Recommended Platform-Style Bike Rack For 2012 Ford F-150

Question:

Hello- I am comparing the Saris Freedom Super Clamp and the Sherpa 2. I currently will be using the rack on a Ford F-150. I have a mountain bike and in the next year will be purchasing a nice road or tri bike. Which rack is most adaptable to different sized tires on mountain and road bikes- keeping both very stable? Which is the lightest and easiest for a smaller person to install? Also, when I go out for recreational rides, I would like to have the option not make or break to take my daughters bike along as well. Do either fit a childs bike? The Sherpa and Super Clamp appear to be adjustable for frame size. The biggest factors for me are: 1. The ease of installing the rack and then loading the bikes. 2. The stability of different sized tires ratcheting into the frame of the rack. 3. The ease of use of the locking mechanism for both the bikes and rack itself. What would be my best bet? Thanks!

asked by: Andrea

Helpful Expert Reply:

Of the bike racks you mentioned you are comparing, the Saris Freedom 2, part # SA4412B is the lightest at 22.5 lbs. This bike rack will work with bikes that have a wheelbase up to 44-1/2 inches and tire width up to 3 inches wide. This will hold 2 bikes up to 35 lbs each. I have attached a product review video you can check out.

This bike rack does not include locks but you may want to take a look at the hitch pin lock, part # SA3022 and the cable lock, part # SA981.

The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack, part # SH22G is a very nice bike rack as well. This bike rack weighs 32 lbs and can handle wheelbases up to 47 inches and tire width up to 3 inches. It can handle 2 bikes up to 40 lbs each. This bike rack comes with a hitch lock and locking cable to secure the bikes to the carrier.

In my opinion I recommend the Saris Freedom 2, part # SA4412B bike rack. It can handle a little bigger wheels and weighs less than the other bike racks you mentioned. Loading and unloading would be similar for the racks I recommend. The Freedom 2 does not include locks with the bike rack.