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A bike basket is extremely useful and can make your daily commute much easier and more convenient. The trusty backpack can only hold so many items before you need some extra space to transport your daily groceries, shopping bags, extra loads, or even your pet.
Bicycle baskets add much-needed carrying real estate to your bicycle, and choosing the right one will make all the difference. The first choice you will have to make is whether you’ll need a front-mounted or a back-mounted basket.
Front- or Rear-Mounted?
Front- and rear-mounted baskets can serve two different purposes. Baskets mounted to the front of your bicycle are routinely used for carrying smaller loads, personal items, or pets. Baskets mounted on the rear can usually carry bigger items and larger packages. The make and shape of your bicycle will also impact whether a basket will work better on the front or back.
Front Bike Baskets
Best for carrying smaller loads, personal items, or pets.
Rear Bike Baskets
Usually to carry bigger items and larger packages.
Best Front-Mounted Baskets:
-
A STYLISH BEST SELLER
Retrospec Apollo Detachable Front Bike Basket Steel
A popular and stylish front-end basket that’s easy to assemble.
-
THE PET-FRIENDLY OPTION
ZIMFANQI Bike Basket Quick Release
A folding, small pet carrier that’s detachable and easy to clean.
-
CLASSIC OLD-SCHOOL FEEL
Prosource Wicker Bike Basket
Everything you look for in a wicker basket, including adjustable leather straps.
-
LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY
Retrospec Apollo-Lite Lift-Off
Keep it simple and easy with this affordable steel basket that easily hooks over your handlebars.
-
UNFOLD AND GO
EKDJKK Detachable Folding Front Bike Basket
This foldable basket is made of durable plastic with a sleek design.
-
SOMETHING MODERN
Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag
If the basket isn’t for you, try this modern bag with multiple storage options.
Best Rear-Mounted Baskets:
-
BACK TO THE BASICS
RELIANCER Bike Cargo Rack
If your bike doesn’t have a rear-end cargo rack, this is the perfect base to start with.
-
EFFORTLESS CHIC
Public Bikes Metal Basket
Designed with a spring-loaded quick release, which means no assembly is needed.
-
FARM-STYLE CRATE
Public Bikes Wooden Crate
This modern twist on an old classic will turn heads wherever you go.
-
BIG AND SPACIOUS
CyclingDeal Bike Foldable Rear Basket
Its unique foldable design makes this bike basket a spacious must-have.
-
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Wald 582 Rear Folding Basket
A nimble collapsible basket perfect for packing one or two bags of groceries.
-
A PERFECT PANNIER
Kemimoto Bike Bag
The two side bags are specially designed not to be in your way when cycling.
ALSO READ:
- Are Pannier Racks Universal? (Do All Panniers Fit All Bikes?)
- Best Front Bike Racks: Top 6 for Commuting
Metal, Wicker, Foldable, and Pet-Friendly Baskets:
Now that you’ve made your choice between front- or rear-mounted baskets, let’s take a closer and more in-depth look at the different styles, their perks, and the prices.
Metal and Steel Bike Baskets
1. Retrospec Apollo Detachable Front Bike Basket Steel
- £20
- $25
- €23
Prices are approximate
Type: Front-mount bike basket
Material: Weather-resistant steel with a powder-coat finish keeps your basket safe and protected in any climate.
Weight limit: 15 lbs
Size: H: 9.5″ x W: 10.5″ x L: 14″
Easily detachable
Turns into separate basket
Easy to reattach
This is the perfect basket for running errands, on grocery hauls, or cycling across campus. It’s easily detachable and turns into a separate basket that you can easily remove and reattach. It’s available in a variety of colours to fit your style.
Pros
- Easy to remove and attach to the bike.
- Turns into a basket to carry.
- No tools are needed.
- Available in various colours.
Cons
- Not ideal for rainy weather.
- Not ideal for heavy items.
2. Retrospec Apollo-Lite Lift-Off
- £15
- $19
- €17
Prices are approximate
Type: Front-mount bike basket
Material: Alloy Steel. Completely weather-proof steel construction for durability and reliability.
Weight limit: 10 lbs
Size: H: 7.5″ x W: 9.5″ x L: 14.5″
Waterproof
Durable
Integrated hooks
This lightweight detachable metal basket is completely weather-proof and durable. It has integrated hooks to attach it to your bicycle’s handlebars effortlessly.
Pros
- Easy to remove and attach to the bike.
- Turns into a basket to carry.
- No tools are needed.
- Available in various colours.
Cons
- No coverage in rainy weather.
- Small items only.
- It might not fit all bike makes.
3. RELIANCER Bike Cargo Rack
- £30
- $38
- €35
Prices are approximate
Type: Rear-mount cargo rack
Material: Solid aluminium alloy
Weight limit: 55 lbs
Size: H: 4.25″ x W: 6.93″ x L: 17.48″
Durable
Adjustable
Includes reflector
This durable and solid aluminium alloy bike carrier rack features an adjustable structure and a full quick release system. It’s also equipped with a 30° adjustable fender and rear red reflector. It also comes with a bungee cargo net.
Pros
- Structure adjustable in length and height.
- Fits most bicycles from 26″ to 29″, including road and mountain bikes.
- Free bungee cargo net included.
- Equipped with a red rear reflector to increase visibility.
Cons
- It does not fit bikes with tires over 4.5″.
- It does not fit suspension bikes.
- You still need to buy a basket to mount on top of the rack.
4. Public Bikes Metal Basket
- £47
- $60
- €55
Prices are approximate
Type: Rear-mount detachable basket
Material: Steel construction with an epoxy finish
Weight limit: 15 lbs
Size: H: 6.75″ x W: 15.75″ x L: 12″
Stylish
Lightweight
Turns into separate basket
This basket is a simple design in the signature PUBLIC style. It’s a lightweight wire bicycle basket with a spring-loaded quick release. It instantly clamps onto most standard racks and sits flat when not on the rack. A comfy carry handle makes it ideal for taking into the grocery store.
Pros
- Simple, lightweight design in signature PUBLIC style.
- Uses a spring-loaded quick release to attach and remove easily.
- A comfy carry handle.
- No tools are needed.
- Fits most standard rear racks of 5-6″ in width.
Cons
- On the pricier end of the scale.
- Not compatible with PUBLIC Porteur rack.
- Racks are not included.
- Only available in two colours.
Wood and Wicker Bike Baskets
5. Prosource Wicker Bike Basket
- £20
- $25
- €23
Prices are approximate
Type: Front-mount bike basket
Material: Tightly woven wicker finished with vintage stain
Weight limit: N/A (Books, bags)
Size: H: 9″ x W: 9″ x L: 12″
Vintage look
Adjustable handle bar straps
Weather-resistant
Add a touch of vintage to your bicycle while conveniently carrying everything from books, bags, or even a picnic lunch in this wicket basket. The tightly woven wicker basket has a stained finish and perfectly complements any bike. The adjustable handlebar straps make it easy to mount the basket to almost any handlebar style for a secure fit. The basket is coated with a weather-resistant coating.
Pros
- It’s easy to install and detachable.
- It’s suitable for most bikes.
- It has adjustable leather straps.
- It’s stylish and available in black, brown, and light brown.
- It’s designed to withstand all weather conditions.
Cons
- It might be more aesthetic than functional.
- Limited carry size.
- No rainproof cover.
6. Public Bikes Wooden Basket
- £74
- $95
- €87
Prices are approximate
Type: Rear-mount detachable
Material: Wood
Weight limit: N/A (Sturdy)
Size: H: 6″ x W: 15.75″ x L: 11.75″
Unique style
Lightweight
Easy to remove
Something different and unique. PUBLIC designed this lightweight wooden bicycle crate with a spring-loaded quick release to easily remove it from your bike rack. It’s perfect for trips to the farmers market and just about anywhere. It will add a classic old-school look to your bike.
Pros
- Spring-loaded quick-release function.
- Unique PUBLIC aesthetic.
- Spacious.
Cons
- High price point.
- To avoid theft, zip ties are included to secure the basket.
- Needs rainproof cover.
Foldable Bike Baskets
7. EKDJKK Detachable Folding Front Bike Basket
- £19
- $24
- €22
Prices are approximate
Type: Front-mount bike basket
Material: PP plastic.
Weight limit: N/A
Size: H: 8.07″ x W: 8.86″ x L: 12.4″
Easy to carry
Waterproof plastic
Durable
This basket’s foldable design makes it easy to carry. It’s made from durable and weatherproof plastic that will last a long time. It has a soft pad to prevent metal friction and to protect your bicycle’s paint. Unscrew the four fixing screws to adjust the height.
Pros
- It’s made from durable material.
- It’s easily collapsible when not in use.
- It’s waterproof.
- It can also work for pets.
Cons
- It may not fit all bike types, depending on the handlebar.
- Check fit before buying.
8. CyclingDeal Bike Bicycle Foldable Rear Basket
- £51
- $65
- €59
Prices are approximate
Type: Rear-mount foldable
Material: Food-grade polypropylene (heat and corrosion-resistant)
Weight limit: The load weight will depend on the weight capacity of your rear pannier rack.
Size: H: 9.4″ x W:12.7″ x L: 17.1″
Unique foldable design
Premium quality material
Large capacity
The CyclingDeal bicycle foldable rear basket is perfect for your ride. With its unique foldable design and patented design, this basket is unlike any other. Weighing only 4.8 lbs, this basket is lighter and safer. Made of premium quality material, constructed from food-grade polypropylene for heat and corrosion resistance.
Pros
- A unique patented design.
- Large capacity of approximately 34L.
- It will never rust.
Cons
- It will need a rainproof cover.
- Only available in one colour.
9. Wald 582 Rear Folding Basket
- £31
- $40
- €36
Prices are approximate
Type: Mounts to the side of rear rack
Material: Steel
Weight limit: N/A (1-2 bags of groceries)
Size: Extended basket: H 8.5″ x W: 7.25″ x L:12.75″
Collapsed basket: 1″ thick
Nimble and light
Easily collapses when not in use
Modern design
The Wald 582 sets the standard for ingenuity when it comes to rear baskets. Mounting to the side of many rear racks, this nimble basket is the perfect size for packing one to two bags of groceries while balancing your load. When not in use, the base of the basket pivots up, allowing the side walls to collapse. A simple clamp at the top keeps the basket out of your way when not in use.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable.
- A clamp at the top keeps the basket out of your way when not in use.
- Modern, simplistic design.
- Quality material.
Cons
- A rainproof cover is needed.
- Limited weight capacity.
Pet-Friendly Bicycle Basket
10. ZIMFANQI Bike Basket Quick Release
- £16
- $21
- €19
Prices are approximate
Type: Front-mount bike basket
Material: Oxford cloth and sturdy aluminium alloy frame
Weight limit: 11 lbs
Size: H: 4.13″ x W: 11.5″ x L: 13.74″
Sturdy
Perfect for pets
Extra pockets for storage
This dog bike basket is made of oxford cloth and sturdy aluminium alloy frame, suitable for most bicycles. The front and zip pockets are perfect for storing small items like keys, cards or anything else you need quick access to. There is also a drawstring closure on the top of the basket, so you don’t have to worry about anything falling out.
Pros
- Includes front and zip pockets.
- Quick-release mounting system.
- Drawstring closure option.
- Easy to clean.
Cons
- Only available in black.
Alternatives Bike Baskets
11. Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag
- £18
- $23
- €21
Prices are approximate
Type: Bike handlebar bag
Material: Polyester Twill Fabric
Weight limit: Capacity 5L
Size: H: 9.85″ x W: 3.55″ x L: 7.48″
Dual-purpose
Durable
Weather-proof
Rhinowalk is a creative brand created by an independent designer who loves cycling. This bike handlebar bag can also turn into a shoulder bag when needed. It has buckles on both sides of the bag for attaching it to your bicycle’s handlebars. It comes with a shoulder strap. The bag is made from twill fabric which is extremely durable and weather-proof.
Pros
- Turns into a shoulder bag.
- Three adjustable rail systems to keep the bag in place.
- Suitable for mountain bikes.
- Modern design.
- Variety of colours are available.
Cons
- Limited capacity.
12. Kemimoto Bike Bag
- £20
- $25
- €23
Prices are approximate
Type: Pannier rear rack bag
Material: 600D Oxford fabric with waterproof PVC Layer
Weight limit: 11 lb on each side
Size: H: 11″ x W: 3.9″ x L: 13.3″ (4.7″ between two bags)
Waterproof
Strong straps
Large side pockets
This cycling pannier bag is made of 600D Oxford fabric with waterproof PVC Layer. It has four strong straps, with two extra side hooks, so you won’t have to worry about the bag bouncing around while you’re riding. You can fit everything you need and more in this durable pannier bag, equipped with two large side pockets.
Pros
- Adjustable hooks.
- Reflective stripes to increase visibility.
Cons
- Confirm your bike rack size before purchasing.
- Not suitable for BMX bikes.
Bike Basket Tips
Quick, helpful tips to remember after you’ve bought your bike basket:
Care: Store your bicycle inside to avoid sun and rain damage, or remove detachable baskets.
Security: Don’t leave anything in your basket when your bicycle is unattended. Quick-release baskets should not be left unattended unless securely fastened to your bicycle.
Safety: Make sure you are comfortable riding with a bike basket before heading into busy streets.
Pets: Getting used to the basket might also take time for your pet. Your pet jumping out of the basket is a real risk. Make sure you take the necessary precautions.
Capacity: Don’t overload your basket. Make sure it can handle the load.
ALSO READ: Best Laptop Bike Bags: Top 9 for Commuters
Bicycle Basket Ideas and Inspiration
Bicycle Baskets Benefits
- Quite simply, they make life easier. Instead of lugging things around in a bag or backpack, they take the weight off you and onto a bike basket, whose extra weight you’ll barely notice.
- They offer easier access to your belongings. Again, with your possessions in a bag or backpack, you may have to stop cycling if you need to get your wallet or water bottle, for example, out of it. At least with a front basket, that problem is eliminated, so you won’t have to slow down (or not too much, anyway).
- Most are incredibly easy to install, too. Simply attach using straps or hooks to your bike frame for front baskets, or a luggage carrier or rack on your rear wheel, and you’re good to go.