Touring - Can I use a rear rack up front?

I don't want to go fully loaded, I'm just looking to throw some lights, a box of pizza, maybe 10 lbs of junk (tops) on it. Terrible idea? The spacing is certainly shorter, can I just flex the Al rack or should I find some washers? Thoughts?

If you stop (or freeze-frame) this video between 02:15 and 02:17, there is something that might be of interest,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIPp1vkvDZ8

Interesting Niles. But I couldn't tell much except it looks like he had a bottle cage attached to the back side. Pretty good size rack, though.

Things to note: Front racks change the way the bike steers. A large front rack with lots of stuff mounted on it will really change the way it steers. I have found that at steady speeds, the gyro affect is quite nice. But when going slow and trying to manuver around tight areas, it is really cumbersome. I'll add my front rack (small one) and a set of small commuting bags when I go on extended tours, in addition to my rear panniers. That said, you should try it to see what you think. It may just work for you.

Rule: if you do try it, you must report back. I'm sure it's a rule around here on the Forum, somewhere. :D

how about one of these? The large sizes can carry a lot of stuff, and they're designed for the front of the bike.

http://www.cetmaracks.com/

Victor Weinreber mounted a rear rack on his custom titanium bike named Ming:

http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/forum/board/message/?message_id=61723

See post 5 and 7:

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=278537&highlight=

Nashbar has a cool small front rack for $7.99 that attaches to the v brake bosses