Product Comparisons

What are the differences between the Tailfin Rear Systems?

Tailfin Pannier Racks are a stand-alone rack, with the option to mount a removable CargoPack or SpeedPack Rack Top Bag and Side Panniers. The Pannier Racks come in Carbon or Alloy.

The CargoPack is an 18L fixed system in either Carbon or Alloy. This can be chosen with or without Pannier Mounts.

The SpeedPack is a 10L fixed system in either Carbon or Alloy. This can be chosen with or without Pannier Mounts and includes 3 lengths of ‘fitlink’ connectors to make the SpeedPack angle-adjustable at the seatpost connector for best fit with your bike(s).

What are the differences between the Rear System and Rack?

The CargoPack (formerly known as the AeroPack), and SpeedPack Systems comprise a bag and a rack which are permanently fixed together. They are designed to be a direct replacement for a seat pack.

The Rack comprises of an Arch and Topstay, which you can add a removable CargoPack Top Bag / SpeedPack Top Bag to.

We have a useful blog here that outlines the differences between our Rear Systems and Racks and reasons why you may choose one over the other.

What are the differences between the Carbon and Alloy Racks?

The simple answer is the material! Carbon Racks have a carbon fibre Arch and Top Stay, whilst the Alloy Racks have an aluminium alloy Arch and Top Stay. The difference is therefore between weight and aesthetics.

We have a comparison guide for the material differences.

Weight & Material Differences
If you’re conscious of keeping your kit as light as possible, then we’d recommend the Carbon for you, as it is lighter than the Alloy version.

The Alloy is heavier, but the alloy Journey Rack is rated to carry up to 32kg – more than the Carbon Rack.

Aesthetic Differences
The Carbon Arches differ from the Alloy Arches, as we are able to create more subtle shapes when working with carbon. The Alloy arch is a more rudimentary design; however, the Journey Rack arch is different again.

What are the differences between the Bar Bag System and the Bar Cage System?

Bar Bag System: This system comprises a Bag that fits a mount on your bars. There are 4 bag options available (Large and Small for Drop Bars and Flat Bars). The Bar Bags are bikepacking specific.

Bar Cage System: This system comprises a Cage fitted to a mount on your bars. There is the option to add one or all three Tailfin Bar Cage Bags, but you are free to use your own bag on the cage. The bags are secured using the Tailfin Cargo Straps. You can also carry other items using the cage, not just a bag, making it not bikepacking specific, and it is a more budget-friendly option.

Both systems offer specific accessories for mounting lights, GPS and GoPros to your Bar Bag Mount or Bar Cage.

What are the differences between the Mini Panniers and the Panniers?

We have 4 sizes of panniers.

Mini Panniers 5L/10L: These mini panniers are ideal for more minimal bikepacking, being low profile and can also be converted to Fork Packs.

Panniers 16L/22L: These larger panniers are perfect for longer bikepacking/bike touring, but also commuting, and have the option to fit a Laptop Holster and Shoulder Strap as additional items. They also feature an air valve for easier compression.

Product Specifics

Do you offer spares?

Yes, you can see our full selection of spares on our Spares Page.
If you can not find the required parts, please email us at hello@tailfin.cc

What are the differences between the CargoPack and SpeedPack bags?

CargoPack: 18L top-opening waterproof bag, with 2 x mesh pockets on the sides (each pocket allows 1.5L of space). 1 TPU strap over the middle, and the bag can be clipped closed in the centre or down the ends.

SpeedPack: 10L rear-opening waterproof bag, with 1 x 3L mesh pocket around the outside. Can be closed like a standard dry bag or down the sides with our T-Hook straps.

These bags are compatible with our Fixed and Removable Rear Systems, as the bags stay the same, but just the connector parts are what differ between the systems.

What is the maximum weight the Axles can carry?

The maximum weight all axles can carry is 32kg.

Can you use the different Bar Bags with the same mount?

Yes! Each Bar Bag uses the same mount across all sizes/styles. The attachment hardware for them is all the same, too. The spacers in the middle are for narrower (drop) handlebars, and you can remove them to fit wider (MTB) handlebars.

Are your products covered under warranty?

Yes! Tailfin believes in making high-quality products that you can absolutely trust. For that reason, we guarantee all our products against manufacturing defects for 2-5 years from the date of purchase. If your product fails due to a manufacturing defect, we will repair the product where possible and replace it when it is not. For more information, please see our Warranty Page.

How To Claim:
If you’ve suffered from a crash or discovered a manufacturing defect on a Tailfin product, please fill out our Warranty Form.

Help Me Choose

Answer the questions set out below to find the right Tailfin products for you.

1. Do you ever want to be able to carry side panniers?

Pannier Bags allow you to carry more gear on your Pannier Racks and Rear Systems.

You can use our range of Panniers on any of our systems with pannier mounts or on the Journey Rack top deck. You can also purchase Third-Party Pannier Adaptors to fit carry other brands of panniers which fit on our pannier mounts. These are required if using third-party panniers with items on the top deck of the Journey Rack.

2. Do you want to be able to remove the Top Bag from the Rack?

If yes, then you will want to select the ‘Removable’ Rear Systems option (or Journey Rack). The advantage of this is that you can remove the Rack Top Bag from the bike while the rack remains in place.

We have a Complete Guide to the Rear Systems, which outlines the key differences of all our Rear Systems.

3. How important is weight?

If weight is important to you, then you will need to select the Carbon Rear System.

If weight is not a priority for you, and you want a more budget-friendly option, our Alloy Rear Systems are the ones to choose.

Ultra Racing, Bike Packing and Bike Touring – what set-up is best for me?

If you are racing ultras, you are going to want the lightest setup possible. We recommend our carbon SpeedPack paired with our Frame Bags and Top Tube Bags.

If you are bikepacking, you will want the CargoPack for gravel/mountain biking. You can add 5L/10L Mini Panniers and also Bar Bag/Cage Systems, Frame Bags, Top Tube Bags, Fork Packs and much more!

For longer-term touring, we recommend the Journey Rack with the Removable CargoPack, 16L/22L Panniers and Bar Bag/Cage Systems. We also recommend Frame Bags, Top Tube Bags, Fork Packs, and Downtube Packs, which are key items to have with you during your time on the road!

Compatibility

Can I use the Pannier Rack / Rear System on several of my bikes?

Yes, as long as you have the correct axle, or the axle on your other bikes is the same, you can simply swap the system between bikes in a matter of seconds. If the other bike uses a different axle, you’ll need a new axle to make it compatible. All of our axles can be found individually. Use our Axle Finder to choose the correct axle and adaptor (if needed) for your bike.

My bike has rear suspension. Can I still fit a Pannier Rack/Rear System?

Yes, the Pannier Rack, CargoPack and SpeedPack use small plastic bushings at the connection points to pivot and work with your bike’s suspension. For full-sus MTBs, we recommend the Fixed Carbon CargoPack / SpeedPack over the Removable version, but for the Alloy, both the Fixed and Removable (Journey Rack) versions are both compatible with off-road and full-suspension bikes, too.

Is the system compatible with the current RAT system?

Yes, but you will need to add the R.A.T. Adaptor.

I have rack mounting points on my frame. Can I use them?

Yes! The only system that doesn’t include these as standard is the alloy Journey Rack, but these can be found as a spare.

We strongly recommend checking with your frame’s manufacturer before fitting, as there may be a weight limit on your bike’s rack mounts (some are only intended for mudguards/fenders).

My bike is ‘UDH’ compatible. What adaptor do I need?

We have 3 types of ‘UDH’ compatible adaptors. One is for the SRAM UDH itself, and the other 2 are for the SRAM T-Type Transmission derailleurs, which fit directly to a UDH-compatible frame.

For each of these, you will require a SRAM Adaptor. See below the adaptor you require, and also use our Axle Finder. For any additional help with compatibility, you can email us at hello@tailfin.cc

UDH Adaptor Guide

Axles

Which Thru Axle do I need for my bike?

If you’re unsure of the Thru-Axle you require, please use our Axle Finder. If your bike isn’t listed in the table, or you’re still unsure, please email hello@Tailfin.cc with your bike make, model and year, and we’ll be happy to help.

Is my bike QR or will it need a Thru Axle?

If you’re unsure of the axle type of your bike, we have an axle blog.

What if I have several bikes?

You can purchase additional axles for different bikes. These are available on our Spares Page. So if you have one bike with disc brakes and one with rim brakes, you can add a separate QR Axle, Thru Axle or Universal Thru Axle, enabling you to switch your Rear Systems between bikes in seconds.

I have several bikes with Thru Axles, what should I order?

If your bikes all use the same thread pitch, then you can order just one axle. We have a useful Thru Axle Guide. If your bikes use different thread pitches, though, you will need to either order separate Thru Axles for each bike or one Universal Thru Axle.

What is the maximum weight an Axle can carry?

The maximum weight the axles can carry is 32kg

Is the fixed 12mm Thru Axle Stronger than the two-part Universal Thru Axle?

If installed correctly, the Universal Thru Axle is just as strong as the Single Thru Axle.

How do I fit the Axle?

Please see our PDF guides for Universal and Thru Axles or short video guides for how to fit your Axle.

I have an old-style 10mm QR Thru Axle. Will the Tailfin Thru Axle fit my bike?

No, our Axles are either QR or Thru Axles, so don’t fit the old style 10mm QR Thru Axle.

Will the Tailfin Thru Axles work with my third-party axle-mounting rack?

No, our Thru Axles are only compatible with our Rear Systems and not other third-party racks.

What is the Universal Thru Axle?

The Universal Thru Axle is a 12mm Thru Axle that comes in 2-parts: 1x non-driveside and 4x driveside parts (1.0mm, 1.5mm, 1.75mm and SpeedRelease/Double Lead thread options).



We have a Complete Guide to the Universal Thru Axle available. Universal Thru Axle

Ordering, Delivery & Returns

Can I order replacement parts?

Yes, you can! Our racks and bags are designed for long-life and ease, so you are able to replace almost every part yourself. We have a Spares Page, where you can find spare parts for your systems.

Can I change the details of my order once it has been placed?

Unfortunately, we are unable to edit orders once they’ve been placed. For customers with an account with us, there is the option to ‘cancel’ your order immediately after it is placed. We ask that you double-check that your delivery details are correct (check your Apple Pay and Google Pay settings), to ensure your order is going to the correct destination.

If you need to contact us, though, please get in touch via our Live Chat or email us at hello@tailfin.cc with ‘URGENT’ in the subject line.

How much does it cost to ship my order?

We ship free worldwide on orders over $205.00. Shipping costs for orders below this amount will be shown at checkout, and depend on the region and size of the parcel. More information can be found on our Shipping Page.

How long does shipping take?

We ship free worldwide on orders over $205.00. Shipping costs for orders below this amount will be shown at checkout, and depend on the region and size of the parcel. More information can be found on our Shipping Page.

Our estimated shipping times for standard delivery are as follows:

UK (inc. Channel Islands) 1-2 business days

EU – Zone 1: Germany, Belgium, France, Poland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Austria, Denmark, Italy, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Lithuania – 1-3 business days

EU – Zone 2: Portugal, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Hungary, Ireland, Spain, Finland, Romania, Slovenia, Monaco, Sweden, Greece – 3-5 business days

Switzerland: 2-3 business days

USA: 2-5 business days

Canada: 3-7 business days

Australia: 5-7 business days

All other locations (ROW): 5-15 business days

How can I track my order?

You will be sent tracking information to your registered email address once the package has been despatched from the warehouse. You can also track your order on the Shipping Page.

What is Tailfin’s return policy, and how do I return an item?

All return information can be found on our Returns Page. Please ensure that before returning your item(s) to us, you complete a returns form. We also ask that you include a copy of your name/order number in the package, which will help our team identify your return.

My order is missing something – what should I do?

Sometimes there are human errors in the picking and packing process, and things inevitably get missed despite our thorough checks. Email us at hello@tailfin.cc so we can help solve the issue for you!

Do you ship to PO Boxes?

USA: Orders for the USA can be shipped to PO Boxes (only available with our ‘Standard’ shipping service, not express).
Australia: It is not possible to ship to PO boxes in Australia.