Originally Posted by
mstateglfr
http://www.bikeforums.net/touring/1035089-60-front-40-back-recommended-weight-distribution-what-your-opinion.html
Here is an extended thread that’s recent.Good info in there.
This is all preference.There isnt a hard set rule that must be followed one way or the other.As a result, people are all over the spectrum on preference.I will say that its an interesting topic for me for the very reason that there is no right or wrong answer.
I have done both the 4 bag setup and the rear only setup.My views are-
- 4 bag setup is much better for balance.
- 2 bag setup is much better for convenience.
I have some 45L Axiom panniers and with both fully loaded, the front end of my bike really easily rises up.It rides perfectly fine, but every trip ive taken with fully loaded rears only has been relatively flat with gradual slight inclines.With steep hills, rear only weight becomes more of an issue both going up and coming down.
Ill continue to do some rides(shorter intra-state trips) with the rears only because they are convenient.Having only 2 bags instead of 4 means less to carry around and less to have to clip to my bike.I can also use my favorite bike as it only has a rear rack.
If you do go the 2 bag route, perhaps consider still having a front rack to carry some items.Depending on the rack(platform style), you could lash that bear canister to it and/or some bulky things like the sleeping bag or tent.Itll take some bulk from the rear panniers away and help offset the weight imbalance.
Thank you for finding that thread for me, I will read it thoroughly!
Yeah, I plan on starting with these relatively small (by backpacking standards, anyway) rear panniers. (Except for winter camping, I always carried a pretty light backpacking load--certainly under 50 pounds, including food and water. No, I wasn't one of those ultra-light nuts on the PCT surviving with a fanny pack and drop shipments! Anyway, they always seemed to be trying to "borrow" something--reminds me of Thoreau, actually. LOL) I don't know yet how much bike tools and parts is reasonable for a multi-week trip, though. Assuming, that is, that I don't want to depend on my credit card for minor troubles! I also figure to add a handlebar bag to the Jones loop handlebar for a few electronic gizmos. (I have my not-so LBS installing a Son 28 front hub and a Plug III to keep them charged.) The reason I mentioned a framebag was that, in (my) theory, a small one seemed like it might be useful for a few (greasy?) bike tools, a spare tube, and assorted repair items. I really need to see how adding more weight to the front feels before deciding on a front rack or a bigger handlebar bag, such as the Revelate Sweetroll.