I've got a set of Happy Trails Panniers that I need some racks for. They have mounting pucks that should work for just about any tubular rack out there just by changing the position of the holes. So far I've looked at (online) the SW-Motech, Happy Trails, and Touratech. There are probably others and they are all around the same price point. Just wondering if anyone would like to share their experiences with luggage racks to help me decide and pull the trigger. I don't need a top rack as I've already got an AltRider. Just the side racks. I'm kind of leaning towards the SW-Motech since they can be removed but I'm not yet sold on any one design. Thanks
I have experience with both the Touratech and the SW Motech. My GF uses the Touratech rack, I use the SW Motech one. We're both pretty happy with them. I chose the SW rack because I have used it on previous bikes and still had a pair of Trax panniers lying around and some custom made holders for tool tubes. Sofie was primarily drawn to the Touratech option because it looked a bit more stylish Both do the job very well. The main differences are that the Touratech one does not attach to the rear fender, so does not offer extra support for it in standard setup. Easy to remedy though. With the TT rack the top plate is also raised a bit. That has the additional benefit that you can tie stuff under it. Sofie kept her rain gear there. But you may need some longer bolts and/or spacers to make it work with the Altrider. The quick lock system of SWM is nice and easy to use, but to be honest, I hardly ever take the racks off. Only when I'm doing maintenance or cleaning the bike. So not very often.
