Using Panniers on a Pedego Rear Rack

[6zfshdb]

I usually carry quite a bit of gear when I ride and almost always use panniers. Although Pedego makes a couple of panniers that fit the extra wide rear rack, none are high quality and aren't suitable for my cargo. I'm partial to the high quality Arkel quick attach products and have been using them on my Treks for years. I have their T42: https://www.arkel-od.com/t-42-lite-touring-panniers/ and smaller T28: https://www.arkel-od.com/t-28-lite-touring-bicycle-panniers/. I was sorry to find that neither would fit the Pedego rack due to clearance issues with the battery box.

There are Velcro strap, saddle and bungee style panniers out there that fit but I much prefer the individual quick attach type. They install & remove in seconds and can be used individually if desired. Since I already have quite an investment in the Arkel products, I made up this adapter that fits the Pedego rear rack. Although Arkel is used here, the adapter can be used with almost any pannier. It is corrosion resistant and easily removed without marring the bike finish.



The adapter is made from two 12" pieces of 1/2" aluminum tubing: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-3-ft-Aluminum-Plain-Tube/3053611

Four 5/8" insulated cable clamps: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-2-Pack-5-8-in-dia-Steel-Suspension-Clamp/3013246

Four 1/2" insulated cable clamps: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-2-Pack-1-2-in-dia-Steel-Suspension-Clamp/3013245

Four 10/24 allen head cap screws: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-10-24-x-1-2-in-Allen-Drive-Cap-Screws-4-Count/3024576

Four 10/24 nylon lock nuts: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-8-...l-Standard-SAE-Nylon-Insert-Lock-Nuts/4756347

For decoration but not necessary for function, four 1/2" tubing caps: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HJ1PR89/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[ebikemom]

This is a great hack. I saw it posted by a Pedego dealer. Do you think the panniers ride too low using this method? How do you like it?

I agree that Pedego needs to up their game in the Pannier department. One thing on my "to do" list is to put new zippers on my husband's Pedego panniers. He bought the most expensive ones. A zipper failed after six months. They gave him a free replacement. A zipper has now failed three months later. Since I sew, I'm going to put on new zippers for the large compartments.

 

[Mr. Coffee]

You basically are re-inventing the double-decker panniers that are so popular with bicycle tourists, like the Tubus Logo Evo. And the lower rail lowers the center of gravity which is generally a Good Thing.

I'm really surprised that bike manufacturers don't just partner with any of the great companies that make great bike bags and do a private-label deal.

 

[6zfshdb]

You basically are re-inventing the double-decker panniers that are so popular with bicycle tourists, like the Tubus Logo Evo. And the lower rail lowers the center of gravity which is generally a Good Thing.

I'm really surprised that bike manufacturers don't just partner with any of the great companies that make great bike bags and do a private-label deal.

The rack on my Trek has the same design. I'll admit, I copied the idea from this type rack. The trick was to make something removable without altering the frame or damaging the paint.

Pedego certainly could have incorporated this idea in the design of their racks. Instead, they chose to market their own panniers.

 

[6zfshdb]

This is a great hack. I saw it posted by a Pedego dealer. Do you think the panniers ride too low using this method? How do you like it?

I agree that Pedego needs to up their game in the Pannier department. One thing on my "to do" list is to put new zippers on my husband's Pedego panniers. He bought the most expensive ones. A zipper failed after six months. They gave him a free replacement. A zipper has now failed three months later. Since I sew, I'm going to put on new zippers for the large compartments.

I can't speak for other manufacturers but the Arkel panniers I use are just the right height using this design. Most I've seen are designed to mount a bit lower than the rack top. I have about 300 miles on the Arkels so far using the adapter and they work fine. I started carrying my spare battery in one instead of on top of the rack to lower the center of gravity. I carry tools & spares on the other side to balance the load.

Both the zippers broke on my Pedego panniers as well. That was one of the things that prompted me to adapt the Arkels which are built to a much higher quality standard. They use #10 YKK zippers which are tough to break.