Lightweight, Easy to Load Platform Bike Rack Recommendation

Question:

I have watched the videos provided for the recommended hitches for my bike and my 2015 Subaru outback. I have a THULE platform hitch rack model Item # TH990XT, I think It is a very nice rack, but very cumbersome/heavy to deal with. Cost is a concern. EasyFold 2 Bike Rack # TH9032 - outside my budget I think I prefer the platform Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Platform Rack #S64670 as I am not able to lift my bike really high. However, the demo on the video shows the preferred location for a single bike is closest to the car. That makes sense. However, the need to lift the bike even higher up and over is not possible either. Is is possible to load the bike with the center vertical bar down load the bike, leaning it carefully against the car, and then raising the vertical bar after which straightening the bike up. I would also like to know the weight of the hitch rack itself. I do have a platform rack now, but the weight makes the whole process very cumbersome. Oh, I also watch the swing to the side rack video. Sadly it seems that is for 4 bikes and not 2. Is there a model for two bikes, one that might be affordable and compatible with my Electra Townie? So what I am interested in - a hitch rack that is light weight to actually mount on the car for my Electra Townie easy to use and load my bike.

asked by: Val

Expert Reply:

The best option I think for what you are looking for is the Saris SuperClamp part # SA4025F. This rack is lightweight at 35 lbs. Is very easy to load since it's a platform bike rack that grabs the bikes at the tires. Now it's not the most inexpensive, but for a lightweight platform bike rack that's easy to load this is the best priced option.

Check out the review video I attached for this rack for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C