I've just bought a used Trek 7100 and am returning to biking after 25 years. I live in NYC and have used a Xootr for 7 years, so it's an interesting transition.

I'd like advice about the best way to carry things on the bike. Usually I'll carry lunch and grocery shopping, but it could be anything.

Friday I carried a set of tent poles (cheap ones, so they were heavy) enclosed in a stuff sack and strapped on the rack with a bungee cord and I could really feel it when they shifted. I'm worried about balancing the load. I just bought the bike on Thursday so I am still in the "feeling klutzy" stage.

I don't want to spend much on bike accessories until I know what I'll really use. I'm torn between panniers, a trunk bag, or continuing to use my small duffel bag-and-bungee-cord arrangement.

Second, any advice on getting in shape to carry the bike up and down stairs? I'll need to do this to get on and off trains. I've started by simply carrying the bike around the house and later I'll practice on the stairs in my apartment building. I've spent more time carrying the bike around my living room than I have riding it.

Thanks for any advice.

Pam