Can Rear Doors Be Fully Opened On Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 With E-Bike Carrier

Question:

I want to mount to 2 50 lb ebikes on my Sprinter 3500. It is actually an Airstream Interstate. It has a 2inch inch receiver. I need a rack that will allow the rear doors to swing all the way open when the rack is deployed. My preference is to use the Thule T2 Pro because it is light and has the receiver mount that is very easy to use. I am 72 with a lot of arthritis and dont bend very well. Would it work if I cut down the plastic trays for the wheels a little? If the T2 Pro wont work can you recommend other racks that will.

asked by: Russ N

Expert Reply:

We have several bike carriers that will handle your two e-bikes.

The issue is that none of them will allow you to fully open the doors on your Sprinter with the bikes loaded. The Thule T2 Pro, part # TH83JV would let you open the doors if you do not have bikes loaded and you tilt it away from the back of the vehicle. The weight capacity for the T2 is 120-lbs so you are under the maximum limit with your e-bikes that weigh 50-lbs each. The carrier itself weighs 52-lbs.

Another option for a carrier is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE, part # HLY84FR. This carrier is designed for electric bikes and it has a capacity of 80-lbs per bike. The upright arms fold down for more clearance and when tilted would allow the doors to open on your Sprinter.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L