Originally Posted by
nondo
I'm trying to understand why the front racks like "surly nice rack",
One reason the front "Nice Rack" isn't more popular is that it is very heavy. It is probably the heaviest front rack available at a bit over 3 pounds. Another reason is that it is pretty expensive. If you need another reason, many folks probably do not see the need for a front platform.
Other racks with platforms may or may not have the same issues.