The panniers are large and quite robust. Some steps need to be taken to minimize the chance of a hook breaking. While not a commonly occurring issue, it may occur if you are pushing the weight limit, or riding on rough surfaces.

Setting Up Your Panniers

• Please make sure all 4 hooks are on the rack. You can separate the 2 sides from each other (some models from 2020 cannot), this makes it much easier to install the hooks.
• Use the velcro straps on the inner surface to secure the bags to the rack so they do not shift or move as much when loaded.
• Another point of adjustment is the velcro connecting each side to the other. If you adjust this properly it will result in a more secure fit and support or redirect some of the weight. 

Taking these steps will minimize the chance of anything breaking. 

The panniers sit high on the rack as shown below. This is to avoid heel strikes, and also keep heavy cargo away from the rear derailleur. Additionally, you can use a bungie or strap to secure something to the rack underneath the cover of the pannier.

Hooks & Clips

Occasionally if not properly secured, overloaded, or going over rough terrain, a pannier clip may break.
Whether purchasing after-market panniers or replacement hooks, please verify they will work with your rack. 

If the clip is too big or too small, it may not work well.

There are many options out there, but this one fits up to 16mm racks: universal pannier hooks
If you are often loading up your panniers or saddlebags to the limit, it might be best to go with a metal J hook as shown below:

10mm diameter rail racks

Please check out Universal Pannier and their 3-D printed replacement hooks. You can purchase new ones on their website. You can purchase slightly cheaper versions with cosmetic blemishes on their ebay store. Lastly, here is their installation guide.

Velcro Straps

If you have any issue with the velcro straps, while some of us do not have the suing skills required, you can add some longer heavy-duty velcro straps and secure them with a nut, short bolt, and washer. This is not typically needed, but if you are pushing the weight limit and riding rough, it may be what you need for your ride!

Bungee Repair or Replacement

If the elastic material came out of the plastic, in most cases this can be repaired. This can happen if you are reaching the limits of what the bungee can hold. 

• The plastic part can be carefully pried open. 
• Insert the elastic back into its original position.
• Snap the plastic back together.

If your bungee has failed in some other way or part of it was lost, replacements can be purchased online in a 2-pack: Replacement Bungee. 

Depending on your needs, you can also search for other styles. Please be mindful that items are always secure and nothing is loose near moving parts of the wheel.