I really do like this product. I've ridden my bike to the grocery store twice since getting a pair, and I have to say there are not too many drawbacks. They are mesh, so the clerk can see in them, and not think you're stealing something as you load them up. The clerk loved that she didn't have to bag anything! I love that they come on and off the rack easily, so I can bring them into the store with me. I like that they fold quite compactly when I'm not using them, and I love the shoulder straps. I also like that the bottom hook can be moved forward or backward depending on where I put them on the rack, so that it doesn't hit my foot when I pedal. I like that the hooks are coated in plastic, so they don't scratch the powder coat off my Trailrack.
For the price, they are exactly what they need to be. And they hold A LOT! For $5 more I would've liked a stuff-sack type drawstring closure on the top. I'm thinking REI sells a stuff sack that is big enough to put inside and use on windy or wet days so things don't get damp from potential rain. This would also prevent things from bouncing out over the two rail road crossings I have between home and grocery store, or if I use them on bumpy dirt roads etc. The frame is weird, it doesn't exactly fit across the basket into the little pocket on the inside, but it does help the basket stay rigid when it has stuff in it. That is why it's not 5 stars. BUT that is not a deal breaker for me, or any reason not to like them or reason to return them, for me.
My second trip I came home with this: half gallon of ice cream, two small boxes of frozen veggies, a large tray of chicken, (8x12"), a standard size tray of steak, a tray of ground turkey, a bag of fresh parsley, a 1lb bag of mozzarella, two cans of crescent rolls, a bottle of ketchup and a bottle of mustard. All of it fit in one bag, but I split it into two to distribute the weight.
I have no doubt that the pair will be big enough to carry suits, towels snacks and drinks for a full day at the pond or a picnic a the park without problems.
I would've liked a couple d-rings at the outside corners along the top edge so I can hook my cargo net over it.
Overall I do like the product, a lot, and it was worth every penny. They are a heavy weight material and seem like they will hold up well over time. I imagine they will pay for themselves within a year of not having to drive to the grocery store in the spring/summer/fall months and use all that fuel.
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 16.1 x 12.6 x 2.3 inches |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 2.1 Pounds |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 3.7 x 16.1 x 11.34 inches |
| Brand Name | Avenir |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Manufacturer | Raleigh |
| Part Number | 69-01-036 |
| Size | 1,100cu" |
| Sport Type | Cycling |
