Pannier Fit and Rack Combination

[PeteD]

I know (by participating in Frozen Saddles) that there are a lot of real commuters here, and I’ve read the gear and commuting posts regarding folk’s preferences in packs and panniers, but I couldn’t find something that also encompassed rack selection and pannier fit on these racks.

In my readings and direct answers to questions to folks out and about, I was planning on the Topeak Super Tourist DX for my Trek 7300, which I believe will fit over a set of fenders (when I get them), but I have no idea how any of the non-Topeak panniers will fit.

I’ve seen suggestions here about the Arkel, Ortlieb, and Banjo Brothers, but will they fit? I’m looking to have to tote my laptop to and from, as well as a full change of clothes.

Am I better just figuring out whose bags I want to buy and getting the rack system that they provide?

–Pete

Topic

[Rootchopper]

Your rack is similar to mine. I am pretty sure that Orliebs would work fine. I have 3 bikes with 2 racks (including my Bike Friday) and I set uip the Ortliebs so that they work on all 3 without adjustment. I have the cheapest Ortliebs. More expensive models are even more adjustable.

[TwoWheelsDC]

I use a Novara pannier with my Topeak rack and it fits fine. I think the rack tube sizes generally fall within a certain spec so most panniers will clip onto just about any brand rack. I did have to adjust the clips on the pannier so it would sit as far back as possible on the rack, otherwise my heels hit the pannier. If I had to guess, I’d say you’ll have to do the same for your Trek, but most panniers offer a pretty good range of front/back adjustment.

[Bilsko]

I’ve been using that exact Topeak rack with fenders and a Blaq Pannier

Everything fits very nicely together – will post pictures this weekend.

[rcannon100]

I have a Topeak rack, not that one but similar.

I have Trans-it panniers from Performance. Dont recommend them but they worked fine with the Topeak rack. The rack is definitely designed to support non Topeak bags. The rack is on a Cannondale urban bike and has performed marvelously.

I plan on getting new Ortliebs, probably from REI, when the spring inventory comes in. Ortliebs are highly recommended.

Arkel makes some sweet bags – but it seems like no one has them in inventory. I am not spending that much money on a bag that I dont get to try on for size first.

I have a Topeak Trunk which I love for weekend riding. Easy on and off, enough room for a few minor things.

[IMG]http://www.bti-usa.com/pictures/TZ/TZ2216.JPG[/IMG]

[Greenbelt]

Sounds to me like a perfect excuse to ride to all your local bike shops and test their panniers out! And it looks like a great weekend to rack up some pointless winter miles. -Jeff

I do have a my biases, though!

[mstone]

There are relatively few bags designed for proprietary quick release systems. (Topeak makes some of them.) If the bag won’t work on a generic rack, it will say so. Generic bags will work fine on the Topeak rack; the only possible issue is the seat-mount racks, which need a set of extra bars attached on the side to keep a pannier from hitting the wheel.

[Author]

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