Originally Posted by
saddlesores
a small frame bike may be too cramped for full size rear panniers.
possibly consider replacing the fork with one suitable for touring with front bags.
would that surley fork be correct geometry?
True, but many folks get by with less than "full sized" panniers. Panniers intended to us used as front panniers may work well on the back and for some folks may be a good choice as a rear pannier.