This was just posted on the roots radical message board

> Great discussion.
>
> A few things I've noticed over my 17 years of working on and riding
> longtail cargo bikes:
>
> 1) The 'donor bike' you choose can make a difference. Aluminum frames or
> steel with a gusset on the head tube work well.
>
> 2) As Tone suggested, loose wheels/spokes are often a cause of wobble.
>
> 3) This may sound funny but it is important to learn to move with your bike
> like a dance partner - relax as you move together. It's a fantastic
> practice to soften a little and allow the bike to move naturally. Riding
> this way is safer and takes less effort.
>
> Product-wise, whatchamacollar clamps and the flight deck help to stabilize
> your load by holding it all together tightly. Similarly, CinchStraps
> around your bags help hug your cargo in - particularly on rough roads.
>
> Here at XC HQ, both Nate and I sold our Big Dummies in favor of lighter,
> nimbler bikes with FreeRad conversion kits.
>
> Over the years I've noticed that the questions tend to change before and
> after someone becomes an Xtracycle rider. With some things, it is
> impossible to know how it will go before you start. Try this: Ready, Fire,
> Aim! (and of course, asking the rootsrads is fair game)
>
> I loved Jeremy's post -- it is easy to nerd out about minor things and
> forget about the simple joy of riding with your kid and a picnic to the
> park or whatever your daily adventure.
>
> Enjoy your ride,
> Ross
>
>
> --
> Ross Evans | Founder and President