Can Saris Bones SA805BL Trunk Mount Bike Rack Be Used For Carbon Fiber Framed Bikes

Question:

Can this bike carrier be used for carbon fiber hardtail mountain bikes? I have a 2018 Honda Civic sedan.

asked by: Bill W

Expert Reply:

To avoid damaging them, carbon fiber bikes should only be carried using racks that hold the bike by the wheels, not the frame. Carbon fiber frames can be damaged if direct pressure is applied to them. Since the Saris Bones # SA805BL holds the bikes by the frame, I can't recommend using it.

Your best bet would be to install a hitch such as the Curt # C92UR on your 2018 Honda Civic and a bike rack that holds the bikes by the wheels like the RockyMounts MonoRail, part # RKY10003. This rack is compatible with a 1-1/4 inch hitch and can tilt back away from the vehicle while the bikes are installed for easy trunk/cargo area access. The rack includes an anti-rattle hitch lock and a cable lock to secure the bikes to the rack.

I've linked to an installation video for the hitch I recommended as well as a demonstration video for the RockyMounts MonoRail bike rack I recommended.

expert reply by: Mike L