success I am happy to report that the first real test of the rack was a success! It carried 3 bikes almost 500 miles to Hurkey Creek and back this weekend. The rig was also used during the shuttle ride on Saturday. We hit bumpy, twisty roads and freeway driving up to 80mph. It seemed to work well with a minimum of handlebar and seat conflicts. The main design flaw I found during the trip was that the tailgate won't quite clear the rack when it is empty. My tailgate already has a big dent in it so I just opened it anyway. I may have to do some tweeking. It also needs a coat of paint.
