Reviews of Topeak MTX BeamRack

Pros

This system works well on my road bike. I commute to work on a road bike. I have been having problems with my neck and I wanted to get rid of my back pack. This was the perfect alternative! I'm able to keep an 11'' apple lap top along with a book, several snacks and various bike tools. I didn't want to commit to a full rack and this was perfect. I'm able to detach it easily to go for a ride when I'm not commuting. Works perfect for me.

Cons

If its not tight it will move. Easy fix, make sure its attached tight to your seat post. I also had to buy a stronger seat post. Carbon won't work.

Pros

easy to install
works well for trunk bag
uses are light touring and daily rides

Cons

The load limit on this rack is 20 lbs. I can't really carry too much gear
Doesn't work on carbon or aero seat posts.
Heavy

Other Thoughts

If you carry heavier loads than 20 lbs then use a frame mounted rack.
But for a trunk bag or shopping with panniers this will work well, you will need the side rails for panniers.

Pros

Very light and easy to mount. I replaced an older Topeak rack that had leg and side frames with this rack.
Well made and has a hollow tube section that I might convert to storage

Cons

Quick Release? I think this is so that it is easier to steal. I replaced the quick release quill with a security bolt and nut. This saved weight and keeps the rack on my bike and not someone else's bike.

Other Thoughts

I bought the one meant for a small frame bike because the upward angle at the mount puts the rack and bag up and behind me. I am under the impression that this improves my aerodynamics a tiny bit.

Pros

Easy to install once the shims are in place. .
Fits quite well.
Will hold the Topeak trunk and panniers.
Makes transferring the Topeak trunk from my street bike to my off road bike a breeze.
Has plenty of space on each side of the 3 inch wide tires.

Cons

Getting the rubber shims to fit just right and setting it up can be interesting but experimentation will win. I had to use one thick one and one thin one for mine. Could not use both the thick ones or the thin ones as a pair but had to combine one of each.

Other Thoughts

I have not attached my Vaude Panniers for a actual camping trip but they should fit really well on it since they fit really well on my other bikes with standard rack by Topeak.