So you got it sorted... Note the mounting pieces on Surly Front racks are their weak point....
There is roughly 4cm further height from bottom to hook on the rear bags than the front.
there have been a couple cycletourists loading just the front of their bikes, most with rear racks load the back.
I use a front rack on my low trail, small wheel bike friday ..
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Last edited by fietsbob; 08-15-17 at 11:52 AM.