The perfect grocery getter for your commute

Utility Basket

Front view of Arkel Utility Basket

The perfect grocery getter rear panniers
Weight: 0,95 kg / 2,1 lbs (unit)
Volume: 27 l. / 1650 cu. in. (unit)
Detailed measurements

124.95 $ US (unit)

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Utility Basket

Features

he basket is exactly what the name implies: a big, rectangular pannier that will accept a grocery bag and more. This bag is designed for commuting and running the day to day errands. Some people don’t need a full-fledged set of panniers. We sell the Basket as a unit, meaning that people with simple needs don’t have to buy the full artillery. And don’t worry, you can carry a fully loaded Utility Basket on just one side of your bike and you won’t fall on the side. The natural balance on the bike that you learned when you were a kid continues to apply here.

		Huge Main compartment One great big pouch that will gobble up your full load, in bulk or not. Simply unzip the hood and stuff the bag. This is the beauty of top-loading bags. But if you're going to carry your groceries, make sure the eggs are on top!
		Hard Bottom The backplate of the Utility Basket, made out of HMWPE (High Molecular Weight Polyethylene, which is a superior blend of the regular High Density Polyethylene) extends to include the entire bottom of the bag. This makes the bag incredibly strong structurally, it enhances stability of the bag on the bike and prevents the bottom from bulging or sagging under the load. The UB is truly designed for heavy-duty, general purpose transportation, and it's up to you to put it to the test.
		Integrated internal frame A removable aluminum frame inside the main compartment prevents the top of the bag from sagging and keeps its structural shape to the main body of the bag.
		Padded laptop pouch (optional) Holes are already made in the backplate to fit the optional laptop pouch. More details....
		Lateral mesh pockets You need even more space? Lateral mesh pockets in which you can drop your water bottle(s), tin cans, gloves, a hat, whatever.
		Quick access top pocket Smaller items can be quickly stashed in the zippered pocket at the top. Glasses, change, city map etc. The bottom of the pocket is rigid so that pocket and content don’t sink down in the main compartment.
		Visibility and reflectors The UB is often used as a commuter pannier so visibility in all conditions is of utmost importance. So you'll find reflectors on all sides.
		Blinking light tabs Blinker lights can be attached to either side of the Basket. Also, a tab is installed on the front so that all angles are covered. Safety has no price!
		Individually overlocked layers How strong is a bag if all the seams keep unravelling! We make sure that each, individual piece of fabric receives a full overlock stitching, stopping any possible unravelling right there. It makes for a real tough nut to crack!
		Bug with a shoulder strap Like all of our panniers, the UB can be carried with a shoulder strap (optional--see accessories). It makes it that much more practical when walking and shopping around.
		UB, the "most valuable player" If we had an honour to bestow on the Utility Basket, it would the "most valuable player" in its class. This is truly a workhorse of a bag that will give you years and years of unflinching and reliable service. Trust us!

8 Review(s)

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Installing Your Pannier
View the adjustable Arkel hook system - 1.25 MB

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Customer Reviews

I bought one of your panniers and I love it Review by K. Thomas Shahriari

I feel bad that it has taken me nearly a year to write and tell you this. I have to say, there are few product that I have ever bought that so far exceed my expectations as does your utility bag. It is fantastic. On or off in seconds, stable as a rock, spacious and functional; what else could anyone want in a bag. The only faults I find are minor for me, the aluminum bar that keeps the bag open will at times catch on stuff going in or out and it would be great if it were waterproof and didn't require a separate cover in sever weather. Truth is, if the weather is that severe, I am to wimpy to ride in it anyway so no big deal. I just love this bag. Worth every penny.

(Posted on 11/11/11)

If you commute, you'll eventually buy this one Review by Jerrycan

I started with a smaller, side rack mounted bag, which I thought would be okay, but too many times, it just would fit everything. Tried this one as you couldn't get much bigger. It is perfect. Zipperd lid pocket is great for smaller items. Internal frame is a great feature and what I know consider a must. I only use bags for commuting, but if I were to tour, I would not hesitate to buy a second bag. The adjustable mounting mechanism is very quick to engage / dis-engage too, and I've never have a false release, even after curb jumping. If you need a bigger bag, you need an Xtra cycle or a trailer!

(Posted on 6/20/11)

UB,s Review by John

Hi, I live in the UK and bought a pair of UB,s many years ago when they had hoods on them. They were used every day for commuting and shopping and are still in use even to today for shopping. For commuting I have been using the bug which gives more compartments and the bag pack option if your walking any distance from your bike.

(Posted on 6/20/10)

Great for commuting and running errands Review by bytwowheels

I originally tried a more touring-oriented bag with multiple compartments but returned it in favor of the UB. I prefer the UB's single large compartment for commuting and errand-running. The hard bottom and internal frame keep the bags shape, make it easy to see what's inside, and allow quick loading and unloading. It has plenty of capacity so there's no need to pack carefully to get your stuff to fit--just drop it in and go.

(Posted on 5/29/10)

Fantastic Quality Pannier Review by Cola commuter

I just logged in to buy a second UB. I've had my first for several months, and use it literally 5 or 6 days a week (commuting and shopping). I'm buying a second because the other brand I used on the other side of my rack wore out. The UB far outperformed it in every respect (carry capacity, rain protection, durability, stability/security on the rack, and overall usability). Honestly, if you plan on using a pannier regularly buy Arkel. You will save money because you won't have to replace (as I'm doing today) cheaper brands which will wear out relatively quickly.

(Posted on 5/27/10)

durable and easy to use Review by astiv

I bought one UB to check out as a commuting bag. It works great. The cam attachment system and sliding hooks allow me to attach it the oddly shaped Burley rack needed for my son's trailabike. I just bought another. In a world of cheap throwaways, its always a pleasure to see something of this quality.

(Posted on 4/9/10)

Quality Construction - Most Durable Review by Groundhog

I purchased a pair of UB's in '07 for use as panniers on a 5,000 mile ride to Alaska. They held up fantastic and I've toured another 3,000 miles with them in the past 2 years. Bought the wife a pair of UB's in '09 for a 1,000 mile tour through Canada. My 'classic' version had a pull over hood with retaining clasps which I prefer over the zipper closure, which is the version my wife has. The hook attachment to the rack is quality construction and durable. Have never had a problem. For simplicity, I would recommend UB's for touring with one large open compartment. I can easily stuff a sleeping bag and clothes in one. Food and camping gear go in the other. The rain covers also fit well. Overall... quality is great. Would recommend UB's for touring or other cycling local 'errands'.

(Posted on 4/6/10)

Excellent product,excellent value Review by fatmanonabike

My pair of utility baskets was my first Arkel purchase. I read hundreds of reviews on various Arkel products. I cruised the LBSs in the greater Houston area. I was a bit intimidated by the price, but I had experienced cheaper panniers falling off the my rack. 1400 miles later and a couple of camping trips, they still look and function perfectly. Easy on and off. When attached, the system is elegant and rock solid. They are large, built to last forever, and well designed. Check out the design features. Hands down the best cycling value I have purchsed. Excellent and friendly customer service. Sure you can buy cheaper, but you can't buy better!

(Posted on 3/26/10)

Utility Basket

Customer Reviews

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