Topeak Explorer Rack Review

Durable aluminum bicycle rack with basket mount.

Topeak’s black aluminum Explorer bike rack has made my bike much more functional. I can use it with panniers, a rack bag, or a basket when I want to bike to the grocery store or to the lake, loaded up with my swim gear. 

At just over a pound, the Topeak Explorer Rack weighs about the same as other racks I’ve used. It’s quite sturdy and durable, and it’s designed to be compatible with Topeak’s QuickTrack® system. If I want to add my Topeak Rear Basket, I just slide it along the tracks on the top of the rack, then click it into place. It stays in locked position while I ride, and holds a lot of gear. When I arrive at my designation, it just takes a few seconds to release the basket from the mount by pressing a large yellow button. Then I can use it as my shopping basket. 

The Topeak Explorer Rack comes with a mounting kit and has mounts for reflective lights. The kit comes with installation instructions. I decided it was worth $20 to have a bike shop install my rack since I was taking in my bike for a tune-up anyway. I’m glad I did because I have fenders (and I’m in the process of moving and have no idea were all my tools are), and the mechanic needed to remove my quick-release seat bolt in order to install the rack.

I’ve been using the rack and basket for a couple of weeks, and I really appreciate having the ability to use my bike for errands. I don’t feel like the rack and basket add weight or bulk in a way that impacts my balance or makes me work harder while I’m riding. I don’t even notice them when I’m pedaling. However, I do have to be more aware of what I’m doing when getting on and off the bike when the basket is full since the back of the bike is heavier. 

Bottom Line

I’m very happy with the Topeak Explorer Rack. It’s super stable, lightweight, and easy to use. The only thing I forgot to do: add a new reflector to the end of the rack since adding a basket blocks the reflector under my bike seat. 

Details

Size: 16.1” x 13.4” x 6.7” / 41 x 34 x 17 cm, rack fits bikes with 26″, 27.5″ (650B) & 700C wheels.

Compatible with: Topeak’s MTX TrunkBags and MTX rear baskets

Comes with: mounting bracket (26.5 cm), Solid fender top, RedLite® Mount, Tail Light Mount

Topeak makes a few versions of this rack bikes with different types of braking systems.

$64.99 available at Amazon. Free shipping with Prime.