I've seen at least a half dozen between SLC and N. Salt Lake! Feeling good for these people getting their cars, but I want mine a little bit more every time I see one!
I bike a lot, and plan on using this as my primary bike-hauler to and from the mountains around me in Utah. Unless you plan on using the bed at the same time you're carrying bikes, i'd definitely get a tailgate rack. The good ones protect even the nicest frames well. If you need to carry...
Next time, keep going on Hwy 12 to Capitol Reef! IMO, it's one of the best spots in Utah because it doesn't get the overwhelming crowds the other places do. My family goes there more than all the others combined. (Live in SLC)
Nice trip report! Thanks for the MPG details.