Ed and Dave will be aware of the predicament i found myself in having gone out and bought myself a nice new bike, only to find that it didn’t have anywhere to mount a pannier rack.

I am pleased to say the problem is now solved with the help of the following parts:

Giant QR seatpost clamp with rackmounts.
There others available but i wanted to keep the use of the QR clamp. (and it was one of only a couple i found in the right size for my bike)
http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/product/13266/Giant_QR_Seat_Clamp_With_Rack_Mounting

Tubus QR axle mount kit.
I was a bit worried at first that it wouldn’t fit with disk brakes as all the pics i had seen were non-disk, but i’m pleased to say the replacement axle is more than long enough with a bit of room to spare.
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Tubus_Adapter_Set_For_QR-Axle_Mounting/5360025907/

So with everything in place i managed to mount the Topeak Explorer rack with no problems, just a bit of adjustment to the arms that attach it to the top of the bike.

Is it strong?…… well i sat on it for a bit and it didn’t move or fall off so i think it should be fine.

Hope this is of some help to anyone who may find themselves with a similar dilemma!

Hopefully there should be some pics here so you can see what it looks like…..

Rob

1) With regards cream, ask ED!!

2) Hydration, throughout France i found that Kronembourg was sufficent at approx 3-5 Euros per serving & after we left one place, the thought of getting to our next stop & having another spurred me on through the pain!!