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07-15-04, 10:01 PM
I got a deal on an 03 model saris t-rax and installed it today. Same design conceptually as the new yakima Kinkpin 2, which I previously returned. Each uses the rubber straps that stretch to fit over a little shaped prong. My yakima was great until I got it up to highway speeds, and the damn bike nearly flew off. I have a Passat and these racks place the bike well above the trunk lid, impinging the air stream. Alotta force at 70 mph.
Anyway, I didn't have $300 to spend on a more sturdy rack, so I compromised and got the saris.
Although I know what im getting into, there are a few things that bug me. First, the dang thing flexes side to side, and if you try to tighten the bolts too much to reduce that flex it pinches the base tube so you can't pivot the rack away from the trunk (the feature that gives you clearance to load the trunk). So you gotta be very careful which bolts you tighten and how much. The instructions dont warn of this. second, in order to drop the horizontal arms, you have to unthread the knobs many turns. I think this rack will be good for local riding commutes, but not for travelling. Anyone else use this rack can give me some tips???
Thanks...
Anyway, I didn't have $300 to spend on a more sturdy rack, so I compromised and got the saris.
Although I know what im getting into, there are a few things that bug me. First, the dang thing flexes side to side, and if you try to tighten the bolts too much to reduce that flex it pinches the base tube so you can't pivot the rack away from the trunk (the feature that gives you clearance to load the trunk). So you gotta be very careful which bolts you tighten and how much. The instructions dont warn of this. second, in order to drop the horizontal arms, you have to unthread the knobs many turns. I think this rack will be good for local riding commutes, but not for travelling. Anyone else use this rack can give me some tips???
Thanks...