How to Choose the Right Pannier Hook Size

North Street launched our cargo bike inclusive pannier hooks earlier this year! Wondering which size to order? We got you!

We love our hook system - it's strong, durable, and easy to service after whatever dents years on the road have in store. The simplicity of this system also means that there's no room for planned obsolescence, but plenty of room to adjust it to fit your bike perfectly.

How To Measure For Your New Panniers

The main consideration in choosing our 3 hook sizes is the diameter of the top bar of your rack.
 

 measure the diameter of the top bar

The most common top bar measurement for road bike racks is ~9mm, or 3/8". Many cargo and e-bikes have thicker than usual rack bars to support additional riders, kids' seats, and bigger, heavier loads in general.

You can order our hooks up to 3/4" to make our panniers compatible with many of these custom built-in cargo and e-bike racks.

Not every rack falls perfectly into the 3/8" (9mm) / 1/2" (12mm) / 3/4" (16mm) measurements that we offer. Fortunately, our stainless steel hooks are prime for some adjustment without compromising hold or quality.

For most average users, the hooks can be bent outward up to around 1/2" over their standard size. So if your rack measures 10 or 11mm, you can simply adapt the standard 9mm hooks to fit.

The exception to this is heavy use. If you are regularly carrying 20+ pounds in your bag, we recommend you spring for the larger hooks and tighten them down to fit to ensure longevity of the hook system.

Rad Power Racks (and other Super Oversized Racks)

Our current pannier offering maxes out at 3/4". We've tested these hooks on racks up to 1" and found they still keep a solid hold.

Some Rad Power bikes (and a few other custom cargo bikes) have a tube diameter up to 1 1/2". We have not fit or strength tested against this thick of a bar. While we have chatted with some folks who have made it work with our largest hooks, you'll usually catch us recommending up a pannier adapter bar if you're commuting with one of these.

Travel Well and Adventure Right with North Street Bags!

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