Rans Rocket questions

[BookFinder]

I have pretty much narrowed my 'bent search to the Rans Rocket and maybe one other OSS SWB recumbent.

Regarding the Rocket, I have two questions:

1. Aside from the manufacturer verbiage and model features, what (if anything) do I need to know about the stock Rocket?

2. What modifications would make it a faster, more servicable tourer?

Thanks in advance.

[ctbent]

I purchased a Rocket for touring and completed a 850 mile Ft. Lauderdale to No. Carolina border tour in March. I changed the front derailer to a shimano 105 since I live in hilly New England. You might not need lower gears if you are a stong rider or will not tour with a load in very hilly areas. Although I road through several areas with broken glass and road junk on my tour I only had one flat on the primos. I now have about 1500-1800 miles on the bike. I installed underseat racks and the RANS rack on the rear. I used 2 sets of 2400 cu. in. panniers from Nashbar and a 700 cu in seat bag for touring. Although I carried a tent, sleeping bag and pad, I only carried a cup, spoon,fork and knife since I ate at restuarants and purchased ready to eat food from markets. This is my 9th recumbent and I have been riding them over 12 years. I really like this bike. It has a solid ride , shifts well, takes the rough roads. It is well built, light and uses two tires of the same size(one size tube & tire only needed). I lay the seat back enough to take some of the weight off my butt and put it on my back. I am 6'1" and there is plenty of room for someone with a longer XSeam butif you move the seat back too far the RANS rear rack might be placed too far in front of the seat stays. I hope I have been helpful , Gary

[MaxBender]

Test ride first!

I like my Rocket, but ride it before you buy one.