Folding Bikes - Rear Rack for 20" Wheel

I need a rear rack that will fit over a 20" wheel. Searching through this sub-forum I came across this link:

http://www.thorusa.com/dahon/accessories/racks.htm

I was hoping to find something a little cheaper, although I would consider purchasing the Arclite Rear Rack that's listed on the Thor website. After shipping it to Canada, it would probably cost me ~$50. That's a shame when I can walk into my LBS and purchase a 26" or 700c rack for less than 20 bucks. Unfortunately, none of the shops around here stock 20" racks, and I don't think I've ever witnessed anyone commuting on a folder in these parts.

Thanks for any and all replies.

You don't necessarily need a rack specifically made for 20" wheels. Depending on your bike, a standard rack may work just fine. I use the rack from my 700c bike on my Swift with no issues at all.

Yeah, I tried mounting a couple of standard racks that I have laying around, but neither would work. Not only were the decks sitting a good 4 or 5 inches above the wheel, but there was no way to get the struts to reach the seatstay braze-ons or seatpost collar (I have one of those collars to which you can attach rack struts).

I see you're in SW Ontario. Check out MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op). They have a folder for sale that is part Dahon with an IGH and has their rack. Should be able to get something from them as in saying 'yours got damaged and could they get you another one' .....

Also, check with any LBS and just order an arclight rack here in Canada.

The distance between the rack and the wheel is irrelevant as far as the structural integrity of the rack is concerned. Depending on which rack you are trying to use, you might be able to get some longer struts for a fraction of the cost of new rack.

Then again, what L8Guy is suggesting probably makes more sense for your situation.

If you have Tubus racks for another bike, there are extended bars available to adapt to smaller frames. I went this route because I already had a Tubus for another bike, and didn't feel like dropping $100 for what looked like a flimsier product. As stated above, height of the rack above rear wheel is not terribly important. This setup worked pretty well for me.

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d169/mattlavallee/2010-05-2513-26-42.jpg

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d169/mattlavallee/2010-05-2612-08-22.jpg

Has anyone tried this rack on a folder?

http://www.topeak.com/products/Racks/SuperTouristDXTubularRack_disc

I read somewhere else (can't remember where) that another Topeak rack fit the Downtube Nova, which is what I have, and so I'm wondering if any of them will work on my particular bike.

Thanks!

+1, panniers are a given height, developed around bigger wheels, rack same.
so as above in #6, one must adapt...

200179

This is a standard 700c type rack on my 20" Xootr Swift. Easy to fit and looks fine.

Thanks everyone. Looks like I may just have to go the route of mounting a "standard" rack. I did see one in a catalog at the LBS that was designed for a 24" wheel and cost less than 20 bucks, so I may just get them to order that one for me.

Xootr CrossRack is pretty good:

http://www.xootr.com/crossrack-bike-rack.html

also worth a consideration are racks that mount to suspension rear triangles.

I found a couple of racks that are designed to fit over the 20" wheels of tadpole trikes. I have made a few inquiries, and I will report back here if I place an order.