A few years ago, rack mounts on a carbon-fibre bike were just not a thing. Now that lightweight touring bikes (or drop-bar hybrids) have been renamed "gravel", "adventure" or "bikepacking", being practical has apparently become cool again, so we have a few different options.
I thought I might start a list here, for the benefit of anyone looking for a load-carrying carbon-fibre bike. Please post any others you might spot, online or in the wild. And I am sure we can have a lovely discussion about lightweight pannier racks, heel strike and weight limits while we are at it.
Many bikes are listed on Cycling About, but some of these rely on the seat stay bridge or special seat collar to mount a rack. For me this risks heading into "but is it designed to hold a rack?" territory. But if the manufacturer suggests it...
A few years ago, rack mounts on a carbon-fibre bike were just not a thing. Now that lightweight touring bikes (or drop-bar hybrids) have been renamed "gravel", "adventure" or "bikepacking", being practical has apparently become cool again, so we have a few different options.
I thought I might start a list here, for the benefit of anyone looking for a load-carrying carbon-fibre bike. Please post any others you might spot, online or in the wild. And I am sure we can have a lovely discussion about lightweight pannier racks, heel strike and weight limits while we are at it.
Branded bikes with rack mounts
Sold in UK
Other
Not necessarily unavailable in the UK; just I couldn't find a seller.
Seat collar or seat stay bridge
Many bikes are listed on Cycling About, but some of these rely on the seat stay bridge or special seat collar to mount a rack. For me this risks heading into "but is it designed to hold a rack?" territory. But if the manufacturer suggests it...
OEM frames
Carbon-fibre cargo bikes
For entertainment purposes. Can't buy any yet.