Lightweight Platform Bike Rack Recommendation Kuat Sherpa 2.0 vs. Saris Freedom SuperClamp

Question:

Im looking for lighter-weight platform bike rack for my 2016 Mazda CX-5, AWD. I have a newly purchased Specialized Roll low entry bike, and as an older female, want to be able to put a rack on car by myself. I think the Kuat NV might be too heavy, and is also a bit more beefy than I really need. Ive also looked at the Thule models. My concern is that the Sherpa descriptions says it will carry 2-40# bikes which is less capacity than some others. Please recommend what platform rack you think will work best for my situation. Thanks,

asked by: Shary B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 part # SH22B is a great lightweight bike rack. Due to it's lightweight construction, wheel clamps that allow for securing bikes without touching the frame, and integrated cable lock it's pretty hard to beat this rack. Typically the only down side to a platform bike rack is the weight. Since this rack is actually pretty light you get the best of both world's. I would highly recommend this rack for you. And I wouldn't let the 40 lb per bike capacity scare you in any way. That's actually a pretty typical capacity. Some racks only have 35 lbs per bike capacities.

The only other rack I would have you consider is the Saris SuperClamp EX2 # SA4025F. It has all of the same features as the Sherpa 2.0 but it costs a bit less. It does weigh a couple more lbs at 35 lbs instead of 32 for the Sherpa. This rack on the other hand has a 60 lb per bike capacity. If it was my money this would be the rack I would go with based on your needs. I attached a link to a review video for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C