For my last major, multi-month tour, I made some drastic changes to the way I packed. I completely ditched three front packs and went with rear only, with a greatly reduced load (from lessons I learned on some long-distance hikes). I decided to buck the "load the front" convention and all I can say is it worked great for me and my bike. It was the best cycle touring I've experienced since I started in 1975. I could tour no-handed!
Originally Posted by
staehpj1
In my experience a lot of where to carry depends on how much you carry...Once I got down to a light load (~10-15 pounds) I didn't find it mattered too much where it was and even up high on top of a rear rack wasn't bad.
This is my conclusion exactly.