I've been wanting to add a removable basket to my rear bicycle rack for some time, to also easily configure it for grocery shopping. With the Ortlieb Quick-Rack in seconds, I can add and remove a standard rear rack to be used for panniers, trunk bags or baskets. I wanted what I attach to the rear rack to be just as easily taken on and off depending on need.

From my research, I've found that there are few mechanisms and attachment systems available.

There are baskets with quick release/attachment built in, to be used with standard racks: Decathlon Universal Rear Basket and Ortlieb's Uptown Rack. Decathalon's basket makes the most sense, it's very affordable at RM99 and available locally. Unfortunately it looks like there is only 2 left in stock for the entire country, and the one I saw was missing parts.

Then there are some proprietary attachment systems, that allow for different bags and baskets designed for that system to easily be attached and removed from the top of the rear rack.

Two of the more popular ones are MIK (Netherlands) and Topeak MTX Quicktrack (Taiwan). Then there is also the OGK (Japanese) system. All have adapters for standard racks you can buy.

It is almost impossible to find European bikepacking and commute accessories other than Decathlon locally in Malaysia. It's not that easy to find stuff for Asian brands like Topeak either. No local shops carry the new Topeak baskets or adapter. OGK baskets and adapters, you can order them online from Amazon Japan, but unfortunately their baskets were a bit too big for my bicycle.

In the end I was lucky that I could order online the adapter for Topeak MTX from Indonesia and the basket that fits my needs from Singapore. 

Topeak MTX 2.0 adapter and system

To make your regular rack compatible with the Topeak MTX system, you just need to get an Omni Quicktrack Adapter. It's very light and simple to install or remove, you only need two hex screws, and the adapter is compatible with both the old and 2.0 system. The only difference as in the video above is the locking mechanism. 

The Ortlieb Quick Rack is narrow though, so it doesn't look like it's possible to use the top rack tubes with the adapter installed. This is not an issue for me, because my panniers clip onto the lower rack bars, but if you plan on using the top rack bars for non-MTX trunk bags, large panniers or other clips, do keep this in mind. 

Topeak Urban Basket DX 18L

Given the size of my rack and geometry of my bicycle, I finally chose the 18L version of this removable Topeak basket. The cage like structure provides an option for tying things down with straps. It comes with a handle, and there are also accessories such as a custom inner liner padding. Finally for long term flexibility, you can also purchase and replace the MTX rail with a MIK one should you wish to switch systems.

So far I'm quite happy with the setup, and have gone on a few grocery runs where I've taken it off, used it as a shopping basket and then mount it back filled with groceries after I'm done for the ride home. Except for potholes where the handle might move a bit, there isn't any rattling thanks to the long plastic railing.

Hope this is helpful for those looking to add a removable basket to their bicycle.