts, I use this Topeak Ridecase on both my bikes. You can replace your stem's top cap and convert it to a phone mount if your bike is aluminum/steel and uses one of those star nuts on the inside of the steerer, and if your bike is carbon and uses a compression thing for the top cap, don't attempt to use that, and instead use the included bar mount to put the phone mount right on your stem. I've only dumped my phone once out of about 1000 miles, on smooth pavement of all things, and I'm pretty sure I didn't slide the phone onto the mount until it clicked. My bad. I ride on bumpy gravel with tires at 85 PSI, just to give you an idea of how secure the phone is. Stays put. If you can find a Ridecase for your phone and your phone is water-resistant, 100% go with this, since you can put the phone right down the stem and conserve tons of bar space for bells/lights/even clip-on aero bars. The mount swivels to landscape, and it pivots up and down, it's seriously amazing.

Bottle holders are a dime a dozen, but I have 2 of these cheap ones on my gravel bike and I've never lost a bottle. You can find some novel bottle holders, if your bike has enough room underneath the water bottle bosses to accomodate - Here's a water bottle cage that fits 2x CO2 and a little pump, to free up some space. Spendy though. My other water bottle holders are all from local bike shop, all Specialized, and they're a bit better than the cheap Amazon ones, but they're plastic, and I've broken a couple by being reckless on my gravel bike, has a water bottle cage under the downtube by the chainring, and yeah, if I check a curb to see if I jump it, and totally nail the water bottle cage, it breaks. The cheap Amazon ones just get gouged and maybe bent lol. If you want something better than a cheap water bottle cage, I highly recommend checking them out at a local bike shop, since you'll be able to really get a feel for color and style and whatnot.

Top tube bags, I honestly don't use. These are actually really really handy for being able to access things like food while you're actively moving, but if you stop with frequency, you don't really need one. These things are kind of like seat bags, you can find any sort of thing with a fair amount of size and it'll have enough storage.

If you have water bottle mounts on your forks, gravel bikes usually, you might want to invest in a cargo cage of sorts, these are the holy grail of storage if you plan 100+ mile outings. I have Salsa Anything Cages on my gravel bike (can't find on Amazon) and I can stuff 1 spare chain, missing links, 6 tubes, and about 20 patches in it, and then top it all off with a few rags and a bunch of Cliff Bars. Like, I have so much flat repair and chain repair in this bag that I can stop and help anyone on the road and not worry about running out of my own supply. I consider this an absolute must for gravel excursions- even if you plan to return to home at the end of the day, you might be so far from home that your preparation or lack thereof can spell disaster, and you might bump into people that fell on bad luck. But yeah, if you tend to stray 50-70 miles from home on gravel, you absolutely need this. I've been 50 miles from home on sharp rocks, had to burn my last tube, and it was seriously a Hail Mary play, trying to get through those 50 miles back home with no sort of way to fix a flat. Don't ever get into that situation. You won't be able to walk your bike even 20 miles in 4 hours, and if it's dusk, you might not even see another cyclist in order to beg for help.

Edit: this is quite a wall of text, but yeah, those are my recommendations. I'd actually recommend just going to a LBS to figure out what sizes you need, try to purchase there, all the good stuff you'll find in a LBS and the prices for good stuff at a LBS is about the same as Amazon. Ask the people at the LBS for recommendations, tell them what kind of biking you do, see if they have what you need at the price range you want. If you go there and see a top tube bag you want, but you're not willing to spend 60 bucks on a Salsa or Revelate Designs bag, then go to Amazon and try to find similar size no-name generic stuff with tons of reviews. That kind of thing.

That looks like a very nice bike. One odd thing about it is the warranty. From the user manual:

Your bicycle must be returned to your servicing dealer or bicycle/motorcycle mechanic after one month or 200km of riding (which ever comes first) to re-tension the spokes. Then every six months or 1000km (which ever comes first) for a general service and thorough inspection. Failure to do this can void your warranty due to unnecessary wear and tear.

I would worry a bit about that because that company seems eager to void warranties. But if bringing in the bike for this required servicing is no big deal to you, then it's a non-issue.

Another thing that confuses me is the price. I bought a Juiced CrossCurrent S which is a very similar bike but about half the price. I use that for an 8 mile commute on a regular basis. They recently replaced the CrossCurrent S with the Juiced CrossCurrent X but it seems to be very similar to what I bought. I have been extremely happy with my CrossCurrent S. The bike is well built, very sturdy and they use good parts. Here are some differences I've noticed:

• The Smartmotion bike has a color display whereas the Juiced bike has a monochrome display. A color display is fun but is not worth the price difference. You really don't interact with the display very much. The Juiced display tells you everything you would want to know, such as speed, wattage, battery status, etc. and is back-lit.
  
• While both bikes have integrated front lights, only the Smartmotion has an integrated rear light. To be clear, the Juiced bike does come with a rear light, but it has it's own internal battery and it's not even a rechargable battery. This is my only real complaint with the bike. I replaced that with my own, rechargable light. On the flip side, the Juiced bike has an intense head light.....very bright.
  
• The Smartmotion has regular Schwalbe tires, while the Juiced bike comes with Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires. If you don't want to worry about tires going flat on your long commute, you really want to have Marathon Plus tires.
  
  Other than those things, I don't see much difference except the huge price difference.
  
  I upgraded to the biggest capacity battery that Juiced offered and my commute, which is 16 miles going both ways, leaves me with a 75% charge. I could probably go more than 3 days without a charge if needed.
  
  I also ordered the integrated GPS. However, that was based on 2G technology and it stopped working earlier this year. Juiced handled that really well and gave me back my money for the GPS....all of my interactions with them have been great. I am now working on a new GPS tracking solution that I am putting together myself.
  
  I ordered a Topeak MTX Trunkbag DXP separately and the associated rack. It was a bit tricky to install the rack on the bike but I was able to do it. I really love that bag. Very easy to slide on and off the rack and has a lot of capacity but can also be compacted to a very small size.
  
  ​
  
  ​

Hmm. I really like the quadlock bike mount, and I feel more confident having the GPS. I hate things on my head so I had to try on a lot of helmets and spend a fair amount of cash for one I could tolerate, but some people are more flexible. When it's really cold the lobster style gloves are great. Your commute would be just long enough for the bottoms of my feet and toes to get cold, and I haven't really found a great solution for that yet. Ooh, thought of one. A nice pannier that's comfortable as a large purse. This is the one I used before I switched to my folding Brompton: [Basil . Bloom Pannier](Basil Bloom Kids Carry All & Bicycle Pannier - Gardenia White Floral - 11 Litre https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HPWVI02/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NuQiDbSR9043X). I found it cheaper on eBay. Love it. Holds lots of folders and my computer.

I love this topic! I’ve completely overthought this a month ago because I have the same headphones. My conclusion is it depends on what you’re using as your ruck. If you’re using any GR ruck with the GR1 field pocket attached to molle, the headphones fit perfect and is a good use of space due to built in molle. HOWEVER...

I’m using a bullet. The GR1 is a bit too big. So here is what I use.

https://www.amazon.com/Thule-3203601-Subterra-PowerShuttle/dp/B076H9HTQP

It fits the headphones perfectly but what I love is the inner pocket in the top has dedicated volume. I keep a battery pack and small charger in there. I keep my cables flat in the net pocket under the headphones. I don’t use the elastic wire keeper as it puts pressure on the headphones. Seriously, it fits the QC35 perfectly and folded while not taking up as much space as the OEM case and GR field pocket.

Edit: my bad. I use size medium. It’s dope. I love it for carrying the QC35.

Hey nice bike! If I were you I would add a saddle bag with some tubes, tire levers, and maybe get a small pump, and since you're just commuting the whole "it ain't aero" thing doesn't really fucking matter in my opinion ;) I would recommend this and these and this. Also read up on sites like Sheldon Brown for basics, and also I would recommend the GCN youtube channel for repair and maintenance. Also as far as locks go get a U-lock like this for most security and use this locking method. Have fun and stay safe, and feel free to ask any questions to me or any of the other people on this sub!

I recently bought a Giant Escape 2 for commuting from Arlington to Downtown DC and it works great, I got the bike and lock for less than $500. If you want to look at bikes, Papillion Bicycles is the local Giant dealer and Spokes etc. is one of the local Trek and Specialized dealers. You can go and ride the bikes and see what you like, but at that price point almost all the hybrid bikes are the same.

After that I got a Topeak rear rack with this Trunk Bag and it works great, fits my computer, clothes and even lunch. It has side panniers that fold out. I would recommend that you get some cygolite front and rear lights from amazon as well.

If you're serious about commuting, something along these lines is your best bet.

[Here is my setup] (http://imgur.com/gallery/IBw0q)

Edit: Word

Small update: Buying my ticket with China East Airlines for $487 round trip!!!! I'll be extending my trip an extra month, so April 3rd to June 1st.
I called China East Airlines inquiring about their bike policy, and as long as I'm under the oversize limit and deflate the tires I'm good to go.
This is probably quite expensive for a glorified bag, but I had my eyes on this piece of gear: http://www.amazon.com/Weanas%C2%AE-Transport-Transitote-Bicycle-Carrying/dp/B00JEILGMK/ref=pd_sim_468_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=417b6Ozoq7L&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=00X2R8RAH9EMNNNKR9EA

Would require a little more protection for the plane ride of course, but the reviews are really positive, including one from someone who flew to Japan to do the exact same, saying he had no trouble getting onto trains.

Just want to express my gratitude again for all the thoughtful help and advice. I'm going to be living very simply but imagine my art will only benefit from the extended time abroad, and the inherent hardship of living so cheaply :b

cheers.

I'm going to suggest getting one of these for your handlebars: http://amzn.com/B005WPFVPC

and use this flashlight: http://amzn.com/B00ATZ3BQQ
with this mount for your helmet: http://amzn.com/B001F307JK

I survived one of my first night rides two months ago with just the flashlight on my helmet. My friend however has the handlebar light and loves it. Combine the two and it should be a great budget setup. To make it even better, you can find a diffusion lense/housing for the bar light and give it better flood lighting.

Got this Blackburn rear light free when I bought a Blackburn bottle holder. Might as well. It's like getting the cage for free, and I love the cage. I've owned a lot of lights. This one is blinding.

Good comments here.

• I commute from BedStuy to East Harlem daily. I'm super happy I've started to do it. I actually get to see the city each day. Can't wait until summer when I can enjoy it a bit more.
  
• Spend a lot on gloves, but your fingers well get numb. Make sure your core is warm, I find this alleviates numb fingers and toes. Balaclavas are also dope, since when some arsehole pedestrian realises they're in the bike lane, balaclavas scare them out a little.
  
• It's like not safe, but safe. There are dickheads everywhere, particularly in midtown. Keep aware & you'll get the hang of it.
  
• If you can get away with not using a backpack, it will make getting to work a lot less sweatier.
  
• I ride a track bike and can't fit racks to my frame. So I use one of these to my saddle. It's no good for a laptop, but amazing for clothes, food, etc. I got it heaps cheaper than amazon at 718 bikes in BK.
  
  Though any bike/setup is suitable. Ultimately just do it, and you'll make it stick.

I've done a number of 500+ mile days by motorcycle, many 1000+ mile days by car, and several imperial centuries by bicycle. Advice:

• Try any gear before the long trip. That rubbing in a boot or seam in your pants that annoys you after an hour will be excruciating or raise blisters by the end of the day. Consider seamless technical/wicking undergarments and this stuff. Try a sheepskin pad on your seat.
  
• Do any regular maintenance on the bike before the trip. Replace worn tires, brake pads, etc. ahead of time. Fluids can usually go longer than interval if it's close.
  
• Get a tank bag and a quality bungie net and rokstraps (avoid cheap hook bungies, they scratch and stretch too much/too little) to attach cargo to your bike seat and pilion. You do not want to carry much on your back for long stretches.
  
• Get a hydration pack (Camelbak, et.al.) that holds 50-100oz. You'll sweat, a lot. You might not feel it due to evaporation but it increases fatigue and that leads to mistakes. I like to keep a couple of nutrition bars on me too. If you don't like it on your back, strap it to the tank or tank bag.
  
• Apply sunscreen. That gap on your neck between your jacket and helmet? Wore the mesh gloves with a short gauntlet? That's going to burn after a few hours and distract you the next day.
  
• Pack a tiny medical kit with bandaids, burn/triple antibiotic ointment, hydracort, bee sting kill/lidocaine, pain reliever, a non-drowsy antihistamine, a couple of safety pins, and any necessary meds. It should fit in a pocket.
  
• Pack a small roadside fix it kit with a tire pressure gauge, tire patch kit (and know how to use it), a CO2 inflater, Gorilla tape, stainless steel wire, 6' of primary wire, LED flashlight, a multi-tool with pliers, a pair of needle nose vise grip (works to replace that busted shift lever, DAMHIK), extra fuses, extra bulbs (not needed with LED), a pair of nitrile gloves, a tiny tube of mechanics soap, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, a clean rag from a piece of an old t-shirt, etc. If your bike lacks a toolkit, bring the basics. Don't go crazy. You just need to limp to a shop if something goes wrong.
  
• Take breaks and combine purpose, you'll save time overall. If you're stopping for gas also use it as an opportunity to take a bathroom break, eat something, get an extra drink (remember to hydrate) and caffeinate yourself. Check your tires, tire pressure, and walk around the bike for anything wearing funny or out of the ordinary (I rode a lot of old motorcycles...).
  
• Speaking of breaks, stop more often than you think you should. Take pictures from the road. Write notes in a little book. You're not doing the Cannonball run. Plan to go more slowly and enjoy it.
  
• Avoid I-95. Hell, avoid big interstates if you can. You'll see more and ride more interesting roads. If you do ride the interstates expect it to be hotter, faster, more difficult, and to have more distracted drivers. Plan extra breaks.
  
• Bring a paper map or atlas. If your phone or GPS breaks or runs out of power, you'll want it. It's easier to plan using a map than trying to route multiple waypoints unless you generally know the way. If you're doing backroads, those county by county maps made by regional companies (Jimapco, Hagstrom, Mapsco, Kappa, etc.) are better than Rand-McNally, Delorme, and Michelin.
  
• Protect your hearing. Law permitting, wear ear plugs or noise-blocking in-ear speakers under your helmet.
  
• Let people you trust know where you're going and when you expect to get there. If you reroute or take extra time, let them know.
  
  Have a good time!

• [Crank Brothers multi tool] (http://www.amazon.com/Crank-Brothers-Bicycle-19-Function-Silver/dp/B0012Q41HY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418363910&sr=8-1&keywords=crank+brothers+multi+tool)
  
  
• [Topeak saddlebag] (http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Aero-Wedge-Buckle-Medium/dp/B000FIAU8O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418364745&sr=8-1&keywords=topeak+saddle+bag)
  
  
• [Cygolite Metro 400 Headlight] (http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Metro-400-Rechargeable-Headlight/dp/B00LXTOT6I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418364255&sr=8-1&keywords=cygolite+metro+400)
  
  
• [Cygolite Hotshot Taillight] (http://www.amazon.com/Cygolite-Hotshot-2-Watt-Rechargeable-Taillight/dp/B005DVA57Y/ref=pd_bxgy_sg_text_y)
  
  
• [CatEye Wireless Bike Computer] (http://www.amazon.com/CatEye-Wireless-Bicycle-Computer-CC-VT220W/dp/B004RE783W/ref=sr_1_16?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1418364327&sr=1-16&keywords=cateye)
  
  
• [Finish Line Chain Lube] (http://www.amazon.com/Finish-Line-Bicycle-4-Ounce-Squeeze/dp/B002IDZXRM/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting)
  
  
• [Genuine Innovations CO2 Inflator] (http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Innovations-G2628-Ultraflate-Inflator/dp/B002AGI1QW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420015344&sr=8-1&keywords=innovations+co2+inflator)
  
  If you're looking to up your riding game, everything listed above will save you from any trouble you have on the road. Cycling computer is always neat to have too!
  
  Cygolite Metro 400 and the Hotshot are brilliant. The lights definitely pack a strong punch. I'll tell you right now, unless the lighting in your town sucks ass or you go off road riding, the metro 400 is a great light and you don't really need to go much higher than that.
  

The FinisherPix and clothing suggestions have links already.

I think for the personalisation (and for the suggestion from /u/Dirtwizards) you're going to have to find a friendly embroiderer near you. I think location is more important than a specific brand—there are often guilds that you can search through for the artisans.

For saddle bags, your friendly neighbourhood cycle shop will be the best place... probably on par with something you could find on amazon.

Similarly for the cap

And gu gels

Thank you, much appreciated! This is the one I went with, fits perfectly and holds a good amount of stuff.

That one seemed pretty nice, I had considered that one. It's a bit on the bulkier side, but if that doesn't bother you, go for it. This is the one I got. It's shape tapers inwards and narrows a bit as it approaches your post, so it's not as wide from front to back like the one you linked (making it slimmer/sleeker), but the bottom also expands out for extra storage. Like I said, I am able to get my phone in it, and that's without expanding it, it just lays a bit diagonal. My phone is roughly 6.3" by 3.3". This bag is not waterproof, but it is water resistant. The outside might get a bit wet if it's really rainy, but it doesn't penetrate through. Inside stays dry. I was very indecisive when buying my bag, which is why I took so long to order it, but I'm very pleased with the one I got. It's exactly what I wanted.

I'll do my best to first answer you question, although I think your approach is off:

You could use a handlebar bag, frame bag, top tube bag, and/or a large seat bag.

I'd really go with panniers, although I don't know how you'd attach them to a carbon fiber bike. You'll be making a 500 mile trip with little in the way of supplies. The more stuff you have "just in case", the better the trip is likely to go. A non-carbon bike with rack and panniers would go a long way to help with that.

Well, i found a cheap Chinese one that looks very similar to this topeak one.

12$ shipped... I decided to give it a shot. These soft zipper ones seem like a better solution than the hard plastic water bottle style ones. We'll see when it gets here in a month. Haha.

you just might want to think about getting a bag that's designed to fit on the rack you've chosen. I have the same rack. I also got this
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000ZKES0S/ref=pd_aw_fbt_468_img_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=65JCDJZEPXPKRFYFK6FC

The rack is basically indestructible. my bag has seen heavy use for nine years, and it's still strong and all compartments are in tact. it slides securely onto the rack and locks in place. it can expand into a 3-compartment bag that's big enough for tools, clothes, u-lock, and possibly your backpack, too, depending on how big it is.

i got the basil tour xl panniers to start doing some touring. they should be coming in the mail today. The reviews are great, they're big, and they're water resistant, but you could easily spray them with some water repellant. the tops cover the zippers so they will actually be waterproof. I think the one gripe some people have is that they are meant to stay on and aren't as easily detached if you're on the go/commuting.

Sure, they’re both from Amazon, but you are right in sizing, there are multiple offered.

Topeak Fuel Tank. This is the Large they offer. I had purchased the Medium and it’s too small for my phone.

Topeak Aero Wedge. I don’t recall if this is the Small or Medium. I like the Medium a little better because it holds slightly more and also has a zipped expansion so it can go bigger when needed.

If you have a rack, these are great.

EDIT: It works pretty well as pictured, but a lot better if you wrap one of the straps around the lock and rack together to keep it from rattling/flying out while off-roading.

I've had this Topeak bag (Topeak Aero Wedge Pack with Buckle (Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FIAU8O/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_l2Pbub1P812NV) for a while now and it is pretty good. Stays dry, expands if needed, does not move around too much. Can fit a 29" tube, multitool, cellphone and maybe a snack bar without expanding.

That's pretty much how I started my 2 mile commute in 2015. I went reading and bought the Wirecutter's reccommendation at the time, a Trek 7.2 (though I did go for the 2014 7.4 Disc, since my shop had it on a good sale). I added fenders and a kickstand immediately, grabbed a cheap (but safe) Wal-Mart helmet and lights, and started riding when the weather was decent. As I needed them, I added elastic, reflective ankle bands to keep my jeans out of the chain, got a set of decent gloves for cooler weather, a rear rack and expandable trunk bag, upgraded my lights, and bought a cheap bike computer from Aldi.
 
After a few years, I had a better idea of what I really wanted, so last fall I sold the hybrid and picked up a gravel bike to get off the 50mph highway and onto the gravel shoulder and replaced my helmet with a more comfortable and better ventilated one. I moved over the rear rack, bought new, larger fenders and a kickstand, but didn't bother with the computer and just got a handlebar phone mount since I track everything on Strava anyways.
 
Of course I don't NEED all of this to bike commute, but it makes it easier/more comforable/etc. to do so. The only thing I've regretted is the fancy gloves: they work just fine, but I could have spent half the money and gotten something just as well suited to my needs. Thankfully I'm in an area with basically no bike theft, so I just use a cheap cable lock on the rare times I even bother to lock it up.

Don’t forget the the bell mounted on the stem! 😜
(I call it my “pedestrian bell”)

I ride my bike daily to/from work. I’ve been using this back pack for several weeks now and I absolutely love it. Not huge in size to where it gets in the way, but big enough to carry my essentials - lunch for the day, jacket, U-lock, saddle bag that has some tools in it (throw it on my saddle for longer dedicated rides w/o my backpack + with my clipless pedals on) + any other misc. small things that I may need to bring along with me to work.

For larger loads, I have a different back back that I use on occasion.

I bought my first non-horrible bike today and I have a few questions:

This is the part of the post you will be most interested in

I found a second hand Specialized Vita Elite 2011 today for £250 which I'm hoping was a good deal. The tyres have been replaced with Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres which look to be brand new and they've added mudguards and a pannier rack. I think the derailer may have been replaced - it says Shinmara Deore on it now.

Everything looks to be in good condition, but I don't know anything so would it be worth taking it to a separate bike shop for an independent checkup? What are the less obvious signs of trouble I should be looking for?

I saw Specialized issued a recall including this model. Do I need to be worried about this?

How well is the bike going to handle being left outdoors? My landlord doesn't allow bikes to be stored inside so it is going to be in direct sun and rain. I don't really have anywhere else I can chain it.

What issues should I be checking for every time I go out to ride it? Every week/on a regular basis?

Are these any good?

Thanks in advance.

Ideally you should have a small saddle bag mounted under the saddle with a spare tube and other essentials. This has a reflector strip that illuminates pretty well. Then on the seat stay you can mount the actual rear light.

Lezyne Road Caddy Bicycle Seat Bag, its great and compact! I can fit one tube, a CO2 can, tire lever, and a multitool. It's tight, but I like how small it is.

It's $5 over your limit but I've found the timbuk2 goody box to be a great holder for my iPhone. Plus it doubles as a small bag for my multitool and spare tube.

Timbuk2 Goody Box in Amazon

I do this as well. I use these - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Zefal-Doodad-Plus-Bicycle-Strap/dp/B000AO3FTE/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=zefal+pump+straps&qid=1567510049&s=gateway&sr=8-1 - to secure it so there is cushioning against the frame (although it may be scuffing it up a bit, I haven't noticed any damage yet). I have the removable/lockable part of the lock against my top tube and have the lock hang down, with one side of it then attached to my seat tube. Doesn't really rattle or move around much as it has two points of securing to the frame.

nah, just about any under-the-seat bag will work. Something like this will work fine: http://www.amazon.com/Serfas-Speed-Bag-Orange-Medium/dp/B001UI4X4U/ref=sr_1_7?s=cycling&ie=UTF8&qid=1404760944&sr=1-7

that rack will be fine for (e.g.) your lunch, swimsuits and towels (looks like it's rated up to 20 lbs or so). it will raise your center of gravity a bit (vs. bags that hang to the sides of the wheels), but if you don't overdo it, you'll be fine.

if you want to start going on camping trips or other heavier applications, you'd need a real rack, but it sounds like that's not what you're talking about.

(and if you buy the rack, there's no need to get the under-the-seat bag, of course)

I commute daily with a Topeak Rack + Trunk Bag. I fit my clothes, lunch, and 15" Macbook. Trunk bag slides off and has shoulder strap to carry it around.

$120 for both is well worth it. Skip the beers for a couple weekends and get one

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FIE3WI/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000FIE3WI&linkCode=as2&tag=dealstoponlin-20&linkId=2JAH4AZ7ZJYSADXV

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZKES0S/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000ZKES0S&linkCode=as2&tag=dealstoponlin-20&linkId=E5J7UOMYPKLW7FO6

Bought two of these TwoFish Megablock XL Pump Holder from amazon and they work great. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001F307JK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I hope you can open this amazon link. It's $35.00 on there. I didn't look around for better pricing yet.

I second that. I use one of these and its fantastic: Topeak MTX Trunk Bag DXP Bicycle Trunk Bag with Rigid Molded Panels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ZKES0S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_xserxbKKSAXD9

Clamps on to the seat post and can be removed easily for longer rides.

32oz stainless steel bottles. Four of them fit nicely into the center section of my bike bag. When I get to work, I place them in a mini fridge.

It is a Topeak bag.

http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Aero-Wedge-Buckle-Medium/dp/B000FIAU8O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311554159&sr=8-1

Really great bag. Had it for a few years now.

I would recommend a bag like this for medium to long rides. It's enough room for a tube, multi tool, wallet, phone, snack etc. They make different sizes too if you want something smaller or larger.

Wedge pack for the bike!! Thanks for the contest Ben!!

Was waiting for someone to ask—it’s super nifty and can even be mounted to your top tube if that’s your thing.

I got it on Amazon but it’s also on Etsy iirc: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011QSRPRK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

For an angle light, the straight version might be better:

https://www.amazon.com/Two-Fish-Megablock-Pump-Holder/dp/B001F307JK/

Though I'm not sure if the "XL" version would be too big for the light.

This could solve your problem. It's a case that can go in your water bottle holder so no need for attachments elsewhere on the bike, and it looks to be large enough for normal glasses.

I carry two tubes, a CO2 inflator, multi-tool, and quick link in a saddle bag like this on every ride.

I don't carry tube patches, because it's faster just to remove the tube and put the new one in. I do however have a small roll of tape to cover any gashes the tire might get.

No need to remember to take things, because it's always on the bike.

I also have a small frame bag I carry my cell phone, ID and money/snacks in. I figure the cell phone is safer there than on my back, I actually mounted it under the top tube on the seat tube.

Don't drill holes into your frame.

Get something like this or this.

I don't commute but I have a Topeak rack and a similar bag. I like them both. After about 1.5 years of intermittent use neither show any wear. The rack seems to have a decent finish, no flaking or pealing. The bag does not have a "quality" feel to it, as the fabric seems a bit stiff, but, in function, it is fine. The trunk part is not huge, but holds more than you would think. It's cool to be able to fold the pannier type side bags up or down, as needed.

Its sort of an odd shape for carrying, a bit wide, but, I usually detach it from the rack to carry groceries into the house and its okay for that. I have this one that has a handle on the top. I noticed some do not.

I use this (the medium one) for my stuff. Easily carries a flat repair kit, wrench, small pump, multitool, handkercheif, $20, and my front light when it's not on my bike. Plus, my rear light clips onto that little loop on the front.

This Topeak bag in medium has served me really well.

It can hold a tube, tire levers, patch kit, mini pump, multi tool, lights, and a 15mm wrench. It has one of those expansion zippers that lets the bag elongate to accommodate more storage.

Topeak saddle bag. I just bought one for my mountain bike and it fits: my keys, multitool, tube, tire levers, CO2 canister, and still a little bit of room to spare. I had a fall the other day, the first ride with my saddle bag, and I thankfully was able to readjust my handlebars with my multitool.

There's a larger option too, but I don't think you'll need it.

I use a Topeak rack with bag setup.

TOURBON Canvas & Leather Bicycle... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011QSRPRK?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Thule Subterra PowerShuttle, Dark Shadow https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076H9HTQP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_sYK0CbKAMJMVH

Why not both?

I use this and love it. For days I'm not bringing much I can just use the truck bag. If I decide to pick something up and need more space, just roll down the panniers.

Tube

Levers

Frame pump (or alternatively CO2 inflator)

Patch kit (optional)

Saddle bag

A saddle bag for 12$
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000FIAU8O/ref=gbps_img_m-2_cf04_7bcb82d3?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=39cfb27c-9112-44c5-bea3-1a73e8a2cf04&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=14795753011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=13ABAGTWADT9HB075TE5

Found it: (“Fu-Secret” was ‘cargo cover’, not ‘cargo net’)Amazon.com : Delta Cycle Elastotarp Expandable Waterproof Net Cover Holder with Hooks, Black : Sports & Outdoors

It's a silicone rubber sheet cargo "net"

https://www.amazon.com/Delta-Cycle-Elastotarp-Expandable-Waterproof/dp/B07BWZQ66Z/

I'm using this bag.

I just got this one; https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NAR0U4Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1, it's so small and tucks so tightly to the seat that you could probably call it aero..

https://www.amazon.com/OLIGHT-Universal-Flashlight-Lightining-Accessories/dp/B0761RX64G/

https://www.amazon.com/TwoFish-Megablock-XL-Pump-Holder/dp/B001F307JK

Then you get Armytek's headlight strap and any right angle headlamp that uses a single 18650 or 21700.

Topeak MTX Trunk Bag DXP Bicycle... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ZKES0S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

The ones your looking at are half price for a reason. These are very versitile.
https://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Trunk-Bicycle-Molded-Panels/dp/B000ZKES0S/ref=sr_1_2?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1496024674&sr=1-2&keywords=Topeak