What is the Best Way to Carry an Electric and Regular Bike on a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?

Question:

I have ordered an electric bike, 26. The weight is 58#. We would be transporting this bike along with a regular bike around 35 lbs. Would this rack work? It states 90inch capacity. I want to make sure we have a rack that will support the heavier E bike. Thank you

asked by: Cindy

Helpful Expert Reply:

You have several great options for hitch-mounted carriers for an electric and traditional bike together.

Based on your vehicle, you have access to Class II and Class III hitches, which is required to use any hitch mounted bike rack. If you do not have one, I recommend the etrailer Class III hitch, part # e98865 as one of our most popular options. You can also use our vehicle recommendation page to select from our full line.

The two hitch racks that are available are the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2-Bike Carrier, part # HLY84FR and the Thule EasyFold XT Bike Platform Rack, part # TH903202. Both fit Class III hitches, and have higher than normal weight capacities for carrying electric bikes.

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2-Bike carrier is an open-platform bike, that being the platform itself is an open, tube frame, and offers easy tilt-away and fold-away operation to give access to your back cargo area. The rack also has built in locks and anti-rattle hitch lock providing additional security. This rack's per bike capacity is 80lbs, for a total of 160lbs carrying capacity.

The Thule EasyFold XT Bike Platform Rack offers a true platform with road dampening technology that reduces the amount of rattle and sway that transfers to the bikes, protecting their finish and equipment from damage. Additionally, its tray supports downhill mountain bikes and other heavy or "fat" bikes. Its One-Key system offers an anti-rattle hitch lock and locking clamps that hold the bikes securely to the frame. An additional feature is the aluminum telescoping ramp that allows you to roll the bikes right onto the platform without having to lift them. This rack's weight capacity is 65lbs per bike, providing a total of 130lbs carrying capacity and weighs 45lbs, for a total of 175lbs tongue weight. The Easy-Fold XT can also fit 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" Class II hitches with an included adapter.

I've included a video of the EasyFold 2 so you can see how this model functions.

I also recommend the Saris Freedom 2 Bike Platform Rack, Part # SA4412B, as a cost effective alternative. Though this is not directly made for e-bikes, its adjustible frame system and wide wheel wells can adjust to a variety of wheel shapes and frame designs.