Commuting to work

Hi,

I just bought a new road bike and I love it. :D It has carbon frame and I was told that I cannot have a rack attached to it since it is all carbon. I am fine with this for weekend riding but I would like to commute using the same bike for work during the week as well.

Work is only 10 miles each way and I carry my laptop etc. in a backpack. It isn't too bad (my back started hurting but I guess it's a matter of getting used to it). I am looking into alternative options and on a different thread Velocivixen suggested using "Arkel Randonneur Rack". I check this out and it looks real cool. Can this be mounted on a carbon frame or is this a no no?

Also, are there any other alternatives or carrying a backpack is pretty much the only way to go?

(I can keep my clothes etc at work but I must carry the laptop to work and back).

Thanks!

I suggest getting a second bike for commuting--one that can take a rack and panniers. There are lots of great used bikes available. You won't get used to a sore back; it will only get worse. Must you take your laptop to and from work?
They are heavy, andcommuting is more fun with less stuff if possible.

It looks like the Arkel rack attaches to the seat post. I think that's ok. Maybe it depends on what your seat post is made out of. 10 miles is a long way to carry a laptop on your back. When I first started commuting, I actually developed some upper body strength in my arms & back from the backpack! Then I got a rack and became a proper cyclist, all leg muscle and spaghetti arms. :D I wouldn't have minded keeping the upper body strength, but I hated the sweat on my back.

Laptops are heavy, so check the weight limit on a seatpost rack. Also, if your seatpost is carbon, don't put a rack on it.