Messages

16

Gear Talk / Re: Bike Rack Advice

« on: November 16, 2012, 09:07:16 pm »

We found the Thule Doubletrack XT to be the perfect rack for our SUV.  We were in the same situation...we have a Lexus RX330 and after a year of throwing the bikes in the back we were looking for a rear mounted hitch rack.  We like the rack in that the tires set in a tire tray and both bikes stay level, not all cockeyed.  Then a clamp bar comes down on top of the the frame and can be locked down as well as the pin in the hitch to the car is locked so we feel very secure leaving it.  When the bikes are not on, the rack swings up behind the rear SUV door.  As far as shopping, the rack does not drop or swing out of the way.  But we find no problems loading items through the side door.
We really do like this rack and suggest you look into one.  Easy to load, very stable, can be secured.
Check this site:
http://www.thule.com/en-US/US/Products/Bike-Carriers/Hitch/990XT-Doubletrack

17

Gear Talk / Re: REI Novara Safari

« on: October 16, 2012, 06:30:33 pm »

Yes, it's the REI Novara Randonee.  Thanks for your reply...It does get many good reviews and I have considered it.

18

Gear Talk / REI Novara Safari

« on: October 14, 2012, 11:12:15 am »

Being new to touring, we are taking our time in researching bikes.  We know about the Trek & Surly but now have been reading with interest about the REI Novara Safari.  The price is attractive (allows room for upgrades or other touring purchases), do like the handlebar configure to allow different positions,  it looks like shifters are on handlebars which we are used to on our Hybrids,  and as we may do shorter tours on both road and RailTrails it seems to be set up good for both.  Just looking for your expert advise on it and any thoughts are greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance.
Joe

19

General Discussion / Re: Back In the saddle again...

« on: September 01, 2012, 02:37:29 pm »

Thanks Steve.  That is something I may consider.  A good friend has a recumbent tri and loves it.  Just spoke with PT again late Fri & he said to keep on riding ~ it's one of the best things I can do.

20

General Discussion / Back In the saddle again...

« on: August 31, 2012, 10:14:11 am »

New to the forums as of yesterday.  After a 9 year layoff from biking due to a bad hip, I am back in the saddle after hip replacement 1 1/2 yrs ago at age 53 .  It has taken time to get strength back but still won't be able to ride more than 25 miles or so a day.  I now have been given stretching and strengthening excercises to build up the legs.  I told my therapist "I just want to ride".
I am so glad I have found this site as you all give me inspiration to keep moving.  Although I may never go on a cross country trip,  my wife and I do plan to build up to shorter rides around the state, perhaps even just B&B runs.  We may even get equipment for weeklong camping runs also, so it is nice to have all the info available here.
So ~ thanks to all of you in advance and most likely will be throwing questions here and there to all of you with experience.
As always, enjoy the ride.
Joe

21

General Discussion / Re: Can someone recommend an inexpensive hotel/motel/hostel in Las Vegas ?

« on: August 31, 2012, 07:34:35 am »

I think a nice stay would be Monte Carlo.  We have stayed there several times, I think the last time was for around $49/night .  Very close to airport. When you are searching keep in mind most places tack on a resort fee per night - around $15.  But still fairly reasonable.  Monte Carlo is not huge, has a nice pool for a break and a reasonable food court to eat at before you begin or end the trip.