Originally Posted by
jwbnyc
I'm looking at panniers right now and wondering about weight distribution, specifically; why, if the optimum weight distribution is 60 front/40 rear, are all these panniers sets rigged with the large bags in the rear and often with a rack bag to boot?
I normally hear the opposite -- 40 front, 60 back. Which could explain your observation.
Don't forget, though, that different objects have different weights and densities. E.g. you could have small panniers filled with tools, food and water, and it will weigh more than a pannier filled with clothes and a pillow
The main thing is that 100% front or 100% back will throw off your handling. 50/50, 40/60 will balance it out a bit better. Anything else is up to preference.