After bike helmets, locks, repair kits and proper attire, storage is a major issue for cyclists. Whether you bike for pleasure on a Sunday afternoon, like to get your workout on two wheels or rely on a bike as your major source of transportation, one thing most bikers have in common is the need to store their stuff.
Biking has picked up in popularity once again over the past decade, first with more cities and towns making roads bike-friendly and more recently with the pandemic. Biking offers an eco-friendlier and cost-effective mode of transportation compared to cars and with the onset of COVID-19, many commuters began looking for ways to avoid public transit, where germs could easily be spread. Bike sales jumped 75 percent between 2019 and 2020, with many stores selling out. As retailers catch up to demand, the need for bike accessories has also grown and that includes bike baskets.
Bike baskets are available in a variety of styles, including options that require a back rack and baskets that feature snap loop closures over handlebars. Bike baskets can double as lunch bags thanks to their insulation or provide ample storage for extended trips. One thing is for sure, whatever type of bike your ride, there’s a basket that can help hold your stuff. Check out some of our top picks below.
1. Retrospec Bicycles Detachable Steel Half-Mesh Apollo Bike Basket
BEST OVERALL
Affordable, dependable and with ample space, the Retrospec Bicycles Detachable Steel Half-Mesh Apollo Bike Basket checks all the boxes for what we’re looking for in a bike basket. The detachable steel basket includes a tight weave along the bottom to keep small items secure. The steel basket is weather-resistant and can be installed over the handlebars of most bikes without any tools necessary. Well balanced for safety, the basket can be quickly removed and includes a convenient carrying handle. With a max weight limit of 15 pounds, the Retrospec is great for books, groceries, backpacks, and other heavy items.
Buy: Retrospec Bicycles Detachable Steel Half-Mesh Apollo Bike Basket $26.57 2. Topeak TrolleyTote Folding MTX Rear Bike Basket
BEST FOR LARGE LOADS
If you have a big load, you need a bike basket that can handle some serious cargo. The Topeak TrolleyTote Folding MTX Rear Bike Basket provides 25L of storage and has a max load of 19.8 pounds, making it ideal for groceries, books, backpacks and briefcases. The TrolleyTote easily slides and locks onto the MTX track system and includes a cargo net to help keep contents secured. When it’s time to use the TrolleyTote off the bike, the large container has a telescopic handle and rubber wheels for easy maneuvering. The TrollyTote also stores flat for added convenience when not in use.
Buy: Topeak TrolleyTote Folding MTX Rear Bike Basket $74.95 3. MATTISAM Bike Handlebar Bag
BEST PHONE VISIBILITY
Whether you’re riding on a path or on the street, it’s critical to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. But sometimes, a map is necessary. Instead of awkwardly holding your phone while riding, which is dangerous for you and your phone (drops happen), invest in the MATTISAM Bike Handlebar Bag. A transparent pouch on the top of the basket securely holds the rider’s phone while still allowing them touchscreen access. The inside of the 3.5L bag is insulated for safe food storage and two exterior mesh pockets make carrying drinks, umbrellas, or other small items convenient. The outer layer is made from 600D polyester that is weather-resistant and finished with reflective panels for added safety. Three straps make it easy for users to install and remove the bag in seconds.
Buy: MATTISAM Bike Handlebar Bag $19.99 4. SUNLITE RackTop Basket
BEST FOR PETS
If your four-legged bestie likes to join you for daily bike rides, you need a bike basket that will keep them safe, secure and comfortable. The Sunlite RackTop Basket is designed with pet safety in mind. The mesh powder coated basket includes a quick-release attachment and padded handlebar that makes it easy to remove your basket from the bike when necessary and bring your furry friend with you. The wired cage keeps dogs and cats secure during bike rides and prevents any chances of mid-ride escapes. Ideal for small dogs and cats, the basket can handle loads up to around 15 pounds. Customers can easily add a small blanket or towel for added comfort for man’s best friend.
Buy: SUNLITE RackTop Basket $67.45 5. Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag
BEST LUNCH BAG
For commuters who bring their lunch to work or school or anyone who likes to have snacks on hand during a leisurely ride, we recommend the Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag. The compact bag fits securely on the handlebars of most bike styles and is attached with a snap closure that doesn’t require any tools or installation. The wear-resistant bag is made with twill and is insulated inside to keep food at an ideal temperature. The front of the bag includes a zippered compartment for small personal items and a stretchy mesh side pocket is perfect for drink breaks on the go. When the bag is removed, customers can utilize the top carrying handle or the adjustable strap for over-the-shoulder or cross-body carry.
Buy: Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag $19.99 6. Bell Tote 510 Metal Handlebar Basket
GOOD FOR WARM WEATHER
For a basket that can stand up to the elements and carry a heavy load, we like the Bell Tote 510 Metal Handlebar Basket. The universal basket works with just about any bike style and attaches to the handlebars for easy installation. An easy-off design and handle make for a convenient carrying basket and the weather-resistant material is an excellent option for hot climates. Featuring an impressive storage capacity, the Bell Tote can hold up to 15 pounds.
Buy: Bell Tote 510 Metal Handlebar Basket $24.07 7. Bell Tote 400 Wicker Bike Basket
BEST TRADITIONAL DESIGN
For riders who prefer a more traditional style basket or want an option that is better-suited style-wise to a cruiser bike, we like the Bell Tote 400 Wicker Bike Basket. Faux leather straps provide easy on/off installation without the use of any tools. The durable wicker basket provides an impressive amount of storage space and can be customized with paint or a water repellent oil.
Buy: Bell Tote 400 Wicker Bike Basket $24.99 8. Ortlieb Up-Town City Basket
BEST SEALED LID
For a basket that will keep contents securely inside even during bumping rides, we like the Ortlieb Up-Town City Basket. The waterproof basket includes an IP64 dustproof and splashproof lid that helps to keep items inside the basket. A zippered inner pocket for personal items, 5kg max load, and tip-resistant design all make this a user-friendly basket. The Ortlieb has four handlebar mounting sets available and features reflective 3M material on the outside.
Buy: Ortlieb Up-Town City Basket $110.00 9. Thule Shield 25L Pannier
BEST FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS
For a bike carrier that can go the distance with you, there’s the Thule Shield 25L Pannier. The oversized, 25L bike bags (sold in a set of two) fit over the back wheel rack for storage that is large and out of the way. Ideal for daily commuters who need room for multiple changes of clothes or riders looking to get away for the weekend on their bike, the set of Pannier bags is made with an IPX4 waterproof rating and reflective panels for heightened visibility. Both bags feature three interior pockets for easy organization and include a shoulder strap for added convenience. The roll-down top and adjustable clips make it easy for users to get in and out of the bag.
Buy: Thule Shield 25L Pannier $169.95
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