Commuting to work

[raomdc]

Hi,

I just bought a new road bike and I love it. 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!

[tulip]

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.

[Melalvai]

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. I wouldn't have minded keeping the upper body strength, but I hated the sweat on my back.

[tulip]

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.