Just looking for some advice on a handlebar support/rack for a Carradice style bag.
I’ve just ordered a Wizard Works Shazam after being stoked on the quality of the framebag I bought from them, and was looking to get something to support it to help it not rub my frame and be a little more stable, however I’ve ran into some potential compatibility issues with the options I’ve found and was just wondering if anyone could assist:
Option 1) Jack the Rack, quite keen on the idea of this as no tools to fit or remove, however on the specs it says up to 50mm stem width, however I’ve got a pretty chunky bmx stem which measures closer to 52mm, just wondering if anyone who has one can measure and confirm whether this would fit or not? Assuming they leave at least a few mm as a margin for error so hoping it will squeeze in.
Option 2) Carradice Universal Bar Rack, simple bolt on attachment to the bars which again very keen on the ease of use, however it fits 31.8mm bars with adapters for 25.4, and I have 22.2 diameter bars. I’ve found some 22.2 to 31.8 rubber shims on eBay but not sure if the rack will be secure enough with those, or the alternative would be a problem solvers alloy shim, would likely have to cut it in half to avoid the width being overkill and use half per side.
Other options I’m exploring are the restrap bumper bar but probably too much messing about to fit and remove (way too ugly to leave attached when bagless), maybe a Pelago commuter rack but thinking it wouldn’t be thr best fit for the style of bag, plus I imagine a bit on the hefty side.
Any input is much appreciated, cheers 🙌🏼
by TowardTheMegalith
4 Comments
For the Jack rack question, it’s worth shooting them an email! rideon@wholegraincycles.com
I had a super specific question to ask about my rack, I got a reply back in a couple of hours with a super in depth answer, so they’ll be able to guide you best!
I use the Restrap bumper bar with a Topeak Frontloader. I really like how it works to keep space between bars and bag and prevents any cable issues. It weighs about 6 ozs and is easy to remove and install (like adding a spacer below your stem).
First option looks clunky and like a pain to adjust. Have you looked into just getting a small platform style front rack? They’re dead simple and stay out of the way if you need to attach accessories to your bars.
I have the Carradice rack on my gravel bike. I just got it recently, but already did one bikepacking trip with it. It worked very well to keep my front bag off my cables, and I kept my tent poles tucked under the bag