Custom Rack/Panniers for One Person Tandem?
Hi
I have a Trek T900 Tandem, of which I've removed the back seat and handlebars. My plan is to turn it into a bit of a cargo bike with a custom rack and possibly some custom panniers (or I'll just fit 4 panniers).
There is a guy who did this here http://www.bikehacks.com/bikehacks/2010/02/cargo.html
However, I don't know where to get such a rack or panniers made. Has anyone got any contacts/suggestions?
I also need to make some other changes - fit a mirror, stand that sort of thing. I'm loving the gears, so much better than my cheapie.
btw - if you see someone riding a Tandem up the Southern Veloway by themself - that's me! You'll probably pass me too!
Thanks to anyone that can help.
Simon
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trek_t900.jpg, 239 KB -
Cargo Tandem.jpg, 233 KB
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by David Hughes on -
Sems like a lot of effort. Have you thought about selling the tandem (they usually hold their value quite well, as they're expensive new and often a little more diifficult to find) and just buying an actual cargo bike. I cant quite remember the price, but the Kona Ute's are under $2k and come with the bags already. I reckon the difference between selling the tandem and upgrading to a new cargo bike and the cost of making all the alterations and modifications might be comparable. and the end result would be much better.- a more efficient, better handling, stronger vehicle.
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Permalink Reply by hozozco on -
Hi David
I can't sell the tandem. I plan to use it with my daughter (who is vision impaired) in a few years. I only paid $1000 for the T900 (I've had a fewyears now) but I would be surprised if I got much for it.
I've been looking at cargo bikes for sometime - the Ute is about $1400.
The T900 has better running gear than the Ute (or the alternatives). Also if I make a nice rack for it it will have a higher capacity than the Ute. I would have thought a few hundred for a rack. I can buy 4 panniers with 70L capacity for $400 which would give good flexibility for years to come when the wife and I do some touring.
But thanks for the thought - if I didn't want to keep the tandem it would be a good option.
Simon
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Permalink Reply by Trevor Hill on -
I must say I love the concept. It would have all the can collectors clambering to get one. I saw you on your steed going down the Londsdale Road last night! If you want a hand to make up the pannier bags, my wife has an industrial sowing machine, and I'm just in Trott Park.
Trevor
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Permalink Reply by hozozco on
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Thanks for the offer Trevor. I'm looking for something that is waterproof. I'm quite happy to ride in the rain (and usually do), but I don't want my luggage getting wet. For that reason I'm not a fan of the Extracycle panniers. They're a great design for carrying in that style - but that's just not what I'm after.
I'm thinking of getting for of these http://www.biketrailershop.com/extrawheel-voyager-bike-trailer-p-13... - ooh, they've just put the price up!
I'm taking the bike to Bernie Jones tonight for a service (it's been sitting in my shed for about 8 years). I'm going to ask if they know anyone that could do the welding. I might try this shop - http://www.theclassicbicycleshop.com/ - they say they do custom bikes.
Trevor - let me know if you think you/your wife could do something waterproof. I'm prepared to spend...
Cheers
Simon
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