6.10.2010

Xtracycle Transport


Just the other day I threw the Xtracycle up on the roof of the Subaru for the first time. It is somewhat contradicting to put an incredibly well-rounded vehicle like the Xtra on top of another machine, but, hey, it was for a trip with my kids. And you've got to sometimes choose the safer route when the little tykes are involved.

I don't have a special extra-long rack for this bike. I've got two racks on top... a fork mounted rack and one that doesn't require removal of the front wheel.

I tried both. The fork mounted one for the ride in was a bit of a stretch. With the back wheel hanging off, the bike dropped enough to make the chainrings hit the rack tray. It was very sturdy. I just didn't like interference with something as crucial as the drivetrain.

On the way home, though, I locked it onto the rack that keeps the front wheel on (the pic above). This actually worked really well. I could secure the front wheel, frame, and the back wheel was just close enough to be snapped in. I then tossed a strap over the top and cinched the entire FreeRadical down to keep everything snug. Overall, I'm very pleased with this set-up. If I ever have to transport this bad boy again, I know it's quick and easy to do.

Get out there.

4 comments:

  1. i had this problem. i bought an extra tray off of craigslist for a few bucks. drilled two holes in it, and laid it inside the other one, but stretched back a foot or so to accommodate the rear wheel. it sits about half and inch higher, and doesn't nest very cleanly, but it works fine. and CHEAP!! :)

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  2. @ john g - That's a great idea! I was trying to think of a way to modify the existing situation. I was thinking a steel extension piece that would do a similar thing. Your solution looks a lot nicer, though, I'm sure. Thanks for the thoughts!

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  3. Hi Derrick,

    Could you post the detail pic that John G sent you of his hack? Would love to give that a try.

    Thanks,

    JB, San Francisco

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  4. @ James Brown - John g didn't send a pic. Sorry :(

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