Honda Element Passes Triathlete Test

Our own resident triathlete — and lord of Cars.com’s Buying Guides — Bill Jackson is working on a story about how certain products help weekend warriors live with their vehicles. He took the new 2007 Honda Element SC along for the ride, and this is his reaction to the redesigned Element.

“I’ve always thought the Element would be perfect for my triathlon, camping and bike-racing adventures, but now that I actually got my hands on one, would it really measure up?

“I tested the Element with my most robust bike — a 58-cm cyclocross bike. To pass muster it had to swallow the bike without removing a wheel, and only one seat could be folded up. It also had to carry a bag of clothes and provide space — other than a seat — for me to sit and change shoes (instead of sitting on wet pavement or sweating on a seat).

“The Element swallowed the bike just fine, though I did have to turn the front wheel, taking up the rear passenger’s legroom, so the hatch could close. The bag fit easily, and the wide, pillarless side-door opening was perfect for sitting in.

“One caveat: If you travel with two other people, gear and three bikes, you’ll have to remove bike wheels to make them all fit. That’s not difficult, but if you have reservations about removing the wheel, or have a lot of friends, it’s something to consider.

“Final verdict: Fits me and my biggest bike, but I don’t have many friends who race.”