Platform or Hanging Bike Rack Comparison and Recommendation
Question:
Hi, I’m eyeing the #2 rack, the Thule platform rack, mainly because it’s #2. Previously I’d been looking at hanging racks that hutch, imagining the platform racks would be heavier. Maybe not the case? What are the pros and cons of platform style versus hanging bike style. ?
asked by: Ray L
Expert Reply:
The platform bike racks have the advantage of being much easier to load and holding the bikes more securely without any movement and also some won't touch the bike frame at all protecting the material/paint. Typically they are heavier but there are some great lighter weight options now. The big advantage to hanging racks is the lighter weight and typically can store in a smaller size.
In my opinion the platform racks are the best. Especially if you go with a lighter weight one. The Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT part # TH92BJ that you referenced is a really solid option. It's very easy to load and lighter weight at 32 lbs.
For a similar in weight platform rack that only touches the bikes at the tires we have the Saris SuperClamp EX part # SA4025F which weighs 35 lbs, has a 60 lb per bike capacity, is made in the USA, and when not in use folds down smaller for ease of storage.
I attached a review video for the SuperClamp for you to check out as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Saris SuperClamp EX Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Saris
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Article: How to Choose a Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack
- Q&A: Can Kuat NV 2.0 Base Bike Rack Tilt With Bikes Loaded
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: E-Bike Rack Recommendation for Step Thru Frame and Fat Tires
- Article: Trailer Hitch Receiver Sizes
- Article: Roadmaster Vehicle Specific Base Plates
- Q&A: Recommended Platform Bike Rack for a 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Q&A: Bike Rack Recommendation for a Velotric e-bike
- Q&A: Can Hitch Mounted Bike Racks be Used on the Back of a Flat Towed Vehicle
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack for Lectric 3.0 Step-Thru With Fenders
- Q&A: 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 2 Inch Trailer Hitch Recommendation
- Article: How to Carry Bikes While Towing a Travel Trailer
- Article: Flat Towing Package for 2007-2018 JK Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited