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-   Commuting (https://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/)
-   -   Which rack and panniers (https://www.bikeforums.net/commuting/735777-rack-panniers.html)

giskard 05-17-11 02:18 PM
Originally Posted by edsmemberships (Post 12655398)
Did you try the disc version of the Topeak?
Thanks, I did think of that, but wanted to avoid the wider rack if possible.

I checked Topeak's website and the width difference between the disc and standard versions of the rack is 6.5cm (23.5cm vs 17cm), so the rack would be around 2.5" wider. Dunno if that'd be an issue given that I'd prefer to keep things as narrow as possible for my commute (squeezing through traffic etc).

giskard 05-17-11 02:32 PM
Originally Posted by AdamDZ (Post 12655599)
No need to spend $100+ on a rack. Topeak makes very good racks. The previously mentioned Topeak Super Tourist DX is a very good rack with wide sides to properly support panniers and lower rail for hanging them. I have two - the disc brake version - and I they're very strong too.
You're absolutely right

waynesworld 05-17-11 03:34 PM
Originally Posted by FunkyStickman (Post 12649005)
... I have an Axiom Journey rack, it's fantastic...
I have this rack on two bikes. The disc version on my Felt hybrid (though it doesn't have disc brakes - it's what they had in stock), and the regular version on my 2010 Kona Jake. I haven't yet used my panniers on the Jake, but it looks like I'll have enough room for my heels. My chainstays are only 0.5cm shorter on the Jake than on the Felt, and I'm fine on the Felt.

I have Axiom Seymour panniers. They're ok. Not waterproof, and the mounting system is not robust. If they work for you, they work, but there isn't really any adjustment possible. I would recommend going with waterproof panniers that have a robust mounting system, if you can afford them.

perspiration 05-17-11 05:31 PM
If it's ok, I'd like to slip a question into this thread...
I'm going to be buying a rack soon for my '11 Crosscheck, and I've narrowed it down to these two...
http://civiacycles.com/components/hyland_rear_rack/
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/...-rack-ec006627

I do mainly commuting, but I really want to do some touring (lap around lake michigan is my current goal) and I worry about that ultralite one not being able to hold a lot of stuff. The Hyland also looks like it'd be better for heel clearance, which I understand is something I need to consider with my bike.

Any ideas?

Chris Pringle 05-17-11 09:37 PM
Originally Posted by perspiration (Post 12656561)
If it's ok, I'd like to slip a question into this thread...
I'm going to be buying a rack soon for my '11 Crosscheck, and I've narrowed it down to these two...
http://civiacycles.com/components/hyland_rear_rack/
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/...-rack-ec006627

I do mainly commuting, but I really want to do some touring (lap around lake michigan is my current goal) and I worry about that ultralite one not being able to hold a lot of stuff. The Hyland also looks like it'd be better for heel clearance, which I understand is something I need to consider with my bike.

Any ideas?
Between those two, the civia rack offers more side support toward the rear part of the rack. Believe me, that's a huge plus. If you are looking into the Tortec brand, you owe it to yourself to consider their Expedition model. When it comes to rear racks, simple or minimalist designs will look pretty on the bike but very often will translate into a horrible experience commuting and even worse when touring: heel strike, larger panniers hitting the rear wheel spokes, breaking under heavier loads, etc. Based on your goals, I suggest buying one rack that you can grow into rather than spending more $$ later when you realize that your current rear rack was only good for light commuting but not good for anything else.

jeffpoulin 05-17-11 09:50 PM
^^^ I have to agree with that, even though I bought the ultralight. In my case, I just wanted a very light rack to hold a trunk bag for day trips. No panniers. If I wanted to carry panniers, I'd look at the Tortec Expedition or Topeak Super Tourist DX models. I have 3 Topeak racks for my other bikes (touring & commuting) and love them.

irclean 05-18-11 01:04 AM
2 Attachment(s)
Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12653799)
Hmmm, the Arkel bags are quite expensive and don't appear to be water proof unless I shell out an extra £17 on a rain cover. I'm now thinking that the Ortlieb bags are a better bet as their cheaper and waterrpoof "out of the box"
The Arkel bags are quite water-resistant, and I've only needed the rain cover for really sloppy weather. In 3 years of regular commuting I've probably used it half a dozen times. I think Arkel and Ortlieb are on par quality-wise and the decision comes down to features (and price, of course). Being Canadian I'm partial to Arkel since they're made here. One would assume that the German-made Ortlieb bags would be cheaper in the UK.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=202355

Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12655773)
Thanks, I did think of that, but wanted to avoid the wider rack if possible.

I checked Topeak's website and the width difference between the disc and standard versions of the rack is 6.5cm (23.5cm vs 17cm), so the rack would be around 2.5" wider. Dunno if that'd be an issue given that I'd prefer to keep things as narrow as possible for my commute (squeezing through traffic etc).
I use the disc version on one bike and a non-disc Topeak rack on another. When equipped with my Arkel bag I notice no appreciable difference in width.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=202356

giskard 05-18-11 02:08 AM
Thanks for posting those pics, they're a great help.
Originally Posted by irclean (Post 12658051)
The Arkel bags are quite water-resistant, and I've only needed the rain cover for really sloppy weather. In 3 years of regular commuting I've probably used it half a dozen times. I think Arkel and Ortlieb are on par quality-wise and the decision comes down to features (and price, of course). Being Canadian I'm partial to Arkel since they're made here. One would assume that the German-made Ortlieb bags would be cheaper in the UK.
The Arkel gear is pricier here as the the GB pound is a weaker now than a few years ago (I remember getting C$2.50 for GBP1.00 but now it's c$2.00), the same with the pound vs. the euro, the the Ortliebs have increased in price too. I think I'll be looking at Ortlieb for my bag, they're much better value.

Originally Posted by irclean (Post 12658051)
I use the disc version on one bike and a non-disc Topeak rack on another. When equipped with my Arkel bag I notice no appreciable difference in width.
I'll try the Tortec and Topeak (disc and non-disc versions) racks at my lbs soon. If there's little interference between the rack's side bars and the mudguard mounting struts, I may be able to bend the struts and go with a normal rack, otherwise the Topeak disc version will be the way to go.

One question - is the top of the rack actually wider on the disc version of the Topeak Super Tourist?

AdamDZ 05-18-11 08:39 AM
Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12655773)
Thanks, I did think of that, but wanted to avoid the wider rack if possible.

I checked Topeak's website and the width difference between the disc and standard versions of the rack is 6.5cm (23.5cm vs 17cm), so the rack would be around 2.5" wider. Dunno if that'd be an issue given that I'd prefer to keep things as narrow as possible for my commute (squeezing through traffic etc).
No, that won't be an issue, your handlebar is still the widest part of your bike. And if you have disc brakes this is the best rack out there for that.

You will not be squeezing between cars so tightly that 6cm would matter. And if you do, I suggest you rethink you riding habbits before you get hurt.

Mardmakarm 05-18-11 10:20 AM
I ever use Topeak disc version on v-brake bike, no problem at all to use it through traffic jam in Bangkok.

And compare to Racktime rack, imo Topeak paintjob and the rail system is very worth your money.

nashcommguy 05-18-11 10:41 AM
Been using a Delta Mega Rack for 10 years now on 3 different bikes. For bags would recommend the waterproof Ortliebs. Never owned a set myself at this point, but have seen and examined them. Very high quality stitching, lining and attention to detail. You'll pass them on to your grandchildren. Next tour I do they're my first purchase.

irclean 05-18-11 12:23 PM
Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12653799)
...One question - is the top of the rack actually wider on the disc version of the Topeak Super Tourist?
Nope - the rack top is the same width. Also, be sure to look for the Super Tourist DX model if you want to use a trunk bag or place things on top of the rack while also using panniers. The DX variant has the 2nd horizontal bar placed lower, leaving the rack top clear.

giskard 05-19-11 01:52 AM
Thanks again for all your feedback and advice, I think it'd make sense for me to get the Topeak Super Tourist DX rack as it'll take the Topeak accessories such as bags and baskets etc on the quicktrack (?) mount and by getting the disc-brake version, I'll hopefully avoid the hassle of having to mess around with the mudguard struts which interfere with the non-disc mount version. From the pics posted by irclean, it also appears that the wider mount means that the panniers are mounted at a slight angle rather than hanging straight down from the rack so that's good.

I've checked out the Ortlieb Back Rollers and they look great, very well made and probably worth getting, but I had to do a short trip using a hire bike and wouldn't have been able to take a pannier (I had my backpack) so I'm going to also check out the Ortlieb Vario pannier/backpack, thought it's more expensive than the pair of panniers. I know I can get a shoulder strap for the Back Roller so I could still use it when riding a rack-less bike so perhaps that's my best bet?

giskard 05-24-11 01:33 AM
Originally Posted by AdamDZ (Post 12658897)
No, that won't be an issue, your handlebar is still the widest part of your bike. And if you have disc brakes this is the best rack out there for that.

You will not be squeezing between cars so tightly that 6cm would matter. And if you do, I suggest you rethink you riding habbits before you get hurt.
I was in agreement when I first read your comment about rack width, but then this morning I was following a guy on his disc-braked bike with a Topeak Super Tourist DX rack, and his not very fat panniers protruded a few inches beyond the width of the handlebars. That would make a difference when filtering through stationary/slow-moving London traffic.

tFUnK 05-24-11 02:50 AM
If you're just doing some light commuting you don't need a rack/pannier setup for self-supported touring. I picked up an Axiom Streamliner DLX and a Banjo Brothers Waterproof roll-top pannier for my commute and it's more than enough. The Streamliner doesn't really have a usable bed but I like the narrow profile and it's rated to hold 50kg. If you're not going to ride in the rain, you can just pick up some simple panniers from Nashbar.

Cyclist0383 05-24-11 03:01 AM
Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12648980)
I'm getting a little fed up with the sweaty back syndrome on my 12 mile each way commute from carrying my work clothes and stuff in a backpack, so I've decided to invest in a rack and a single pannier for my Kona Jake the Snake. I have quite a few questions though...

Been considering Tubus racks, but not sure which to go for, their stainless steel rack costs a third more than their other steel racks but it'd be more durable and corrosion resistant. Also, are the fixings universal for all makes of bike that have the lugs/thread braze-ons as part of the frame, like my Kona has? Are there any possible screw/thread incompatibilities?

I've been considering Ortlieb rack-mountable bags, like the Back Roller, but I'd only need one, rather than a pair, for my stuff. Alternatively I've been considering a backpack that can be rack-mounted, like the Ortlieb Vario, for those times when I'm using the bag for short trips on my other (folding) bike which cant' take panniers. Are such convertible bags worth considering, given that they cost loads more?

Basically I'd looking for feedback and advice from any others out there who have a rack and panniers on their road/commuter bikes to help me choose the right rack and luggage combo.

TIA
If you are looking for a backpack/pannier check out the Arkel Bug. I've used one for years, and can't say a bad thing about it. It's bulletproof, dead simple to mount, converts into a backpack in seconds, and is extremely comfortable on my back.

For racks I use a Tubus Logo because I like the lower center of gravity it has. There is also a cheaper aluminum version made by a Tubus offshoot called RackTime.

giskard 05-24-11 06:00 AM
Originally Posted by Ziemas (Post 12685422)
If you are looking for a backpack/pannier check out the Arkel Bug. I've used one for years, and can't say a bad thing about it. It's bulletproof, dead simple to mount, converts into a backpack in seconds, and is extremely comfortable on my back.

For racks I use a Tubus Logo because I like the lower center of gravity it has. There is also a cheaper aluminum version made by a Tubus offshoot called RackTime.
I like the Arkel gear but in the UK it's very expensive. Ortlieb do a backpack/pannier called the Vario which I'm looking at though I might just plump for Ortlieb back rollers and a shoulder strap for when they're not rack-mounted

giskard 05-24-11 06:02 AM
Originally Posted by tFUnK (Post 12685415)
If you're just doing some light commuting you don't need a rack/pannier setup for self-supported touring. I picked up an Axiom Streamliner DLX ...
That rack won't fit because my bike has cantilever brakes rather then caliper that the Streamliner depends on - clever rack though.

Cyclist0383 05-24-11 07:18 AM
Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12685673)
I like the Arkel gear but in the UK it's very expensive. Ortlieb do a backpack/pannier called the Vario which I'm looking at though I might just plump for Ortlieb back rollers and a shoulder strap for when they're not rack-mounted
I have both the Arkel Bug and the Ortleib Back Rollers. Arkel makes much higher quality panniers. Their service is also top notch.

giskard 05-24-11 08:20 AM
Been doing a big more digging around for info to help me choose a rack and luggage, now I'm aware that heel clearance might be an issue. My bike's chainstay is 435mm long and I've seen suggestions that the bare minimum chainstay length for avoiding heel-strike is 440mm - only 5mm difference but I have large feet (euro size 48 or UK size 12+) so heel-clearance will be more of an issue. Some racks, like the Tubus Logo, allow you to mount panniers further back on the bike and I was wondwering if ther Topeak Super Tourist DX that I'm keen on also allows that?

magohn 05-24-11 08:45 AM
I love the Topeak system on my Trek Fx 7.3 Disc. Why? Because when I arrive at my destination, its literally a press of the quick-release mounting and the whole bag slides off the rail and I can take it with me in 2 seconds. The panniers also fold up into the main compartment. The extra bottle carrier doesnt hurt either. Great engineering!

http://i56.tinypic.com/1hlee.jpg

JohnJ80 05-24-11 07:24 PM
Tubus racks are nice ... and expensive.

Look at the Racktime racks. I believe they are owned by the same company as Tubus but are AL instead of steel and about half the price but top quality. They are light and they have high load ratings. I have the Add-it, that I use with my Arkel Bug backpack/pannier and it works really well.

J.

bobbisingh 05-24-11 07:26 PM
Get a hybridbackpack. I have it and the beauty of it is that it allows you to take your backpack off your back in place it on the rear bicycle rack. I use it to transfer cases of beer and wine.
Check out my channel on youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/user/bobbisig...r?feature=mhee

giskard 05-25-11 01:55 AM
Originally Posted by JohnJ80 (Post 12689319)
Tubus racks are nice ... and expensive.

Look at the Racktime racks. I believe they are owned by the same company as Tubus but are AL instead of steel and about half the price but top quality. They are light and they have high load ratings. I have the Add-it, that I use with my Arkel Bug backpack/pannier and it works really well.
Someone else mentioned Racktime and I took a look and decided that the AddIt would be the rack for me from that range, but there don't appear to be any UK retailers for Racktime gear. I'm also seriously thinking about getting the Arkel Bug, yes it's pricey and doesn't include a storm cover (that's extra), but after reading what Arkel have to say about waterproof panniers (and it all makes sense), I'm no longer thinking that waterproof is necessarily the way to go...

EDIT: I did find one shop on the web that stocks RackTime but when I phoned to check, I was told that the UK distributor for Tubus had stopped importing Racktime gear months ago. Typical.

Cyclist0383 05-25-11 12:54 PM
Originally Posted by giskard (Post 12690403)
Someone else mentioned Racktime and I took a look and decided that the AddIt would be the rack for me from that range, but there don't appear to be any UK retailers for Racktime gear. I'm also seriously thinking about getting the Arkel Bug, yes it's pricey and doesn't include a storm cover (that's extra), but after reading what Arkel have to say about waterproof panniers (and it all makes sense), I'm no longer thinking that waterproof is necessarily the way to go...

EDIT: I did find one shop on the web that stocks RackTime but when I phoned to check, I was told that the UK distributor for Tubus had stopped importing Racktime gear months ago. Typical.
Go with a German online shop. There are plenty.


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