How to safely load up your bike for longer trips

Cycling isn't just faster than walking, the great thing is that if you are planning a longer journey, your bike also carries your bags.

"As long as you stick to the size limits and secure the load correctly, you can, in principle, transport just about anything," say bike specialists.

Secure the load so it does not slip or fall off, even when swerving or braking sharply, says Petra Husemann-Roew who heads the German cycling club ADFC in Bavaria.

As a general rule, other road users must not be obstructed. If the load extends significantly beyond the bike's length or width, it must be marked.

"So, for example, if a carpet protrudes more than 1 metre beyond the rear reflector, it must be marked in red," says Husemann-Roew.

It depends on where you live of course but in Germany, a bicycle is legally classified as a vehicle, and the vehicle and its load must not be wider than 2.55 metres or higher than 4 metres.

"Realistically and practically speaking, I wouldn't, of course, attach such loads to a standard bicycle," she says.

Bags can safely hold plenty of items

Those with less bulky luggage often opt for cycle bags. "Apart from the tyres, you can attach bags to almost anywhere on a bicycle," says Thomas Geisler from the Cycling information service Pressedienst Fahrrad. You have a wide range of bags you can choose from.

Often, people opt for a rear pannier, which, with a capacity of around 20 litres, offers space for small shopping trips or everyday work essentials.

You can attach or remove it from your luggage rack quickly and easily. Some are fitted with straps that let you carry it as a shoulder bag or rucksack when taking it to and from the bike.

You can also fix bags to sports bikes such as road bikes or mountain bikes that do not have a luggage rack. "There are models that attach to the frame triangle, the handlebars or the seat post," says Geisler.

Most bags are positioned as close to the bike as possible to keep a sports bike light and compact when travelling.

For folding bikes, producers often have their own dedicated systems, says Husemann-Roew. "It's important that the bags aren't too big, because the luggage rack is lower. You also need enough space between your foot and the bag while riding."

You can find some spacious handlebar bags for certain folding bikes. "Of course, you should be able to remove them quickly when folding the bike, for example to get on a train."

A key consideration for all cycle bags is that they are waterproof so you won't risk getting your papers, clothes or food soaked in a sudden storm.

So before buying a bag, consider what exactly you need the bag for, and how do you generally get about? Many people also swear by the handlebar basket, says Geisler. "The advantage is that I have quick access and can see everything at a glance."

Both advise making sure you take your bike with you when buying bags, to ensure that bags and baskets can actually be fitted.

How much do special bags cost and how should I pack them?

Cyclists should also pay attention to the build quality of a bag, such as the stitching. Check reviews or recommendations from other cyclists. When it comes to the classic rear pannier, there are entry-level options priced at around $30 but more durable products may be closer to $100 and upwards.

When packing, heavy items should always go at the bottom. For longer rides, it's advisable to spread your luggage across several panniers. "Around 70% of the weight should be at the back, 30% at the front," says Geisler.

To ensure good balance, distribute your luggage evenly on both sides. The maximum total weight a bike can carry is specified in the user manual and for e-bikes, it's also marked on the frame.

For a standard bike, this is usually around 120 to 130 kilos. The maximum weight allowed on the luggage rack specifically is engraved on the rack itself – usually at the top.

Heavy bikes can be unwieldy

Anyone who has heavily loaded their bike with bags, luggage or bulky items will notice their bike can become harder to steer. "It naturally glides downhill, of course, but it's harder going uphill," says Petra Husemann-Roew, who heads the German cycling club ADFC in Bavaria.

"The bike will be less agile," adds Thomas Geisler from Germany's Pressedienst Fahrrad cycling organization. "And with e-bikes, heavy luggage affects the battery range."

Take care when braking, especially in wet conditions and when going downhill, he says. The heavier your luggage, the longer the braking distance.