Work Bicycle

[Optimist]

Haven't used these too much since I got super sick shortly after I got them and I still feel super tired even though I've been mostly better for over a week now.

Water definitely comes in through the zippers so I will need to put drain holes in them.

I don't think I'll be able to fit a ton of stuff in these, but that's alright because not a lot of weight is surprisingly noticeable.

[majorhavoc]

Yes, a loaded bike transforms the way it handles.  I used to do some bike touring with both front and back panniers and it turned my lively, responsive bicycle into a plodding beast of burden. Stops had to be planned further in advance, it was reluctant to change direction and required more focus to get underway if you were on the slightest incline.

And hills that I could quickly conquer on an unloaded bicycle by building up a good head of steam and standing up on the pedals suddenly required I remain seated on the saddle and very quickly switch to my lowest gears.

You do get used to it. You just have to adjust your riding style and your expectations.