British bikepacking specialist Restrap has been developing the Switch rack for more than two years and it's finally out in the wild.
The thru-axle mounting rack system isn’t new, with brands such as Tailfin and Topeak offering similar solutions.
However, Restrap's new rack has a generous 30kg capacity that incorporates the Switch mount system, a collaboration with UK bike security specialist Hiplok.
That means a wide range of accessories and bags from Restrap is already available, with more to come. The range includes the new 10-litre Switch Panniers and a Switch rack cage.
As well as bikepacking trips, you can use the Switch-compatible panniers for commuting and one of the Switch mounts to secure a Switch-compatible Hiplok folding lock.
The rack cage can be mounted on the sides or the top bar. Sitting on the top of the rack, it provides flexibility for fitting a dry bag, extra water, camping mat, tent or other bikepacking gear.
Alongside being compatible with any Switch multi-mount product, the rack can also be used with any 64mm-spaced mounting accessories, such as bottle cages.
- Read more: Bikepacking bags explained | Everything you need to know about handlebar bags, frame bags and more
Switch rack key features
- Price: £124.99 / $189.99 / €149.99
- 64mm-spaced bolting on the rack legs for cages, Restrap Switch Panniers or other compatible accessories
- Top bar compatible with new Restrap Switch products
- Made from 7075-T6 aluminium
- 12mm-diameter axles in 1mm, 1.5mm and 1.75mm thread-pitch options
- Spare axles available separately (High Grade 7075-T6 aluminium axles in 1mm, 1.5mm and 1.75mm thread pitch)
- 25mm Velcro strap to fit all seatpost sizes and shapes
- Quick-flip system provides maximum wheel clearance across all bike sizes
- ISO tested up to 30kg load
- Weight 395g (without axle and bolts)
Fitting the rack simply requires replacing your existing thru-axle with a compatible thread-pitch Restrap option, then sliding the rack supports over the axle ends and securing with an M5 bolt. Finally, use the Velcro strap mount to attach the rack to your seatpost.
The Switch rack has a clever quick-flip system that enables you to flip the top bar to increase wheel clearance and provide a range of seatpost or frame-mounting points.
Restrap says that gives the rack a wide range of compatibility across road, gravel and mountain bike frames.
An adaptor is available for bikes with a SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger, and an adaptor for SRAM Full-Mount derailleurs is coming in April according to Restrap.
