Will a Hitch Mount Hanging Bike Rack Damage the Cables on a Trek Hybrid Bicycle

Question:

My Trek hybrid has the shifter / brake cable running on the bottom side of the top frame member. Will hanging this bike from a rack like this damage my cables?

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

Using a hanging rack like the Standard 4 Bike Rack, # S64400, could put pressure on the cable. And while in transit the bike will move at least a little which will apply some friction to the cable. So while it is highly unlikely it will damage the cable, it is possible, but i have not heard of any problems like this occurring. This rack does have channels in the cradles to help protect the cables on bikes.

You may want to consider a platform rack that secures the bike at the wheels like the Swagman XC, # S64650. This rack holds the bike at the wheels while the ratcheting hook secures the frame. I have included a link to the installation details and a video review below.

expert reply by: Michael H