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With or without Pannier Mounts. Which is right for me?
Note: This guide references our AeroPack, now available as the CargoPack system or as part of our modular Pannier Rack range
When choosing a Tailfin Rack or AeroPack, you’ll have probably spotted that you have the option of adding ‘Pannier Mounts’ to your order. Which option to go for could seem confusing, but don’t worry, this guide is aimed at helping you with this decision.
What are Pannier Mounts?
Pannier Mounts are small cylindrical sidebars added to our arches at the point of manufacture, which allow for the mounting of side pannier bags. We opted for large 16mm diameter tubing, which allows us to reduce the length needed yet also provides an extremely secure clamping area. The Pannier Mounts are designed to work perfectly with our larger UD22 and SL22 pannier bags, as well as all sizes of our Mini Panniers.
If you are looking to maximise storage space or want the most flexible setup, we recommend selecting ‘with Pannier Mounts’ as you configure your Rack or AeroPack order. If you never plan to carry side bags and weight saving is your priority, select ‘without Pannier Mounts’.
Can I add Pannier Mounts later on?
Unfortunately not. Pannier Mounts are built in when our Alloy and Carbon arches are manufactured, so it is not possible to add these afterwards. However, if you have an old arch without these mounts, the good news is that all is not lost. Our Racks and AeroPacks are modular, meaning it’s possible to purchase just the Arch from our Spares Page and switch it with your existing one. Both carbon and alloy arches are compatible, too, so you can opt for a different material if you wish.
What about the extra weight?
The additional weight for the mounts themselves is 78g for Carbon Arches, 101g for Alloy. Quite minimal considering the versatility they add.
Will the mounts work with my old non-Tailfin panniers?
Yes, as long as you add our Third-Party Pannier Adaptors (sold separately). This additional accessory enables riders to continue using bags they may already own. These adaptors are 10mm in diameter, and the vast majority of pannier manufacturers include inserts to accommodate this size tubing.
Pannier Bags and Cargo Cages – are they compatible?
All of our Cargo Cages can be fitted to the Alloy Rack or Alloy AeroPack, whether or not it has Pannier Mounts. Please note, it’s not possible to fit Cargo Cages and pannier bags at the same time, and the Carbon Racks or AeroPacks do not have fixings for Cargo Cages. When using the Large Cargo Cage, we recommend using the top three mounting slots on the cage, which will place the cage in its lowest position, lowering the centre of gravity of your kit and providing the most stable ride.
