Hoping someone with first hand experience Novara's Randonee 2012 can recommend a front rack with platform. I've read that the Jandd Extreme front rack might have a bit of trouble mounting on the Randonee. I've tried the Racktime and don't like how high it mounts on this bike. Any suggestions and yes budget is a major consideration.

Thanks,

You don't specify the size of load you intend on carrying.

I have this on a CrossCheck

https://store.velo-orange.com/index.p...ront-rack.html

it's a very solid rack for top loads or panniers (if they fit) but doesn't stand out. If you only need to carry a sleeping bag stuff sack then look up Nashbars cheap front rack.

I use an Acorn front bag on a Nitto M12 front rack. It mounts on the fork center hole and canti brake mounts. If you are planning on using panniers, it won't work and you will need something more like the VO rack.

Well, the nice thing about those nashbar/sunlite or Nitto M12 platform racks is that they leave room to also mount a lowrider pannier rack, so sorta the best of both worlds IMO. For a budget the Nashbar platform already mentioned and the Nashbar Lowrider rack can both be had for less than $40. It's no Tubus or Jandd but it'll do the job.

Of course you can't put much weight on these platform racks that mount on the canti-brake studs, but they're really nice for front "handlebar" bags or baskets or coolers...

I use this one, not too expensive and it does what I need. Have never carried full size panniers on it though. I understand that it will also mount in conjunction with the Blackburn Low Rider rack.

The Blackburn is a good choice. If one gets panniers that have adjustable position hooks you can slide the panniers aft over the brakes and have pretty neutral steering as opposed to sitting forward over the axle.