Is Yakima Tube Top Bike Adapter Bar Supposed to Fit Loosely on a Bike

Question:

Hi, I recently purchased the Yakima 02531. Initially when putting it on it feels a little too big for a woman’s Dutch style cruiser. Is this normal? Initially when stretching the arms they seems to stretch with no real friction and glide in an out with no resistance like the video shows. When attaching it, it doesn’t seem very snug. I’ve read elsewhere that this is normal and when placing it on the bike rack with straps that does what it’s supposed to. I have yet to attach it to the rack but is there any truth to the above? Thanks!

asked by: David T

Expert Reply:

Yakima Tube Top Bike Adapter Bar # Y02531 will fit loosely on the bike until the bike is placed on a hanging style bike rack. At that point gravity pulling the bike down, and the bike rack arms holding the adapter bar up, will keep it secure. So it doesn't sound like there is a problem with the one you have. I would do a test run with it on the bike and the bike loaded on the rack. Just a low speed, around the neighborhood type of test. If you find that the adapter is behaving oddly let me know.

expert reply by: Michael H