bert37

Hey all,

I've just purchased the Topeak MTX E-Type rack for my commuter (carbon fork means seatpost-attached rack only), which has a quick-release clamp. According to the documentation, it Fits 25.4~31.8 mm seat posts -- could someone explain how the clamp widens/narrows to fit different seat post sizes?? Cause I can't seem to get it to hold tight onto my 27.2mm.
I'm considering returning it for the RX with dual side frames, however, because the Topeak rack bags that fit the MTX seem to have a pitifully small amount of storage space, so I'll probably end up buying something with fold-down pannier bags, like the
RX DXP (friggin' alphabet soup with their products) -- although then I'm worried about exceeding the 15 lb weight limit! (vs. 20 lb for the non-side frame rack??) Also, how difficult is it to remove the non-quick-release racks, when I want to go for weekend rides, etc.?

Thanks for any help. I feel like it shouldn't be this difficult to buy a rack and bag for my bike, but I want to buy once and be done with it, and am having a lot of trouble finding the right combination of size/weight/fit/price/etc.

Hawkear

It should come with some plastic or rubber shims that go between the clamp and the seat post. If you don't have those, cut up old inner tubes work just fine.

CastIron

The clamp also screws down like a QR on your wheel.

jur

Shims for 27.2. I made some from rubber sheeting. The rack moves nowhere.