Sullalto

I just put a rack on my bike so I can hang panniers off the back-I need more space than my small messenger bag and don't like the sweat from the strap.

I'm using these bags: Tandem Pannier Bag | Bike Pannier Bag | Shoulder Bag - Timbuk2 Bags

There is a little stretching cord+hook on each bag. I initially stretched them to the bottom of the rack(a topeak super tourist Topeak® Cycling Accessories ? Products - Super Tourist DX Tubular Rack w/disc Mounts (w/o Spring) ), at the junction of the front and middle support. But the panniers would fall off.

So I started clipping them to the seat stay instead. No problems on day one, at least. But I'm not doing anything stupid or dangerous this way, right? I figure not, but I'd rather my wheel not fall off in the middle of a ride.

Or if it does, that's something I want recorded, because it'd be funny as hell.

mulveyr 

Well, it's really a matter of if it's secure or not, and only you can tell us that. If the panniers and straps/cords can't work loose and get into the wheel or drivetrain, and stay in place over bumps, you should be fine.

no1mad 

You could always shorten the cord so that it will attach to the rack.

JohnJ80

Seems to me that's the right answer.

J.

spivonious

I'd think you'd be fine. My panniers had those bungees on the side too, but they eventually ripped off. I haven't used them for over a year and the bag is still securely attached to the rack by the top straps. Are you saying that those panniers only attach with the bungees?

Panza

I use double sided velcro straps for my steel cage. The thing is heavy, about 2kg, and I use it to get groceries to carry an extra 10-15kg. I used to use bungee chords and zip ties, but those would break over hard bumps (even the bungee chord), and I never felt safe and secure with it. The double sided velcro strap lets me take off the basket easier and feels a lot more durable. $8 at your local home improvement store for about 2 meters of roll. I also use the extra velcro to hold onto my spare tube and keep my bicycle chain neat and orderly.

(Sometimes I take off the basket to work on the bike or to join group rides ~16mph.)

MichaelW

"There is a little stretching cord+hook on each bag."
So 1970s.
Modern mounts use QR hooks and anti-sway "door handle" hooks.

scroca

What is that clamp on the seat post for?

noglider 

The security of bungies depends on the skill of he user. If you make them tight, they are secure. I use bungies for all sorts of things. I notice my wife can't, because her hands aren't strong enough. Another point is that it can be annoying to use bungies.