performance

thinking about longtails

I really, really want a cargo/longtail bike, so today I did a test ride on the xtracycle radish. I liked everything about it except the fact that it wasn't a step-through. It felt compact and nimble plus it's cute (I know, I know, but cute counts). The stability was fine; I could touch the ground while seated, which is important to me because I don't want to have to hop off or lean the bike over if Omi is on the back. The only problem is throwing my leg over the top tube. I like to bike in a skirt and it just isn't graceful on the xtracycle.

So, I'm considering options. I didn't like the Townie/xtracycle combo; it felt too loosey-goosey and the geometry isn't set up for climbing hills. The Breeze/xtracycle combo is nice but spendy. What I need is a step-through under $600 that I know will work well with an xtracycle.

I just came across the Madsen, which is a step-through and looks nice. I like the price and the fact that the kids sit inside the bucket. I think a locking top and rainscreen for the bucket are in the works.

I guess I'll keep up the test rides for now. Somewhere out there is the perfect longtail bike for me.