Well I just got back from a 80 mile car trip to a RANS dealer. First
impressions, even to a none bent owner(yet) I can definately tell the
difference between the SUNs and RANS. I test rode a STRATUS and a V-REX.
Judging from my short parking lot test ride, the STRATUS feels like a
good long haul bike. But seemed to have some fit adjustment issues, as I
was making a u-turn, while pedaling my right knee tapped the brake
lever. I don't know exactly where an adjustment would be made to correct
that. But overall it was a fine bike. It will stay in my short list of
possible bike to buy. But I think I will look for a used one if I decide
to buy a STRATUS. The $1600 price tag was a bit out of my range, by
about $600.
The V-REX is definately a short wheel base, much less of a turning
radius. I liked the seating and the higher BB height. And the flip
forward stem design was a nice feature. Until I rode the V-REX I was
only considering a LWB bike, but after riding a quality SWB, I have
changed my mind and will consider a SWB bent. But again I think the
V-REX is outside of my price range.
A couple of questions: First SWB bikes, do you get chain rub off on your
pant leg if you ride in anything other than cycling
(lycra/spandex)shorts or tight / pants. Second how are SWBs for touring?
I have done a 1100+ mile tour on a df hybrid, and might want to do some
touring on my first bent.
Thanks for any feedback.
Ken
P.S. The above is a copy of a message I posted on BROL.
--
Quit? You know, once I was thinking of quitting when I was diagnosed
with brain, lung and testicular cancer all at the same time. But with
the love and support of my friends and family, I got back on the bike
and won the Tour de France five times in a row. But I'm sure you have a
good reason to quit. So what are you dying of that's keeping you from
the finals? - Lance Armstrong in "Dodgeball - A true underdog story"
Homepage: http://kcm-home.tripod.com/