The panniers are large and quite robust. Some steps need to be taken to minimize the chance of a hook breaking. While not a commonly occurring issue, it may occur if pushing the weight limit or riding on rough surfaces.


Setting Up Your Panniers

  • Please make sure all 4 hooks are on the rack. Separate the 2 sides from each other (some models from 2020 cannot); this makes it much easier to install the hooks.
  • Use the velcro straps on the inner surface to secure the bags to the rack so they do not shift or move as much when loaded.
  • Another point of adjustment is the velcro connecting each side to the other. If adjsuted correctly, it will result in a more secure fit and support or redirect some of the weight. 

Taking these steps will minimize the chance of anything breaking. 

The panniers sit high on the rack, as shown below. This is to avoid heel strikes, and also keep heavy cargo away from the rear derailleur. Additionally, a bungie or strap can be used to secure something to the rack underneath the cover of the pannier.































Hooks & Clips

Occasionally if not properly secured, overloaded, or going over rough terrain, a pannier clip may break.
Whether purchasing after-market panniers or replacement hooks, please verify they will work with your rack. 

If the clip is too big or too small, it may not work well.


There are many options out there, but this one fits up to 16mm racks: universal pannier hooks
If often loading up the panniers or saddlebags to the limit, it might be best to go with a metal J hook, as shown below:




10mm diameter rail racks

Please check out Universal Pannier and their 3-D printed replacement hooks that can be purchased new ones on their website. Slightly cheaper versions with cosmetic blemishes on their eBay store. Lastly, here is their installation guide.



Velcro Straps

If having any issue with the velcro straps, some sewing skills may be required, or the addition of some longer heavy-duty velcro straps and secure them with a nut, short bolt, and washer. This is not typically needed, but if pushing the weight limit and riding rough, it may be what needed!


Bungee Repair or Replacement


If the elastic material came out of the plastic, in most cases, this can be repaired. This can happen if the weight the limits of what the bungee can hold have been reached.

  • The plastic part can be carefully pried open. 
  • Insert the elastic back into its original position.
  • Snap the plastic back together.



If the bungee has failed in some other way or part of it was lost, replacements can be purchased online in a 2-pack: Replacement Bungee

Depending on rider needs, other styles can be searched for. Please be mindful that items are always secure, and nothing is loose near moving parts of the wheel.




Rear Rack Accessory


For models that will need a Rear Rack accessory, such as the CF RACER1 | Core 5 | Turris | LMT'D , ensure the Pannier Bag clips are attached to the single top bar.





Revv1 Utility Rack & Handle Accessory:

Ensure that the Pannier Bag clips are attached to the second bar on the rack


 


For Integrated Rear Racks using the Connect+ system


Ensure that the Pannier Bag clips are attached to the second bar on the rack



Portola


700 Series




Cafe Cruiser




RIFT