[RosieCotton]

Coupla travel questions I'm wrestling with - anyone have any input?

1. I'm hoping to bring my bike with me. Not that it's anything fancy...but it works! We were thinking there's gotta be a way to lash it to the roof-rack, and I'm assuming if I put a tarp over it, it'll keep out grit and hopefully help with wind resistance. Any tips on doing this? And is it likely to hurt my milage so much it isn't worth it?

2. It's likely I'll be doing this trip alone. Hence, I'm worried about dealing with the cats. I can't really leave 'em cooped up nine hours a day without disastrous consequences. Now, on the way out here, they tried getting in the front once or twice and then settled down, but I worry that if I'm alone, they may try harder. Any ideas for really, reallly cheap barriers? Or should I assume they'll likely calm down pretty quickly, since they were good on the way out here?

Discuss.

[Pippin]

Did you read 2741?

[Pippin]

#1: Why not try to strap the bike to the front or rear grill of the vehicle, there are sp0ecial racks you can use to do this, just ask at any bike shop.

#2: The cats should be fine and prolly will settle down as you get on the way, but ask a veternarian.

[RMDupree]

I would think the tarp would create more wind resistance than just leaving the bike lashed to the roof. :-/

As far as the cats go, I'd worry about them getting under the pedals or having a freak-out in the vehicle.

I'd keep them caged and when you park to eat and such, let them out then. So long as the doors of the van are closed when you release them, there shouldn't be any trouble.

But I'll defer to the wisdom of those who have travelled more often...especially with critters. ;-D

[HairOfTheDog]

I think you could strap the bike to the roof without a lot of trouble (use enough ties) but getting a tarp ot stay put might be harder...

If you bought a large tarp and actually wrapped the bike in it before you put it on the roof, the tarp might stay put better... or you could skip the tarp... it'll all clean up.

I wish we could let you have ecurbh's cartop carrier, it holds a lot, but it's here and you're there.

Can't really say about the cats... except that if you really want to let them loose and are afraid they'll interfere with driving, carry a spray bottle with water in it, to spray them if they get underfoot.

[JenB]

I was thinking you could get a big net bag, suspend it from the ceiling, and put the cats in that. They'd be unable to move, would look hilarious, and Tam would make interesting noises.

We can do test drive stuff this week if you want - see how eager they are to get out and up front.

[TalonDJ]

Bike: remove the front tire and put it in the back.

Cats: Play some music, talk to them and shoo them away from your feet. They should calm down and find a place to nap after a little while. If they get in the way, start the van, play the radio and stay parked until they settle into some place out of the way. Take a small supersoaker and put it in a cup holder if you are really worried about them getting under foot or on the dashboard (I know Tam is 'smack resistant'). Take them on a few drives between now and when you go to get them use to the idea.