In a message dated 2/18/00 10:40:33 AM Central Standard Time,
bchristensen@INFOGENESIS.COM writes:

<< The biggest difference that I was able to determine between the Fiamma and
 the Paulchen (without having ever actually seen a "live" Fiamma) is that the
 Fiamma is made from extruded aluminum, and the Paulchen is powder coated
 steel tubing.  The bike carrier on the Fiamma is more of a Yakima-style,
 with the trough that the bike fits into, whereas the Paulchen uses a couple
 of adjustable ovals that the tires fit into, along with a clamp that swings
 out to grip the seatpost. >>

I've seen both and used both racks.  The Paulchen is stronger by far, and
does not weigh that much more.  The powder coated steel tubing is thinner
than the aluminum and doesn't seem to be as noticeable in your rear view
mirror.  Both racks mount in a similar fashion.

The bike attachment is firmer on the Paulchen.  I sell the Paulchen First
Class attachment kit, but Paulchen offers 2 other options that are similar to
the Fiamma system.

You can strap just about anything to either of these racks.  There are
storage box options, ski carriers and even a mount for a spare tire.

Steve Lashley
'66 Westy
'74 Campmobile
'93 EV MV
<A HREF="http://eurocampers.com/">http://EuroCampers.com</A>
314-614-0750
Importing German Side Tents, Carver Propane Heaters and other Accessories for
Bus, Vanagon and EuroVan