Carrying loads

Cycling with carrier bags dangling from the handlebars, or with a piece of wood under one arm, is dangerous.

That may seem obvious - but similar sights are seen every day. The answer is to buy the equipment to carry items correctly.

Good makers of cycle luggage include Ortlieb, Karrimor, Carradice, Altura and Agu.

For light loads, consider a courier bag or backpack but watch you don't overfill it. A backpack, especially, can make you very sticky on anything but the coldest days.

For top-up shopping and small loads, invest in a pair of panniers. The more you pay, the longer they are likely to last, and the more waterproof they will be. Look for panniers that can be separated and those that can be clipped on and off your bike easily. The best racks have four-point fixings. Before you use any pannier, check that all the nuts and bolts on your rack are secure.

For larger shopping trips and other load carrying, consider buying a trailer. These are invaluable for personal use and also have many applications on factory sites, airports, etc. Some CCC members have been known to compete as to how much their trailer can carry - one claims to have lugged a two-seater sofa some 20 miles to a friend'home, while another regular carries £100 of shopping ... and always brings home his Christmas tree by bike.

Workbikes

A wide range of specialist bikes are available. One of the best UK suppliers is Velorution of London.

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