Bike Rack Recommendation for Carbon Frame Bike on Vehicle with Curt Class I Hitch

Question:

I have a 2007 Lexus IS250 and have just placed a Curt hitch on it. Since I am aware of the hitches inherent restrictions, I have sought your opinion before ordering. My new bike has a slightly sloped top tube and may need a hanging bar. Not a good idea with an all-carbon fork on a steel frame. Mite mess up the steerer tube. So I figured a platform unit would be best. Considered the Kuat Transfer Two but since one cannot top-strap it to the cars trunk it would grossly violate the hitch warrantee and invite failure. Second choice looks to be the SportRack two-bike unit. Looks OK from an engineering view point, price is good and it has optional locks. Considered hanging racks but then there is the problem of either a tilted bike or the stress of a link bar. What are your thoughts/suggestions?

asked by: Larry A

Expert Reply:

For your 2007 Lexus IS 250 that has the Curt hitch part # C11372 installed on it you are on the right track for finding the correct bike rack.

What I would recommend you do is go with the Kuat Transfer part # KU74FR that you referenced as it will not contact your carbon frame. What you can do is run the stabilizer strap like part # 18050 from your vehicle down to the lower tube of the bike rack. I attached a picture that points out where. Having the strap ran lower like this will still provide it with enough support to protect the warranty.

expert reply by: Jameson C