Baskets

Best Bike Basket Guide: 12 Metal, Wicker & Pet-Friendly Buys

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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:

  1. The Retrospec Apollo Detachable Front Bike Basket Steel in black, attached to a bicycle

    A STYLISH BEST SELLER

    Retrospec Apollo Detachable Front Bike Basket Steel

    A popular and stylish front-end basket that’s easy to assemble.

  2. ZIMFANQI Bike Basket for pets

    THE PET-FRIENDLY OPTION

    ZIMFANQI Bike Basket Quick Release

    A folding, small pet carrier that’s detachable and easy to clean.

  3. Wicker Bike Basket wit leather straps

    CLASSIC OLD-SCHOOL FEEL

    Prosource Wicker Bike Basket

    Everything you look for in a wicker basket, including adjustable leather straps.

  4. Retrospec Apollo-Lite Lift-Off bike basket attached to bicycle

    LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY

    Retrospec Apollo-Lite Lift-Off

    Keep it simple and easy with this affordable steel basket that easily hooks over your handlebars.

  5. EKDJKK Detachable Folding Front Bike Basket

    UNFOLD AND GO

    EKDJKK Detachable Folding Front Bike Basket

    This foldable basket is made of durable plastic with a sleek design.

  6. Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Cycling Bag

    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:

  1. RELIANCER Bike Cargo Rack on back of bicycle

    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.

  2. Public Bikes Metal Basket

    EFFORTLESS CHIC

    Public Bikes Metal Basket

    Designed with a spring-loaded quick release, which means no assembly is needed.

  3. Public Bikes Wooden Crate

    FARM-STYLE CRATE

    Public Bikes Wooden Crate

    This modern twist on an old classic will turn heads wherever you go.

  4. CyclingDeal Bike Foldable Rear Basket

    BIG AND SPACIOUS

    CyclingDeal Bike Foldable Rear Basket

    Its unique foldable design makes this bike basket a spacious must-have.

  5. Wald 582 Rear Folding Basket

    SIDE-BY-SIDE

    Wald 582 Rear Folding Basket

    A nimble collapsible basket perfect for packing one or two bags of groceries.

  6. Kemimoto Bike Bag

    A PERFECT PANNIER

    Kemimoto Bike Bag

    The two side bags are specially designed not to be in your way when cycling.

ALSO READ:



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

Retrospec Apollo Detachable Front Bike Basket Steel
  • UK Flag £20
  • US Flag $25
  • EU Flag €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

Retrospec Apollo-Lite Lift-Off
  • UK Flag £15
  • US Flag $19
  • EU Flag €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

RELIANCER Bike Cargo Rack
  • UK Flag £30
  • US Flag $38
  • EU Flag €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

Public Bikes Metal Basket from various angles
  • UK Flag £47
  • US Flag $60
  • EU Flag €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

Prosource Wicker Bike Basket on bicycle
  • UK Flag £20
  • US Flag $25
  • EU Flag €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

Public Bikes Wooden Crate on bicycle
  • UK Flag £74
  • US Flag $95
  • EU Flag €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

EKDJKK Detachable Folding Front Bike Basket
  • UK Flag £19
  • US Flag $24
  • EU Flag €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

CyclingDeal Bike Bicycle Foldable Rear Basket
  • UK Flag £51
  • US Flag $65
  • EU Flag €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

Wald 582 Rear Folding Basket
  • UK Flag £31
  • US Flag $40
  • EU Flag €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

ZIMFANQI Bike Basket Quick Release
  • UK Flag £16
  • US Flag $21
  • EU Flag €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

Rhinowalk Bike Handlebar Bag
  • UK Flag £18
  • US Flag $23
  • EU Flag €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

Kemimoto Bike Bag
  • UK Flag £20
  • US Flag $25
  • EU Flag €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.


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