Last mile: How to pack your e-bike correctly for travelling
HANDLEBAR BAG
How does it work? Is attached to the handlebars with clamps. Available as a classic "box" with a map compartment in the lid, or - as here - as a luggage roll with straps.
What's it good for? The classic handlebar bag is suitable for important small items and food, as you can also reach them while riding. A roll with a click fastener is great for a sleeping mat or picnic blanket.
What do I need to look out for? The control unit on the handlebars can get in the way during installation; cables routed in front of the handlebars can also interfere. Heavy loads impair the steering behaviour; in addition, the handlebars can easily fold over when stationary.
FRONT CARRIER
How does it work? There must be eyelets on the fork for mounting. There are also models that are attached with straps (e.g. from Thule) and are even suitable for suspension forks. The luggage must be lashed to the platform.
What's it good for? For light but bulky luggage, e.g. a sleeping bag.
What do I need to watch out for? Weight on the front wheel affects the steering. The lighting system is often in the way or covered by luggage. The headlight then has to be moved to the front of the carrier - but this is not so easy on many e-bikes.
TOP TUBE BAG
How does it work? Attached to the top tube and stem with Velcro tape.
What's it good for? For small items that should be quickly to hand and always in view: Money, passport, camera, etc.
What do I need to watch out for? Cables or cables laid on the top tube can interfere.
FRONT PANNIERS
How does it work? Luggage carrier is a prerequisite. Like the rear panniers, they are attached to the front carrier or to smaller carriers on the fork blades, so-called lowriders, using a click system. They sit lower for a more favourable centre of gravity.
What's it good for? Lightweight luggage or clothing, as they are waterproof and can be quickly removed and taken along.
What do I need to look out for? The weight on the front wheel makes the steering behaviour more sluggish. In addition, the handlebars can easily fold over when stationary. Additional threads must be provided on the fork for lowriders.
FRAME BAG
How does it work? Are attached to the frame triangle with straps using Velcro or click fasteners. Available in many shapes and up to a size that fills the entire frame triangle.
What's it good for? Depending on the size for tools and spare parts, or even for clothes and heavy luggage.
What do I need to watch out for? Does not work for deep-entry users. The positioning of the battery can limit the size and usability, cables and pull stops can interfere with the attachment. If the bag is too wide, you will bump into it when pedalling.
SADDLE BAGS
How does it work? They are attached to the saddle frame and/or seat post with straps or clips. Available in many sizes, from small bags to 15-litre bags.
What is it good for? For small items that need to be quickly accessible but are rarely used, e.g. spare inner tube and tools. Large bags are also suitable for clothing.
What do I need to pay attention to? The space available; depending on the saddle height, the pannier rack (and possibly the battery) may be in the way.
Who has it? E.G. Apidura, Ortlieb, Revelate, Topeak
REAR CARRIER
How does it work? Modern luggage carriers generally do not have a spring flap to hold the luggage. Bags must be lashed down with elasticated straps or tension belts.
What's it good for? For large luggage (tent, sleeping bag) in a pannier bag, e.g. from Ortlieb or Vaude.
What do I need to watch out for? Pay attention to the weight distribution on the wheel; make sure that the luggage is securely lashed down and that no loose ends of tensioning straps get into the spokes.
REAR PANNIERS
How does it work? Are attached to the luggage carrier with integrated clip holders.
What's it good for? Heavy things, if the bike is not too rear-heavy. Usually waterproof, perfect for clothes. A strap turns them into a shoulder bag.
What do I need to look out for? Clip mounts and pannier rack must be compatible. The maximum load for pannier racks is usually 20-25 kilograms. You may bump into the panniers with your heels when pedalling.
LOADING TIPS
Pack sparingly
Even if the motor helps with towing, every kilo of weight affects the handling of the bike and reduces the range. So think carefully about what you really need.
--> You will find a packing list for the cycle tour to download at the end of the article
Distribute weight
On a bike with a rear hub motor and battery on the rear rack, you should not load additional heavy luggage onto the rear rack. Otherwise the centre of gravity will shift unfavourably. It is better to move it to the front.
Keep the centre of gravity low
Important for safe riding behaviour and better road holding. Pack heavy items as low and centred as possible on the bike and only place light luggage on the handlebars or seat post.
Comply with the permissible total weight Always adhere to the limits for maximum payload and maximum total weight (should be stated in the operating instructions). If in doubt, ask your dealer or the manufacturer.
Info
Apidura: www.apidura.com
Deuter: www.deuter.com
Ortlieb: www.ortlieb.com
Vaude: www.vaude.com
Revelate: www.revelate-designs.com
SKS: www.sks-germany.com
Thule: www.thule.com
Topeak: www.topeak.de
Tube: www.tubus.com
The full article was published in E-BIKE issue 3/2017. You can download the issue in the MYBIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or in the DK-Shop order.
