Bike Rack Options to Transport 2 Electric Bikes Weighing 60 LBS Each

Question:

Does someone make a heavy duty rack for electric bicycles? The Thule and Saris products you carry are rated for 35 lbs. i cannot find rating Yakimas. Ours bike weighs 60 lbs with battery, 50 lbs with battery removed. It is step-thu frame, so we need a bar like this to haul on our Yakima rack. Any suggestions?

asked by: Rob

Expert Reply:

When it comes to a bike rack to transport your electric bikes, I recommend two options, the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE and the Thule EasyFold XT.

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2-Bike Carrier for Electric Bicycles, # HLY84FR. This carrier is designed for a 2 inch hitch receiver and accommodates 2 electric bicycles up to 80 lbs per bike.

The Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack, # TH903202, can be used with a 1-1/4 inch Class II hitch or a 2 inch trailer hitch receiver and accommodates 2 electric bicycles weighing up to 65 lbs per bike.

To ensure that the bike rack that you choose has sufficient clearance for your vehicle you will want to take a quick measurement from the hitch pin hole on your vehicle to the outer most edge of your bumper or rear mounted spare tire. I have attached an article which covers this process. The Hollywood Racks carrier will require you to have a measurement less than 7-1/2 inches and the Thule, a measurement of less than 14 inches in order for the bike rack to work for you.

When it comes to an adapter bar, the Swagman Easy-Out, # 64005, is highly recommended here at etrailer. This bar is easy to use and attaches between the seat post and handlebar stem to provide a horizontal surface to secure to.

Just a reminder, you will want to follow the weight limitations of the component with the lowest rating which could be the tongue weight rating of your hitch or your vehicle itself.