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It looks fun, but what's the benefit of this over a normal rear rack and panniers? Wouldn't it be nicer to have the weight of the luggage lower?
Great project btw thanks for sharing!
kjlem-
Cheers! There's no tangible benefit to this approach IMO; the Carrier's setup is just one way of doing it (albeit one which Pi has iterated over the years and to his mind works best).
The bike has been design to carry about 70% of the weight up front, spread across the front panniers and rack bag. I dig that approach as I prefer front-loading/pushing weight.
For bike camping I use saddlebags mainly for spare clothes and a sleeping bag so the rear weight, being the same height as a traditional saddlebag setup, is OK. The rear rack legs will have cargo cage mounts so there's that possibility too.
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All kinds of swings and roundabouts but I've never liked how any of my bikes except touring bikes handle with a touring load exclusively in the back. Most rear racks don't actually get the weight that low either, certainly not compared to front racks.
All horses for courses depending on your bike, your load, your terrain, what gear guy can borrow and your preference.
In the end unless you're getting paid for your performance the most important factor is do you like it or not.
Browndonneur
Belagerent
The rear rack is meant for a Wizard Works Shazam, here's what it looks like loaded: