Some questions about kitting my bike out for commuting

[Alan Mitchell]

Hi there,

I have a GT aggressor XC3 bike from 2008/9 and I want to kit it out for commuting to my work (3 mile hilly journey)

I already changed the tyres to some skinny michelin city ones which helped immensely

I now want to add some good fully fitted mudguards (have a seat post mounted crud catcher and a front frame mounted mud plugger) AND most importantly some sort of pannier rack and an adjustable stem to help me get a more upright riding position.

I had considered selling the bike and getting a Carrera Crossfire 3 to get 700c wheels and better geometry, but in hindsight I think this might be a waste of money that I don't have

I carry a backpack to work, which i would like to strap to the pannier rack, unless someone can suggest a better idea.

Basically I need some help buying the best value / most suitable items from ebay etc.

All suggestions welcome

Thanks

Alan

 

[SquareDaff]

Having looked at that model you shouldn't have any problems fitting a rack. From the photo I looked at I couldn't tell if it had mounting lugs over the rear wheel. P-clips would sort it if not. Then just use a spider to fasten your rucksack to the rack. You can pick one new up for around £20 (rack that is - not a spider).

Alternatively carry your rucksack on your back as intended!

 

[Alan Mitchell]

Thanks for that. The rucksack annoys me on my back when standing up to cycle up the hills. Makes me sweaty too, which isnt good when heading into an office full of girls

I looked at this rack

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MOUNTAIN-..._Cycling_Bags_Panniers_SR&hash=item4d0285dc66

I will put photo of the back of my bike up when I get home

Alan

 

[Brommyboy]

If you can fit a saddle bag, then no rack would be needed. Depends on the saddle, whether it has bag lugs or not.

 

[Alan Mitchell]

Don't think saddle bag would be big enough. I carry my lunch, a coat and an android tablet

 

[SquareDaff]

I use a Top Bag. Got mine from Halfords for £24. Holds a tablet, lunch, work shirt and underwear, tools and waterproofs (leggings, jacket and overshoes).

 

[Alan Mitchell]

Ok Thanks for the help so far. I want to get mudguards too. Hopefully they will fit