The only way I know of to get a "deal" at Calmini is to drop by the factory in Bakersfield and see if they have any spare crap or blems laying around. I happened to be at Calmini one day on unrelated business, and picked up a rack for around 50% off. I am the only one I know of that has ever done this, and I feel that I got really lucky. Having known how much I'd use it, I would have gladly paid regular price, as Carlton said, it is sturdier and more versatile than OEM.

For instance, I did this trip in 2004, and carried myself + three women + four days self-sufficiency gear, including big chairs, camp kitchen, coolers, etc. All the light and bulky stuff went on top. I loved that rack. It's one of the things I miss most about my X. Don't bother asking, I already sold the rack to a guy in Nor Cal.