Everyone: How well do your rack trunks work with traditional panniers? Do you have to offset the trunk to one side? What about those of you with a hard-mounting system (Trek Interchange or Topeak)?

I use a Jandd rack and Ortlieb panniers. The whole setup is about $140.00, more than I paid for the bike actually, but it's worth it. The rack is very sturdy, and longer than most, so your heel doesn't strike the panniers, and the Ortlieb panniers are the best things EVER; they're totally waterproof, easy to clean, and very durable. Best of all, they go on and off the bike in about 2 seconds, and I'm not exaggerating. My bike is my only form of transportation, so I use this stuff alot, sometimes to carry heavy loads, and in a very rainy environment, and I've yet to be disappointed.

Of course, we're talking panniers here. If you're into serious performance, go with something else. Panniers turn your bike into the velo version of an old pickup: good for utility purposes, but not terribly sexy.

me likey your analogy :)

I have the basic rack trunk and separate panniers from Novara... so far seems to work well, the panniers just clip onto the sides of the rack.. it is kind of tight with the trunk on but still doable.

Mine work well with panniers. I mount my trunks/baskets onto the rack with an Ortlieb quick-release plate. Their plate has attach points for panniers that hang below the top of the rack.

http://homepage.mac.com/awcg/.Pictur...e/Rackarms.jpg