Hello,

New member, first post. I used to do some mild mountain biking, but stopped about 8 years ago. I want to start commuting to work using my old GF Marlin, and I want to get a rack for the back. Having never purchased one, I pick one I thought would work that had some adjustment to it. Anyway, When I put it on, I found that the pre-threaded holes on the read near the axle are in different locations, so when I mounted the rack it was impossible to get it straight. Since this is the first time putting racks on a bike, is this common, or do I have an odd ball bike frame. Second, any recommendation on a rack that will work in this application?

My commute will be around 5 miles one way, so I do not think I will need many other mods. I defiantly will probably need to get some fenders and a mirror.

Yeah, racks can be a headache. A lot of times it comes from a "universal" rack that fits 700c bikes and you have a 26" or a similar mismatch. Sometimes bending the flat bars that go forward to the seat stays can be bent to work.

I have a 700 rack on my 26" bike. The thing would not mount level at all with the braces screwed in at the rack bosses on the stays. I used a seatpost clamp like THIS to bolt the braces to. It raised them enough to level out the "business" part of the rack. If that looks like it might work, be aware that they come in different sizes for varied seat tube diameters. Be sure to get the right size.

Yea, the rack ad adjustable "legs". The problem with the holes was it was both a height problem and one is more toward the front. The top ones I will most likely have to bend to get to work. Going to a bike shop tomorrow to see what they have for racks.