Price: $205 (non-pannier version, includes axle); $260 (pannier version, includes axle); $260 (CargoPack rack top bag)
Versions: With and without pannier mounts (Journey Rack)
Weight: 580g/1.28 lbs (non-pannier version); 740g/1.63 lbs (pannier version)
Load Capacity: 32kg/70.55 lbs (10kg per pannier + rack top bag); 22kg/48.5 lbs for non-pannier version (6kg per quad bosses + 12kg rack top bag)
Bag Capacity: 18L
Rack Material: 6061-T6 aluminum alloy
Rack Optional Accessories:
– Journey Rack Mudguard – $25
– Exposure Boost-R 3 Reakt + Mount – $165
– Cateye Nano Light + Mount – $70
Availability: Online
How Obtained: Company Sample
RBR Advertiser: No
Versatility: For Commuting to Bikepacking, Fits Any Type of Bike
Last year, I tested Tailfin’s AeroPack Cargo Rack on several bikepacking trips and found the design and functionality to be outstanding. My only negative comment was that the top bag was not removable. So, when Tailfin announced the launch of the Journey Rack that replaces Tailfin’s eight-year-old Alloy Rack, I jumped at the chance to put it through its paces on my GAP/C&O trip.
What’s so cool about the new Journey Rack? Beyond the ability to remove the rack top bag, it is versatile and durable enough for daily commuters and also works for bikepacking adventures. Now you can use it on virtually any bike in your stable, including a full-suspension mountain bike.
Redesigned and Re-Engineered
Have gear from other companies? The new Journey Rack supports panniers, top bags, cargo cages, and almost anything that can be strapped down. No longer do you need to invest in a whole Tailfin ecosystem; use what you already have.
Every major component has been re-engineered by Tailfin, including a stronger top deck, redesigned quick-release dropouts, more versatile mounting options, and an updated anodized finish. Key features include:
- Two versions – with or without pannier mounts
- Triple “bosses” on each side for cages
- Redesigned Fast Release Dropouts and Seatpost Connector
- Angle adjustable Fit Link front connector for best fit on all types of bikes (two versions supplied) – adjust top deck position relative to the saddle height
- Foldable for easy storage or travel
- 29 x 2.6” tire clearance (new dropouts available soon for 29 x 3.25”)
Putting the Journey Rack to the Test
Assembly of the Journey Rack was pretty straightforward and took about 15 minutes from out of the box to mounting on my bike. If you don’t already have the Tailfin thru-axle installed, installation time will be longer since there’s an extra step.
Initially, the company shipped the rack with the wrong dropout rubber bushings for the quick-release dropouts. However, the company quickly rectified the issue by shipping the correct rubber bushings to swap out, and I was in business.
Before heading off on my GAP trip, I went on a few test rides. A couple of trips to the farmer’s market and several trail rides. Attaching the rack to my Salsa Cutthroat was quick and easy. It uses the same quick-release system as the AeroPack, allowing me to use the same thru-axle. With three attachment points, the seatpost, and two dropouts, the rack installation took seconds.
On all test rides, I also used the CargoPack rack bag, and when I needed even more carrying capacity, I added the Tailfin 22L panniers. The rack never rattled or shifted, allowing me to ride without worrying about whatever I was hauling on the rack behind me.
While on the GAP and C&O trip, since I only had to carry supplies for the day, I left the panniers at home. I really like that the Journey Rack folds down for a smaller footprint, making it easier to store or pack in the car.
On the last day of my trip, it rained overnight, leaving the C&O towpath with water-filled potholes and muddy in places. The optional rear fender kept the underside of the CargoPack from getting wet and muddy, while also eliminating a rooster tail.
The CargoPack is 100% waterproof and offers plenty of storage, making it the perfect size for carrying a cable and lock, a day’s worth of nutrition, a rain jacket, and an SP Connect power bank. Outside pockets made it easy to quickly access a trail map and snacks. Since the pack was easy to remove from the rack, it made it convenient to take it into a restaurant without leaving it on the bike.
Bottom Line
Tailfin is synonymous with high-quality bikepacking gear, and the new Journey Rack is a fine example of this. Its versatility is ideal for cyclists with multiple bike types (commuter, gravel, MTB) who want a single rack system that integrates with them all. It also works with bags from other brands, allowing you to leverage what you already have.
I’m a big fan of Tailfin gear and know I’ll get many years and miles of adventures from their products.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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