Hi Lenn, welcome to the club and good choice on the selection. We currently use a bike rack on the ladder and have had no problem with it. Check with your dealer on the warrenty for the welding on the frame. I have heard different reports of this welding hurting the warrenty. Don't worry about towing with the shortbox, the Montana is made to be pulled with both short and long boxes. Also, since you are from the Great Lakes Region, check out the Regional Rally and the fall National Rally, both are being held close to home for you. We would be glad to have you join us at either one or both. You will start getting anxious to get it soon if you're not yet.