Originally Posted by nkfrench

I have the quick release MTX rack and a couple of trunk bags. I also have an Arkel pannier "bug bag".
I mount the rack on my carbon fiber "good" bike, had to swap the c/f seatpost out for alloy.
The pannier is nice, but I didn't like how a single pannier swayed when I had to climb a hill standing on the pedals. The trunk bag also seemed to have less wind resistance which I notice on fast descents. Both are easy to fasten onto the rack or carry off the bike with a shoulder strap clipped on.
I use the small trunk bag for light touring rides to hold any extra layers of clothes or small shopping purchases, sunblock, wallet, cable/lock.
The larger trunk bag or panniers are for commuting to work to hold my work clothes, towel, toiletries, etc.
I also use a saddle bag for the spare tube, repair kit, emergency powerbar, extra blinkie/battery.
I was suprised that the bike I bought for utility/trainer/commuter purposes can't use the same beamrack. The seatpost diameter is too big for the quick release clamp. I'll have to see if I can mount a compatible Topeak rack permanently so I can still use my Topeak trunk bags with the quick-click clamping.