a bike basket liner that you won’t mind toting

Maybe because it’s awards season, I was thinking that swag bags — you know, the freebie totes that accumulate in the closet — make pretty good bike basket liners.

Ready-made liners are great, but their bright patterns and cotton fabrics often seem to me to be better suited to sunny Southern California cruising (no disrespect — wish I was there today!) than to urban riding, especially in messy weather. Why not give a shot to a reasonably attractive, but languishing item that’s yearning for a useful life?

Over the winter, the faux-python vinyl tote above has done double duty for me as a basket liner and a carryall.  I thought I’d post it today because people have asked me about it on the street and because I just found out that the gift-with-purchase offer that netted me the bag at a cosmetics counter last fall has come around again this week for spring.

Here’s why I think any simple, roomy and waterproof tote works well in a bike basket:

• There’s no need to sweat over road spew on damp days; just wipe with a sponge. (To protect items inside, fold the top over and secure with a cargo net.)

• A tote in a basket is a good alternative to the added bulk of slinging a messenger-style bag over your winter coat while riding. And vinyl is super-lightweight.

• This type of bag is attractive enough to carry around without announcing “bike accessory.” I use it to transport gym clothes, office paperwork and groceries, as well as to protect my “good” shoes and pocketbook.

• Catch a cog or a smudge of chain grease? There’s probably another “bonus” waiting in your closet.

While swag is seldom really “free,” a little something extra is always nice. Through February 28, Saks Fifth Avenue is offering a colored snake-skin-print version (above right) with a $100 purchase of cosmetics or fragrances in-store and online.

_________

CONGRATULATIONS…to Jessica D.B. Doyle, winner of the Velo Love T-shirt in our Valentine’s Day facebook promo. Lots more city cycling goodness to come. Please join our facebook community today!