Accesories for the road bike?

Question

I would like to commute on my road bike, but I would need a bag to be carried on the back, and it rains in the afternoons where I'm from. Should I get some tire guards? Where should I find all these things at a good price?

Answer 1

You need to check if your frame has the right mountings for a pannier rack and mud guards.  Most road bikes will not have the fittings unless they are designed for touring.  You can get racks that you can mount using clamps that fit around your frame or some that mount on the seat post, though these can't carry such big loads.  

Tubus is my favourite rack at the moment and can be fitted to frames without existing fittings.

http://www.tubus.com/index/lang/en/rubri...

Ortlieb are good for waterproof pannier bags.

Answer 2

Best source of advice I know is to ask someone who also commutes in your area. Why not stop by your local bike shop (LBS) and ask who rides to work (probably everyone will raise their hand).  Be sure to ride your bike when you visit so they can make certain that the accessories they are recommending are right for your particular bike.

Prices may be a little higher than online stores, but it's worth a few extra coin to get the localized advice and to establish a relationship with other commuters who can recommend routes to avoid, etc.

Good for you for becoming a bicycle commuter.