Hi there,
I apologize for any silly questions in advance, but this is my first foray into carrying more than a basket's worth of stuff on a bike. I'm currently building up a weekend camper/everyday commuter/possible long-distance tourer based on a late 80s Schwinn Voyageur. I've determined that the first step is getting a rear rack. I'm currently looking at Tubus racks, specifically, the Tubus Logo and Cosmo. I'm also looking at the Axiom Streamliner Pro Tour Inox. Other than the price difference and the recommended load, they don't seem to differ that much at first glance (especially visually between the cosmo and the axiom). They all are tubular steel, with lower pannier mounts and an upper platform. However, the cheaper Axiom rack has a much higher load rating.
I know that Tubus racks are generally very well regarded, however, is there a difference between Taiwanese and German welding when it comes down to it? When you pay more for the Tubus rack are you really just paying for the 30-yr warranty and the name-value of a German company? On the other hand, will I ever need to carry 175lbs (I only weigh 140) on a rear rack?

Thank you very much.