Extrawheel Cycling Blog – Guides, Routes & Touring Stories

Cycle touring guides, routes and stories

The Extrawheel cycling blog brings together practical guides, cycling route descriptions and stories from the road. We share knowledge about cycle touring, bicycle panniers, packing, technical materials and the technologies used in cycling equipment.

Learn how to plan a trip, choose and correctly pack bicycle panniers, and prepare your equipment for the conditions you may encounter on the road – from a short cycling trip to a multi-day tour with a tent.

Extrawheel has been developing cycle touring equipment since 2005. As a Polish manufacturer of cycling equipment, we share knowledge gained from designing, manufacturing and using panniers, bags, dry bags and bicycle luggage systems. We also explain the construction details that affect durability, waterproofing and secure luggage attachment.

Explore our cycling topics

  • Bicycle Touring – stories from the road, family cycling holidays, long-distance tours and first-hand experiences of cyclists travelling through different regions of the world.
  • Cycling Routes – routes in Poland and across Europe, with information about distance, surface, difficulty, attractions and practical trip planning.
  • Cycling Guides – practical advice on choosing, fitting and packing equipment, preparing for a tour and carrying luggage safely.
  • Materials & Technology – explanations of HFW welding, technical fabrics, mounting systems, product construction and the manufacturing methods used in cycling equipment.

Practical guides for cycle touring

The right bicycle luggage system depends on factors such as the length of the trip, the amount of equipment, the type of bicycle and the design of the rear rack. Our guides explain how to choose a suitable capacity, check mounting compatibility, distribute weight evenly and protect the contents against rain, mud and movement while riding.

Our cycling route articles also help you assess whether a particular trail is suitable for a fully loaded bicycle. We consider the surface, elevation, access to shops, repair services and accommodation, as well as the practicalities of carrying camping equipment safely.

Materials, technology and equipment construction

Technical knowledge makes it easier to compare cycling equipment and choose a solution suited to a particular journey. We therefore describe material properties, joining methods, closure and mounting systems, and the solutions used in product design. We explain what influences waterproofing, resistance to wear, repairability and everyday ease of use.

Knowledge grounded in experience

We prepare our articles so that practical experience is clearly distinguished from technical specifications and information obtained from external sources. Where relevant, we provide specific parameters, publication and update dates, author information and the sources used to prepare the content. This makes the Extrawheel cycling blog both a source of travel inspiration and a practical reference when choosing a route or cycling equipment.

What Makes Bike Panniers Waterproof? How to Keep Your Gear Dry
22-09-2026
A bike pannier's waterproof performance depends on its complete construction: the fabric's waterproof layer, sealed panel joins, a correctly closed opening and protection around mounting points. A pannier designed for wet weather will protect your gear when it is in good condition and closed according to its instructions. Protection against rain...
Will Bicycle Panniers Fit Your Bike Rack? Compatibility & Mounting Systems
12-09-2026
Short answer: to choose bicycle panniers that fit your bike rack correctly, check seven things: the diameter of the upper rack tubes, the length of clear tube available for the hooks, the hook spacing or adjustment range, the position available for the lower retainer, clearance from your heel, wheel and other bicycle components, and the maximum...
Bornholm by Bike with Panniers – Route 10 Around an Island Made for Cycling
05-09-2026
Why cycle around Bornholm? For years, Bornholm has been a popular foreign destination among Polish cyclists and an attractive touring island for riders from across northern Europe. The journey now requires a little more logistical planning than it once did, but Bornholm remains an excellent place for an adventure with bicycle panniers –...
Which Bicycle Panniers Should You Choose? Recommended Models for Commuting and Touring
16-08-2026
The short answer: choose panniers to match the amount of luggage, the type of rack and the length of your trip. A total capacity of 25–30 L is usually enough for everyday riding. For a tour with clothing, a sleeping bag and camping equipment, a 40–50 L set is more practical. Before buying, always check the rack tube diameter, hook spacing and...
HFW welding in bicycle panniers – how it works and why it matters
15-08-2026
First published: 20 February 2024Last updated: 17 August 2026 HFW welding is one of the technologies used to manufacture equipment intended to protect luggage from rain, mud and moisture. It can join layers of a carefully selected material without making conventional needle holes in the principal welded areas of the construction. The weld alone,...
FAQ – Fitting and Using Bicycle Panniers, Dry Bags and Handlebar Bags
14-02-2026
The short answer: safe use of a bicycle luggage system starts with checking that every mounting component is compatible with the bicycle and rack. Panniers must be securely attached, the heaviest items should be carried low and the load should be shared between both sides. Dry bags and handlebar bags must be prevented from moving or contacting a...
10 best and most beautiful cycling routes in Poland
09-02-2026
The Best Cycling Routes and Bike Paths in Poland for Travelers with Panniers - A Guide Traveling by bike with panniers is one of the best ways to discover Poland. The improving infrastructure, developed network of cycling routes, and vast diversity of landscapes make bike trips with luggage accessible to almost everyone – regardless of...
How to Pack Bicycle Panniers Properly – A Complete Guide
06-02-2026
Correctly packing bicycle panniers has a direct effect on bike stability, riding comfort and access to your equipment. Even well-chosen panniers will not work at their best if heavy items are packed too high, most of the weight is concentrated on one side or essential gear is buried at the bottom. This guide explains step by step how to pack...
Velo Czorsztyn – The Cycling Gem of Lesser Poland You Must Ride!
02-04-2025
Adventure with Bicycle Panniers Around Lake Czorsztyn – What to Know Before You Start? Velo Czorsztyn is among the best cycling routes in Poland, and bicycle panniers are the perfect companion for this trail! No wonder—this breathtaking cycling loop is a true paradise for cycling enthusiasts, regardless of their skill level. The route is...
The New Generation of Extrawheel Wayfarer 50L Panniers – What Has Changed in the 2025 Model?
02-03-2025
Bike Panniers – A Must-Have for Every Cycling Traveler The bicycle panniers are one of the essential accessories for every cycling traveler. Extrawheel, a brand known for high-quality cycling gear, has introduced a new version of its flagship product – the Wayfarer 50L panniers. What has changed in the 2025 model compared to its predecessor?...
Independence of a Young Cyclist
24-02-2025
Cycling Inspirations It has been a year since our 6-year-old Franek received his first bicycle panniers as a gift. After a year of use, we can now say whether this gift was a hit or, like many other toys, it was put aside. Based on our personal experiences, we can wholeheartedly say that bicycle panniers are a great gift for an active...
Cordura - Reliable Material for Bike Bags: Super Durability and Unmatched Longevity
28-03-2024
The History of Cordura Fabric Cordura has its origins in research conducted by DuPont in the 1920s. These studies aimed to develop a durable material based on polyamides that could be used in various applications. Nylon, which was invented in 1929, became the basis for the creation of Cordura. In 1966, DuPont introduced Cordura to the...
Bicycle Trips with Panniers – Inspirations for Families with a 6-Year-Old
24-01-2024
Bike bags Bicycle Journeys of 6-Year-Old Frank My name is Sławek, I'm 53 years old, and Iwona is 46. Our son, Franek, is 6 years old. Physical activity plays a significant role in our lives, and Franek lives with us, learning by our example. The shared satisfaction of family activities and motivation is an essential part of Frank's upbringing....
How to Prepare for a Bicycle Tour? Practical Advice from Damian Drobyk
14-11-2023
A bicycle tour begins long before the first kilometre. You need to plan the route, prepare the bicycle, check your equipment, decide how to carry your luggage and take care of documents and safety. The longer and more demanding the journey, the more important it becomes to test the complete setup beforehand. This guide is based on the experience...
Japan Expedition 2023
01-11-2023
Cycling Adventure through Contrasting Japan 28 days on a bike, 2462 kilometers, and plenty of challenges during "Japan Expedition 2023." Allow me to share the captivating journey through Japan's geographical and cultural contrasts. By conquering 16 ascents above 2000 meters in the Japanese Alps, including the legendary Mount Fuji (3776...