Hello Sutra Owners,

I am concerned that the shorter chainstays (44.0cm or 17.3") on the Sutra will cause heel strikes with large panniers on the rear rack. I am considering getting a 2010/11 Sutra sized at C59 or C61 and my feet are at 10.5"-11.0" depending on shoes.

I plan on using Arkel GT54's on the rear rack. I understand that the mountings on the Arkels can be adjusted to move the the pannier further backwards. Is anyone currently using GT54's and experiencing any heel strike problems?

Also, I would like to add a shelf to the front rack by either changing to a Surly Nice or Jandd Extreme. Is anyone running these racks up front with fenders and the Discs?

Another idea up front is to rig a Nashbar Mini Rack to the currently Sutra front rack by removing the front hoop and attaching it to the low riders.

I would like use the front rack shelf to carry a light sleeping bag or strap down a small lunch cooler instead of a bar bag.

Thanks for any comments.

Gil