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Trailer Hitch Receiver Mounted Bike Rack for a Long Mountain Bike  

Question:

Is there a hitch rack for mountain bikes that can accommodate a long wheelbase bike? My bike is 49.69 inch and Kuat racks are limited to max 48inch Do you know any other brands that dont have that limitation? I could do the internet research but thought Id ask you guys first. Thx!

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Expert Reply:

It sounds like you've got a longer, integrated suspension mountain bike or a fat bike. You actually have a lot more options than what an initial search would show you.

I have a few racks that will fit your bike nicely, and allow for a second bike to be carried. Without knowing the exacts of your car, I've picked racks that fit Class I, II or III hitches of both 1-1/4 and 2 inch receiver sizes so that there's less concern about compatibility. If you let me know your specific receiver size and vehicle, I can make an exact recommendation for you.

The Thule Doubletrack Pro XT, part # TH92BJ is a consistently popular frame mount rack that holds bikes of up to 50 inch wheelbases. The carrier is light, and works with 2 bikes up to 35 pounds each with tires of any diameter and up to 5 inches wide. It includes integrated Thule One Key locks for the bike and hitch, as well as anti-rattle technology to provide a smooth ride. One of my favorite features of this rack is that the clamp rotates all the way around its arm, letting you connect exactly how you need to to accommodate your bike's individual setup. Additionally, the rack folds up and tilts away, giving you flexibility in using the rack with your vehicle.

Saris' Freedom 2 Bike Rack for Recumbents, part # SA4412B-R, is a popular rack with people "In the Know" that is also a frame mount and can also carry bikes up to 60 pounds a piece (35 pounds if the hitch is Class I), accommodating electric and most small and medium recumbents as well as longer mountain bikes. It has a maximum wheel width of 3 inches, but the adjustible cradles allow any size bike wheel to fit. One disadvantage to this rack is although its thin, it does not fold or tilt, limiting your access to the rear of your vehicle, especially if it has a hatch.

Saris' Freedom line is popular because of its under-the-frame grip that provides additional stability without scuffing your bike's frame. It does not include locks, though a kit is available as part # SA984 that will provide a hitch and cable integrated lock.

We don't have video of the Recumbent variation of the Freedom so I've included the very similar Fat Bike setup's video review for you to see its features. Note that they will reference the measurements of that rack specifically, so you should disregard them.

Another great option in the value range is the Swagman Chinook 2, part # S64683 . This rack includes integrated locks, carries bikes up to 45 pounds and 50 inch wheel bases. It is limited to bikes with 20 to 29 inch wheels that are up to 3 inches thick, so be aware if your bike is outside of this range. this rack uses a ratchet-down hook rather than clamp, and this provides a more stable ride. It also is a tilt away and fold up rack, giving you a lot of flexibility in terms of frame style. It is the heaviest of the racks, coming in at 47 pounds, so you'll need to be aware of that if you store the rack inside your garage.

For all of these racks, I've included a video review on a 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV so you can compare their features for yourself.

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Jacob W

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