Recommended Bike Rack to Carry 2 Electric Bikes with Alternative Frames and Fenders

Question:

Charles, thanks for your response to my question re my 2 electric girls bikes. You are recommending Saris Freedom, part # SA4412B. This handles my questions with a couple of additional ones. I do not see that this rack can be locked. Also I was looking at the Thule easy fold xt2. I believe it locks and additionally its a tilt away as the Saris does not and finally, my bikes are heavy and I see the Thule has a ramp for loading bikes. This would be a great save for my aging back. I would like your input. Thanks so much.

asked by: Steve

Expert Reply:

I do have a recommendation for you but the Kuat NV 2.0, part # NV22G, isn't going to work with your fenders. Wheel mount bike racks rarely work with bikes that have fenders.

Instead take a look at the Saris Freedom, part # SA4412B. It has the same 60 pound capacity as the Kuat and hold the bikes by the frame. The cradles that grab the frame are adjustable and can be attached to the bikes at different locations and angles. I've linked a video so you can see how a bike is actually mounted on the rack.

expert reply by: Charles S

click to enlarge

Steve

7/22/2018

Charles S.

7/23/2018

You're correct the Saris doesn't include locks but they can be easily added using the hitch lock # SA3022 and cable lock # SA981. Or any cable lock for that matter. It doesn't tilt which is kind of a bummer. The Thule EasyFold XT, part # TH903202, is also a great rack and will suit your needs perfectly. The ramp is definitely a nice feature and really sets it apart. It has the detachable arms so you can clamp the rack to the bike at different locations similarly to the Saris as well. And also, like you mentioned, the locks are included. The only downsides the Thule has when compared to the Saris is that it's about twice as heavy at 45 pounds and the price. But you're gaining several features you won't find on another rack.