lightweight commute...with rack

[hamster]

I have a 1990 Pine Mountain and had a rack on it for a short while. I have small, size 8, feet and I used to clip my heels on the panniers - so perhaps look for some that are shaped with the front lower corner missing. Most MTBs have fairly short chain stays, around 425mm, whereas 26" wheel touring bike tend to have them 445mm or longer, so the heel clipping issue may be a problem on quite a few bikes.

With the panniers heavily loaded, the Marin wasn't particularly nice to ride, the front felt light and the steering a bit odd. My low-end mid 90s Claude Buttler is better heavily loafed, but still not great. I haven't tried it but having front panniers as well might help balance things up a bit, but I'm guessing that ultimately, something that was dsigned for load lugging from the outset may still be best of all.

Almost any bike will handle like a truck with panniers, but lower-end frames are definitely better. The basic frame tubing is stiffer than lightweight exotica, while the geometry of the steering is a little more docile. My 1990 Marin Palisades is a brilliant tourer, even with drop bars.

 

[fun at fiftyish]

trailers are great! and can be used for lots of stuff,if anything the handling seems improved in some instances due to the longer wheelbase...I was a bit negative towards them till I got myself one, No longer need one for the kids but got one for my dog she loves it..So now locally no longer known as the guy with too many old bikes.... but now "The crank with the old bikes and dog in the trailer" so I guess that's progress?!
A big plus is you can use almost any bike you like.
Mark.

 

[RustyGold]

Good opportunity to try a classic Orange, if that would be light enough for you.

...just spotted there are few of these around on here at the minute - so might be worth considering, know nothing about Oranges - what do i need to consider?

I highly agree with using an old(er) Orange to commute with. I've found they're, generally, light and flickable (a steel frame may be worth your consideration, to cope better with our fine British weather).

Having said that, virtually any older mountain bike will stand you in good stead for rack equipped commuting. Just look for the usual suspects - Marin, Kona, Trek, Scott, Etc...Just remember to keep bling to a minimum and ideally de-badge the frame.

It's worth noting that I have a 99/00 Anniversary Clockwork -- much to my chagrin this model doesn't have rear rack mounts (just something to be mindful of).

Hope it helps