Will the Yakima HalfBack 3 Work to Transport 3 Mountain Bikes on My 2014 Mercedes GLK?

Question:

Hello! Is this 3 bike rack suitable and safe for a 2014 Mercedes GLK? The Saris Bones EX3 has a 2 bike/70 pound max. Is the Yakima HalfBack 3 Bike Rack a good rack to use and can it handle the weight of 3 mountain bikes? Thank you!

asked by: Chris S

Expert Reply:

It truly depends on the weight of the bikes you wish to use. Most non-electric adult mountain bikes, they usually do not exceed 35 pounds. However, I recommend making sure your bikes do not exceed this weight because that is the maximum per-bike weight capacity of the Yakima HalfBack 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms Y02635. If your bikes fall under 35 pounds, the HalfBack 3 will work great on your 2014 Mercedes GLK. It is important to note that the overall weight capacity of the rack decreases to 90 pounds when three bikes are loaded. With that being said, you need to make sure that the combined weight of your 3 bikes do not exceed 90 pounds. If you need to use the full 35-pounds of weight capacity when all 3 bikes mounted, the Saris Bones EX 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms # SA803 will not be able to work with 3 bikes mounted.

If you want an option that includes theft-deterring hardware, I recommend the Yakima FullBack 3 # Y02633. The only difference between the FullBack 3 and the HalfBack 3 is that the FullBack comes with an integrated cable lock and locking strap that deters the theft of both your bikes and the rack itself.

On any of these racks mentioned, if you plan on transporting women's bikes, children's bikes, or bikes with step-thru frames, I recommend using a bike frame adapter bar # 64005 for each of those bike styles.

expert reply by: Bob C