Rear pannier positioning

Following on from Smithy's message. . .

Quoted message said:

Although no doubt rear panniers should ideally be positioned so that the
weight is directly above the rear axle, I find that in order to allow enough
heel clearance on my new Super C panniers it looks as though the point of
balance will be about four inches to the rear of the rear axle. Does anyone
know if this likely to significantly affect handling? Ta.

If loaded with lots of library books and bottles of cider - yes. You'll
go noticeably slower.

If you're worried about lightening the front wheel you could do a
theoretical calculation : Say CofG of panniers is 1/10th of wheelbase
then for every 10 lbs in the bags you'll have 1lb less on the front.
(But all bets are off as soon as you brake.)

FWIW. My feet are tiny (7) and still have minimum to no clearance.

--
PETER FOX Not the same since the exam marking business failed
[email hidden]
www.eminent.demon.co.uk - Lots for cyclists

Smithy said:

Although no doubt rear panniers should ideally be positioned so that the
weight is directly above the rear axle, I find that in order to allow enough
heel clearance on my new Super C panniers it looks as though the point of
balance will be about four inches to the rear of the rear axle. Does anyone
know if this likely to significantly affect handling? Ta.

Only when they're heavily loaded and you're not sitting on the saddle.
(e.g when parking your bike).

Smithy said:

Although no doubt rear panniers should ideally be positioned so that
the weight is directly above the rear axle, I find that in order to
allow enough heel clearance on my new Super C panniers it looks as
though the point of balance will be about four inches to the rear of
the rear axle. Does anyone know if this likely to significantly
affect handling? Ta.

Whatever it is, you'll get used to the handling within five minutes.

I have to have my medium-size panniers all the way back on the rack
(centre is to rear of axle). Handling is only funny when loaded with
heavy items like groceries, but it doesn't stop me controlling the bike
OK.

~PB

Smithy said:

Although no doubt rear panniers should ideally be positioned so that the
weight is directly above the rear axle, I find that in order to allow enough
heel clearance on my new Super C panniers it looks as though the point of
balance will be about four inches to the rear of the rear axle. Does anyone
know if this likely to significantly affect handling? Ta.

They'll help keep the back down when you brake. It's very hard to
demonstrate how not to do an emergency stop with panniers full of tools.

Don't climb any really steep hills and you'll be fine.

Colin McKenzie