I saw this on my Local Craigs List sounds interesting but a little pricey.

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/boa/3705240080.html

"Rans landsail-Rare antique - $2500 (manayunk)

Three weeled landsail manufactured by a german company named Rans for 5 years.(1976-1981)It's barely been used and is fully functional with two sails in good condition.They were mainly used on beaches and in deserts where there is lots of wind,it's a rare antique and extremely hard to find on the east coast.good for fun at the shore this summer.

contact:justin 215 459 3414 for an appt
no photos"

Interesting listing, but with some yellow flags raised....

Except for cars, most definitions of the word antique start at 100 years (cars can be registered as "classic" at the 20 year mark).

Kind of wonder about the German aspect.

Wikipedia has Rans originating in Hays, KS and founded in 1974. They are still in business, although their focus is now bicycles and light aircraft (following in the fine traditon of the Wright Brothers business model).

Their About Us and Our Early Years pages are fun/interesting to view and watch the progression of their models.

Some of their recumbent bikes are pretty cool too, especially the V2 with the very Saeng-ish fairing.



Kind of odd that the listing doesn't list the age, condition or lineage of the tires on an item that is over 30 years old. Even if the sails are listed in good condition, would question the state of the stitching given exposure to UV, humidity, etc.

$2500 askng price and zero pictures in an age of digital P&Ss, cellphone/tablet cameras is just looney tunes.

Given the asking price of some of the Manta sailers previously listed on PKF, the price seems wishful.

ATB,
Sam

I thought it was weird also when I heard the name rans
I actually had a Rans Rocket a few years back and my Dad has a Rans Screamer ( tandem recumbent) and a few other bents.