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Using Racks on Carbon Frames

Planning an epic adventure? Awesome! But before you start strapping gear to that frame, let’s talk about how to keep your carbon beauty in tip-top shape. Carbon fiber is incredibly strong for riding, but it’s not a fan of being squeezed or rubbed by traditional racks.

The most important thing to remember is: No rack or other items should be used which make direct contact with the carbon frame itself. Traditional racks that "clamp" or "strap" directly to your seatstays or chainstays can cause:

  • Surface Damage: Dirt and debris trapped under straps or pads can act like sandpaper, scratching or even removing your finish and frame material over time.

  • Structural Risks: Carbon frames are engineered for specific riding stresses. Applying clamping forces or weight to areas not specifically designed for those loads can lead to cracks or structural failure.

  • Safety Hazards: Improperly mounted accessories can interfere with moving parts like wheels or brakes, potentially causing a loss of control.

Safe Solutions for Carbon Bikes

Don't worry—you can still carry your gear! You just need to use racks that mount to your axles or seatpost instead of the frame tubes. Here are two fantastic options:

  • Old Man Mountain: These guys are experts at axle-mounted racks. By using a specialized Fit Kit that attaches to your thru-axle, the rack carries the weight through the strongest part of your bike—the axle—without ever touching your carbon stays.

  • Tailfin: Tailfin offers sleek, lightweight systems designed for high-performance bikes. They use a unique axle-mounting system and a carbon-friendly seatpost connector designed to avoid damaging frame tubes.

Quick Safety Check 🛠️

  • Axle Compatibility: Always ensure your bike uses a compatible thru-axle mounting system before installing an axle-mounted rack.

  • Weight Limits: Even with a safe rack, never exceed the permissible total payload for your specific bike model, which includes the weight of the rider and all luggage.

  • Consult Your Dealer: If you're unsure if a specific rack is safe for your setup, always hit up your local authorized dealer for an expert opinion.