If you had $250 to spend...

[OakLeaf]

Ugh.

What I just bought at the LBS or TE over the last couple of days:
cassette
chain
chain whip, cassette lockring tool, chain tool since I haven't done any of that
since it was 6-speed freewheels
two tires (one needs to be replaced within the next 200 miles or so, the other just to have in reserve so I don't have to go searching for one the right color when I do need it)
arm coolers
shorts

Do I get another $250?

[Miranda]

Oh my... that would be gone in a heartbeat with some things already mentioned.

Sorry if this has been posted up and I missed it, but... vehicle travel rack.

I have a suv with a factor mount hitch. I *love* my Yakima hitch mount rack. Mine they don't make anymore. Changed to something else. It is called the "King Pin 2". Holds two bikes. Comes in a 4 option. Plus, in winter for the 4 they make a ski rack mount accessory.

Mine has an intergrated locking system. Hitch mount lock. I own their top tube adapter for smaller frame triangle etc. Plus, this handle bar "flop stopper" tool.

My design I can leave on the vehicle all the time. I can't lift it with my back issues. Being on all the time was a must for me. DH puts it on start of season. I re-arrange the garage so the door will shut with it on all the time (btw, long vehicle--tight garage).

The carry arm folds down to get the garage shut. And not to be in the way at parking lots etc. Plus, the whole hitch mast folds down to open the suv tail gate etc.

My suv does have a 3rd seat. I can just barely wrestle my bikes inside for transport. Which is nice for bad weather etc. However, it gets old quick w/tire dirt and grease on ya.

Having my hitch mount has been so liberating to just load up and go easily. Anytime.

Plus... I have myself, and had more than one bike mechanic say... "WOW! this thing makes a great workstand!". And it does.

FWIW.

EDIT ADD: This link shows what my rack was replaced with: "DoubleDown2"...

http://www.yakima.com/racks/bike-rac...bledown-2.aspx