Originally Posted by
jignall
Yes, that's the one my Trek came with. Says the weight capacity is 50lbs and it seems somewhat sturdy. I am doing some credit card touring in Italy and will likely be carrying roughly 25-30lbs so was thinking this would work but again, have hear some very negative things about the Trek racks. Thanks for your input.
Jeff
I have the Ortliebs and they clip right on with ease, as long as you slide the clips into the right place. However, Beko is right when he says they limit the position of the Ortliebs on the side bars. I think the weak spot on the Trek Interchange is the slim blade at the contact point where they bolt to the bike frame. Fact is, there are much tougher racks out there for heavy touring, which I have never done. My loads are lighter commuter loads - spare clothes shoes, etc. Probably no more than 20lbs. If I were actually "leaving the Shire" I'd get Tubus or some equivalent.
The Interchange is great for day trips. I have the same trunk bag, with the handy fold down panniers.