I want to start commuting - what's the best way to carry my gear?

Many bike commuters start out wearing a backpack or courier bag, which is hard on your back and restricts your agility while riding in traffic.

The best solution, especially if you're carrying a notebook, is a bike-specific briefcase that attaches to a rear rack.

These panniers often look like regular briefcases, but they have waterproof closures and hidden clips that discretely lock onto the rack. Once you've changed clothes, no one will take you for a bike geek around the office.