Cargo Racks for Bikes: Options, Installation, and More

If you're looking to carry more gear on your bike, a cargo rack is a great solution. There are several types of cargo racks available, including rear-mounted racks, front-mounted racks, and seatpost-mounted racks.

Rear-mounted racks are a popular choice because they offer ample storage space and can be easily installed. They're also a good option if you need to carry heavy loads.

When choosing a cargo rack, consider the type of bike you have and the amount of gear you need to carry. Some cargo racks are designed specifically for mountain bikes or hybrid bikes, so make sure to choose one that's compatible with your bike.

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Choosing a cargo rack is a crucial decision, and it starts with understanding how you'll be using it and with what gear. Your bike rack's compatibility with panniers is a key consideration, as some racks just won't work with certain types.

The weight limit of your rack is also important, especially if you plan on carrying light loads or drybags. This will help you avoid overloading and ensure a safe ride.

If you're planning a long route or expedition, carrying extra water might be a necessity. In this case, look for a rack with cargo cage expendability, like the Tumbleweed T Rack or the Old Man Mountain Elkhorn.

There are several types of cargo racks for bikes, each with its own unique features and benefits.

The most common type is the rear rack, which is attached to the back of the bike and can hold a wide range of cargo, from groceries to camping gear.

Front racks are another popular option, often used for carrying smaller items like baskets or bags.

Platform-style racks provide a flat surface for securing cargo, while tray-style racks have a more open design for easier loading and unloading.

Some cargo racks are designed specifically for carrying bulky items like surfboards or kayaks, while others are better suited for smaller items like water bottles or tools.

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Trunk bags on top of the rack are a great option for longer trips or bicycle touring, where you may not need to remove bags frequently. They offer a convenient way to carry gear.

These bags are often more useful than front baskets or rear baskets for longer trips because they can hold more gear. You can fill them up and then bungee extra items on top.

A good alternative to rear baskets is a front basket, which allows you to keep panniers on your rear rack and still have a basket for something else in the front. This is especially useful for shorter rides.

Trunk bags on top of the rack can be a bit more convenient than rear baskets for some people, but the downsides may outweigh the benefits for longer rides.

If you're looking for a cargo rack that won't weigh you down, consider a lightweight option. These racks are perfect for smaller vehicles or those who need to carry heavy loads.

The J-Style cargo rack is a great example of a lightweight option, weighing in at just 45 pounds. This makes it easy to install and remove as needed.

Aero bars are another lightweight cargo rack option, typically weighing between 20-30 pounds. They're designed for smaller vehicles and are perfect for carrying bikes or other equipment.

The Kuat Racks Sherpa is a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts, weighing in at just 25 pounds. Its compact design makes it easy to store when not in use.

In general, lightweight cargo racks are designed to be easy to handle and install, making them perfect for those who need to transport equipment on a regular basis.

Mounting a cargo rack to your bike can be a bit of a challenge, but don't worry, it's definitely doable. You'll need to consider the type of mounting options available for your bike, such as eyelets, brake bosses, or suspension fork dropouts.

Most bike frames are built with lower mounting eyelets, but some may not have them. In that case, you can use extra-long quick releases to secure the rack's lower section. For example, Old Man Mountain racks use this method to interface with the bicycle fork's dropouts.

To ensure a snug fit, you'll need to choose the right mounting hardware for your bike. For instance, OMM's stainless steel clamps can be used for securing the upper section of the rack, while Tubus offers their own Tubus Seat Stay Mounts for mounting Tubus Roundstays to frames without upper eyelets.

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Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

Remember to measure your frame's seat tube outside diameter to ensure a proper fit for a seatpost clamp with a rack mount eyelet. And if you're not sure about the best mounting option for your bike, don't hesitate to take it to your local bike shop for expert advice.

You can mount a front rack to your bike using top mounting eyelets, which provide the most secure attachment. However, not all forks have these eyelets, so you may need to use alternative methods.

Old Man Mountain racks are designed to be installed on the top part of the rack to a caliper-style brake boss system, while others may require the use of OMM Band Clamps to create a clamp on each side of your fork.

Lower Position: Many bicycle’s front forks are built standard with lower mounting eyelets, which can be used to secure the rack’s lower section. This method is often used when the fork doesn't have top mounting eyelets.

Some racks, like the Old Man Mountain racks, interface against the bicycle fork’s dropouts, and are secured with an extra-long quick release that locks the rack against the fork while also locking the front wheel in place.

Mid Fork Position: Some bicycle forks are built with a mid-fork eyelet to facilitate the installation of a front bicycle rack. Adapter brackets can be installed for bicycles that do not have Mid-Fork Eyelets.

Rear Rack Installation Methods & Positioning

Lower Position: Many bike frames are built standard with rear, lower mounting eyelets, which can be used to secure the rack’s lower section. This method is often used when the frame doesn't have upper mounting eyelets.

Tubus Rear Racks can be mounted with the Tubus QR Adapter, while OMM Rear Racks interface with the bicycle frame’s rear dropouts and are secured with an extra-long, rear quick release.

Upper Position: Most bicycle frames that have lower mounting eyelets also have upper mounting eyelets. However, some frames may only have lower eyelets, in which case you can use OMM’s stainless steel clamps or Tubus Seat Stay Mounts to secure the upper section of the rack.

Mounting a rear bike rack can be done without eyelets, but it requires additional hardware, such as P-clamps or a seatpost clamp with rack mount eyelets.

Installation Tips

Make sure you have enough room between a side basket or pannier and your heel when pedaling. Some bicycles with a short chain stay length may make it harder to have pedal clearance with panniers.

Some rear racks have different diameter sizes for the side rails where you’d connect a panniers. It's worth measuring to ensure the standard sizes will work, as many panniers come with inserts to accommodate different sizes.

It's a good idea to check the screws fastening your bike rack on occasion to ensure they don't become loose and rattle out.

Small frames with restricted frame bag space and not much room between the saddle and rear tire—or handlebar and front tire—limit packing space and justify the need for a rear bike rack.

Rear bike racks are a great solution for bikepackers who rely on a dropper post, as they allow for smooth dropper post function, full use of its travel, and positions the weight closer toward the ground for a more stable system.

Tire clearance is the most important consideration when choosing a rear bike rack, and some manufacturers provide schematic drawings to help you figure it out.

You can sometimes determine the tire clearance based on the platform size, but be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure a smooth and safe installation.

Most bike racks have a capacity of 40-60 pounds, which is sufficient for big grocery hauls but not enough to carry a heavy load. This is a common design limit for many bike racks.

Rear-mounted luggage carriers are typically designed for a maximum load of 25 kg (55lb), with some models capable of handling up to 40 kg (90lb). This is a key consideration when choosing a bike rack.

I've had experience with bike racks that claim to carry up to 310 pounds, which is achieved by attaching to different places on the bike frame. This can be a convenient option, but it may require adjusting the seatpost.

Capacity is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a bike rack. Most rear-mounted luggage carriers are designed and tested for a maximum load of 25 kg (55lb), with some models reaching up to 40 kg (90lb).

Some bike racks can carry much heavier loads, however. For example, high capacity rear bike racks can carry up to 310 pounds, but these racks often require attaching to different places on the bike frame.

These high capacity racks usually connect to the seat stays and seatpost, which can be inconvenient if you need to move your seatpost. However, they can work well for carrying heavy loads.

The author of this article has personal experience with a rear rack that has a 176 pound capacity, which attaches directly to the seat stay without the need for the seatpost. This rack is a bit harder to install due to its many moving parts, but it can be installed on a wide variety of bikes.

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It's worth noting that the author has not fully tested the ability of this rack to hold 176 pounds, so it's essential to tread carefully and consider the weight capacity of your bike rack.

Typical design load limits for front-mounted carriers are 2 x 10 kg (2 x 20lb), while most luggage carriers are not designed to withstand the weight of an adult person.

A rear bike rack is a crucial component of a bikepacking setup, and it's essential to know its uses. A rear bike rack can be used to carry a variety of items, including bags and baskets.

There are three main uses for a rear bike rack, which include carrying items such as panniers, baskets, and trunk bags. These types of bags can be mounted on the rack using various systems, including convenient mount systems like the Topeak or Ibera.

Panniers and baskets are often preferred over trunk bags due to their ease of use and capacity. Trunk bags, on the other hand, can be a bit tedious to take on and off the bicycle, especially if they don't have a convenient mount system.

Tire clearance is a crucial consideration when choosing a rear bike rack. Some rack manufacturers are more cryptic when it comes to this specification.

You can sometimes figure out the tire clearance based on the platform size. Others, such as Tubus, offer schematic drawings to help with this.

Rack manufacturers that provide clear tire clearance specifications are a big help when it comes to choosing the right rack for your bike.

Folding bikes with 20″ wheels require a special consideration when choosing a rear bike rack. The Specialized bike rack with extendable legs can fit many different wheel sizes, making it a good option.

This rack can accommodate normal panniers without any issues, but its hinging rear support bar may not provide sufficient support for heavy loads.

Folding bikes with unusual frames, like the Brompton, may have racks with built-in wheels that use the rack as a rolling platform while the bike is folded.

The high capacity rack might be a better choice for bikes with standard frames, but its connection point to the seat stays may not fit on large and unusual frames.

The Topeak Explorer Rack is a top pick from Wirecutter's bike rack recommendations, but I don't entirely agree with their choice.

It has an extra stay, which adds extra support and stability to the rack. This feature makes it more durable than some other options.

It's rated at 55 pounds, the same as the Ibera bike rack. However, I've heard it's more stable and easier to use with certain bags.

The extra stay and sturdy design make it a reliable choice for carrying heavy loads.

Mounting a cargo rack on your bike requires some thought and planning. The type of mounting system you choose depends on the type of bike you have and the type of rack you're using.

For front racks, there are several mounting options to consider, including top mounting, lower positioning, and mid-fork positioning. Top mounting is the most sturdy option, but not all forks are equipped with eyelets. Lower positioning is a good option for bikes with lower mounting eyelets, while mid-fork positioning is best for bikes with mid-fork eyelets.

To secure the rack's lower section, you'll need to swap out the standard quick release for an extra-long quick release that locks the rack against the fork while also locking the front wheel in place. This is a common practice for many bike rack manufacturers, including Old Man Mountain.

Weight and capacity are also important considerations when choosing a cargo rack. Front racks typically carry between 25-50 pounds, while rear racks carry between 35-90 pounds. It's essential to distribute the weight evenly to ensure a smooth ride.

When choosing your bike rack setup, consider the weight you plan to carry and how you'll distribute it. Front racks typically range from 25 to 50 pounds, while rear racks range from 35 to 90 pounds.

To ensure even weight distribution, test and fine-tune your setup before setting out on a ride, especially if you're using both front and rear racks.

The weight should be distributed equally front to back and right to left. This will help maintain balance and prevent any strain on your bike.

If you only need to carry a light load, a rear rack is often the best choice. They offer the most mounting positions and don't impact the steering of the bicycle.

Some cyclists prefer front racks for their lower mounting position, which is ideal for bike panniers.

Most rear racks are designed with a rear plate or rail for mounting rear lights, such as the Busch and Muller 4DToplight Permanent Bike Tail Light.

Some bicycle rack manufacturers also design their bags and racks to integrate with each other, making it easier to find compatible options.

Here are some popular bike rack brands that offer high-quality options:

Now Go Forth and Carry!

You've got the bike rack installed, and it's time to start carrying all your essentials on your bicycle. Next up, consider investing in a set of panniers to make your daily commute more convenient.

With a bike rack and panniers, you'll never have to worry about carrying a to-go box or take away bag again, as you can now bring it back home on your bike.

Decide on the type of panniers you want, and make sure they're compatible with your bike rack.

Some cargo racks come with threaded bosses that can accept bottle and cargo cages, adding extra carrying capacity and versatility to your bike. This is a huge benefit for riders who need to carry extra gear or water.

The Tumbleweed T-Rack and OMM Elkhorn are examples of racks that offer this feature. Riders who don't have enough heel clearance to run panniers will appreciate this option for extra room for gear.

There are several standards for cargo racks, including the European Standard EN 14872 and the International Standard ISO 11243. These standards ensure that racks are designed and tested to meet specific safety and performance criteria.

The MIK profile luggage carrier is a standardized luggage carrier pattern that has become widely adopted, with over 50 brands participating in the standard by 2023. This includes well-known brands like Giant, Kalkhoff, and Trek.

For attachment, the MIK system uses a "Mounting Is Key" (MIK) compatible carrier plate that clicks onto the carrier, allowing for easy swapping between accessories.

Standards play a crucial role in ensuring the compatibility and safety of bicycle luggage carriers. European Standard EN 14872 and International Standard ISO 11243 provide guidelines for designing and testing these carriers.

EN 14872 is a European Standard that outlines specifications for bicycle luggage carriers, including luggage carriers for bicycles. ISO 11243, on the other hand, provides a framework for classifying and testing luggage carriers.

The MIK profile luggage carrier is a standardized system that enables the attachment of accessories with MIK compatible carrier plates. This system has gained popularity, with over 50 brands participating in the MIK standard, including Giant, Kalkhoff, and Trek.

A few notable examples of luggage carriers include a Dutch utility bicycle with a rack attached over the rear wheel, a low rider mounted on a touring bicycle for mounting panniers, a cast aluminum rear rack with integrated spring-loaded clamp, and a bicycle with front and rear luggage rack that mounts to the frame.

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A basket on top of the rack can be a convenient way to carry things, and depending on the size, it can be pretty useful.

You can choose from various types of baskets, such as a PUBLIC basket that can be easily attached and detached with a simple spring-loaded mechanism.

For shorter rides, a front basket can be a good alternative to a rear basket, allowing you to still have panniers on your rear rack.

A basket can be large enough to carry backpacks and other large objects, making it a great option for carrying bulky items.

Rack height is a crucial measurement that determines the distance between the platform and the lower mounting bolt hole. This can vary significantly between bike frames, so it's essential to figure out where your rear bike rack mounts are and measure the vertical space between the lower mount and the top of the tire.

We generally like to have at least a couple of centimeters of extra wiggle room for mud clearance. This helps prevent mud from accumulating on the rack and affecting the ride quality.

The rack platform should not be too high, as this can also impact the ride quality. Some racks are adjustable, such as the Old Man Mountain Divide, while others offer different sizes, like the offerings from Tumbleweed.

The location of your frame's rack mounts will influence what racks you can and can't use. Some racks may require adapters or different strut kits to work, while others have axle kits that allow you to run a rear rack with no mounts at all.

When choosing a cargo rack for your bike, consider the weight capacity.

Most cargo racks can hold up to 80 pounds of gear, but some can handle as much as 120 pounds.

Look for a rack with a sturdy frame, often made from aluminum or steel, to ensure it can support heavy loads.

Some cargo racks come with a built-in kickstand, which can be convenient for loading and unloading gear.

The type of bike you have will also determine the type of cargo rack you can use.

For example, a platform-style rack is best for mountain bikes with wide tires, while a seatpost-mounted rack is ideal for road bikes.