I’m of the opinion that unless you are a competitive cyclist, your bike should be equipped to function in a utilitarian mode. If you need to go to the library, bank or market, why not use your bike instead of burning fossil fuel?
Unfortunately, most bicycle manufacturers don’t see it quite the same way. They would rather you purchase three or four bikes for different purposes. Consequently, your road bike in the garage may not be equipped with braze-ons, which would offer you the flexibility of being able to attach a standard rear rack.
Thank goodness for the people at Ortlieb USA, the exclusive U.S. importer of Tubus (and Racktime) racks from Germany.
Their Luna model is nothing less than a work of art reminiscent of famed modern designer, Charles Eames. Made of welded tubular stainless steel, the Luna is sleek by design, and offers simple elegance.
 |
 |
It’s quite a contrast to other functional, yet cumbersome racks you just can’t wait to take off your bike because they’re so ugly.
The Luna weighs in at less than a pound (435 grams or 15.34 oz) and though made of rust-proof, stainless steel, the matte finish adds to its mystique.
You won’t even consider removing this rack from your frame because its aesthetic construction blends so well with the petite lines of your bike. But, because your frame is smaller than most, installation may be a little tricky, so it’s not a bad idea to recruit your favorite bike mechanic to help you. The rack attaches to the frame via the rear brake bolt and if your bike has no braze-ons, Ortliebusa.com offers several adapter kits to assist in a trouble-free installation.
The top “shelf” (or “deck”) of the rack is narrow and not designed to sufficiently support a rear rack bag.
However, it will easily accommodate a set of panniers and can hold about 39 pounds of weight.
Though the cost of the Luna is more expensive than the competition, it comes with a life-time guarantee as well as a three-year “Mobile Guarantee” to registered-owners. This means if your rack fails due to material or workmanship during this three-year period, a new Tubus rack will be sent via express delivery anywhere in the world with a deliverable address. Investing in a Tubus rack will give your bike a classy refined look. Combined with an Ortlieb bag, your next trip to the market will be more of a delightful journey. Before you know it, everyone in your family will want one.
