Freeload/Thule Pack n Pedal - anybody use one?

[polarcherry]

Now I have got rid of my hardtail and run a dropper struggling a bit for space on my Orange Five. No frame bag or seat post bag.

Thinking one of these racks with a dry bag strapped to the top could be a good solid option. They aren't superlight but seem to do the job and will take the weight off my back and onto the bike.

Any thoughts or current users,

[Bearbonesnorm]

I reviewed the Freeload version a couple of years ago ... should be something on the blog. Thought it was very good I recall.

[composite]

Could you just not run a dropper when you are bikepacking. I run a dropper on my five but that's what I would do if I had to use it for that.

[HopeValleyPaul]

I use one on a hardtail mainly for convenience on more leisurely trips, I really like it.
It does change bike handling a bit, I strap a dry bag to the top off it so the weight is quite high up.
I'm in the Peak District ( hathersage) your welcome to try it out if your up this way.

[polarcherry]

Ordered one with a Rose discount.

Think I'm going to mod it for a better fit and less weight like this one:

http://jeffsbike.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01 ... k.html?m=1

[VeganGraham]

Could someone who's got one of these measure the maximum diameter of tube it will attach to please? I'm thinking of getting one for the front of the tandem and the 36mm Fox lowers are 42mm diameter, possibly bigger than it was designed to fit.
I've emailed Thule, but they haven't replied yet.

[polarcherry]

Mines going to go on the massive swingarm on an orange five, it's only nylon tape that holds it on. If the supplied tape is not long enough any sewing/climbing shop will sell you some at any length.

[Bearbonesnorm]

Think I'm going to mod it for a better fit and less weight like this one:

I'd suggest there might be even more clearance at full travel if the 'deck' was turned 180°?

[HopeValleyPaul]

Could someone who's got one of these measure the maximum diameter of tube it will attach to please? I'm thinking of getting one for the front of the tandem and the 36mm Fox lowers are 42mm diameter, possibly bigger than it was designed to fit.
I've emailed Thule, but they haven't replied yet.

Ive just attached it to a tube of silicone sealant (the largest thing to hand), you could fit it to a piece of scaffolding! The straps are huge, about 20cm long you need about 3-4cm minimum at each end to secure it, any slack you ratchet in, really quite a clever piece of kit.
Expensive but worth it for its versatility. I ordered the sport deck from SJS cycles and they sent the tour rack by mistake.

[VeganGraham]

Thanks both. I assumed the strap would be permanently attached to the bracket by being doubled over and stitched at one end, then I found this, http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/thule-pack-n ... prod31967/ so even if it wasn't long enough, it would be easy to buy some longer lengths of webbing.