Originally Posted by
tastest
I am looking for a rack as well and have a general question. Why do the "touring" racks not have a flat shelf on top while commuter one do? I would like a rack with substantial weigh carrying ability, a second lower rail for panniers, and the flat shelf, but that combination does not seem to exist. I like the shelf as provides a better platform for the racktop bag, and a little water protection. Thanks
I'd wager that most touring bikes have fenders, making the water protection from that solid platform redundant, and most rack top bags have stiffeners to allow them to be used on racks without that solid platform. All this means that for the same weight, a rack without a solid platform would be stronger than one with. I also think they look better.