The summer heat just keeps on coming. It makes going outside feel like a bit of a chore, doesn't it? (Though, I say that, yet I still went for a ride in Nozawa Onsen on my day off last week.)
While I often think, "I don't want to leave my room...", I still find myself heading to the supermarket to pick up food, or popping over to the local convenience store even when I don't have any particular business there.
I’ve started using my bicycle more often when heading to the supermarket or convenience store just a 5-minute walk from home (a 5-minute walk in this heat feels like your life force is being drained💦), just to spend as little time as possible outside.
In those moments, if you have a bag on your back, your shirt ends up soaking with sweat... That’s exactly why a front basket becomes such a desirable accessory for those quick errands!
"But aren't all the racks themselves expensive and difficult to install?"
Many of you might be thinking that.
That’s why I want to recommend the front baskets from WALD!
They’re reasonably priced, and they’re simple to install since they don't require any special tools.
With one of these, even quick outings become much more comfortable. Here are a few front baskets that will make you feel just that!
WALD: The Long-Standing Bicycle Basket Brand
WALD is a long-standing brand based in Kentucky, USA, with over 100 years of history and experience.
What has remained unchanged for years is their sturdy build that securely holds your luggage, a simple design that suits any bike, and their ease of use. Because of this, they have been loved by many fans across various cycling scenes, from city riding and commuting to touring.
The steel body firmly supports your load, and the unfussy design blends naturally with any bicycle. Furthermore, many models can be installed without tools, which is another attractive point, even for those installing a basket for the first time.
With a WALD basket, both short trips to the store and long-distance rides become significantly more comfortable, adding convenience and fun to your daily cycling life.
Multi Fit Front Basket
WALD Multi Fit Front Basket
Colors: CP (Silver) / Black
137 / Small size: 37cm x 24cm x 12cm
139 / Large size: 45cm x 32cm x 15cm
Price: 6,710 – 8,470 JPY (tax included)
This is the classic front basket among WALD's lineup.
As the name suggests, it features a multi-fit design that supports a wide range of handlebar diameters, fitting bars from 22.2mm to 31.8mm.
The fact that it can be mounted on drop bars, riser bars, and almost any current handlebar is a major appeal. The installation is very easy, requiring no special tools or complicated steps. Even those installing a basket for the first time can use it with confidence.
You might wonder why there are four stays, but you actually overlap two of them to use as a single support. Overlapping them increases strength and makes it easier to adjust the angle to fit various bike frames.
Also, the black ring-shaped rubber spacers are used between the handlebar and the clamp. Because of these, it can even accommodate thinner handlebars.
There are two sizes available, which you can choose based on your needs.
The S (137) size is recommended for commuting to school or work, or for quick shopping trips. (It easily fits a small cooler box too🧊)
If you choose the L (139) size, you can easily carry supermarket grocery bags or a larger tote bag with room to spare.
Also, using a cargo net or strap to keep items from jumping out of the basket while riding is a great way to stay worry-free◎
Bags perfectly sized for your basket.
TEMBEA Roll Top Tote
Size: Height 450mm × Width 320mm × Depth 200mm
Capacity: 28L (max)
Price: 27,500 JPY (tax included)
Actually, there are bags designed precisely for the 137 size!
The TEMBEA Roll Top Tote can be secured to the basket using the side velcro straps.
After taking it off the bike, you can use the belt on the roll-top section to carry it as a shoulder bag. It might feel a bit tight for some, but you can also wear it as a crossbody bag.
There is also a Zip Tote For 137, which is smaller than the roll-top version, so be sure to check that out as well.
OUTER SHELL 137 Basket Bag
Size: Height 33 cm x Width 20.5 cm x Depth 20 cm (expandable up to 12.5 cm via drawcord adjustment)
Capacity: 13.6 L to 22 L
Price: 35,200 – 42,900 JPY (tax included)
The OUTER SHELL 137 Basket Bag can also transform into a shoulder bag by attaching an optional shoulder strap and removing the side stiffeners.
Additionally, it features a drawcord with a plastic hook for the lid and belts on the bottom to secure it to the basket, so you can fasten the bag firmly.
It is also equipped with a zippered clear map case on the lid, allowing you to store your smartphone while keeping it visible.
WALD 1352
WALD 1352
Colors: CP (Silver)
Size: 37cm x 24cm x 23cm
Price: 7,370 JPY (tax included)
An American-style commuter basket. Its deep design makes it difficult for items to bounce out, and the main benefit is being able to carry things stably while riding.
You can carry drinks like water bottles that need to be kept upright, as well as A4-size document cases!
1372 Front Basket
WALD 1372 Front Basket
Colors: CP (Silver) / Black
37 (Small) size: 37cm x 24cm x 12cm
42 (Large) size: 45cm x 32cm x 15cm
Price: 4,400 – 6,380 JPY (tax included)
If you already have a front rack installed, you can easily attach this basket by securing it with zip ties.
Of course, it can be used as a standard basket, but if you combine it with a small rack like the SimWorks Obento Rack, you can expand your cargo capacity.
Even in the hot summer, a front basket makes quick outings comfortable and fun◎
By combining your favorite basket with a bag, every time you hop on your bike, you'll find yourself wondering, "Where should I go today?" Making your daily commutes more fun and convenient—be sure to add your favorite front basket to your cycling life!
