Rack/Pannier weight

[shootingstar]

I just discovered my back rack can carry up to 150+ lbs.
http://www.axiomgear.com/products/ge...racks/journey/
But I've had it for past few years on my bike permanently. I ride most times with a bike pannier, simply because we don't have a car and I can't always predict what I might buy spontaneously along a ride.

You said you predict you will not do heavy touring but will be commuting and doing some chores for carrying weight in bike pannier.

Let's put it this way: It's better to have a stronger bike back rack because right now you might be under-estimating what you are willing to bike around weight-wise in the future. You might surprise yourself. When I returned to cycling, I no inkling of the type of weight I was going to ride around when doing errands or touring.

I have biked loaded panniers with groceries heavy enough which meant steering carefully along a busy road...and one of the stores is only 1 kms. away. (thank goodness, though I kept on thinking is my back tire going to get abit soft?) But you still need, a strong rack!

I don't have front bike rack. For bike touring trips, I haven't found the need for them. It just gets piled on the back of bike. But each person is different here. I've just become much more selective and efficient in amount of clothing when bike touring.

I am not familiar with the front rack to back rack converters.

[moderncyclista]

Surly "Nice Racks" are made from chromoly-steel tubing - sturdy hardcore stuff. I want to get one for my 520 - well that or another steel type. Aluminum racks are cheaper, but aren't as durable. I've broken an aluminum rack (rated for 50 lbs.) with only 20 lbs. on it (I suspect it was a factory defect). Steel racks are more expensive but more durable in the long run. Cost vs. Quality - in my opinion ( & experience) - I'd go quality everytime.

Also, Panniers are handy as hell. I've got a great (and cheap) pair of Banjo Brothers Saddlebag Panniers. Great for around town, commuting, hauling grocieries, etc. If you plan to do touring I'd purchase some higher quality ones - but the Banjos have suited me fine for general use. Ortliebs are on my short list of new touring panniers. I'm sort of taken by some retro-grouch waxed cloth Ostrich brand panniers but I'm sure I'll reign in that desire and go practical.